Antenna systems

Abstract

An antenna assembly includes a base, a radome, and a cover. The radome can be coupled to the base to define a first internal volume. The cover can be coupled to the radome to define a second internal volume. The radome can support a satellite user terminal at an angle relative to the base in the second internal volume, with the cover securing the terminal to the radome. The radome can include first opening(s) and second opening(s) configured to allow fluid communication between the second internal volume and an environment external to the antenna assembly. An antenna assembly can include a case having a base defining a first internal volume and a lid defining a second internal volume. The lid can house a satellite user terminal that can be operational when the lid is closed. The case can direct airflow towards the terminal to cool the terminal during operation.

Description

PRSC.038WO PATENT ANTENNA SYSTEMSINCORPORATION BY REFERENCE TO ANY PRIORITY APPLICATIONS

[0001] The present application claims priority benefit to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 885,108, filed September 19, 2025, entitled “ANTENNA SYSTEMS” and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 833,910, filed January 24, 2025, entitled “ANTENNA SYSTEMS,” each of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

[0002] Any and all applications for which a foreign or domestic priority claim is identified in the Application Data Sheet as filed with the present application are hereby incorporated by reference under 37 CFR 1.57 and made a part of this specification.BACKGROUNDField

[0003] The present disclosure relates to the field of wireless broadband communication, and more particularly to antenna systems and antennas that cover multiple frequency bands used in the telecommunication wireless spectrum.Description of the Related Art

[0004] Over the last few decades, 3GPP as a collaborative organization has developed protocols for mobile telecommunications. The latest operational standard is known as 5G. Wireless communication relies on a variety of radio components including radio antennas that are used for transmitting and receiving information via electromagnetic waves. To communicate to specific devices without interference from other devices, radio transceivers and receivers communicate within a dedicated frequency bandwidth and have associated antennas that are configured to electromagnetically resonate at frequencies within the dedicated bandwidth. As more wireless devices are used on a frequency bandwidth, a communication bottleneck occurs as wireless devices compete for frequency channels within a dedicated bandwidth. 3 GPP frequency bands range from 450 MHz to 8 GHz and beyond, however, antennas configured to resonate within this spectrum only resonate below 8 GHz for mobile 3GPP telecommunication standards. To capture a greater portion of the 3GPP or other telecommunication spectrum, either an antenna array of various antenna configurations is used, or a single geometrically complex antenna can be used. An antenna array, in most instances, takes up too much space and is therefore impractical for small devices, but employing a singleantenna will have a useable bandwidth that is limited by its geometrical configuration. In one example, a known antenna configuration permits a 700 MHz - 2.7 GHz frequency band; however, a single antenna configuration that permits a wider frequency band is desired. Additionally, it can be difficult and expensive to manufacture, assemble, and procure materials for components of antenna array systems. This may result in a system with poor functionality and / or coverage.SUMMARY

[0005] This disclosure relates to antennas that cover multiple frequency bands that are prolific in today’s telecommunication wireless spectrum. The advances of telecommunications wireless devices have expanded the number of frequency bands that a radio can support for prolific coverage. For example, there are over 305G Bands that a radio may be asked to support if the radio is to provide ubiquitous coverage for a mobile device. While some of the LTE Bands overlap one another, there are numerous gaps between the bands as well. A multi-band approach to the antenna’s frequency response provides a unique and novel radiating structure to support the numerous 5G bands.

[0006] According to some advantageous implementations, an antenna unit is disclosed. The antenna unit can include: a case including: a base defining a first internal volume; and a lid defining a second internal volume, the lid coupled to the base, the lid configured to move between a closed configuration and an open configuration to selectively permit access to an interior of the case; one or more components located within the first internal volume of the base; a baseplate configured to be removably coupled to the lid; and an antenna assembly includes a plurality of antennas, the plurality of antennas coupled to the base plate and located within the second internal volume.

[0007] According to some implementations, an antenna system comprises: a base defining a first internal volume and a lid defining a second internal volume, wherein the lid is coupled to the base, wherein the lid is configured to move between a closed configuration and an open configuration to selectively pennit access to an interior of the case. One or more components is located within the first internal volume of the base. An antenna assembly comprises a plurality of antennas coupled to a ground plane and located within the second internal volume of the lid, wherein the ground plane is configured to be removably coupled to the lid. The antenna system can further comprise a satellite terminal antenna.

[0008] According to some implementations, an antenna unit has an antenna assembly that can be configured to be supported by one or more ground planes in an arrangement with the one or more ground planes positioned below a lid, (e.g., on a horizontal surface during use). In some implementations, the ground planes and / or antenna case unit can be configured to be mounted vertically, and / or coupled to a vertical surface (e.g., a wall, a side of a compartment, a pole, etc.). Mounting the antenna assembly vertically (e.g.. directly and / or by an additional component) can provide certain advantages, particularly when the antenna is configured as a directional antenna, as described herein. In some cases, the antenna assembly can be configured as a directional antenna, such as when one or more multi-band radiator portions and / or one or more stacked patch antennas are included in the antenna assembly. When the antenna assembly is configured as a directional antenna, mounting the antenna assembly on the wall can provide certain advantages. For example, a wall-mounted antenna assembly can allow for an elevated position, which can provide a clearer line of sight to the device or networks the antenna assembly is intending to communicate with (e.g., by reducing obstructions such as furniture, people, other objects) compared to if the antenna assembly was positioned on a table. The wall-mounting of the antenna assembly can also reduce potential interferences from other electronic devices positioned near the antenna assembly, which can improve signal quality and consistency in some cases. A wall-mounted antenna assembly configured as a directional antenna can be aimed in a specific direction. For example, by wallmounting, the antenna assembly can be strategically pointed towards an area or device.

[0009] In some implementations, an antenna assembly is configured as a directional antenna (e.g., including one or more stacked patch antennas and / or multi-band radiator portions) it can be advantageous to position the base on a horizontal surface in some cases (e.g., to point vertically). For example, such an arrangement can be desirable when the antenna assembly is configured to communicate with a satellite. In this example, the vertical direction of the antenna assembly can provide improved line of sight to the satellite(s). For example, pointing the antenna assembly vertically toward the satellite ensures the strongest possible signal is directed at the target. Misalignment could result in signal loss or weak reception. In some cases, satellite communication systems often require precise alignment in both azimuth (horizontal) and elevation (vertical) to maintain an optimal connection. A vertically oriented antenna assembly configured as a directional antenna can be aimed at aspecific elevation angle that matches the satellite's position relative to the ground station. An additional advantage of pointing the antenna assembly substantially vertically can include minimizing interference from terrestrial signals and reflections from the ground or nearby objects, which can be especially important when communicating with high-altitude satellites.

[0010] In some implementations, for example, the use of multiport directional antennas can provide advanced performance. A case system can utilize a multi-port directional antenna compared to the omni directional antennas installed into a case system. The directional antenna system may also utilize polarization diversity to improve data rates and signal to noise ratio. The directional antenna allows for an increased signal to noise ratio for the radio link when pointed toward to direction of the incoming signal. The higher signal to noise ratio most often allows for higher data rates and extended battery life. When used at the edges of the communication coverage area, the directional antenna most often will establish a usable radio link while the omnidirectional antennas may not be able to establish a useable radio link. The omni directional antenna most often is used with the lid closed or close to being closed for terrestrial communication while the directional antenna presented in this configuration would most likely be used with the lid open for typical terrestrial communication. The reversed configurations are true when establishing satellite telecommunication links. In other implementations, antenna PCB portion assemblies can be rotated 90 degrees so that the connectors point towards the case and not towards the neighboring PCB antenna assembly portion for advantageous benefits.

[0011] According to some implementations, in some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a satellite terminal antenna case that can be configured to operate in the 600 MHz to 6 GHz range. In some aspects, the antenna case can be configured for cellular, 4G LTE, Gigabit LTE, CAT-18, CBRS, LAA, FirstNet, and / or the like.

[0012] According to some implementations, an antenna assembly is disclosed. The antenna assembly includes a housing including: a base; a radome configured to be coupled to the base to define a first internal volume between the base and the radome, the radome including: a first side including one or more first openings; and a second side opposite the first side, the second side including one or more second openings; a cover configured to be coupled to the radome to define a second internal volume between the cover and the radome, and wherein the radome is configured to support a satellite user terminal at an angle relative to thebase in the second internal volume, with the cover securing the satellite user terminal to the radome, wherein the one or more first openings and the one or more second openings allow fluid communication between the second internal volume and an environment external to the antenna assembly; an internal ground plane supported by the base and disposed within the first internal volume; and a plurality of radiating elements disposed within the first internal volume and configured to be electrically coupled to the internal ground plane, the plurality of radiating elements including: a first radiating element configured to radiate at an upper ultra-high frequency band; one or more second radiating elements configured to radiate over a second frequency range; and one or more third radiating elements configured to radiate over a third frequency range.

[0013] According to some implementations, an antenna assembly is disclosed. The antenna assembly includes a housing including: a base; and a radome configured to be coupled to the base to define an internal volume between the base and the radome.

[0014] According to some implementations, an antenna assembly is disclosed. The antenna assembly includes a case including: a base defining a first internal volume; and a lid defining a second internal volume, wherein the lid is pivotably coupled to the base and configured to move between a closed configuration and an open configuration to selectively permit access to an interior of the case; a baseplate configured to be removably coupled to the lid, the baseplate including: a first baseplate portion configured to support a satellite user terminal; and a second baseplate portion including one or more openings to allow fluid communication between the first internal volume and the second internal volume, wherein the second baseplate portion is configured to be disposed at least partially within the first baseplate portion such that the first baseplate portion at least partially surrounds the second baseplate portion; a plurality of radiating elements disposed within the second internal volume and supported by the second baseplate portion; one or more base fans disposed within the base and configured to direct a flow of gases into the first internal volume from an environment external to the case; one or more lid fans disposed within the lid and configured to direct the flow of gases from the first internal volume into the second internal volume; and one or more vents disposed within the lid and configured to direct the flow of gases from the second internal volume to the environment external to the case, wherein the case is configured to move between a first configuration where the base is substantially coplanar to a surface supportingthe case and a second configuration where the base is at an angle relative to the surface supporting the case.

[0015] According to some implementations, an antenna assembly is disclosed. The antenna assembly includes a case including: a base at least partially defining a first internal volume; and a lid at least partially defining a second internal volume, wherein the lid is pivotably coupled to the base and configured to move between a closed configuration and an open configuration to selectively permit access to an interior of the case; a baseplate coupled to the lid and separating the first internal volume from the second internal volume; and a plurality of radiating elements disposed within the second internal volume and supported by the baseplate.

[0016] According to some implementations, an antenna assembly is disclosed. The antenna assembly includes a base, a radome, and a multi-element multi-band antenna. The base includes a conductive material and is configured as a ground reference for the antenna assembly. The radome is configured to be coupled to the base to define an internal volume. The multi-element multi-band antenna includes one or more multi-band antennas coupled to the base and one or more second radiating elements coupled to the base.

[0017] Some advantageous features have thus been outlined in order that the more detailed description that follows may be better understood and to ensure that the present contribution to the art is appreciated. Additional features will be described hereinafter and will form the subject matter of the claims that follow.

[0018] Many objects of the present application will appear from the following description and appended claims, reference being made to the accompanying drawings forming a part of this specification wherein like reference characters designate corresponding parts in the several views.

[0019] Before explaining at least one implementation of the present disclosure in detail, it is to be understood that the implementations are not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangements of the components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The implementations are capable of being practiced and carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein are for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.

[0020] As such, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the conception, upon which this disclosure is based, may readily be utilized as a basis for the designing of other structures, methods and systems for carrying out the various purposes of the present design. Accordingly, the claims should be regarded as including such equivalent constructions in so far as they do not depart from the spirit and scope of the present application.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0021] The novel features believed characteristic of the application are set forth in the appended claims. However, the application itself, as well as a preferred mode of use, and further objectives and advantages thereof, will best be understood by reference to the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0022] FIG. 1 A illustrates a perspective view of an antenna unit, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0023] FIGS. IB- IF illustrate a right-side view, left-side view, front-side view, back-side view, and top-side view respectively of the antenna unit of FIG. 1A, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 1G illustrates a front section view of the antenna unit of FIG. 1A, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 1H illustrates a front perspective view of an internal volume of a base of the antenna unit of FIG. 1A, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0026] FIG. 1J illustrates a perspective isolation view of a lid of the antenna unit of FIG. 1A, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0027] FIGS. 2A and 2B illustrate a perspective view and a top side view respectively of an antenna assembly within the lid of the antenna unit of FIG. 1A including components of an implementation of a multi-band radiator portion that can be included in any antenna assembly described herein, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0028] FIGS. 3A-3E illustrate various implementations of an antenna unit, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0029] FIGS. 4A-4C show various views of an implementation of an antenna case system, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0030] FIG. 4D shows a case system, an antenna assembly, and an implementation of a multi-band antenna that can be included in any case system and / or antenna assembly described herein, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0031] FIGS. 5A-5E show various views of an antenna case configured to support and connect to a satellite terminal, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0032] FIGS. 6A-6E show various views of another implementation of an antenna case configured to support and connect to a satellite terminal, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0033] FIG. 7 shows a perspective view of another implementation of an antenna case configured with wheels to facilitate mobility, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0034] FIG. 8 shows a perspective view of another implementation of an antenna case configured with locking features to enhance security, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0035] FIG. 9A shows a perspective view of an antenna assembly with a lid in an open configuration, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0036] FIG. 9B shows a perspective view of the antenna assembly of FIG. 9A with the lid in a closed configuration, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0037] FIGS. 10A and 10B show top views of the antenna assembly of FIG. 9A with the lid in a closed configuration and an open configuration respectively, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0038] FIGS. 11A-11D show a right-side, left-side, back, and front view respectively, of the antenna assembly of FIG. 9A, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0039] FIG. 12A shows a bottom view of the antenna assembly of FIG. 9A with a leg is a stowed configuration, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0040] FIG. 12B shows a side view of the antenna assembly of FIG. 9A with the leg in an extended configuration, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0041] FIGS. 13A and 13B show top perspective views of a base of the antenna assembly of FIG. 9A with various components not shown, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0042] FIG. 14 shows a partial exploded view of a lid of the antenna assembly of FIG. 9A with various components not shown, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0043] FIGS. 15A and 15B show perspective isolation views of components that can be housed in the lid of the antenna assembly of FIG. 9A, with various components not shown, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0044] FIGS. 16A and 16B show a perspective isolation views and a top view of components that can be housed in the lid of the antenna assembly of FIG. 9A, with various components not shown, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0045] FIG. 17 shows a front perspective isolation view of the lid of the antenna assembly of FIG. 9A, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0046] FIGS. 18A-18C show various views of an implementation of a vent that can be included in the antenna assembly of FIG. 9A, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0047] FIGS. 19A-19D show various views of another implementation of a vent that can be included in the antenna assembly of FIG. 9A, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0048] FIGS. 20 A and 20B show a front and back view of a radiating element that can be included in the antenna assembly of FIG. 9A, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0049] FIG. 21 A and 2 IB show a perspective view and an exploded lid view of another implementation of an antenna assembly, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0050] FIGS. 22A and 22B show a front top perspective view and a back top perspective view of an antenna assembly, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0051] FIGS. 23A-23F show a top, bottom, left-side, right-side, back, and front view respectively of the antenna assembly of FIG. 22 A, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0052] FIG. 24 shows a partial exploded view of the antenna assembly of FIG. 22A, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0053] FIG. 25 shows a top perspective partial exploded view of the antenna assembly of FIG. 22A, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0054] FIGS. 26 and 27 show a top perspective view and a top view respectively of the antenna assembly of FIG. 22A with a cover and satellite user terminal removed, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0055] FIG. 28 shows a section view of the antenna assembly of FIG. 22A, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0056] FIG. 29 shows an internal isolation view of a radome of the antenna assembly of FIG. 22A, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0057] FIG. 30 shows a section view of the antenna assembly of FIG. 22A, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0058] FIGS. 31 and 32 show a top perspective view and a side view of the antenna assembly of FIG. 22A with the radome removed, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0059] FIGS. 33 A and 33B show a bottom isolation view of a base and a top isolation view of an internal ground plane and base of the antenna assembly of FIG. 22A, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0060] FIG. 34 shows a top perspective view of the antenna assembly of FIG. 22A coupled to a component box, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0061] FIGS. 35-37 show various views of the antenna assembly of FIG. 22A and a mounting system, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0062] FIGS. 38A-38D show various view of another antenna assembly, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0063] FIGS. 39A-39H illustrate various views of components of an implementation of a multi-band radiator portion that can be included in any antenna unit, assembly, or system described herein, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0064] FIGS. 40A-40K illustrate various views of components of a multi-band radiator portion that can be included in any antenna unit, assembly, or system described herein, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0065] FIGS. 40L-40N illustrate various views of components of another implementation multi-band radiator portion that can be included in any antenna unit, assembly, or system described herein, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0066] FIGS. 41A-41J illustrate various views of components of an implementation of a multi-band radiator portion that can be included in any antenna unit, assembly, or system described herein, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0067] FIGS. 42A-42D illustrate various views of components of another implementation of a multi-band radiator portion that that can be included in any antenna unit, assembly, or system described herein, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0068] FIGS. 43A-43D illustrate various views of components of another implementation of a multi-band radiator portion that can be included in any antenna unit, assembly, or system described herein, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0069] FIG. 44A illustrates a side view of a first implementation of a Wi-Fi radiating element that can be included in any of the antenna assemblies described herein, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0070] FIG. 44B illustrates a side view of a second implementation of a Wi-Fi radiating element that can be included in any of the antenna assemblies described herein, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0071] FIGS. 45A-45F illustrate various views of components of another implementation of a multi-band radiator portion that can be included in any antenna unit, assembly, or system described herein, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0072] FIGS. 46A-46D illustrate various views of components of another implementation of a multi-band radiator portion that can be included in any antenna unit, assembly, or system described herein, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0073] While the implementations and method of the present application is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific implementations thereof have been shown by way of example in the drawings and are herein described in detail. It should be understood, however, that the description herein of specific implementations is not intended to limit the application to the particular implementation disclosed, but on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the process of the present application as defined by the appended claims.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0074] Illustrative implementations of the present disclosure are described below. In the interest of clarity, not all features of an actual implementation are described in this specification. It will of course be appreciated that in the development of any such actual implementation, numerous implementation- specific decisions must be made to achieve the developer’s specific goals, such as compliance with system-related and business-related constraints, which will vary from one implementation to another. Moreover, it will be appreciated that such a development effort might be complex and time-consuming but would nevertheless be a routine undertaking for those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

[0075] In the specification, reference may be made to the spatial relationships between various components and to the spatial orientation of various aspects of components as the devices are depicted in the attached drawings. However, as will be recognized by those skilled in the art after a complete reading of the present application, the devices, members, apparatuses, etc. described herein may be positioned in any desired orientation. Thus, the use of terms to describe a spatial relationship between various components or to describe the spatial orientation of aspects of such components should be understood to describe a relative relationship between the components or a spatial orientation of aspects of such components, respectively, as the implementations described herein may be oriented in any desired direction.

[0076] The system and method will be understood, both as to its structure and operation, from the accompanying drawings, taken in conjunction with the accompanying description. Several implementations of the system may be presented herein. It should be understood that various components, parts, and features of the different implementations may be combined together and / or interchanged with one another, all of which are within the scope of the present application, even though not all variations and particular implementations are shown in the drawings. It should also be understood that the mixing and matching of features, elements, and / or functions between various implementations is expressly contemplated herein so that one of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate from this disclosure that the features, elements, and / or functions of one implementation may be incorporated into another implementation as appropriate, unless otherwise described. As used herein, “system” and “assembly” are used interchangeably. It should be noted that the articles “a”, “an”, and “the”,as used in this specification, include plural referents unless the content clearly dictates otherwise. Dimensions provided herein provide for an exemplary implementation, however, alternate implementations having scaled and proportional dimensions of the presented exemplary implementation are also considered. Additional features and functions are illustrated and discussed below.

[0077] The following detailed description of certain implementations presents various descriptions of specific implementations. However, the innovations described herein can be embodied in a multitude of different ways, for example, as defined and covered by the claims. In this description, reference is made to the drawings where like reference numerals can indicate identical or functionally similar elements. It will be understood that elements illustrated in the figures are not necessarily drawn to scale. Moreover, it will be understood that certain implementations can include more elements than illustrated in a drawing and / or a subset of the elements illustrated in a drawing. Further, some implementations can incorporate any suitable combination of features from two or more drawings.

[0078] Objects that are coupled together can be permanently connected together or releasably connected together. Objects that are permanently connected together can be formed out of one sheet of material or multiple sheets of material. The type of connection can provide different means for the realization of particular advantages and / or convenience consistent with the suitable function and performance of the device.Antenna Units

[0079] With reference to FIG. 1A, a perspective view of an antenna unit 200 is illustrated in accordance with an implementation of the present disclosure. The antenna unit 200 can also be referred to as an antenna system, an antenna case, an antenna assembly, and / or other reference to some or all of its components, etc. The antenna unit 200 is shown in an open configuration in FIG. 1A. The antenna unit 200 may include a case 202 and an antenna assembly 204, as described further herein. The antenna unit 200 may be configured as a portable high performance 5G antenna. The antenna unit 200 can be used to provide an on-the-go network as a mobile hotspot (e.g., for emergency use cases). In some implementations, the antenna unit 200 can provide wireless internet connectivity for a plurality of uses (e.g., data, voice communication, video, and / or the like). The antenna unit 200 may be used in a wide range of applications. For example, the antenna unit 200 may be used by first responders, forcritical communications, surveillance, covert operations, pop up medical clinics, construction sites, and / or the like. The antenna unit 200 can be a 4X4 multiple-input multiple-output (“MIMO”) cellular antenna. The antenna unit 200 can be a 4X4 MIMO Wi-Fi antenna. In some implementations, the antenna unit 200 can include a GPS. In some implementations, the antenna unit 200 can include one or more router(s) / modem(s). In some implementations, the antenna unit 200 can be omni-directional. In some implementations, the antenna unit 200 can be configured to be directional as discussed further herein. In some implementations, the antenna unit 200 can have a compact volume.

[0080] The antenna unit 200 can have a smaller case 202 when compared to conventional router antenna cases. The antenna unit 200 can include the antenna assembly 204, which can have a 9:1 antenna configuration. In some implementations, the antenna assembly 204 can include an antenna configuration with high efficiency (e.g., approximately 90%). As explained herein, the antenna assembly 204 can include one or more antennas configured for cellular use, one or more antennas configured for Wi-Fi (e.g.. Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, a combination, etc.), and / or one or more antennas configured for GPS. In some implementations, the antenna unit 200 may include two cell antennas (e.g., two multi-band radiator portions 100) and two Wi-Fi antennas (e.g., two dual-band Wi-Fi radiator portions 218). In some implementations, the antenna unit 200 may include four cell antennas (e.g., four multi-band radiator portions 100) and four Wi-Fi antennas (e.g., four dual-band Wi-Fi radiator portions 218). Other combinations are also possible.

[0081] The antenna unit 200 can be used to house one or more routers and / or modems. The antenna unit 200 can provide protection for the router and can be configured to facilitate connection between the router and the antenna assembly 204. Because routers are usually the most expensive devices when it comes to network systems (e.g., ranging in price between $250 and $15,000 or greater), it can be desirable to protect the router from regular wear and tear to increase the lifetime of the router. Additionally, routers can be ill-suited for some applications, particularly for use in the field and outside of buildings. Additionally, the antenna unit 200 can provide expanded drop protection for routers. The antenna unit 200 can be configured to provide shock isolation for the router. For example, the case 202 can be designed for ruggedness, strength, dielectric loading, and / or the like. In some implementations, the antenna unit 200 can be configured to provide cable management and / or cable protection.The antenna unit 200 can facilitate the use of the router and the antenna assembly 204 while providing an arrangement for the components of the antenna unit 200 and the cables in a compact efficient manner. In some implementations the antenna unit 200 can include adaptors located within or on the case 202 so the router ports are protected from environmental exposure and / or damage. In some implementations, the antenna unit 200 can include external ports that extend through the case 202 to improve accessibility for the user, without requiring the router to be removed from the protective case 202. In some implementations, the case 202 can be configured to house a power source (e.g., a battery). The power source can be configured to power the router. In some implementations, the power source can selectively power the router. In some implementations, the case 202 can include internal structures to separate the router from the power source to promote heat flow through the case 202. In some implementations, the case 202 can include one or more vents and / or one or more fans to facilitate fluid flow through the case 202. The fluid flow can promote heat exchange between internal volume(s) of the case 202 and the outside environment.

[0082] FIGS. IB- IF illustrate various views of the antenna unit 200. The case 202 can include a base 206 and a cover or lid 208. The lid 208 can be coupled to the base 206. The lid 208 can be pivotably connected to the base 206. The lid 208 can move between an open configuration, as shown in FIG. 1A, and a closed configuration (not shown), where the edges of the lid 208 contact the edges of the base 206. In the closed configuration, one or more locking components of the case 202 can be used to lock the lid 208 to the base 206. FIG. 1J shows an isolation view of the lid 208.

[0083] The base 206 and the lid 208 can be used to optionally separate components of the antenna unit 200 from each other. The base 206 can have a first internal volume. The lid 208 can have a second internal volume. Components of the antenna unit 200, such as a router (not shown), power supply (not shown), cables (not shown), and / or the like can be housed within the first internal volume of the base 206. Similarly, components of the antenna unit 200, such as the antenna assembly 204 (see e.g., FIGS. 2A and 2B), can be housed within the second internal volume of the lid 208. As such, the antenna assembly 204 is separated from the modem and power supply. In some implementations, the antenna unit 200 can be configured to minimize interference to enable increased performance of one or more antennas of the antennaassembly 204 therein, all while the lid 208 is in the closed configuration. In some implementations, the antenna unit 200 can operate in both the open and closed configurations.

[0084] The lid 208 can protect and / or provide mechanical support for the internal components of the antenna unit 200 (e.g., the antenna assembly 204). For example, as discussed herein, the antennas 100 (as well as other radiator portions) can be secured within the second internal volume of the lid 208. In some implementations, the lid 208 may be transparent to radiation from the antenna portions and may serve as an environmental shield for the antenna assembly 204. One or both of the base 206 and the lid 208 can be made of non-conductive materials. For example, the base 206 and / or lid 208 may not be made of metal. In some examples, the base 206 and / or lid 208 can be made of plastic, fiberglass, carbon fiber, and / or the like materials that allow RF signals to pass through. In some implementations, second internal volume of the lid 208 can have a height of less than 2 inches (e.g., less than 1.75 inches, less than 1.5 inches, less than 1.33 inches, etc.).

[0085] In some implementations, the base 206 can have a larger internal volume than the lid 208. In some implementations, the case 202 can be designed to separate the locations of the antenna assembly 204 from the other antenna components in a manner to remove interference. In some implementations, the antenna unit 200 can include a barrier 210. The barrier 210 can be laid or located within the interior of the base 206 to act as a divider and / or separator form the lid 208. In some implementations, the antenna unit 200 can include a cable routing component 212. The cable routing component can extend from the first internal volume of the base 206 to the second internal volume of the lid 208. In some implementations, the cable routing component 212 can be waterproof. The cable routing component 212 can be used to route cables (e.g., coaxial cables) from the first internal volume of the base 206 to the second internal volume of the lid 208 (e.g., from the modem to the antenna assembly 204). In some implementations, the power source can be positioned below barrier 210 (e.g., on an internal frame positioned in or formed in the base 206. In some implementations, the barrier 210 can include a window or cutout 228. The cutout 228 can be positioned above the power source such that a charge indicator of the power source can be seen through the cutout 228.

[0086] In some implementations, the case 202 can be configured to be IP67 compliant / rated, meaning that the case 202 is waterproof. The case 202 may be made from any known materials and is typically hardened and durable to act as a protection to the antennaassembly 204 and other components therein. As noted herein, the lid 208 can be configured to pivot in an operable manner to act between an open and closed position. The antenna unit 200 can include hinges 214 or other suitable components to enable the lid 208 to pivot. It is understood that all that is necessary is that lid 208 is at least partially separable from base 206 to allow selective access internally. In some implementations, the antenna unit 200 can include a handle 226. The handle 226 can be coupled to the case 202.

[0087] In the closed configuration, the antenna unit 200 may have a smaller volume and profile when compared to other antenna units. For example, the antenna unit 200 may have a cubic volume between 400 and 800 cubic inches (e.g., between 400 and 800 cubic inches, 450 and 750 cubic inches, 500 and 700 cubic inches, 550 and 650 cubic inches, values between the foregoing, etc.). As such, in some implementations, the antenna unit 200 can be configured to fit within a backpack or carry-on luggage. In some implementations, the case 202 can be configured to be shock absorbent and / or impact resistant. For example, the case 202 may comprise shock absorption and impact resistant resin to reduce damage and loss of performance due to hard use.

[0088] With reference to FIGS. IB and 1C, which illustrates side-views of the antenna unit 200, in some implementations, the antenna unit 200 can include one or more vents, fans, and / or the like to promote heat flow from the internal components of the antenna unit 200 to an external environment. For example, the case 202 can include one or more fans 222 and / or one or more vents 224. The fan 222 can extend though the side wall of the base 206. Similarly, the vent 224 can extend through a side wall of the base 206. In some cases, the fan 222 may be positioned in one side wall and the vent 224 may be positioned in an opposite side wall. The fan 222 can be configured to blow or drive fluid (e.g., air) from the first internal volume of the base 206 to the outside environment. The vent 224 can be configured to allow air to enter the first internal volume of the base 206 from the outside environment. In some cases, the fan 222 and / or vent 224 can include a filter configured to filter debris in the fluid entering the base 206. In some implementations, the fan 222 and / or vent 224 can be configured to move between a first / open configuration and a second / closed configuration. For example, the fan 222 and / or vent 224 can include a twist lock component 230 that can be rotated to move between the open configuration and the closed configuration. In the open configuration, air and other fluid can pass through the fan 222 and / or vent 224. In the closed configuration, thefan 222 and / or vent 224 can prevent liquid from entering the base 206. In some implementations, the vent 224 can be configured to equalize the pressure in the first internal volume of the base 206 when in the closed configuration, while still preventing liquid from entering the base 206. In some implementations, the twist lock component 230 can be configured to select the amount of airflow entering the base 206 based on the position of the twist lock component 230 between the open and closed configuration.

[0089] With continue reference to FIGS. IB and 1C, in some implementations, the case 202 can include one or more external ports 238. For example, the external ports 238 can be formed in one or more side walls of the base 206. The external ports 238 can be configured as ethemet ports, sim ports, USB ports, USB C ports, and / or the like. The external ports 238 can provide access to cables that extend to the router and / or battery. In some implementations, the external ports 238 can be customizable or interchangeable. In some implementation, an external port 238 can be configured to receive a sim card. As such, the user can easily access the sim card via the external port 238. without opening the antenna unit 200 or removing the barrier 210. In some implementations, the external ports 238 can include covers to prevent damage to the external ports 238 when not in use.

[0090] FIG. 1G illustrates a section view of the antenna unit 200 along the line 1G-1G shown in FIG. IF. FIG. 1G shows the first internal volume of the base 206. As shown, the antenna unit base 206 can include an internal frame 232. The internal frame 232 can be coupled to / formed in the base 206. The internal frame 232 can include a shelf 234. The shelf 234 can be configured to support the power source (e.g., a battery 236 is schematically illustrated in FIG. 1G) of the antenna unit 200. The shelf 234 can be configured to secure the battery 236 to the internal frame 232, to prevent motion of the power source. The shelf 234 can promote separation between the battery 236 and the router. In the illustrated example, the router is secured to the bottom of the base 206, as explained further with reference to FIG. 1H. As such, there is a gap between the router and the battery 236. The gap can allow fluid flow (e.g., from the vent 224 to the fan 222) to pass between the battery and the router, for improved heat flow. In some implementations, the internal frame 232 can be made of a conductive material (e.g., aluminum). As such, the internal frame 232 can promote heat transfer from the battery 236 and / or router to the internal frame 232 for improve heat dissipation.

[0091] FIG. 1H illustrates an example internal view of the first internal volume of the base 206. In FIG. 1H, an example router 240 is shown, with cables extending between the router 240, battery 236, case 202, and external ports 238. In some implementations, the antenna unit 200 may include a router plate 242. The router plate 242 can be configured to secure the router to the base 206. The router plate 242 can be configured to prevent the router 240 from moving when the case 202 is moved or dropped. Preventing relative motion of the router 240 can provide a benefit of protecting the router 240 from damage and preventing movement or damage to the cables connected to the router 240. The router plate 242 can provide shock isolation for the router 240. In some implementations, the router plate 242 can be made of a conductive material (e.g., aluminum). As such, the router plate 242 can promote heat transfer from the router 240 to the router plate 242 for improve heat dissipation.Antenna Assemblies

[0092] FIGS. 2A and 2B illustrate various views of the antenna assembly 204 that is housed in the lid 208. The antenna assembly 204 can also be referred to as an antenna system, antenna components, antenna module, radiating systems, radiating elements, and / or other reference to some or all of its components, etc. The antenna assembly 204 can include one or more antennas and / or antenna systems. The antennas may be of different shapes, operational ranges or frequencies, and sizes. As shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, the antenna assembly 204 can include one or more GPS antenna elements 216, one or more dual-band Wi-Fi radiator antennas 218, and / or one or more multi-band radiator portions / antennas 100. The antenna assembly 204 can be secured to a baseplate 220. The baseplate 220 can be coupled to the lid 208 (e.g., with fasteners). When the baseplate 220 is coupled to the lid 208, the second internal volume housing the antenna assembly 204 is enclosed. The baseplate 220 can be a ground plane 220. The baseplate 220 can be configured as a heatsink and / or reflector for the antenna assembly 204. The antenna assembly 204 can be designed and optimized to work on the baseplate 220 and can be designed to operate within lid 208 so as to transmit and receive data. An added benefit is that the antenna assembly 204 is out of harm’s way and can operate without any other objects in the RF path. All other accessories, routers and batteries can be stored below, under barrier 210, out of the RF path of the antenna assembly 204. In some implementations, the baseplate 220 can have a smaller size compared to conventional ground planes used with router antennas. A ground plane 220 for example as in as in an antenna assembly 204 can also serveas a ground plane and / or ground reference for any additional antennas or antenna components included in any of the antenna assemblies and / or antenna units or systems disclosed herein that can be used in additional and / or alternative configurations for antenna systems.

[0093] The GPS antenna element(s) 216 can be used to collect one or more signal(s) from geosynchronous satellites so that the GPS function of a radio including the antenna assembly 204 can determine where the antenna unit 200 is positioned relative to a global coordinate system. Depending on the particular use, the number of GPS antenna element(s) 216 can vary. In the illustrated example the antenna unit 200 includes one GPS antenna element 216; however, more or fewer GPS antenna element(s) 216 are possible. The GPS antenna element 216 may be positioned on the baseplate 220 and within the lid 208. In this arrangement, the GPS antenna element 216 is supported by the baseplate 220 in the assembled antenna unit 200.

[0094] The dual-band Wi-Fi radiator antennas 218 can be used for un-licensed band wireless telecommunication purposes. In some implementations, the antennas 218 can be configured operation at frequencies above approximately 1 GHz. For example, the antennas 218 can be configured as multi-band Wi-Fi radios, 3GPP radios, cellular radios, and / or the like. In some advantageous implementations, the antennas 218 can be multi-band Wi-Fi antenna devices. As such, the antennas 218 can be configured for mid-band operation, CBRS-band operation, and Wi-Fi-band operation, depending on the specific radio or transceiver attached. In some cases, the antennas 218 can have an operating range of approximately 1.6 GHz to 8 GHz or higher. In some implementations, the antennas 218 can include one or more PCB portions. The PCB portions may be made of flexible substrate materials (e.g., polyimide). As such, the PCB portions may be a flex circuit. In some cases, the PCB portions may be fiberglass reinforced with epoxy (e.g., FR4). The PCB portions may provide structure for the radiating portions of the antennas 218. The various conductive portions of the antennas 218 may be etched into the structure of the PCB portions. While the antennas 218 are referred to herein as “dual-band Wi-Fi radiator antennas,” the antennas 218 may be configured for operation on less than two or more than two bands, in some implementations.

[0095] Depending on the particular use, the number of dual-band Wi-Fi radiator portions 218 can vary. In the illustrated example, the antenna unit 200 includes four dual-band Wi-Fi radiator portions 218. However, more or fewer dual-band Wi-Fi radiator portions 218are possible. In some cases, one or more of the dual-band Wi-Fi radiator portions 218 can be configured for Bluetooth communication. For example, one or more of the dual-band Wi-Fi radiator portions 218 can be a Bluetooth radiator portion 218. In some implementations, each dual-band Wi-Fi radiator portions 218 can be coupled to an individual RF cable (not shown), for example, coaxial cables. The one or more dual-band Wi-Fi radiator antennas 218 may be positioned on the baseplate 220 and within the lid 208. In this arrangement, the one or more dual-band Wi-Fi radiator antennas 218 are supported by the baseplate 220 in the assembled antenna unit 200.

[0096] The multi-band radiator portions 100 and / or multi-band antennas 100 can be used for wireless telecommunication purposes (e.g., cellular telecommunication). The multi-band antennas 100 can also be referred to as an antenna system, antenna components, antenna module, radiating systems, radiating elements, and / or other reference to some or all of its components, etc. The multi-band antennas 100 can include one or more radiator portions, antennas, and / or antenna systems that may be of different shapes, operational ranges or frequencies, and sizes. The multi-band radiator portions 100 may be a dual band monopole antenna that has a configuration that, when used in conjunction with high order electromagnetic modes generated or received by a transceiver and / or receiver (as is typically performed for PIFA antenna), permit the antenna to have an operating frequency range of 600 MHz to 6.0 GHz. Depending on the particular use, the number of multi-band radiator portions 100 can vary. In the illustrated example, the antenna assembly 204 includes four multi-band radiator portions 100; however, more or fewer multi-band radiator portions 100 are possible. The multi-band radiator portions 100 and / or 101’ are described further herein with reference to at least FIGS. 40A-40K and 39A-39H respectively. In some implementations, the multiband radiator portions 100 and / or 101’ can have a radiated efficiency between 70% and 90% when operating between 600MHz and 6000 MHz. In some implementations, the multi-band radiator portions 100 and / or 101’ can have a peak gain between 2.5 and 6 when operating between 600MHz and 6000 MHz.

[0097] The RF cabling (not shown) to connect the internal modem to the multiband radiator portions 100 and / or 101’ and the dual-band Wi-Fi radiator portions 218 can extend through the cable routing component 212 and through the baseplate 220 and into the second internal volume of the lid 208.

[0098] The orientation and the arrangement of the multi-band radiator portions 100 and / or 101’ and the dual-band Wi-Fi radiator portions 218 on the baseplate 220 relative to each other can be selected to optimize the performance of the antenna assembly 204 for the particular use case. In the illustrated example, the dual-band Wi-Fi radiator portions 218 are positioned on opposite sides of the baseplate 220. Similarly, in the illustrated example, the multi-band radiator portions 100 and / or 101’ are positioned on opposite corners of the baseplate 220. The relationship between the multi-band radiator portions 100 can be important for the performance of the antenna assembly 204. In some implementations, the arrangement of the multi-band radiator portions 100 can be selected to have complementary overlapping azimuth patterns. Additionally, the arrangement can be selected to reduce the multi-band antenna 100 to multi-band antenna 100 isolation, without the use of divider walls or RF absorbing material.

[0099] The antenna unit 200 can be configured advantageously to act as an emergency portable hot spot and serve as a complete portable network in a singular box / case. The antenna unit 200 can be used for emergency situations where a portable network is required. In some implementations, a principal function of the antenna unit 200 can be to route local Wi-Fi 5 or 6 (LAN) signals to WAN signals, which is typically 4G / 5G LTE based. In some implementations, the antenna unit 200 can be configured for CAT 4 to CAT 18 LTE and may also include 5G NR (New Radio) which goes from 600 MHz to 6.0 GHz for wide area cellular networks backhaul and 5G millimeter wave which uses 24, 28 and 39 GHz bands. In some implementations, the antenna unit 200 can be used for Local cellular short haul (150 ft ultra- high speed to LTE). The antenna unit 200 may imbeds GPS. LTE and Wi-Fi antennas in the lid 208 of the case 202. The antenna unit 200 can also include GPS, LTE, Wi-Fi and both version of 5G all in one case 202, working at the same time for maximum throughput, upload and download speeds for portable internet access.Antenna Unit Components

[0100] FIGS. 3A-3E illustrate additional implementations of antenna units 200A-200E respectively. Some features of the antenna units 200A-200E are similar or identical to features of the antenna unit 200 in at least FIGS. 1A-3D. Thus, reference numerals used to designate the various features or components of the antenna unit 200 are identical to those used for identifying the corresponding features of the components of the antenna units 200A-200Ein FIGS. 3A-3E, except that the numerical identifiers for the antenna units 200A-200E include a letter (e.g., “A” through “E” respectively). Therefore, the structure and description for the various features of the antenna unit 200 and the operation thereof as described in at least FIGS.1A-3D are understood to also apply to the corresponding features of the antenna units 200 A-200E in FIG. 3A-3E, except as shown differently and / or described differently herein.

[0101] FIG. 3A illustrates an antenna unit 200A. The antenna unit 200A is shown with the base 206A as transparent. The base 206A can include a battery tray 246A for housing the power sources of the antenna unit 200A. The base 206A can include a router plate 242A for the router or modem. The battery tray and router plate can be within the first internal volume of the base 206A.

[0102] FIG. 3B illustrates an antenna unit 200B. The antenna unit 200B is shown with the base 206B as transparent. The base 206B can include a battery tray 246B for housing the power sources of the antenna unit 200B. The base 206B can include a router mount 242B for the router or modem. The battery tray and router plate can be within the first internal volume of the base 206B. The battery tray and router plate can be suspended above the bottom of the base 206B.

[0103] FIG. 3C illustrates an antenna unit 200C. The barrier 210C can include one or more additional features. For example, the barrier 210C can include window that can be positioned above the router so that the user can see the router label. The barrier 210C can include a hinge router mount plate such that a user can have easy access to the router without removing the barrier 210C from the base 206C. A user may wish to access the router to change the SIMs or to replace the router. The barrier 210C can include an internal RJ45 port, which can provide added security.

[0104] FIG. 3D illustrates an antenna unit 200D. The barrier 210D can include one or more additional features. For example, the barrier 210D can be pivotably connected to the base 206D. As such, a user can pivot the barrier 210D to access the first internal volume of the base 206D. The barrier 210D can also include one or more recessed portions for storing multiple routers or other antenna accessories.

[0105] FIG. 3E illustrates an antenna unit 200E. The antenna unit 200E is shown with the base 206E as transparent. The base 206E can have a larger first internal volume compared to the antenna unit 200. The base 206E can include a battery placement portion 246Efor housing the power sources of the antenna unit 200E. The base 206E can include a router plate 242E for the router or modem. The battery placement portion and router plate can be within the first internal volume of the base 206E.Antenna Unit Configurations and Features

[0106] FIGS. 4A-4C show various views of an implementation of an antenna case system, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure. FIG. 4D shows a case system, an antenna assembly, and an implementation of a multi-band antenna that can be included in any case system and / or antenna assembly described herein, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure.

[0107] FIG. 4A illustrates a perspective view of an antenna unit 1900. FIGS. 4B-4D illustrate additional views of the antenna unit 1900 or components of the antenna unit 1900. Some features of the antenna unit 1900 are similar or identical to features of the antenna unit 200 in at least FIGS. 1A-3D. Thus, reference numerals used to designate the various features or components of the antenna units 200 and / or 300 are identical to those used for identifying the corresponding features of the components of the antenna unit 1900 in FIGS. 4A-4D, except that the numerical identifiers for the antenna unit 1900 can begin with a “19” instead of a “2” and / or a “3”. Therefore, the structure and description for the various features of antenna unit 200 and / or antenna unit 300, and the operations thereof as described in at least FIGS. 1A-3D are understood to also apply to the corresponding features of the antenna unit 1900 in FIGS.4A-4D, except as shown differently and / or described differently herein.

[0108] With reference to FIG. 4 A, a perspective view of an antenna unit 1900 is illustrated in accordance with an implementation of the present disclosure. The antenna unit 1900 can also be referred to as an antenna system, an antenna case, an antenna assembly, and / or other reference to some or all of its components, etc. The antenna unit 1900 is shown in an open configuration in FIG. 4A. The antenna unit 1900 may include a case 1902 and an antenna assembly 1904, as described further herein. The antenna unit 1900 be configured as a portable high performance 5G antenna and / or remote internet connectivity device. As shown here, the case system can have a DC power source, for 5G radio and 5G antenna applications to provide remote internet connectivity. The antenna unit 1900 can be used to provide an on-the-go network as a mobile hotspot (e.g„ for emergency use cases). In some implementations, the antenna unit 1900 can provide wireless internet connectivity for a plurality of uses (e.g., data,voice communication, video, and / or the like). The antenna unit 1900 may be used in a wide range of applications. For example, the antenna unit 1900 may be used by first responders, for critical communications, surveillance, covert operations, pop up medical clinics, construction sites, and / or the like. The antenna unit 1900 can be a 4X4 MIMO cellular antenna. The antenna unit 1900 can be a 4X4 MIMO Wi-Fi antenna. In some implementations, the antenna unit 1900 can include a GPS. In some implementations, the antenna unit 1900 can include one or more router(s) / modem(s). In some implementations, the antenna unit 1900 can include one or DC power sources. In some implementations, the antenna unit 1900 can be omni-directional. In some implementations, the antenna unit 1900 can be configured to be directional as discussed further herein. In some implementations, the antenna unit 1900 can have a compact volume.

[0109] The antenna unit 1900 can have a smaller case 1902 when compared to conventional router antenna cases. The antenna unit 1900 can include the antenna assembly 1904, which can have nine or more antennas. In some implementations, the antenna assembly 1904 can include an antenna configuration with high efficiency (e.g., approximately 90%). As explained herein, the antenna assembly 1904 can include one or more antennas configured for cellular use, one or more antennas configured for Wi-Fi (e.g., Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, a combination, etc.), and / or one or more antennas configured for GPS. In some implementations, the antenna unit 1900 may include two cell antennas (e.g., two multi-band radiator portions 100) and two Wi-Fi antennas (e.g., two dual-band Wi-Fi radiator portions 1918) and may include a GPS radiator portion 1916. In some implementations, the antenna unit 1900 may include four cell antennas (e.g., four multi-band radiator portions 100) and four Wi-Fi antennas (e.g., four dualband Wi-Fi radiator portions 1918) and one or more GPS radiator portions 1916. Other combinations are also possible.

[0110] The antenna unit 1900 can be used to house one or more routers and / or modems. The antenna unit 1900 can provide protection for the router and can be configured to facilitate connection between the router and the antenna assembly 1904. Because routers are usually the most expensive devices when it comes to network systems (e.g.. ranging in price between $250 and $15,000 or greater), it can be desirable to protect the router from regular wear and tear to increase the lifetime of the router. Additionally, routers can be ill-suited for some applications, particularly for use in the field and outside of buildings. Additionally, the antenna unit 1900 can provide expanded drop protection for routers. The antenna unit 1900can be configured to provide shock isolation for the router. For example, the case 1902 can be designed for ruggedness, strength, dielectric loading, and / or the like. In some implementations, the antenna unit 1900 can be configured to provide cable management and / or cable protection. The antenna unit 1900 can facilitate the use of the router and the antenna assembly 1904 while providing an arrangement for the components of the antenna unit 1900 and the cables in a compact efficient manner. In some implementations the antenna unit 1900 can include adaptors located within or on the case 1902 so the router ports are protected from environmental exposure and / or damage. In some implementations, the antenna unit 1900 can include external ports that extend through the case 1902 to improve accessibility for the user, without requiring the router to be removed from the protective case 1902. In some implementations, the case 1902 can be configured to house a power source (e.g., a battery). The power source can be configured to power the router. In some implementations, the power source can selectively power the router. In some implementations, the case 1902 can include internal structures to separate the router from the power source to promote heat flow through the case 1902. In some implementations, the case 1902 can include one or more vents and / or one or more fans to facilitate fluid flow through the case 1902. The fluid flow can promote heat exchange between internal volume(s) of the case 1902 and the outside environment.

[0111] FIGS. 4B-4D illustrate various views of the antenna unit 1900. The case 1902 can include a base 1906 and a cover or lid 1908. The lid 1908 can be coupled to the base 1906. The lid 1908 can be pivotably connected to the base 1906. The lid 1908 can move between an open configuration, as shown in FIG. 4A, and a closed configuration (not shown), where the edges of the lid 1908 contact the edges of the base 1906. In the closed configuration, one or more locking components of the case 1902 can be used to lock the lid 1908 to the base 1906. FIG. 4D shows an exploded perspective and / or isolation view of the antenna assembly 1904, the base 1906, and the lid 1908 of the antenna unit 1900.

[0112] The base 1906 and the lid 1908 can be used to optionally separate components of the antenna unit 1900 from each other. The base 1906 can have a first internal volume. The lid 1908 can have a second internal volume. Components of the antenna unit 1900, such as a router (not shown), power supply (not shown), cables (not shown), and / or the like can be housed within the first internal volume of the base 1906. A battery 1936 is shownand can be provided as described in more detail herein. The battery 1936 can comprise one or more charging portions.

[0113] Similarly, components of the antenna unit 1900, such as the antenna assembly 1904 (see e.g., the antenna assembly 204 of at least FIGS. 2A and 2B), can be housed within the second internal volume of the lid 1908. As such, the antenna assembly 1904 is separated from the modem and power supply. In some implementations, the antenna unit 1900 can be configured to minimize interference to enable increased performance of one or more antennas of the antenna assembly 1904 therein, all while the lid 1908 is in the closed configuration. In some implementations, the antenna unit 1900 can operate in both the open and closed configurations.

[0114] The lid 1908 can protect and / or provide mechanical support for the internal components of the antenna unit 1900 (e.g., the antenna assembly 1904). For example, as discussed herein, the antennas 100 (as well as other radiator portions) can be secured within the second internal volume of the lid 1908. In some implementations, the lid 1908 may be transparent to radiation from the antenna portions and may serve as an environmental shield for the antenna assembly 1904. One or both of the base 1906 and the lid 1908 can be made of non-conductive materials. For example, the base 1906 and / or lid 1908 may not be made of metal. In some examples, the base 1906 and / or lid 1908 can be made of plastic, fiberglass, carbon fiber, and / or the like materials that allow RF signals to pass through. In some implementations, second internal volume of the lid 1908 can have a height of less than 2 inches (e.g., less than 1.75 inches, less than 1.5 inches, less than 1.33 inches, etc.). According to some implementations, where the base is holding the router and / or battery, it can be metal or plastic. The lid is RF transparent. If the configuration is using antennas internal to the modem, then it will be helpful for the case to be RF transparent as well. This can depend on the engineering of the modem and the antenna configuration in the lid.

[0115] In some implementations, the base 1906 can have a larger internal volume than the lid 1908. In some implementations, the case 1902 can be designed to separate the locations of the antenna assembly 1904 from the other antenna components in a manner to remove interference. In some implementations, the antenna unit 1900 can include a barrier 1910. The barrier 1910 can be laid or located within the interior of the base 1906 to act as a divider and / or separator form the lid 1908. In some implementations, the antenna unit 1900can include a cable routing component 1912. The cable routing component can extend from the first internal volume of the base 1906 to the second internal volume of the lid 1908. In some implementations, the cable routing component 1912 can be waterproof. The cable routing component 1912 can be used to route cables (e.g., coaxial cables) from the first internal volume of the base 1906 to the second internal volume of the lid 1908 (e.g., from the modem to the antenna assembly 1904). In some implementations, the power source can be positioned below barrier 1910 (e.g., on an internal frame positioned in or formed in the base 1906. In some implementations, the barrier 1910 can include a window or cutout 1928. The cutout 1928 can be positioned above the power source such that a charge indicator of the power source can be seen through the cutout 1928.

[0116] In some implementations, the case 1902 can be configured to be IP67 compliant / rated, meaning that the case 1902 is waterproof. The case 1902 may be made from any known materials and is typically hardened and durable to act as a protection to the antenna assembly 1904 and other components therein. As noted herein, the lid 1908 can be configured to pivot in an operable manner to act between an open and closed position. The antenna unit 1900 can include hinges 1914 or other suitable components to enable the lid 1908 to pivot. It is understood that all that is necessary is that lid 1908 is at least partially separable from base 1906 to allow selective access internally. In some implementations, the antenna unit 1900 can include a handle 1926. The handle 1926 can be coupled to the case 1902.

[0117] In the closed configuration, the antenna unit 1900 may have a smaller volume and profile when compared to other antenna units. For example, the antenna unit 1900 may have a cubic volume between 400 and 800 cubic inches (e.g.. between 400 and 800 cubic inches, 450 and 750 cubic inches, 500 and 700 cubic inches, 550 and 650 cubic inches, values between the foregoing, etc.). As such, in some implementations, the antenna unit 1900 can be configured to fit within a backpack or carry-on luggage. In some implementations, the case 1902 can be configured to be shock absorbent and / or impact resistant. For example, the case 1902 may comprise shock absorption and impact resistant resin to reduce damage and loss of performance due to hard use.

[0118] With reference to FIGS. 4A-4D which also illustrate views of the antenna unit 1900, in some implementations, the antenna unit 1900 can include one or more vents, fans, and / or the like to promote heat flow from the internal components of the antenna unit 1900 toan external environment. For example, the case 1902 can include one or more fans 1922 and / or one or more vents 1924. The fan 1922 can extend though the side wall of the base 1906. Similarly, the vent 1924 can extend through a side wall of the base 1906. In some cases, the fan 1922 may be positioned in one side wall and the vent 1924 may be positioned in an opposite side wall. The fan 1922 can be configured to blow or drive fluid (e.g., air) from the first internal volume of the base 1906 to the outside environment. The vent 1924 can be configured to allow air to enter the first internal volume of the base 1906 from the outside environment. In some cases, the fan 1922 and / or vent 1924 can include a filter configured to filter debris in the fluid entering the base 1906. In some implementations, the fan 1922 and / or vent 1924 can be configured to move between a first / open configuration and a second / closed configuration. For example, the fan 1922 and / or vent 1924 can include a twist lock component 1930 that can be rotated to move between the open configuration and the closed configuration. In the open configuration, air and other fluid can pass through the fan 1922 and / or vent 1924. In the closed configuration, the fan 1922 and / or vent 1924 can prevent liquid from entering the base 1906. In some implementations, the vent 1924 can be configured to equalize the pressure in the first internal volume of the base 1906 when in the closed configuration, while still preventing liquid from entering the base 1906. In some implementations, the twist lock component 1930 can be configured to select the amount of airflow entering the base 1906 based on the position of the twist lock component 1930 between the open and closed configuration.

[0119] In some implementations, the case 1902 can include one or more external ports 1938. For example, the external ports 1938 can be formed in one or more side walls of the base 1906. The external ports 1938 can be configured as ethemet ports, sim ports, USB ports, USB C ports, and / or the like. The external ports 1938 can provide access to cables that extend to the router and / or battery. In some implementations, the external ports 1938 can be customizable or interchangeable. In some implementation, an external port 1938 can be configured to receive a sim card. As such, the user can easily access the sim card via the external port 1938, without opening the antenna unit 1900 or removing the barrier 1910. In some implementations, the external ports 1938 can include covers to prevent damage to the external ports 1938 when not in use.

[0120] FIGS. 4B and 4C show the first internal volume of the base 1906. As shown, the antenna unit base 1906 can include an internal frame 1932. The internal frame 1932 can becoupled to / formed in the base 1906. The internal frame 1932 can include a shelf 1934. The shelf 1934 can be configured to support the power source (e.g., a battery 1936) of the antenna unit 1900. The shelf 1934 can be configured to secure the battery 1936 to the internal frame 1932, to prevent motion of the power source. The shelf 1934 can promote separation between the battery 1936 and the router. In the illustrated example, the router is secured to the bottom of the base 1906. As such, there is a gap between the router and the battery 1936. The gap can allow fluid flow (e.g., from the vent 1924 to the fan 1922) to pass between the battery and the router, for improved heat flow. In some implementations, the internal frame 1932 can be made of a conductive material (e.g., aluminum). As such, the internal frame 1932 can promote heat transfer from the battery 1936 and / or router to the internal frame 1932 for improve heat dissipation.

[0121] FIGS. 4B and 4C illustrate an example internal view of the first internal volume of the base 1906. An example router 1940 is shown. Cables, not shown here, but similar to those shown, for example, in FIG. 1H, can be extending between the router 1940. battery 1936, case 1902, and external ports 1938. In some implementations, the antenna unit 1900 may include a router plate 1942. The router plate 1942 can be configured to secure the router to the base 1906. The router plate 1942 can be configured to prevent the router 1940 from moving when the case 1902 is moved or dropped. Preventing relative motion of the router 1940 can provide a benefit of protecting the router 1940 from damage and preventing movement or damage to the cables connected to the router 1940. The router plate 1942 can provide shock isolation for the router 1940. In some implementations, the router plate 1942 can be made of a conductive material (e.g., aluminum). As such, the router plate 1942 can promote heat transfer from the router 1940 to the router plate 1942 for improve heat dissipation.

[0122] FIG. 4D illustrates the antenna assembly 1904 that is housed in the lid 1908 (see also, similar FIGS. 2A and 2B). The antenna assembly 1904 can also be referred to as an antenna system, antenna components, antenna module, radiating systems, radiating elements, and / or other reference to some or all of its components, etc. The antenna assembly 1904 can include one or more antennas and / or antenna systems. The antennas may be of different shapes, operational ranges or frequencies, and sizes. As shown in FIG. 4D, the antenna assembly 1904 can include one or more GPS antenna elements 1916, one or more dual-band Wi-Fi radiator antennas 1918, and / or one or more multi-band radiator portions / antennas 100. The antennaassembly 1904 can be secured to a baseplate 1920. The baseplate 1920 can be coupled to the lid 1908 (e.g., with fasteners). When the baseplate 1920 is coupled to the lid 1908, the second internal volume housing the antenna assembly 1904 is enclosed. The baseplate 1920 can be a ground plane 1920. The baseplate 1920 can be configured as a heatsink and / or reflector for the antenna assembly 1904. The antenna assembly 1904 can be designed and optimized to work on the baseplate 1920 and can be designed to operate within lid 1908 so as to transmit and receive data. An added benefit is that the antenna assembly 1904 is out of harm’s way and can operate without any other objects in the RF path. All other accessories, routers and batteries can be stored below, under barrier 1910, out of the RF path of the antenna assembly 1904. In some implementations, the baseplate 1920 can have a smaller size compared to conventional ground planes used with router antennas. A ground plane 1920 for example as in as in an antenna assembly 1904 can also serve as a ground plane and / or ground reference for any additional antennas or antenna components included in any of the antenna assemblies and / or antenna units or systems disclosed herein that can be used in additional and / or alternative configurations for antenna systems.

[0123] The GPS antenna element(s) 1916 can be used to collect one or more signal(s) from geosynchronous satellites so that the GPS function of a radio including the antenna assembly 1904 can determine where the antenna unit 1900 is positioned relative to a global coordinate system. Depending on the particular use, the number of GPS antenna element(s) 1916 can vary. In the illustrated example the antenna unit 1900 includes one GPS antenna element 1916; however, more or fewer GPS antenna element(s) 1916 are possible. The GPS antenna element 1916 may be positioned on the baseplate 1920 and within the lid 1908. In this arrangement, the GPS antenna element 1916 is supported by the baseplate 1920 in the assembled antenna unit 1900.

[0124] The dual-band Wi-Fi radiator antennas 1918 can be used for un-licensed band wireless telecommunication purposes. In some implementations, the antennas 1918 can be configured operation at frequencies above approximately 1 GHz. For example, the antennas 1918 can be configured as multi-band Wi-Fi radios, 3GPP radios, cellular radios, and / or the like. In some advantageous implementations, the antennas 1918 can be multi-band Wi-Fi antenna devices. As such, the antennas 1918 can be configured for mid-band operation, CBRS-band operation, and Wi-Fi-band operation, depending on the specific radio or transceiverattached. In some cases, the antennas 1918 can have an operating range of approximately 1.6 GHz to 8 GHz or higher. In some implementations, the antennas 1918 can include one or more PCB portions. The PCB portions may be made of flexible substrate materials (e.g., polyimide). As such, the PCB portions may be a flex circuit. In some cases, the PCB portions may be fiberglass reinforced with epoxy (e.g., FR4). The PCB portions may provide structure for the radiating portions of the antennas 1918. The various conductive portions of the antennas 1918 may be etched into the structure of the PCB portions. While the antennas 1918 are referred to herein as “dual-band Wi-Fi radiator antennas.” the antennas 1918 may be configured for operation on less than two or more than two bands, in some implementations.

[0125] Depending on the particular use, the number of dual-band Wi-Fi radiator portions 1918 can vary. In the illustrated example, the antenna unit 1900 includes four dualband Wi-Fi radiator portions 1918. However, more or fewer dual-band Wi-Fi radiator portions 1918 are possible. In some cases, one or more of the dual-band Wi-Fi radiator portions 1918 can be configured for Bluetooth communication. For example, one or more of the dual-band Wi-Fi radiator portions 1918 can be a Bluetooth radiator portion 1918. In some implementations, each dual-band Wi-Fi radiator portions 1918 can be coupled to an individual RF cable (not shown), for example, coaxial cables. The one or more dual-band Wi-Fi radiator antennas 1918 may be positioned on the baseplate 1920 and within the lid 1908. In this arrangement, the one or more dual-band Wi-Fi radiator antennas 1918 are supported by the baseplate 1920 in the assembled antenna unit 1900.

[0126] The multi-band radiator portions 1901 and / or multi-band antennas 1901 can be used for wireless telecommunication purposes (e.g., cellular telecommunication). The multi-band antennas 1901 can also be referred to as an antenna system, antenna components, antenna module, radiating systems, radiating elements, and / or other reference to some or all of its components, etc., and can have the same or similar features to. and / or correspond to, the multi-band antennas 100 as described herein. The multi-band antennas 1901 can include one or more radiator portions, antennas, and / or antenna systems that may be of different shapes, operational ranges or frequencies, and sizes. The multi-band radiator portions 1901 may be a dual band monopole antenna that has a configuration that, when used in conjunction with high order electromagnetic modes generated or received by a transceiver and / or receiver (as is typically performed for PIFA antennas), permit the antenna to have an operating frequencyrange of 600 MHz to 7.25 GHz. Depending on the particular use, the number of multi-band radiator portions 1901 can vary. In the illustrated example, the antenna assembly 1904 includes four multi-band radiator portions 1901; however, more or fewer multi-band radiator portions 1901 are possible. The multi-band radiator portions 1901 and / or 1901’ are described further herein with reference to FIGS. 40A-40K and 39A-39H respectively. The multi-band radiator portions 1901 and / or 1901’ are the same as and / or similar to, or corresponds to. multi-band radiator portions 100 and / or 101’ as shown and described with reference to FIGS. 40A-40K and 39A-39H respectively. In some implementations, the multi-band radiator portions 1901 and / or 1901’ can have a radiated efficiency between 70% and 90% when operating between 600MHz and 7250 MHz. In some implementations, the multi-band radiator portions 1901 and / or 1901’ can have a peak gain between 2.5 and 7.25 when operating between 600MHz and 7250 MHz.

[0127] The RF cabling (not shown) to connect the internal modem to the multiband radiator portions 1901 and / or 1901’ and the dual-band Wi-Fi radiator portions 1918 can extend through the cable routing component 1912 and through the baseplate 1920 and into the second internal volume of the lid 1908.

[0128] The orientation and the arrangement of the multi-band radiator portions 1901 and / or 1901’ and the dual-band Wi-Fi radiator portions 1918 on the baseplate 1920 relative to each other can be selected to optimize the performance of the antenna assembly 1904 for the particular use case. In the illustrated example, the dual-band Wi-Fi radiator portions 1918 are positioned on opposite sides of the baseplate 1920. Similarly, in the illustrated example, the multi-band radiator portions 1901 are positioned on opposite corners of the baseplate 1920. The relationship between the multi-band radiator portions 1901 can be important for the performance of the antenna assembly 1904. In some implementations, the arrangement of the multi-band radiator portions 1901 can be selected to have complementary overlapping azimuth patterns. Additionally, the arrangement can be selected to reduce the multi-band antenna 1901 to multi-band antenna 1901 isolation, without the use of divider walls or RF absorbing material.

[0129] The antenna unit 1900 can be configured advantageously to act as an emergency portable hot spot and serve as a complete portable network in a singular box / case. The antenna unit 1900 can be used for emergency situations where a portable network isrequired. Tn some implementations, a principal function of the antenna unit 1900 can be to route local Wi-Fi 5 or 6 (LAN) signals to WAN signals, which is typically 4G / 5G LTE based. In some implementations, the antenna unit 1900 can be configured for CAT 4 to CAT 18 LTE and may also include 5G NR (New Radio) which goes from 600 MHz to 7.25 GHz for wide area cellular networks backhaul and 5G millimeter wave which uses 24, 28 and 39 GHz bands. In some implementations, the antenna unit 1900 can be used for Local cellular short haul (150 ft ultra- high speed to LTE). The antenna unit 1900 may imbeds GPS, LTE and Wi-Fi antennas in the lid 1908 of the case 1902. The antenna unit 1900 can also include GPS, LTE, Wi-Fi and both version of 5G all in one case 1902, working at the same time for maximum throughput, upload and download speeds for portable internet access.

[0130] FIG. 4D shows the antenna unit 1900 in an exploded view of the antenna case 1902 with an antenna assembly 1904, a base 1906, and a lid 1908. The antenna assembly 1904 includes multiband antennas and / or multi-band radiator portions 1901 and / or 1901’. As discussed herein, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure, the multiband antennas and / or multi-band radiator portions 1901 and / or 1901’ are the same as or similar to, and correspond to, the multi-band radiator portions 100 and / or 101’ as shown and described in connection with FIGS. 40A-40K and 39A-39H respectively. It is recognized that the multiband radiator portions 1901 described herein are just one example of multi-band radiator portions that can be included in the antenna system 1900 and / or antenna assembly 1904. In other implementations, different multi-band radiator portions can be included. For example, the antenna assembly 1904 is not limited to include multi-band radiator portions that are similar or identical to the multi-band radiator portions 100 described herein. The multi-band elements 1901 can include one or more antenna elements and / or antenna components or systems. The multi-band elements 1901 may be of different shapes, operational ranges or frequencies, and sizes. In other implementations, more or fewer antennas and / or different antennas (e.g„ one or more of any of the antennas of FIGS. 39A-46D, etc.) may be included in the antenna assembly 1904 as described herein. Additional implementations of other antennas and / or multi-band elements are shown and disclosed further in connection with at least FIGS. 39A-46D. When other antennas and / or multi-band elements (e.g., the antennas of any of FIGS. FIGS. 39A-46D etc.) are included in the antenna assembly 1904, such antennas can be arranged on the groundplane 1920, or on another ground plane or connection, in a similar or different manner, depending on the particular application.

[0131] According to some implementations, it can be desirable for the antenna assembly 1904 to have as low a profile as possible, to allow the antenna assembly 1904 to be positioned within a compartment within a case, such as a lid and / or a base. Additionally, a low profile can allow for high wind operating conditions or applications that require low visual impact. Accordingly, as the multi-band radiator portions 1901 can represent a limiting factor in terms of total height of the antenna assembly 1900, the low-profile multi-band radiator portions 1901 are particularly advantageous. In some implementations, the multi-band radiator portions 1901 can have a total height (e.g., from the bottom of the feed point to the top of the second low-band radiation portion) of between 0.75 inch and 3 inches. For example, the multiband radiator portions 1901 may have a total height of less than 3 inches, less than 2.5 inches, less than 2 inches, less than 1.5 inches, less than 1 inches, and / or the like.

[0132] The antenna unit 1900 can differ from the antenna units 200 and / or 300 with respect to some components of the base 1906. For example, the antenna unit 1900 may include an internal frame 1932 and a barrier 1910 with different features than the antenna units 200 and / or 300. However, it is recognized that the components of the base 1906 can be used in the antenna units 200, 300, and vice-versa. Additionally, the antenna unit 1900 can be configured for use with a charging port battery system 1936. The charging port battery system 1936 is described herein with reference to FIGS. 4A-4C. In some implementations, the antenna unit 1900 can be configured for use with a mobile hot spot. Throughout the description, the use of “router” is understood to apply to a mobile hot spot.

[0133] In FIG. 4B, the router 1940 is shown in the base 1906, and battery 1936 is removed and spaced from the base 1906. FIG. 4C illustrates a perspective exploded view of the antenna unit 1900 and associated components. FIG. 4D illustrates a perspective exploded view of the antenna assembly 1904 and associated components.

[0134] With reference to FIGS. 4B and 4C, the barrier 1910 can include cutout portion 1911. The cutout portion 1911 can be configured to allow the battery holder and / or battery support 1946 to engage the internal frame 1932 and / or another support portion of the antenna case 1902. The cutout portion 1911 can include a shelf 1913. The shelf 1913 can be a recessed portion of the barrier 1910. The shelf 1913 can be a separate component configuredto be coupled to and / or supported by the barrier 1910. Tn some implementations, the barrier 1910 can have a first horizontal surface in a first plane, and a second horizontal surface in a second plane, wherein there is a transition portion between the first and second horizontal surfaces. The first surface can be positioned relatively above the second surface. The higher surface and / or portion of the barrier 1910 can allow for more space between the battery that is suspended from below the barrier 1910, and the router 1940. which is shown resting on the router support coupled to the lower surface within the base 1906. In some implementations, the shelf 1913 can be used to store further components in the case 1902 (e.g., tool, chargers, etc.). As shown, the barrier 1910 can comprise vent portions and / or punch out holes 1980 for customized configurations. In some implementations, the shelf 1913 form an enclosure and can include a window 1915. The window 1915 can be positioned above the battery 1936 such that a user can view indicators on the battery 1936. In some implementations, the batter 1936 sits on the shelf 1913 and fills and / or aligns with an opening formed in the barrier 1910 so as to provide easy access to the battery and / or charging functions. The charging functions can include the ability to wirelessly charge a phone, earphones, and / or other electronic devices.

[0135] The internal frame 1932 can be configured to support one or both of the router 1940 and the battery 1936. The internal frame 1932 can be configured to provide separation between the router 1940 and the battery 1936. For example, the internal frame 1932 can provide spacing for the battery 1936 and router 1940 to avoid heat flow between the two devices via direct contact, as well as provide space for air flow for heat dissipation. In some implementations, the internal frame 1932 can comprise a plastic. The internal frame 1932 can be configured to protect the router 1940 and the battery 1936 and provide shock isolation for the router 1940 and the battery 1936. For example, in some implementations, the internal frame 1932 can move relative to the base 1906 when the antenna unit 1900 is moved or dropped, while preventing motion of the battery 1936 and router 1940 relative to the internal frame 1932. In some implementations, the internal frame 1932 can be removably coupled to the base 1906 within the first internal volume.

[0136] With reference to FIGS. 4B and 4C, the internal frame 1932 can include a battery compartment and / or shelf 1946. The battery shelf 1946 can be configured to support battery 1936. The battery shelf 1946 can be sized to prevent movement of the battery 1936 relative to the internal frame 1932. For example, the battery 1936 can have a transition fit withthe battery shelf 1946. As such, the battery 1936 can be easily removed by the user, from a top, but fixed when the antenna unit 1900 is in the closed configuration. The battery shelf 1946 can include one or more holes located in a bottom portion of the battery shelf 1946. The one or more holes can be configured to allow the battery 1936 to be exposed to airflow. Similarly, the battery shelf 1946 can include a plurality of slots 1947 located in the side walls of the battery shelf 1946. The slots 1947 can be configured to allow the battery 1936 to be exposed to airflow. While not illustrated, the internal frame 1932 can further include a plurality of slots and / or cutouts in the side walls and bottom portion of the internal frame 1932. The plurality of slots can be configured to promote airflow through the internal frame 1932.

[0137] Referring back to FIGS. 4B and 4C, in some implementations, the antenna unit 1900 can include a power button 1948 and / or a fan button 1950. The power button 1948 can be configured to turn the battery 1936 on and off. The fan button 1950 can be used to turn the fan on and off.Satellite Antenna Units and Case Systems

[0138] FIGS. 5A-5E show various views of an antenna case configured to support and connect to a satellite terminal, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure. FIGS.5A-5E illustrate various views of an antenna unit 3500. Some features of the antenna unit 3500 are similar or identical to features of the antenna units 200, 300, 1900, etc. Thus, reference numerals for various features or components of the antenna units are identical or similar to those used for corresponding features of the other antenna units except for leading digits. Therefore, the structure and description for the various features and operations of the other antenna units are understood to also apply to the corresponding features of the antenna unit 3500, except as shown differently and / or described differently herein.

[0139] FIGS. 5A-5E demonstrates one implementation of a satellite communication antenna and radio system that is mounted external to the case once it is deployed and is used to provide a wireless internet communications backhaul. The case system will hold the modem for the satellite communication antenna as well as the modem for the terrestrial based communication system. The lid of the case will hold antenna portions similar in nature to those of FIGS. 4A-4D. When in a transport and non-operational configuration, the satellite communication equipment and antenna portions are housed internal to the case system.

[0140] Various examples of devices, systems, and methods relating to antenna systems having satellite antenna capabilities and case configurations are described herein. Many of the disclosed components and configurations can be implemented in combination with other features and aspects of antenna and case systems disclosed herein.

[0141] FIGS. 5A-5E illustrate an example implementation of a satellite terminal antenna case. The antenna case can be configured to support and connect to a satellite terminal. In some implementations, the antenna case can be configured to be mobile and / or for portable use. In some implementations, the antenna case can be configured for satellite and / or cellular network operations. In some implementations, the antenna case can be configured to provide superfast data transmission speeds. In some implementations, the antenna case can comprise a rugged housing. The rugged housing can be configured to be tamper resistant. In some implementations, the antenna case can be configured for operations in the 600 MHZ to 6 GHz range. In some implementations, the antenna case can operate on the Citizens Broadband Radio Service (CBRS) bands. In some implementations, the antenna case can operate on the Private LTE (PLTE) bands. In some implementations, the antenna case can be IP67 rated. In some implementations, the antenna case can be sized for airplane travel. For example, the antenna case can be as small as or smaller than a traditional carry-on bag and / or personal item. In some implementations, the antenna case can have an internal volume of less than 3250 cubic inches.

[0142] In some implementations of a satellite terminal antenna case, the length of the antenna unit 3500 can be between about 20 inches to about 23 inches, or any value or range between any of these values or ranges or any value or range bounded by any combination of these values, although values or ranges outside these values or ranges can be used in some cases. In some implementations, the width of the antenna unit 3500 can be between about 16 inches to about 18 inches, or any value or range between any of these values or ranges or any value or range bounded by any combination of these values, although values or ranges outside these values or ranges can be used in some cases. In some implementations, the height of the antenna unit 3500 can be between about 7 inches to about 10 inches, or any value or range between any of these values or ranges or any value or range bounded by any combination of these values, although values or ranges outside these values or ranges can be used in some cases. In some implementations, the height of the base 3506 can be between about 5 inches to about 7 inches, or any value or range between any of these values or ranges or any value orrange bounded by any combination of these values, although values or ranges outside these values or ranges can be used in some cases. In some implementations, the height of the lid 3508 can be between about 1 inch to about 3 inches, or any value or range between any of these values or ranges or any value or range bounded by any combination of these values, although values or ranges outside these values or ranges can be used in some cases.

[0143] In some implementations, the antenna case can have LTE frequency ranges of 617- 894 MHz, 1710 - 2700 MHz, 3300 - 4000 MHz (CBRS), and / or 5150 - 5925 MHz (LTE LAA). In some implementations, the antenna case can have Wi-Fi frequency ranges of 2400 - 2483.5 MHz and / or 4900 - 5900 MHz. In some implementations, an antenna assembly 3504 can be provided within the case. The antenna assembly 3504 can be positioned within the lid in some implementations. The antenna assembly 3504 can comprise a multi-band antenna system including one or more of cellular antennas, Wi-Fi antennas, and GPS within the lid. Other locations for the antenna systems are also possible and contemplated. A router can be positioned in the base. A battery can be positioned within the base and / or the lid. In some implementations, the antenna unit can comprise wheels to facilitate transportation.

[0144] As shown in FIGS. 5A-5E, the antenna case can be configured to support a satellite terminal. The satellite terminal may be mountable to the lid of the antenna case. The antenna case has a lid that can be positioned in a closed configuration or an open configuration, in accordance with some implementations. In some implementations, the satellite terminal can be removable from the lid and can be stored within the housing of the antenna case. Storing the satellite terminal within the housing can allow the antenna case to be easily transportable (e.g„ for air travel).

[0145] In some implementations, the antenna case can store one or more antennas within the lid. For example, one or more MIMO LTE antennas, one or more MIMO Wi-Fi antennas, one or more Bluetooth antennas, one or more GPS / GNSS antennas, and / or the like. For example, in one implementation, the antenna case may include 4X4 MIMO LTE antennas and / or 4X4 MIMO Wi-Fi antennas. In some implementations, the antenna case can be configured to be AC powered and / or DC powered. The antenna case may also house a router. In some cases, the router may be removably housed within the case. In some implementations, the antenna case may house the router in the lid of the case.

[0146] A power port can extend through the side of the case housing. In some implementations, the antenna case can include one or more ethernet ports that can extend through the side of the housing. While some FIGS, may suggest and / or reference a particular type or brand of satellite and / or satellite terminal (e.g., Intelsat), it is recognized that the antenna case can be used with any suitable satellite and / or satellite terminal (e.g., including Starlink satellites and / or satellite terminals, etc.). In some cases, the type of satellite and / or satellite terminal may dictate the size of the antenna case.

[0147] The antenna case can also include an antenna mount that may extend into the lid of the case. The antenna mount can be used to electrically and / or mechanically connect the satellite terminal to the antenna case. In some implementations, the antenna case can include one or more ethernet ports. The satellite terminal can be positioned within the antenna case in some implementations. In some implementations, the antenna case may include a foam insert which can be stored within the case. The insert can secure the satellite terminal and may include one or more holes or cutouts for cable management.

[0148] FIGS. 6A-6E, and 7, and 8 show various views of another implementation of an antenna case configured to support and connect to a satellite terminal, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure. FIGS. 6A-6E, 7, and 8 illustrate various views of an antenna unit 3600. Some features of the antenna unit 3600 are similar or identical to features of the antenna units 200, 300, 1900, etc. Thus, reference numerals for various features or components of the antenna units are identical or similar to those used for corresponding features of the other antenna units except for leading digits. Therefore, the structure and description for the various features and operations of the other antenna units are understood to also apply to the corresponding features of the antenna unit 3600, except as shown differently and / or described differently herein.

[0149] FIGS. 6A-8 demonstrate one implementation of a satellite communication antenna and radio system that is stored and / or mounted for external and / or internal use within the case. In some configurations, the satellite terminal can be mounted to the lid in an exterior arrangement and be stored inside the case when not in use. In other configurations the satellite terminal can be configured and adapted for use while mounted interior to the case. It can be configured to be functional where its deployed configuration is similar to its stored configuration in some implementations. The satellite communication antenna is used toprovide a wireless internet communications backhaul. The case system will hold the modem for the satellite communication antenna as well as the modem for the terrestrial based communication system. The lid of the case will also hold antenna portions similar in nature to those of FIG. 4D.

[0150] Various examples of devices, systems, and methods relating to antenna systems having satellite antenna capabilities and case configurations are described herein. Many of the disclosed components and configurations can be implemented in combination with other features and aspects of antenna and case systems disclosed herein.

[0151] FIGS. 6A-6E, 7, and 8 illustrate an example implementation of a satellite terminal antenna unit 3600. The antenna case can be configured to support and connect to a satellite terminal. In some implementations, the antenna case can be configured to be mobile and / or for portable use. In some implementations, the antenna case can be configured for satellite and / or cellular network operations. In some implementations, the antenna case can be configured to provide superfast data transmission speeds. In some implementations, the antenna case can comprise a rugged housing. The rugged housing can be configured to be tamper resistant. In some implementations, the antenna case can be configured for operations in the 600 MHZ to 6 GHz range. In some implementations, the antenna case can operate on the Citizens Broadband Radio Service (CBRS) bands. In some implementations, the antenna case can operate on the Private LTE (PLTE) bands. In some implementations, the antenna case can be IP67 rated. In some implementations, the antenna case can be sized for airplane travel. For example, the antenna case can be as small as or smaller than a traditional carry-on bag and / or personal item. In some implementations, the antenna case can have an internal volume of less than 3250 cubic inches.

[0152] The antenna case can be configured to support a satellite terminal. For example, the lid of the antenna case can include an antenna mount. The antenna mount can be used to support and connect to a satellite terminal. While an example Starlink satellite terminal is illustrated, it is recognized that the antenna case can be used with any suitable satellite terminal. In some implementations, when the satellite terminal is not in use, the satellite terminal can be stored within the body of the antenna case. Storing the satellite terminal within the case can provide protection for the satellite terminal, while also allowing the antenna case to be easily transportable. In some configurations, the antenna case can be fully-functional,and the body of the antenna case may be configured to be tamperproof. For example, the antenna case may include one or more locking systems to prevent unauthorized access to the antenna case, as described further with reference to FIG. 8.

[0153] As shown in FIG. 6C, the antenna case can include an AC adapter and one or more ports for RJ45, USB-A, USB-C, and / or the like for connection to the internal components of the antenna case (e.g.. the router(s)). In the illustrated example, the antenna case includes nine ports, however, in other implementations, more or fewer ports are possible. In some implementations, the antenna case can be waterproof, and the ports can include covers to prevent the ingress of fluid into the antenna case.

[0154] In some implementations, the antenna case can be sized for airplane travel. For example, the antenna case can be as small or smaller than a traditional carry-on bag and / or personal item as shown for example, in FIG. 7, configured for roller travel. In some implementations, the antenna case can have an internal volume of less than 4825 cubic inches.

[0155] In some implementations of a satellite terminal antenna case, the length of the antenna unit 3600 can be between about 20 inches to about 30 inches, or any value or range between any of these values or ranges or any value or range bounded by any combination of these values, although values or ranges outside these values or ranges can be used in some cases. In some implementations, the width of the antenna unit 3600 can be between about 16 inches to about 24 inches, or any value or range between any of these values or ranges or any value or range bounded by any combination of these values, although values or ranges outside these values or ranges can be used in some cases. In some implementations, the height of the antenna unit 3500 can be between about 10 inches to about 18 inches, or any value or range between any of these values or ranges or any value or range bounded by any combination of these values, although values or ranges outside these values or ranges can be used in some cases. In some implementations, the height of the base 3606 can be between about 8 inches to about 16 inches, or any value or range between any of these values or ranges or any value or range bounded by any combination of these values, although values or ranges outside these values or ranges can be used in some cases. In some implementations, the height of the lid 3608 can be between about 2 inches to about 7 inches, or any value or range between any of these values or ranges or any value or range bounded by any combination of these values, although values or ranges outside these values or ranges can be used in some cases.

[0156] With reference to FIG. 6B, the antenna case can include one or more antennas within the lid of the antenna case. For example, the antenna case may include one or more 4x4 MIMO 5G cellular antennas, one or more 4x4 MIMO Wi-Fi antenna, one or more GPS antennas, and / or the like. Within the main body of the antenna case, a foam insert can be used to provide further protection to the satellite terminal during travel. Additionally, as shown in FIG. 6D, when the satellite terminal is positioned within the main body of the antenna case, there can be sufficient room to mount one or more routers.

[0157] As shown in FIG. 6D-6E, the main body of the antenna case can include one or more vents and / or one or more fans. The vents / fans can be used to promote air exchange between the internal main body and the outside environment to, for example, cool the internal components of the antenna case, such as the router(s). The antenna case may also include one or more handles. As shown in FIG. 7, in some implementations the handle can extend out of the body of the antenna case. Further, the antenna case can include one or more wheels for improved transportation.

[0158] FIG. 8 shows a side perspective view of an implementation of the antenna case. In some cases, the antenna case can include one or more built-in locks and / or lock holes for receiving external locks. The locks can be used to prevent unauthorized access to the antenna case.Antenna Assemblies with Satellite User Terminal Configurations

[0159] Referring now to FIGS. 9A-20B, an implementation of an antenna assembly 300 and various components that can be included in the antenna assembly 300 are shown. Some of the features of the antenna assembly 300 are similar to features of the antenna units 200, 200A-200D, 1900, 3500, 3600, 3700, 3800, described in at least FIGs 1A-8. Thus, reference numerals used to designate the various features or components of the antenna assembly 300 are similar or identical to those used for identifying the corresponding features or components of the antenna units 200, 200A-200D, 1900, 3500, 3600, 3700, 3800, described in at least FIGs 1A-8, except that the numerical identifiers for components of the antenna assembly 300 begins with a “3.” Therefore, the structure and description for the various features of the antenna units 200, 200A-200D, 1900, 3500, 3600, 3700, 3800 and how they operate in at least FIGs. 1A-8 are understood to also apply to the corresponding features of antenna assembly 300, except as described differently below.

[0160] The antenna assembly 300 can be configured to support and / or house a satellite user terminal. In one example, the satellite user terminal may be mountable within a lid of the antenna assembly 300. In some configurations, the satellite user terminal may be useable when the lid is in an open configuration and / or when the lid is in a closed configuration.

[0161] The satellite user terminal can be an end-user communication device that provides access to a satellite network and includes or is operatively coupled to an antenna system and a radio-frequency (“RF”) transceiver. The RF transceiver can be configured to establish a bidirectional wireless link with one or more satellites and may be integrated with the antenna (e.g„ in a phased-array outdoor unit) or physically separated and connected via a wired interface. In some cases, the satellite user terminal can support uplink and downlink transmission of user data and may perform, or interface with components that perform, functions such as beamforming, modulation / demodulation, and protocol processing.

[0162] When used in the antenna assembly 300, the satellite user terminal can operate as a backhaul for various components of the antenna assembly 300, depending on the configuration. For example, when operating as a backhaul, the satellite user terminal can aggregate traffic from one or more local access networks, such as cellular base stations, Wi-Fi access points, enterprise networks, and / or the like. The terminal can convey that aggregated traffic over the satellite link to a remote gateway, core network, or other network endpoint. In this configuration, the terminal functions as a relay between the local access infrastructure and a wider communication network, enabling connectivity in locations where terrestrial backhaul links are unavailable, impractical, or insufficient.

[0163] In traditional systems, satellite user terminals are generally not enclosed within a housing because the terminals heat up during use. Without proper airflow, the terminal can overheat, causing damage to the terminal itself and / or the enclosure or associated components. In the antenna assembly 300, the satellite user terminal can be housed within the lid of a case and can function when the lid is enclosed and / or when the case is shut. To prevent damage to the terminal, the antenna assembly 300 can include an airflow network or system that can direct a flow of gases into one or more internal volumes of the case and towards the satellite user terminal, allowing for convective heat transfer between the terminal and the air. For example, the flow of gases can transfer heat from the satellite user terminal to the air flow. The flow of gases can then exit the case (e.g., via vents), ensuring that the heated gases arecirculated away from the terminal and out of the case. Tn some implementations, the airflow network can include one or more fans housed within the case.

[0164] This arrangement can advantageously allow the satellite user terminal to be housed within a protective case while operating, without requiring the terminal to be removed from the case. Maintaining the terminal within the case is desirable for an easy transportable, travel friendly, remote connectivity solution. This arrangement can also allow the satellite user terminal to work with various other antenna components housed within or connected to the antenna assembly 300.

[0165] In some implementations, the antenna assembly 300 can be a 5G case antenna. In some implementations, the antenna assembly 300 can include one or more sets of MIMO cellular and / or MIMO Wi-Fi antenna elements to support cellular and Wi-Fi applications.

[0166] The antenna assembly 300 can be an omni-directional travel friendly case antenna that can provide optimal support for emergency responders and enterprise systems reliant on failover connectivity in even the most remote locations. In some examples, the antenna assembly 300 can extend the range to cover more area for remote cameras for security. In some examples, the antenna assembly 300 may be configured to run both satellite and cellular networks at the same time. In some implementations, the antenna assembly 300 can be an IP67-rated case and may include an AC adapter and customizable ports, such as RJ45s.

[0167] With reference first to FIGS. 9 A and 9B, perspective views of the antenna assembly 300 are shown in an open configuration and a closed configuration respectively. The antenna assembly 300 can include a case 302. The case 302 can include a base 306 and a lid 308. One or both of the base 306 and the lid 308 can house components of the antenna assembly 300, such as radiating elements, satellite user terminal(s), RF transceiver circuitry, radios / routers, and / or the like.

[0168] The lid 308 can be pivotably connected to the base 306. For example, the lid 308 may be pivotally coupled to the base 306 by one or more hinges 314, as shown in at least FIG. 11 A. In this arrangement, the lid 308 can move between the closed configuration of FIG. 9B and the open configuration of FIG. 9A to selectively permit access to an interior of the case. In some implementations, the case 302 can have a height of approximately 9 inches,a length of approximately 22 inches, and a width of approximately 9 inches when in the closed configuration.

[0169] As described further with reference to at least FIGS. 14-15B the lid 308 can house one or more satellite user terminals 350. The satellite user terminal 350 may be useable on its own, with one or more antennas or radiating elements (e.g., the plurality of radiating element 304) associated with the antenna assembly 300, and / or with an external antenna system(s) or device(s). Further, the satellite user terminal 350 may be housed in a different position within or on the case 302 as desired.

[0170] In some implementations, the satellite terminal can be removable from the lid 308 and can be stored within the housing of the antenna case (e.g., within the base 306). The lid 308 can be closed for travel and / or for operation. In some implementations, the lid 308 may be adjustable between the closed configuration and the fully open configuration for optimizing the pointing direction to the satellite terminal. For example, the degree of opening of the lid 308 can be adjusted to change the performance of the satellite terminal 350. In one example, it may be desirable for the lid 308 to be partially open for operation in for a high latitude operation (e.g., near the Arctic circle). In other implementations, the satellite terminal 350 may be configured to move to an angle configuration to position the satellite user terminal 350 at the desired angle, as described further with reference to at least FIGS. 12A and 12B.

[0171] FIGs. 10A and 10B show top views of the case 302 with the lid 308 in a closed and open position respectively. FIGs. 11A-11D show side views and front and back views respectively of the case 302 with the lid 308 in the open position. As shown, the antenna assembly 300 can include a baseplate 320. The baseplate 320 can be coupled to the lid 308. In such a configuration, the baseplate 320 can separate an internal volume of the lid 308 from an internal volume of the base 306. For example, the base 306 can at least partially define an internal volume 305 (referred to herein as the “first internal volume”) and the lid 308 can at least partially define an internal volume 307 (referred to herein as the “second internal volume”). When the baseplate 320 is included in the antenna assembly 300, the baseplate 320 can separate the first internal volume 305 from the second internal volume 307.

[0172] In some configurations, the satellite user terminal 350 can be housed within the second internal volume 307 of the lid 308. For example, the satellite user terminal 350 can be coupled to the lid 308 and / or the baseplate 320, when included. When the baseplate 320 isnot included, the satellite user terminal 350 may be coupled to the lid 308 and the internal volumes 305, 307 of the base 306 and lid 308 may be connected when the case 302 is in the closed configuration.

[0173] The satellite user terminal 350 can be used to provide a wireless internet communications backhaul to the antenna assembly 300, for example. When additional antenna elements are included in the antenna assembly 300, the antenna elements can work with the satellite user terminal 350 to provide one or more local cellular access links (e.g., LTE / 5G) and / or local Wi-Fi access links. For example, as described above, the antenna assembly 300 may include one or more radiating elements 304 that form part of one or more antennas of the antenna assembly 300, which can be configured to use the satellite user terminal 350 as a wireless internet communications backhaul.

[0174] Referring now to FIG. 14, a partial exploded view of the lid 308 and associated components that can be included in the lid 308 and / or in the case 302 are shown. As shown, the antenna assembly 300 can include a support portion 344 for supporting the satellite user terminal 350. For example, the support portion 344 may be coupled to the baseplate 320, and the satellite user terminal 350 can be coupled to the support portion 344. In other configurations, the satellite user terminal 350 may be coupled to the lid 308 via the support portion 344. In the illustrated configuration, the support portion 344 is configured to support the satellite user terminal 350 within the second internal volume 307. with the support portion 344 being coupled to the baseplate 320.

[0175] In some implementations, the support portion 344 can be made of a conductive material (e.g., metal). In such cases, the support portion 344 can be electrically conductive. In such cases, the support portion 344 can conduct heat away from the satellite user terminal 350. The heat may be conducted from the support portion 344 to the baseplate 320, which can allow one or both of the support portion 344 and the baseplate 320 to act as a heat sink for the satellite user terminal 350. This arrangement can be desirable to dissipate the heat from the satellite user terminal 350 over the larger surface area of the support portion 344 and / or the baseplate 320.

[0176] As shown in FIG. 15A, which shows an isolated view of the baseplate 320 and the satellite user terminal 350, the support portion 344 can be configured to support the satellite user terminal 350 at a height above the baseplate 320 such that a gap exists between-M-the bottom of the satellite user terminal 350 and the top side of the baseplate 320. This arrangement provides separation between the satellite user terminal 350 and the baseplate 320, which can desirably promote cooling of the satellite user terminal 350 in use. For example, the gap can allow fluid (e.g., air) to flow between the satellite user terminal 350 and the baseplate 320 in use.

[0177] As shown in FIG. 15B, which shows an isolated view of the baseplate 320 with the satellite user terminal 350 and the support portion 344 removed, the baseplate 320 can include one or more openings 340. The opening 340 can allow fluid exchange between the first internal volume 305 of the base 306 and the second internal volume 307 of the lid 308 through the baseplate 320. This arrangement can further promote cooling of the satellite user terminal 350 by allowing fluid from the first internal volume 305 to enter the lid 308. In some cases, the openings 340 can be disposed below the satellite user terminal 350 such that airflow through the openings 340 is directed towards the bottom of the satellite user terminal 350. In some cases, as described further herein, one or more fans can be positioned at these openings 340 to provide directed accelerated air flow at the satellite user terminal 350.

[0178] With continued reference to FIGS. 14-15B, the lid 308 may house one or more radiating elements. In the illustrated example, a plurality of radiating elements 304 are disposed within the second internal volume 307 of the lid 308 and supported by the baseplate 320. As described further herein, the plurality of radiating elements 304 can be configured to be electrically coupled with RF circuitry configured to generate modulated RF signals for cellular wireless communication, for example. In one example, the plurality of radiating elements 304 can be electrically coupled (e.g., using cables 364) to one or more radios (not shown) and configured for MIMO communications. The radio(s) can be housed in the first internal volume 305 of the base 306, for example.

[0179] The baseplate 320 can be removably coupled to the lid 308. For example, the baseplate 320 may be removed from the lid 308 to provide access to the second internal volume 307. A user may wish to access the second internal volume 307 to install components within the lid 308, modify the components housed in the lid 308, and / or remove components from the lid 308 when such components are not desired. For example, the satellite user terminal 350 can be removed from the lid 308 when changing between operations where the satellite user terminal 350 is desired or is not desired.

[0180] In the illustrated configuration, the baseplate 320 is an internal ground plane of the antenna assembly 300. For example, the baseplate 320 can be electrically conductive and can serve as a ground plane or ground reference for the antenna elements of the antenna assembly 300, such as the satellite user terminal 350, the radiating elements 304, and / or the like. When the radiating elements 304 are included, the radiating elements 304 can be coupled to radio(s) using coaxial cables 364. In this example, the baseplate 320 can establish a surface for the coaxial cables 364 to use as a reference for continuation of the RF signals from the radios to the radiating elements 304.

[0181] When included, the baseplate 320 can form a bottom portion of the lid 308. For example, the baseplate 320 can define a bottom of the second internal volume 307 of the lid 308.

[0182] In some implementations, the baseplate 320 can function as a heat sink for the satellite user terminal 350 and / or other antenna components within the lid 308 (e.g., the radiating elements 304).

[0183] As shown in at least FIG. 15B, the baseplate 320 can include one or more openings for routing cables from the second internal volume 307 through the baseplate 320. For example, the baseplate 320 can include a cable opening 342 for routing one or more cables from the satellite user terminal 350 through the baseplate 320. The cable opening 342 can be used to connect the satellite user terminal 350 to a power supply, such as a battery 336, shown in at least FIG. 9A.

[0184] In the illustrated example, the baseplate 320 includes cable openings 334 for routing cables from the radiating elements 304 through the baseplate 320. For example, the cables 364 can be coupled to the radiating elements 304, routed through the cable opening(s) 334, and coupled to radio(s), which can be housed in the first internal volume 305 of the base 306, for example.

[0185] As shown in FIG. 14, in some implementations, the baseplate 320 can include a first baseplate portion 320a and a second baseplate portion 320b. As shown in at least FIG. 15B, the second baseplate portion 320b can be removably coupled to the first baseplate portion 320a.

[0186] When configured in two-part form, the second baseplate portion 320b can be configured to support the satellite user terminal 350. For example, the support portion 344can be coupled to the second baseplate portion 320b. Similarly, the first baseplate portion 320a can be configured to support other antennas elements housed within the lid 308 (e.g., the radiating elements 304). When included, the radiating elements 304 can be coupled to the first baseplate portion 320a.

[0187] When the baseplate 320 is in two-part form, the second baseplate portion 320b can be centrally positioned relative to the lid 308. For example, the second baseplate portion 320b may be surrounded on one or more sides by the first baseplate portion 320a. The second baseplate portion 320b can be removably coupled to the first baseplate portion 320a and / or the lid 308.

[0188] The second baseplate portion 320b can have a shorter length and / or a shorter width than the first baseplate portion 320a. Configuring the second baseplate portion 320b in this manner can allow the second baseplate portion 320b to be at least partially surrounded by the first baseplate portion 320a when coupled together. In some configurations, the second baseplate portion 320b may be recessed relative to the first baseplate portion 320a. For example, the second baseplate portion 320b may be coupled to a bottom side of the first baseplate portion 320a such that the top surface of the first baseplate portion 320a is at a different height than the top surface of the second baseplate portion 320b. The second baseplate portion 320b is shown positioned above the first baseplate portion 320a in FIG. 14 for illustrative purposes.

[0189] Configuring the baseplate 320 to be in a two-part form can provide an advantage of allowing the satellite user terminal 350to be easily removable from the antenna assembly 300, without interfering with the other components housed within the lid 308. For example, when the satellite user terminal 350 is not desired, the second baseplate portion 320b can be removed along with the satellite user terminal 350. This arrangement is shown in FIGs.16A and 16B, where the second baseplate portion 320b has been removed to expose a central opening 332 in the first baseplate portion 320a.

[0190] In some implementations, the satellite user terminal 350 is removably coupled to the second baseplate portion 320b (e.g., via the support portion 344). Such an arrangement can allow the second baseplate portion 320b to be re-attached within the antenna assembly 300, even when the satellite user terminal 350 is not used.

[0191] When the baseplate 320 is coupled to the lid 308, the satellite user terminal 350 can be completely housed within the internal volume 307 of the lid 308.

[0192] When the baseplate 320 is in two-part form, the cable opening 342 for the satellite user terminal 350 can be in the second baseplate portion 320b, and the cable openings 334 can be in the first baseplate portion 320a. In this arraignment, the cables for the satellite user terminal 350 and the radiating elements 304 can be separate from each other, and removing the second baseplate portion 320b can be easily managed without interfering with the radiating elements 304.

[0193] With continued reference to FIGs. 15 A and 15B, The plurality of radiating elements 304 can include one or more multi-band radiator portions 100 and / or one or more multi-band radiator portions 100’. As described with reference at least FIGs. 39A-40K, each multi-band radiator portion 100 includes a radiating element 101 and each multi-band radiator portion 100’ includes a radiating element 101’.

[0194] In the illustrated example, four multi-band radiator portions 100 and four multi-band radiator portion 100’ are used. In other configurations, the antenna unit 300 can include all multi-band radiator portions 100, all multi-band radiator portion 100’, or any combinations of multi-band radiator portions 100 and multi-band radiator portion 100’. Further, in other configurations, any of the multi-band radiator portions and / or radiating elements described herein can be used in the antenna assembly 300. For example, the antenna assembly 300 can include one or more multi-band radiator portions 100’ (see e.g., FIGs. 39A-39H), one or more multi-band radiator portions 100 (see e.g., FIGs.40A-K), one or more multiband radiator portions 100” (see e.g., FIGs. 40L-40N), one or more multi-band radiator portions 500 (see e.g., FIGs. 41A-41J), one or more multi-band radiator portion 500A (see e.g., FIGs. 42A-42D), one or more multi-band radiator portion 500B (see e.g., FIGs. 43A-43D), and / or the like.

[0195] The satellite user terminal 350 can be disposed between rows of multi-band radiator portions. In the illustrated example, the satellite user terminal 350 is positioned between two rows of multi-band radiator portions 100, 100’. For example, the satellite user terminal 350 can be centrally located on the baseplate 320. Such an arrangement can allow the second baseplate portion 320b to be removed from the first baseplate portion 320a, when desired.

[0196] When included, the radiating elements 304 can be cellular radiating elements configured to be electrically coupled with RF circuitry configured to generate modulated RF signals for cellular wireless communication. In the illustrated example, the antenna assembly 300 includes eight cellular radiating elements 304 (e.g., four radiating elements 101 and four radiating elements 101’) configured to support MIMO communication with one or more cellular service providers.

[0197] In one configuration, four of the radiating elements 304 may be configured to support MIMO communication with a first service provider and / or four of the radiating elements 304 may be configured to support MIMO communication with a second service provider. In this arrangement, four cellular radiating elements (e.g., four radiating elements 101) can be configured to be electrically coupled to a first cellular radio associated with the first service provider and can be configured for 4x4 MIMO communication, and four cellular radiating elements (e.g., four radiating elements 101’) can be configured to be electrically coupled to a second cellular radio associated with the second service provider and can be configured for 4x4 MIMO communication.

[0198] It is recognized that separate cellular radios are not required for each service provider. For example, a single router with multiple Subscriber Identity Module (“SIM”) cards can be used instead of multiple separate routers. In some configurations, the antenna assembly 300 can include a router configured to receive one SIM card, two SIM cards, three SIM cards, four SIM Cards, eight SIM cards, and / or the like. In such cases, the radiating elements 304 may be electrically connected to the single router and groups of radiating elements 304 can be associated with a specific service provider based on the SIM card. For example, the router may have a first SIM card associated with a first service provider and a second SIM card associated with a second service provider. In this arrangement, four cellular radiating elements (e.g., four radiating elements 101) can be configured to be electrically coupled to the router and can be configured for 4x4 MIMO communication associated with the first service provider, and four cellular radiating elements (e.g., four radiating elements 101’) can be configured to be electrically coupled to the router and can be configured for 4x4 MIMO communication associated with the second service provider.

[0199] In other configurations, the antenna assembly 300 can include more or fewer radiating elements 304. For example, where support for more service providers isdesired, additional radiating elements 304 can be included and / or the radiating elements 304 can be configured for 2x2 MIMO communication. Conversely, where support for less service providers is acceptable and / or when slower data rates are acceptable, fewer radiating elements 304 can be included and / or the radiating elements 304 can be configured for 2x2 MIMO communication.

[0200] The term “router” as used herein is intended to be a broad term that encompasses wireless radios, cellular radios, and / or the like. Further, a person of skill in the art would understand that there are many different router configurations that the antenna assembly 300 can be used with to support the desired remote cellular coverage.

[0201] As described above, the antenna assembly 300 can include the satellite user terminal 350, which may be housed inside of the case 302 (e.g., in the lid 308, in the base 306, etc.). Because satellite user terminals can reach high temperatures in use, satellite user terminals are usually not configured to operate inside a container and / or out of direct airflow. For example, operating a satellite user terminal within a container can result in the device overheating and / or can cause damage to the device. However, the antenna assembly 300 is configured to allow the satellite user terminal 350 to operate when enclosed within the lid 308 and when the case 302 is in the closed configuration. To prevent the satellite user terminal 350 from overheating, the antenna assembly 300 can be configured to direct a flow of gases (e.g., air) across and / or at the satellite user terminal 350 during use. In some examples, the flow of gases can enter the case 302 from an external environment and can be directed at the satellite user terminal 350 before exiting the case 302 and returning to the external environment.

[0202] Referring back to FIG. 11C, the antenna assembly 300 can include one or more fans 322 configured to cause a flow of gases to enter the case 302. In the illustrated example, the fans 322 are positioned in the base 306 and may be referred to as “base fans” herein. The base fans 322 can be coupled to the base 306 and configured to, in operation, cause a flow of gases to enter the first internal volume 305 from an external environment. The base fans 322 may be positioned at opening(s) in the base 306 so that the fans 322 direct the air from outside of the case 302 into the first internal volume 305.

[0203] In the illustrated example, the antenna assembly 300 includes four base fans 322. In other configurations, more or fewer fans 322 are possible. In the illustrated example,all of the base fans 322 are positioned at the back of the base 306. Tn other configurations, the base fans 322 may be positioned and / or coupled to any of the side walls of the base 306.

[0204] To prevent debris, insects, and / or other contaminants from entering the base 306, the openings in the base 306 where the base fans 322 are positioned can include filters. For example, each of the one or more base fans 322 can be positioned at an opening in the base 306, and each opening in the base 306 can have a filter for filtering the flow of gases.

[0205] As shown in at least FIG. 10B, the antenna assembly 300 may include a cover plate 310 positioned in the base 306. The cover plate 310 may also be referred to herein as a “barrier”. The cover plate 310 and other components within the base 306 can be used for spacing and housing the various electronics associated (e.g., the battery 336, router, additional antennas, radiating structures, etc.) with the antenna assembly 300 in a secure manner, which can desirably allow the antenna assembly 300 to be transported without damaging the electronics. Various shelves, containers, brackets, and / or the like can be coupled to the cover plate 310 and / or the inside of the base 306 to house such components. However, the cover plate 310 is not required and may not be included in all implementations of the antenna assembly 300.

[0206] When the cover plate 310 is included, the cover plate 310 can be an obstacle between the flow of gases generated by the base fans 322 and other components of the antenna assembly 300, such as the satellite user terminal 350. Accordingly, the cover plate 310 can include various openings, cut-outs, and / or other features to allow airflow through the cover plate 310.

[0207] In the illustrated example, the cover plate 310 includes several openings 354 that can promote fluid exchange through the cover plate 310 and from the first internal volume 305. For ease of reference, not all openings 354 are labeled in FIG. 10B. In some configurations, the cover plate 310 can include a plurality of opening 354 distributed across the cover plate 310 to allow multiple locations for the flow of gases to pass through the cover plate 310.

[0208] When the case 302 is in the open configuration, the flow of gases from the base fans 322 can pass through cover plate 310 and return to the external environment. When the case 302 is in the closed configuration, the flow of gases from the base fans 322 can pass through the cover plate 310 and enter the internal volume 307 of the lid 308. For example, theflow of gases may pass through the openings 340 in the baseplate 320. Tn this manner, the base fans 322 can cause the flow of gases to be directed through the case 302 and towards the satellite user terminal 350.

[0209] In some configurations, the antenna assembly 300 may include one or more fans 324 disposed within the lid 308 and configured to, in operation, cause a flow of gases to enter the second internal volume 307. The fans 324 within the lid 308 may be referred to herein as the “lid fans” 324. When the case 302 is in the open configuration, the lid fans 324 can cause a flow of gases to enter the lid 308 from the external environment. When the case 302 is in the closed configuration, the lid fans 324 can cause a flow of gases to enter the lid 308 from the base 306 (e.g., the first internal volume 305).

[0210] As shown in FIG. 14, the lid fans 324 can be coupled to the baseplate 320 and positioned at the openings 340 in the baseplate 320 such that the flow of gases can enter the second internal volume 307 from the first internal volume 305. The lid fans 324 can be positioned below the satellite user terminal 350 so that the flow of gases can be directed at the satellite user terminal 350, allowing a heat exchange between the flow of gases and the satellite user terminal 350. This arrangement can allow the satellite user terminal 350 to operate within the closed case 302 without overheating.

[0211] In the illustrated example, the antenna assembly 300 includes four base lid fans 324. In FIG. 14, one lid fan 324 is not shown. In other configurations, more or fewer fans 324 are possible. In the illustrated example, all of the lid fans 324 are coupled to the baseplate 320. In other configurations, the lid fans 324 may be positioned and / or coupled to any of the walls of the lid 308, for example.

[0212] In some configurations, the antenna assembly 300 may include one or more fans in the lid 308 that direct airflow into the second internal volume 307 from the external environment. For example, the fans may be positioned in one or more walls of the lid 308. In such configurations, the base fans 322 may not be included in the antenna assembly 300.

[0213] To allow the flow of gases to exit the antenna assembly 300 after being directed at the satellite user terminal 350, the antenna assembly 300 can include one or more vents disposed within the lid 308 or coupled to the lid 308. In the illustrated example, the lid 308 includes vents 400 that are coupled to the lid 308, as shown in FIG. 17. The vents 400 can be configured to direct the flow of gases from the second internal volume 307 to the externalenvironment. Tn this manner, the satellite user terminal 350 can be continually cooled by the flow of gases and the flow of gases can be continually exchanged with the external environment. For illustrative purposes, the vents 400 are not shown in all views of the lid 308.

[0214] In the illustrated example, the vents 400 are positioned on the front and back of the lid 308 and extend through the wall of the lid 308. In the illustrated example, three vents 400 are positioned on the front side of the lid 308 and three vents 400 are positioned on the back side. In other configurations, more or fewer vents 400 can be included in the antenna assembly 300. Further, the vents 400 can extend through any portion of the lid 308 where the flow of gases can be expelled from the lid 308.

[0215] The combination of the base fans 322, lid fans 324, and vents 400 can allow the antenna assembly 300 to provide a constant flow of gases to the satellite user terminal 350 in use, which can allow the satellite user terminal 350 to operate without damage due to overheating. In the illustrated arrangement the lid fans 324 and base fans 322 are configured to operate to cause a flow of gases to enter the first internal volume 305 of the base 306, pass through the baseplate 320 and into the second internal volume 307, and exit the case 302 through the lid 308 (e.g., through the vents 400).

[0216] In some configurations, the fans 322, 324 may be electrically connected to a control system (not shown) of the antenna assembly 300. The control system may cause the fans 322, 324 to be operated when the antenna assembly 300 is in use. In some configurations, the fans 322, 324 may be connected to a power supply of the antenna assembly 300 (e.g., the battery 336) and may be configured to operate whenever power is supplied to the antenna assembly 300. For example, when a power switch for the antenna assembly 300 is on, the fans 322, 324 may operate.

[0217] Various configurations for the vents 400 are possible. Generally, the vents 400 are configured to allow gases to exit the lid 308 while preventing or minimizing ingress into the lid 308. Example configurations of vents that can be used in the antenna assembly 300 are shown and described further with reference to FIGS. 18A-19D.

[0218] As shown in FIG. 15 A, the satellite user terminal 350 can be coupled to the baseplate 320 so that the satellite user terminal 350 is positioned substantially parallel to the baseplate 320. In this arrangement, when the case 302 is in the closed configuration, the satellite user terminal 350 is parallel to or at a minimal angle relative to the surface supportingthe case 302. However, it can be desirable in some cases to angle the satellite user terminal 350 so that the satellite user terminal 350 has a clear unobstructed viewing angle of the sky region where the satellites associated with the satellite user terminal 350 pass most frequently. For example, because satellites move quickly across the sky, angling the satellite user terminal 350 optimizes its electronically steered beam to track the satellites efficiently while minimizing interference from the ground, buildings, trees, or the horizon. Angling the satellite user terminal 350 can also help with performance and reliability, promoting stronger signal quality and smoother handoffs between satellites as they move overhead.

[0219] To allow the satellite user terminal 350 to be positioned at an angle, the antenna assembly 300 can be configured to move between a first configuration where the base 306 (and the satellite user terminal 350) is substantially parallel to a surface supporting the case 302 and a second configuration where the base 306 (and the satellite user terminal 350) is at an angle relative to the surface supporting the case.

[0220] Various systems can be used to allow the antenna assembly 300 to move between configurations. For example, the lid 308 can be supported in an angled partially open position, the entire case 302 can be angled relative to the ground, etc.

[0221] As shown in FIGs. 12A and 12B, in the illustrated configuration, the antenna assembly 300 can include a leg 360 configured to allow the case 302 to be supported in an angled position. The leg 360 can be pivotably coupled to a bottom surface of the base 306 (e.g., via a pivot assembly 362) and configured to move between a stowed configuration and an extended configuration.

[0222] FIG. 12A shows a bottom view of the case 302 where the leg 360 is in a stowed configuration relative to the base 306. FIG. 12B shows a side view of the case 302 where the leg 360 is in the extended configuration. In the extended configuration, the leg 360 can cause the case 302 to be supported at an angle relative to a surface supporting the case (e.g., the ground surface 301).

[0223] In the stowed configuration, the leg 360 can be positioned along the bottom surface of the base 306 and / or may be at least partially recessed into a housing portion of the base 306. The leg 360 may be secured in the stowed configuration to prevent the leg 360 from limiting the movement of the case 302. For example, the case 302 can include wheels 328 fortransporting the 300, and the leg 360 can be configured to not interfere with movement of the antenna assembly 300.

[0224] The leg 360 can be configured to position the case 302 and the satellite user terminal 350 at a desired angle as specified by the manufacturer or desired for optimal performance. In some cases, the leg 360 can allow the angle to be adjusted by movement of the leg 360 to a different position. In this manner, the correct angle for the satellite user terminal 350 can be set and the leg 360 can support the antenna assembly 300 in the desired position.

[0225] As noted above, the case 302 can include wheels 328 that can allow the antenna assembly 300 to be transported along a surface by rolling the case 302. As shown in FIG. 9B, the case 302 may include one or more handles 326 to allow the case 302 to be handled and transported. In some configurations, the case 302 can include an extendable handle 330 that can extend relative to the case 302. The extendable handle 330 can allow the antenna assembly 300 to be rolled along the ground, similar to a suitcase.

[0226] When moving or traveling with the antenna assembly 300, the case 302 is generally in the closed configuration. The case 302 may include one or more lid locks 316 to allow the lid 308 to be secured or locked to the base 306.

[0227] Referring now to FIG. 10B, the case 302 may include the cover plate 310 for separating portions of the base 306 and for separating various components of the antenna assembly 300. In some configurations, the cover plate 310 can include a viewing panel 352 or the viewing panel 352 can be coupled to the cover plate 310. The viewing panel 352 can be transparent to allow a user to view the components below the cover plate 310. In some configurations, the viewing panel 352 can be removable from the cover plate 310 to allow access to the interior of base 306 without removing the cover plate 310.

[0228] In some configurations, a battery tray 346 can be coupled to or disposed within the cover plate 310. The battery tray 346 can support the battery 336 in an easily accessible position, without requiring the user to remove the cover plate 310 to access the battery 336. In the illustrated example, the case 302 further includes a battery lid 348 that can be pivotably coupled to the cover plate 310. The battery lid 348 can be configured to secure the battery 336 within the battery tray 346.

[0229] In various implementations, different types of batteries can be used for the battery 336. For example, the battery 336 can be one or more modular batterie(s), hot swappable batterie(s), TSA approved batterie(s), etc.

[0230] Because certain components of the antenna assembly 300 may be disposed below the cover plate 310 and in the first internal volume 305, the cover plate 310 can include cable openings 356 for routing cables into the base 306. For example, the cables may extend between the radiating elements 304 and any associated router(s). To route the cables from the lid 308 to the base 306, cable routing component(s) 312 can extend between the base 306 and the lid 308. For example, the cable routing component 312 can be aligned with the cable openings 356 in the cover plate 310 and the cable openings 334, 334 in the baseplate 320 (see e.g., FIG. 11D).

[0231] As shown in FIG. 11C, the antenna assembly 300 can include a power connector 339. The power connector 339 may extend through the base 306. The power connector 339 can be used to connect the antenna assembly 300 to an external power source and / or the charge any internal power sources within the case 302 (e.g., the battery 336).

[0232] In some configurations, the antenna assembly 300 can include one or more external ports 338. The external ports 338 may extend through the base 306 and connect to electronics housed within the base 306. The external ports 338 may be used to connect the antenna assembly 300 to external devices using one or more cables. For example, the external ports 338 may support a wired local area network connection.

[0233] Referring now to FIGs. 13A and 13B, isolation perspective views of the base 306 are shown with various portions removed. FIG. 13A shows the base 306 with the viewing panel 352 removed, exposing the first internal volume 305. As shown in FIG. 13A, the external ports 338 extend into the first internal volume 305. A base fan 322 is also shown disposed in the internal volume 305.

[0234] FIG. 13B shows the base 306 with the cover plate 310 removed and most internal components of the antenna assembly 300 removed. The case 302 can include a bottom barrier 358 which can be positioned or coupled to an internal bottom surface of the base 306. The bottom barrier 358 may be referred to herein as the “router plate” and can include openings, cutouts, and / or various other structures that can allow the electronics of the antenna assembly 300 to be secured to the bottom barrier 358. For example, one component, such as arouter, may be fastened to the bottom barrier 358 user threaded fasteners, while another component, such as a boost charger, may be fasted to the bottom barrier 358 using hook and loop fasteners.

[0235] In some configurations, the antenna assembly 300 can be configured to support Wi-Fi and / or wireless communication protocol (e.g., Bluetooth) applications. For example, the antenna assembly 300 can include one or more Wi-Fi radiating elements / antennas configured to radiate and receive RF signals within at least one wireless local area network frequency band. For example, the one or more Wi-Fi radiating elements can be coupled with one or more RF transceiver circuitry that are configured to generate modulated RF signals for wireless data communication.

[0236] Various types of antennas can be used in the antenna assembly 300 to support Wi-Fi applications. For example, one or more radiating elements 900A and / or one or more radiating elements 900B described with reference to at least FIGs. 44A and 44B can be included in the antenna assembly 300. In other examples, conventional radiating elements that can support Wi-Fi applications can be included in the antenna assembly 300. When included, the Wi-Fi radiating elements can be housed in the base 306, housed in the lid 308, and / or disposed externally to the antenna assembly 300.

[0237] In some configurations, the antenna assembly 300 can include one or more radiating elements configured for Wi-Fi applications that are coupled to the side wall(s) of the base 306. In the illustrated example, the antenna assembly 300 includes four radiating elements 450. As shown in FIG. 13B, the radiating element 450 are coupled to the base 306 and positioned within the first internal volume 305. The radiating element 450 are described further with reference to FIGs. 20A and 20B.

[0238] FIG. 20A shows a first side of the radiating element 450 and FIG. 20B shows a second side of the radiating element 450. The radiating element 450 can be electrically coupled with RF transceiver circuitry (e.g., a radio, router, etc.) that is configured to generate modulated RF signals for wireless data communication. For example, the radiating element 450 can be configured to radiate and receive RF signals within at least one wireless local area network frequency band.

[0239] In some implementations, the antenna assembly 300 can include four radiating elements 450 that can be coupled to one or more routers to provide 2x2 MIMOcommunication (e.g., for two service providers) or to provide 4x4 MIMO communication (e.g., for a single provider). In other implementations, the antenna assembly 300 may include more than four or less than four radiating elements 450, depending on the desired communication configurations.

[0240] As shown in FIG. 20A, the radiating element 450 can include a first ground plane portion 458 on a first side 452. As shown in FIG. 20B, the radiating element 450 can include a second ground plane portion 460 on a second side 454. The ground planes 458, 460 can be a conductive material formed on a PCB base 472, in some cases.

[0241] In some implementations, the radiating element 450 can be a dual-band or a tri-band Wi-Fi element. In the illustrated example, the radiating element 450 is configured at a tri-band Wi-Fi element The radiating element 450 can include openings 456 for coupling the radiating element 450 to a surface, such as the side wall of the base 306 in the antenna assembly 300.

[0242] The radiating element 450 can include an upper frequency radiating portion 468. The width of the upper frequency radiating portions 468 has an impact on the impedance bandwidth of the upper two frequency bands of the radiating element 450.

[0243] The radiating element 450 can include a radiating portion / arm 466. The lower frequency band of the radiating element 450 can be dominated by the length of radiating portion 466. This arm 466 bends and turns at its ends so as to constructively contribute and assist with the radiating portions 468 in the highest third band of operation of the radiating element 450. As such all four arms of the two dipoles with a common feed point are providing a coordinated effort to contribute to the performance of the third upper frequency band.

[0244] The radiating element 450 can include a feed line 462 for electrically coupling to a cable (e.g., the center conductor of a coaxial cable). The coaxial cable may be mounted at mount point 474. The first ground plane portion 458 can extend along portions 464 adjacent the feed line 462 for coupling the outer conductor of a coaxial cable. As shown in FIG. 20B, the second side 454 of the radiating element 450 can have conductive tracing 480 in the shape of the elements 466, 468, etc. on the first side 452.

[0245] It is recognized that the radiating element 450 is just one example of an additional antenna that can be included in the antenna assembly 300. In other implementations,altemative antennas configured to resonate at frequencies that support wireless communication protocols (e.g., Wi-Fi and / or Bluetooth) can be included in the antenna assembly 300.

[0246] Referring now to FIGs. 18A-18C, a first perspective view, a second perspective view, and a back view of an implementation of a vent 400 are shown. In some implementations, one or more vents 400 can be included in the lid 308 to allow a flow of gases to exit the lid 308 (see e.g.. FIG. 17). For example, the vents 400 can be disposed in a wall of the lid 308 to allow air to exit the lid 308 to promote cooling of components housed with the lid 308 (e.g., the satellite user terminal 350).

[0247] The vent 400 can include a body 402. The body 402 has an external side 404 and an internal side 406. The external side 404 can be positioned to face outside of the lid 308. The internal side 406 can be positioned to face the inside of the lid 308 (e.g.. the second internal volume 307). In the illustrated example, the body 402 includes fastener holes 412 for coupling the vent 400 to the lid 308. In other examples, the vent 400 can be configured to be coupled to the lid 308 in another manner.

[0248] As shown in FIG. 18C, the vent 400 can include one or more openings 408. The openings 408 extend through the body 402 from the external side 404 to the internal side 406 and can allow fluid to pass through the body 402. Filter elements 416 can extend across the openings 408 to prevent debris from passing through the vents 400.

[0249] As shown in FIG. 18B, covers 410 can be positioned on the external side 404 over the openings 408. The covers 410 can protect the openings 408 from fluid ingress (e.g. when the antenna assembly 300 is used outside). The covers 410 can define fluid flow paths 414 that direct fluid down and away from the vents 400.

[0250] FIGS. 19A-19D show various views of another implementation of a vent 400A that can be used in the antenna assembly 300. For example, one or more vents 400A could be used in the antenna assembly 300 to allow a flow of gases to exit the lid 308 (e.g., instead of or in addition to the vents 400). For example, the vents 400A can be disposed in a wall of the lid 308 to allow air to exit the lid 308 to promote cooling of components housed with the lid 308 (e.g., the satellite user terminal 350).

[0251] The vent 400A can include a body 402A. As shown in the exploded view of FIG. 19C. the body 402A can have a first body portion 418A and a second body portion 420A. The first body portion 418A can have an external side 404A and the second body portion420A can have an internal side 406A. The external side 404A can be positioned to face outside of the lid 308. The internal side 406A can be positioned to face the inside of the lid 308A (e.g., the second internal volume 307). In the illustrated example, the body 402A includes fastener holes 412A for coupling the vents 400 A to the lid 308 A. In other examples, the vents 400 A can be configured to be coupled to the lid 308 in another manner.

[0252] As shown in FIGS. 19B and 19C. the vent 400A can include one or more openings 408A. The opening 408A extends through the body 402A from the external side 404A to the internal side 406 A and can allow fluid to pass through the body 402 A. A filter element 416A can extend across the openings 408A to prevent debris from passing through the vent 400A.

[0253] As shown in FIG. 19D, a cover 410A can be positioned on the external side 404A over the opening 408 A. The cover 410A can protect the opening 408 A from fluid ingress (e.g. when the antenna assembly 300 is used outside). The cover 410A can define a fluid flow path 414A that can direct fluid down and away from the vent 400A. In some cases, a support 422A can extend across or can be positioned adjacent the filter 416A.

[0254] While FIGs. 18A-18C and 19A-19D show two example implementations of vents that can be used in the antenna assembly 300, it is recognized that any suitable vents or fluid flow path defining components that allow air to exit the lid 308 can be used in the antenna assembly 300.

[0255] In some implementations, the antenna unit 300 can include additional features as described with reference to any other antenna assembly, system or unit described herein. For example, the antenna unit 300 can include one or more vents, one or more fans, USB / ethemet ports, and / or the like.

[0256] While the example implementation of the antenna assembly 300 is shown as including radiating elements (e.g., the radiating elements 304, radiating element 450, etc.), it is recognized that the antenna assembly 300 may be used without such radiating elements and may instead function as a transportable housing for the satellite user terminal 350. For example, the antenna assembly 300 may include only the satellite user terminal 350 and no additional radiating elements, in some implementations.

[0257] In some implementations, the antenna assembly 300 may include different radiating elements, antenna elements, antenna systems, and / or the like in addition to oraltematively to any of the radiating elements or antenna structures described herein (“alternative antennas”) For example, the antenna assembly 300 may be configured to house various alternative antennas to support cellular and / or Wi-Fi communications and which may be omni-directional or directional or highly directional in nature. When these alternative antennas are included, they may be housed in the lid 308, e.g., supported by the baseplate 320, housed in the base 306, and / or coupled to the antenna assembly 300 but positioned on the case 302 or externally to the case 302.

[0258] In one example, the alternative antenna(s) can be any of the antennas or systems described and / or illustrated in U.S. Application No. 18 / 447,210, filed August 9, 2023, titled “Antenna Systems,” the entirety of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. In another example, the alternative antenna(s) can be any of the antennas or systems described and / or illustrated in PCT Application No. US2025 / 026055, filed April 23, 2025, titled “Antenna Systems,” the entirety of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. In another example, the alternative antenna(s) can be any of the antennas or systems described and / or illustrated in US Application No. 18 / 447,193, filed August 9, 2023, titled “Antenna Systems,” the entirety of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. In another example, the alternative antenna(s) can be any of the antennas or systems described and / or illustrated in PCT Application No. US2025 / 024786, filed April 15, 2025, titled “Antenna Systems,” the entirety of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. In another example, the alternative antenna(s) can be any of the antennas or systems described and / or illustrated in U.S. Application No. 18 / 438,362, filed February 9, 2024, titled “Antenna Systems,” the entirety of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. In another example, the alternative antenna(s) can be any of the antennas or systems described and / or illustrated in PCT Application No. US / 2025 / 025639, filed April 21, 2025, titled “Antenna Systems,” the entirety of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0259] Referring now to FIG. 21A, a perspective view of another implementation of an antenna assembly 300A is shown. The antenna assembly 300A can include any of the components or features of the antenna assembly 300.

[0260] In the illustrated example, the antenna assembly 300A only includes the satellite user terminal 350A and does not include any additional radiating structures. For example, as shown in FIG. 21B, which shows a partial exploded view of the lid 308A, the lid308A may house the satellite user terminal 350A. The satellite user terminal 350A can be coupled to the baseplate 320A (e.g., directly or by a support portion not shown). The baseplate 320A can include openings 340A and lid fans 324A may be positioned near or at the openings 340A to direct airflow towards the satellite user terminal 350A. The baseplate 320A may further include additional slots 341 A for coupling purposes and / or to improve airflow.

[0261] Because additional radiating structures may not be included in the antenna assembly 300A, the base 306A may be smaller than the base 306 of the antenna assembly 300. The base 306A may optionally include the cover plate 310A. The antenna assembly 300A can include a power connector 339A that extends through a wall of the base 306A and / or external ports 338A. The external ports 338A can be used to electrically connect the antenna assembly 300A to external antenna systems or components, such as the alternative antennas described above.

[0262] In some implementations, the satellite user terminal 350A may be coupled directly to the lid 308A. In such cases, the baseplate 320A may not be included in the antenna assembly 300A.

[0263] Referring now to FIGS. 22A-37, an implementation of an antenna assembly 600 and various components that may be included in the antenna assembly 600 are shown. The antenna assembly 600 can be configured to support and / or house a satellite user terminal. The satellite user terminal may operate as a backhaul for various components of the antenna assembly 600, depending on the configuration. For example, the satellite user terminal may perform a similar function for the antenna assembly 600 as the satellite user terminal 350 in the antenna assembly 300.

[0264] In the antenna assembly 600, the satellite user terminal may be supported on the top of a housing of the antenna assembly 600. The housing may be configured to support the satellite user terminal in a protected manner while still allowing the terminal to be easily accessible to users. The housing may further be configured to expose the terminal to a flow of gases to promote heat exchange between the terminal and the air, which can provide a benefit of reducing the risk of the terminal overheating.

[0265] In one configuration, the housing of the antenna assembly 600 can include openings configured to promote or allow airflow beneath the satellite user terminal to cool the terminal. The openings can be positioned in the housing to expose the terminal to airflowwithout exposing an internal volume of the housing to the airflow, such that components within the internal volume of the housing are protected.

[0266] The antenna assembly 600 can be a fully integrated external antenna that consolidates various functions into a single, low-profile, waterproof unit. The housing of the antenna assembly 600 may have a low-profile aerodynamic design, allowing the antenna assembly 600 to be mounted externally to vehicle and / or other exposed structures.

[0267] In some configurations, the housing of the antenna assembly 600 may support other antenna elements, such as radiating elements / structures. In some implementations, the antenna assembly 600 can be a 5G antenna. In some implementations, the antenna assembly 600 can include one or more sets of MIMO cellular and / or MIMO WiFi antenna elements to support cellular and Wi-Fi applications.

[0268] In one configuration, the antenna assembly 600 can include a dual 4x4 MIMO cellular network for two simultaneous modems and reliable, high-bandwidth failover. The antenna assembly 600 may also include 4x4 MIMO Wi-Fi elements to provide stable connectivity for vehicles, field operations, and / or the like. The antenna assembly 600 can have a rugged omni-directional design configured to maintain coverage across all major North American frequency bands. In some implementations, the antenna assembly 600 can include an integrated global navigation satellite system (“GNSS”) element to enhance navigation and asset tracking accuracy, for example.

[0269] In some configurations, the antenna assembly 600 can include an angled antenna radome specially adapted to house a satellite terminal and configured to support the terminal at a desirable angle for use of the satellite terminal. The angled radome can have a removable cover for the satellite terminal. The angled radome can have one or more vent pathways from a front portion of the angled radome through to a back portion of the angled radome to allow for airflow past the satellite terminal during use. The angled radome can also be advantageously configured to cover one or more radiating antenna systems housed below the angled radome. For example, the angled radome can house a ground plane for a plurality of antenna systems housed within the angled radome.

[0270] In some configurations, a gasket can be provided between the base of the antenna assembly 600 and the angled radome to seal the multi-band radiator portions from the elements. The satellite terminal can be enclosed in its compartment of the angled radome andcan be positioned advantageously such that airflow from the vents within the angled radome can pass by the satellite terminal to keep the unit cool during use. Such an arrangement can allow the antenna terminal to be removed and / or serviced when desired.

[0271] In some configurations, the antenna assembly 600 can provide superfast data transmission speeds, in a rugged housing. For example, the antenna assembly 600 may support 600 MHz - 6 GHz operation. According to some implementations, the antenna assembly 600 can include up to 8x8 MIMO 5G cellular and up to 4x4 MIMO Wi-Fi capabilities. According to some implementations, the antenna assembly 600 can include L1 / L5 GPS capabilities. According to some implementations, the antenna assembly 600 can include one or more land mobile radio antenna elements for providing 450 MHz and 800 MHz coverage.

[0272] In some implementations, the antenna assembly 600 can include one or more additional antennas. The additional antennas can be configured to support Wi-Fi and / or Bluetooth applications.

[0273] In some implementations, the antenna assembly 600 can include a power source. The power source may be housed within a portion of the antenna assembly 600 or externally to the antenna assembly 600. In some implementations, the antenna assembly 600 can be configured to connect to an external power source. For example, the antenna assembly 600 can be AC powered.

[0274] In some implementations, the antenna assembly 600 can include additional features as described with reference to the other antenna units herein. For example, the antenna assembly 600 can include one or more vents, one or more fans, USB / ethernet ports, and / or the like. A gasket can be provided to seal the radome to the base plate supporting the antennas, in some configurations.

[0275] In some implementations, the antenna assembly 600 can include additional features. For example, the “V” shaped slits in the radome can allow for airflow and heat dissipation of the satellite terminal that can be used for back haul for the mini cellsite provided by the antenna assembly 600. Mounting underneath this antenna structure can be a box that can hold the battery, power conditioning, and a mini-base station that can be from an OEM vendor. The satellite user terminal can be the backhaul for the antenna assembly 600 and oneor more of the antenna elements described further herein can be the transmit and receive antennas for the mini base station.

[0276] In some implementations, a land mobile radio base station can be provided by the antenna assembly 600 such that first responders can have their public service radios connected. Then antenna assembly 600 may include Wi-Fi antenna elements to provide internet connected Wi-Fi. A cellular telephone type device can connect to Wi-Fi or cell frequencies during use. In some other applications cell antennas connect to cell towers and WiFi antennas connect to user phones. According to advantages of the antenna assembly 600, user phones can have their own private base station that provides cellular and Wi-Fi coverage.

[0277] In some implementations, the antenna assembly 600 can include additional features. For example, the cables can feed directly through the housing of the antenna assembly 600 and a user can easily replace the satellite user terminal by changing the top screws. The antenna assembly 600 can be configured for rugged conditions and can be configured to be mountable on a box, base, pole, and / or anywhere else as desired.

[0278] The satellite terminal can provide the back haul compared to the cellular elements. The satellite terminal can provide the backhaul for the Wi-Fi and / or the land based cellular elements can provide the back haul for the Wi-Fi. In some implementations it can be advantageous to put two or more carriers’ elements in the antenna assembly 600. For example, in some systems, a first router is associated with a four cell, and two Wi-Fi system, and a second router is associated with a four cell, and two Wi-Fi system. The satellite terminal can provide the backhaul and / or can also provide its own internal Wi-Fi antennas in some applications.

[0279] In some implementations, the antenna assembly 600 can include additional features. For example, the system can be aerodynamic. The vents can run all the way through the angled radome. Those vents can go through the entire radome of the antenna and that can allow the satellite terminal to get enough air flow to cool off so it will not overheat.

[0280] In some implementations, the satellite terminal can include additional features. For example, the system can have cellular antennas. Each modem and / or router can be coupled to three antenna elements of a type described herein, for example. A modem and / or router can also be coupled to another cellular antenna element of a type described herein.

[0281] When included in the antenna assembly 600, the eight cell antennas can be used for two modems to be able to broadcast the energy out into the surrounding area, to provide a self-contained base station. The antenna assembly 600 may also include Wi-Fi antennas that can be of a type described herein. In one example, one of these can be broadcasting for example on the AT&T frequencies, the other one can be broadcasting the Verizon or T-Mobile frequencies in two Wi-Fis for each cellular router so that they can be broadcasting and receiving.

[0282] Additionally, one or more of the modems and / or routers, when included, can be coupled to a ground mobile radio type antenna element of the type described herein. This arrangement can be provided for all of the land mobile radios for municipalities that want to be able to have land mobile radio functionality. This configuration can provide 450 MHz and 800 MHz coverage for radios. The ground mobile radio antenna on this base station can provide a coverage of up to about 500 yards, 600 yards, 700 yards, or more. The antenna element can have a curved upper portion and an angled head portion pointing downward, in some implementations. This can provide coverage in a compact configuration.

[0283] FIGS. 22A and 22B show a first perspective view and a second perspective view of the antenna assembly 600 respectively. FIGS. 23A-23F show various additional views of the antenna assembly 600. FIG. 24 shows a partial exploded view of the antenna assembly 600. The antenna assembly 600 can include a housing 602. The housing 602 can include a radome 604 and a base 606. The radome 604 can be configured to be coupled to the base 606 to define an internal volume 612 between the base 606 and the radome 604. The internal volume 612 may be referred to herein as the “first internal volume”.

[0284] In some implementations, a gasket 618 can be positioned at or near the contact point between the base 606 and the radome 604 when coupled together to prevent fluid ingress into the first internal volume 612.

[0285] The radome 604 is configured to support a satellite user terminal 650. The satellite user terminal 650 may be supported external to the first internal volume 612. For example, FIG. 25 shows a top view of the antenna assembly 600 with the satellite user terminal 650 positioned on a top side of the radome 604. As shown in FIG. 26, which shows an isolation view of the radome 604, the radome 604 can include a support portion 616 for supporting thesatellite user terminal 650. The support portion 616 may be positioned above the base 606 and outside of the first internal volume 612.

[0286] As shown in FIG. 25, the housing 602 may be configured to support the satellite user terminal 650 at an angle relative to the base 606. For example, the support portion 616 can be at an angle relative to the base 606 such that the radome 604 supports the satellite user terminal at the angle relative to the base 606. Such an arrangement can advantageously allow the satellite user terminal 650 to be angled relative to a ground surface, which can be desirable and / or required for certain satellite user terminals, as described herein.

[0287] In some implementations, the satellite user terminal 650 can be supported at an angle between 1 degree and 35 degrees, between 5 degrees and 25 degrees, between 7.5 degrees and 22.5 degrees, between 10 degrees and 20 degrees, and / or the like. The angle may be selected based on the specific performance requirements of the satellite user terminal 650.

[0288] To ensure the satellite user terminal 650 is secured to the housing 602 during operation, the housing 602 may include a cover 608. The cover 608 is shown removed from the radome 604 in FIG. 25. The cover 608 can be configured to be coupled to the radome 604 to secure the satellite user terminal 650 to the housing 602. As shown in FIG. 26, an internal volume 614 can be defined between an internal top surface 636 of the radome 604 and the cover 608. The internal volume 614 may be referred to herein as the “second internal volume”. The support portion 616 may be disposed within the second internal volume 614.

[0289] With continued reference to FIGS. 26 and 27, the radome 604 may include a rim 630. The rim 630 may extend at least partially around the second internal volume 614. The rim 630 is configured to engage the cover 608 when the cover 608 is coupled to the radome 604. For example, the cover 608 may be coupled to the radome 604 at the rim 630 using fasteners.

[0290] The rim 630 may be recessed below a top surface 628 of the radome 604. This arrangement can allow the cover 608 to be positioned partially within the radome 604, such that the top surface 628 and the cover 608 are at similar heights relative to the base 606. For example, as shown in the side views of FIGS. 23C and 23D, the top surface of the cover 608 may be substantially flush with the top surface 628 of the cover 608. This arrangement can promote a smooth aerodynamic profile for the housing 602, which is desirable in certain use cases, such as when the antenna assembly 600 is roof mounted to a vehicle.

[0291] The base 606 can include a first side 620 and an opposite second side 622. The first side 620 may be referred to herein as the “front side” and the second side 622 may be referred to herein as the “back side”. However, the antenna assembly 600 can be deployed in various orientations, depending on the desired application. The base 606 can further include side walls 624 and 626 extending between the front side 620 and the back side 622.

[0292] As shown in FIGS. 23C and 23D, the back side 622 can have a greater height relative to the base 606 than the front side 620. This configuration can provide improved airflow performance for the antenna assembly 600. For example, the radome 604 can have a generally wedge-shaped or flared profile, with a relatively narrow or truncated front side 620 that transitions to a wider trailing back side 622. This geometry is configured to manage airflow over the housing 602 by reducing abrupt pressure changes at the leading surface and promoting controlled flow expansion along the radome 604. Compared to a uniform or blunt profile, the shape of the radome 604 may reduce aerodynamic loading, flow-induced vibration, and noise when exposed to airflow, while maintaining a compact frontal area. This arrangement can be desirable when the antenna assembly 600 is deployed in high airflow conditions, such as on a vehicle.

[0293] FIG. 23E shows a back view of the antenna assembly 600 and FIG. 23F shows a front view of the antenna assembly 600. As shown, the housing 602 can include one or more openings 632 in or near the front side 620 and one or more openings 634 in or near the back side 622. The openings 632, 634 can define an airflow path through at least a portion of the housing 602.

[0294] As shown in FIG. 26, the openings 632, 634 can extend into the second internal volume 614. For example, the openings 632, 634 can be in fluid communication with the second internal volume 614 such that an airflow path between the front openings 632 and the back openings 634 extends through the second internal volume 614. This arrangement allows the satellite user terminal 650 to be cooled by any airflow between the openings 632, 634. For example, the airflow path can promote a heat exchange between fluid traveling along the airflow path between the openings 632, 634 and the satellite user terminal 650 when supported by the radome 604. It is noted that as the fluid increases in temperature, its volume expands. Traveling from openings 632 to openings 634, the available volume increases whichfurther encourages naturally convective fluid transportation and, as such, heat transfer from satellite user terminal 650 to the fluid entering openings 632 to exiting openings 634.

[0295] In the illustrated example, the openings 632 are open ended openings in the radome 604. For example, the openings 632 are only partially defined by the radome 604. In such a configuration, the cover 608 can at least partially define the bounds of the openings 632, as shown in at least FIG. 23F. In other configurations, the openings 632 can be wholly defined by the radome 604.

[0296] As shown in FIG. 23E, in the illustrated example, the openings 634 are open ended openings in the radome 604. For example, the openings 634 can be grooves in the radome 604 extending from the top surface 628 towards the base 606. When configured in this manner, the groove-shaped openings 634 can taper inwardly from the top surface 628 towards a bottom of the openings 634 defined by the radome 604. For example, the openings 634 can be generally V-shaped. In other configurations, different shaped openings 634 can be included in the radome 604.

[0297] The antenna assembly 600 can beneficially support the satellite user terminal 650 by the low-profile housing 602. In some implementations, the satellite user terminal 650 may be the only antenna element included in the antenna assembly 600. In other implementations, the antenna assembly 600 may include additional antenna structures to support cellular and / or Wi-Fi applications.

[0298] Referring back to FIG. 24, the antenna assembly 600 can include an internal ground plane 610 and / or one or more radiating elements 670. When included, the internal ground plane 610 may be supported by the base 606 and disposed within the first internal volume 612. When one or more radiating elements 670 are included in the antenna assembly 600, the radiating elements 670 may be disposed within the first internal volume 612 and can be supported by and / or electrically coupled to the internal ground plane 610.

[0299] The satellite user terminal 650 can be used to provide a wireless internet communications backhaul to the antenna assembly 600, for example. When additional antenna elements (e.g., the radiating elements 670) are included in the antenna assembly 600, the antenna elements can work with the satellite user terminal 650 to provide one or more local cellular access links (e.g., LTE / 5G) and / or local Wi-Fi access links. For example, radiating elements 670 can form part of one or more antennas of the antenna assembly 600, which canbe configured to use the satellite user terminal 650 as a wireless internet communications backhaul.

[0300] FIG. 31 shows a top view of the antenna assembly 600 with the radome 604 removed and FIG. 32 shows a corresponding side view. FIGs. 31 and 32 show example radiating elements 670 and how these elements can be arranged when included as part of the antenna assembly 600.

[0301] One or more of the radiating elements 670 can be configured to be electrically coupled with RF circuitry configured to generate modulated RF signals for cellular wireless communication, for example. In one example, one or more of the radiating elements 670 can be electrically coupled (e.g., using cables 664) to one or more radios (not shown) and configured for MIMO communications. The radio(s) can be housed externally to the housing 602 in some configurations. For example, one or more routers / radios may be housed in an enclosure 680 configured to be coupled to the antenna assembly 600, as shown in FIG. 34.

[0302] The internal ground plane 610 can be electrically conductive and can serve as a ground plane or ground reference for the antenna elements of the antenna assembly 600, such as the satellite user terminal 350, the radiating elements 670, and / or the like. When the radiating elements 670 are included, the radiating elements 670 can be coupled to radio(s) using coaxial cables 664. In this example, the internal ground plane 610 can establish a surface for the coaxial cables 664 to use as a reference for continuation of the RF signals from the radios to the radiating elements 670. The radiating elements 670 may be supported by support portions 666 coupled to the internal ground plane 610.

[0303] With continued reference to FIG. 31, the radiating elements 670 can include one or more multi-band radiator portions 500 and / or one or more multi-band radiator portions 500A. As described with reference at least FIGS. 41A-42D, each multi-band radiator portion 500 includes a radiating element 501 and each multi-band radiator portion 500 A includes a radiating element 501 A.

[0304] In the illustrated example, six multi-band radiator portions 500 and two multi-band radiator portions 500A are used. In other configurations, the antenna assembly 600 can include all multi-band radiator portions 500, all multi-band radiator portions 500A, or any combinations of multi-band radiator portions 500 and multi-band radiator portion 500A. Further, in other configurations, any of the multi-band radiator portions and / or radiatingelements described herein can be used in the antenna assembly 600. For example, the antenna assembly 600 can include one or more multi-band radiator portions 100’ (see e.g., FIGs. 39A-39H), one or more multi-band radiator portions 100 (see e.g., FIGs.40A-K). one or more multiband radiator portions 100” (see e.g., FIGs. 40L-40N), one or more multi-band radiator portions 500 (see e.g., FIGs. 41A-41J), one or more multi-band radiator portion 500A (see e.g., FIGs. 42A-42D), one or more multi-band radiator portion 500B (see e.g., FIGs. 43A-43D), and / or the like.

[0305] When included, one or more of the radiating elements 670 can be cellular radiating elements configured to be electrically coupled with RF circuitry configured to generate modulated RF signals for cellular wireless communication. In the illustrated example, the antenna assembly 600 includes eight cellular radiating elements (e.g., six radiating elements 501 and two radiating elements 501 A) configured to support MIMO communication with one or more cellular service providers.

[0306] In one configuration, four of the radiating elements 670 may be configured to support MIMO communication with a first service provider and / or four of the radiating elements 670 may be configured to support MIMO communication with a second service provider. In this arrangement, four cellular radiating elements (e.g., four radiating elements 501) can be configured to be electrically coupled to a first cellular radio associated with the first service provider and can be configured for 4x4 MIMO communication, and four cellular radiating elements can be configured to be electrically coupled to a second cellular radio associated with the second service provider and can be configured for 4x4 MIMO communication.

[0307] It is recognized that separate cellular radios are not required for each service provider. For example, a single router with multiple SIM cards can be used instead of multiple separate routers. In some configurations, the antenna assembly 600 can include a router configured to receive one SIM card, two SIM cards, three SIM cards, four SIM Cards, eight SIM cards, and / or the like. In such cases, the radiating elements 670 may be electrically connected to the single router and groups of radiating elements 670 can be associated with a specific service provider based on the SIM card. For example, the router may have a first SIM card associated with a first service provider, a second SIM card associated with a second service provider, a third SIM card associated with a third service provider. In this arrangement,four cellular radiating elements (e.g., four radiating elements 501) can be configured to be electrically coupled to the router and can be configured for 4x4 MIMO communication associated with the first service provider, two cellular radiating elements (e.g., two radiating elements 501) can be configured to be electrically coupled to the router and can be configured for 2x2 MIMO communication associated with the second service provider, and / or two cellular radiating elements (e.g., two radiating elements 501 A) can be configured to be electrically coupled to the router and can be configured for 2x2 MIMO communication associated with the third service provider.

[0308] In other configurations, the antenna assembly 600 can include more or fewer radiating elements 670. For example, where support for more service providers is desired, additional radiating elements 670 can be included and / or the radiating elements 670 can be configured for various combinations of 4X4 and 2x2 MIMO communication. Conversely, where support for less service providers is acceptable and / or when slower data rates are acceptable, fewer radiating elements 670 can be included and / or the radiating elements 670 can be configured for 2x2 MIMO communication.

[0309] In addition to or alternatively to the radiating elements configured for cellular applications, the antenna assembly 600 can include one or more radiating elements 670 configured to support Wi-Fi and / or wireless communication protocol (e.g., Bluetooth) applications. For example, the antenna assembly 600 can include one or more Wi-Fi radiating elements / antennas configured to radiate and receive RF signals within at least one wireless local area network frequency band. For example, the one or more Wi-Fi radiating elements can be coupled with one or more RF transceiver circuitry that are configured to generate modulated RF signals for wireless data communication.

[0310] Various types of antennas can be used in the antenna assembly 600 to support Wi-Fi applications. For example, one or more radiating elements 900A and / or one or more radiating elements 900B described with reference to at least FIGs. 44A and 44B can be included in the antenna assembly 300. In other examples, conventional radiating elements that can support Wi-Fi applications can be included in the antenna assembly 600.

[0311] In the illustrated example, the antenna assembly 600 includes four Wi-Fi radiating elements 900. The Wi-Fi radiating elements 900 can be coupled to one or more routers to provide 2x2 MIMO communication (e.g., for two service providers) or to provide4x4 MIMO communication (e.g., for a single provider). Tn other implementations, the antenna assembly 600 may include more than four or less than four radiating elements 900, depending on the desired communication configurations.

[0312] In some implementations, the antenna assembly 600 may include one or more radiating elements configured for public safety communications. For example, the antenna assembly 600 can include a public safety radiating structure 700. The radiating structure 700 can be configured to transmit and receive RF signals in frequency bands allocated to public safety services. The radiating structure 700 may be configured to operate over one or more public safety bands and to support reliable communication characteristics such as wide or multi-band coverage, suitable polarization, and radiation patterns that provide consistent signal strength for mobile and fixed public safety users. In some implementations, the radiating structure 700 is configured to support robust performance in challenging environments, including urban, rural, or emergency scenarios, where reliability and coverage are prioritized.

[0313] The radiating structure 700 may be implemented as any suitable antenna structure, including a monopole, dipole, patch, electrically small radiating element, and / or the like. Example implementations of radiating structures that can be used to provide public safety communications for the antenna assembly 600 as shown and described with reference to at least FIGS. 45A-46A.

[0314] Generally, the radiating structure 700 can include a radiating element (e.g., public safety radiating element 701) configured to radiate at one or more public safety frequency bands. For uses in North America, the radiating element 701 may be configured to radiate at an upper ultra-high frequency band. In some configurations, the radiating element 701 is configured to radiate at frequencies between approximately 380 MHz and 512 MHz and between approximately 698 MHz and 941 MHz. For most use cases, the radiating element 701 may be configured to radiate at frequencies between approximately 450 MHz and 470 MHz and between approximately 764 MHz and 869 MHz. However, for use in different countries with different public safety frequency bands, it is recognized that the radiating structure 700 can be scaled to alter the desired frequencies of operation.

[0315] As noted above, various components associated with the antenna assembly 600, such as routers, batteries, and / or the like may be housed externally to the housing 602. For example, these components and / or additional power storage and / or electronics can behoused in the component box 680 shown in FIG. 34. To facilitate a connection between the radiating elements 670 in the first internal volume 612, the internal ground plane 610 and the base 606 can each include openings configured to allow cables 664 to be routed externally to the housing 602. For example, the cables 664 can be routed through the housing 602 and into the component box 680 to facilitate a connection to a router.

[0316] FIGS. 33 A and 33B show a bottom isolation view of the base 606 and a top isolation view of the base 606 and the internal ground plane 610 respectively. As shown, the base 606 can include a base opening 646 and the internal ground plane 610 can include a ground plane opening 662. The openings 646, 662 can be at least partially aligned in the assembled antenna assembly 600 such that the openings 646, 662 can allow for routing cables 665 through the housing 602 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 31).

[0317] The satellite user terminal 650 may also need to be coupled to external components (e.g., a power source) via one or more cables (not shown). It can be desirable to route such cable(s) through the radome 604 for cable management and / or if the cable(s) need to be routed to the same component box 680. Accordingly, the radome 604 can include a radome opening 638 (see e.g., FIGS. 26 and 27) that can be used for routing cable(s) from the satellite user terminal 650 through the housing 602. The radome opening 638 can also be at least partially aligned with the openings 646, 662 in the internal ground plane 610 and the base 606 so that all cables can be routed through the housing 602 together.

[0318] Although there are benefits to routing the cables from the satellite user terminal 650 and from the radiating elements 670 together, it can be desirable to separate the first internal volume 612 of the radome 604 from the second internal volume 614. For example, the second internal volume 614 can be exposed to the elements and the housing 602 is configured to direct airflow through the second internal volume 614, either of which may cause damage to the components housed in the radome 604, such as the radiating elements 670. Accordingly, in some configurations, the radome 604 can include a channel 640 extending from the radome opening 638 and into the first internal volume 612. The radome opening 638 is shown at least in FIG. 29, which show a bottom perspective view of the radome 604. In some cases, the channel 640 can extend through the internal ground plane opening 662 and at least partially through the base opening 646 such that the first internal volume 612 and the second internal volume 614 are not in fluid communication.

[0319] With reference to FIG. 23C, in some configurations, the antenna assembly 600 may include a shaft 660 extending from a bottom side of the base 606. The shaft 660 may be aligned with the various openings in the antenna assembly 600 to allow the cables to be routed through the housing 602, as shown in at least FIG. 37. The shaft 660 may be threaded to facilitate connection to another structure, such as for pole mounting, coupling to a vehicle, coupling to the component box 680, and / or the like.

[0320] Referring back to FIG. 34, various components associated with the antenna assembly 600, such as routers, batteries, and / or the like may be housed externally to the housing 602 and within the component box 680, for example. The component box 680 can be constructed of different materials, depending on what is housed therein. For example, when the component box 680 houses radiating elements or external antenna systems or assemblies, the component box 680 may be constructed of an RF transparent material, similar to a traditional radome. When the component box 680 does not house radiating structures, the component box 680 may be made of a metal, for example.

[0321] While the component box 680 is shown as a rectangular prism in FIG. 34, the component box 680 can be configured in different manners and may include any features of any housing or antenna unit, system, or assembly describe herein. In one example, the component box 680 may be configured as the antenna assembly 300 or a portion thereof. In one specific example, the component box 680 be configured as or in a similar manner as the base 306 of the antenna assembly 300. For example, the component box 680 may include any of the features, structures, and / or the like described with reference to the base 306 or than can be housed or coupled to the base 306 in at least FIGS. 9A-21B. In such a configuration, the antenna assembly 600 may form the top or lid of a case including the base 306. In this arrangement, the housing 602 can support the satellite user terminal 650 above the base 306, and the base 306 can house components associated with the satellite user terminal 650, for example. When configured in this manner, the structure of the housing 602 may be modified to allow the housing 602 to form a lid of a case including the base 306. For example, the housing 602 may be pivotably coupled to the base 306.

[0322] In some implementations, the antenna assembly 600 can be configured to include or to be coupled to different radiating elements, antenna elements, antenna systems, and / or the like in addition to or alternatively to any of the radiating elements or antennastructures described herein (“alternative antennas”). Regardless of how the component box 680 is configured, these alternative antennas may be housed within the component box 680 or the component box 680 may house electronic components that can be coupled to the alternative antennas. For example, the antenna assembly 600 and / or the component box 680 may be configured to house various alternative antennas to support cellular and / or Wi-Fi communications and which may be omni-directional or directional or highly directional in nature. When these alternative antennas are included, they may be housed in the first internal volume 612, coupled to the cover 608, housed in the component box 680, and / or coupled to the antenna assembly 600 but positioned on the housing 602 or externally to the housing 602.

[0323] In one example, the alternative antenna(s) can be any of the antennas or systems described and / or illustrated in U.S. Application No. 18 / 447.210, filed August 9, 2023, titled “Antenna Systems,” the entirety of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. In another example, the alternative antenna(s) can be any of the antennas or systems described and / or illustrated in PCT Application No. US2025 / 026055. filed April 23, 2025, titled “Antenna Systems,” the entirety of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. In another example, the alternative antenna(s) can be any of the antennas or systems described and / or illustrated in US Application No. 18 / 447,193, filed August 9, 2023, titled “Antenna Systems,” the entirety of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. In another example, the alternative antenna(s) can be any of the antennas or systems described and / or illustrated in PCT Application No. US2025 / 024786, filed April 15, 2025, titled “Antenna Systems,” the entirety of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. In another example, the alternative antenna(s) can be any of the antennas or systems described and / or illustrated in U.S. Application No. 18 / 438,362, filed February 9, 2024, titled “Antenna Systems,” the entirety of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. In another example, the alternative antenna(s) can be any of the antennas or systems described and / or illustrated in PCT Application No. US / 2025 / 025639, filed April 21, 2025, titled “Antenna Systems,” the entirety of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0324] In some implementations, the antenna assembly 600 may be configured to be electrically connected to an external ground plane (not shown). The external ground plane may be in the form of conducting surfaces on vehicles, buildings, indoor or outdoor equipment enclosures, and other such customer premise equipment. Those skilled in the art wouldunderstand that the nature of the deployment of the antenna assembly 600 will change slightly in the deployed performance based on type of structure the antenna assembly 600 is attached to as well as the surroundings in which it is deployed. Those skilled in the art realize that the lower frequency bands of the radiating elements 670 may work best when placed on an external ground plane, but that an external ground plane is not required for applications where a reduction in the level of performance of the antenna assembly 600 is acceptable.

[0325] With reference to FIGS. 23B, 23C, and 24, in some implementations, the base 606 may include a plurality of openings 652 that extend through the base 606 that are configured to receive or house conductive portions 654. The conductive portions 654 can extend though the base 606 via the plurality of openings 652 and contact a bottom surface of the internal ground plane 610. These conductive portions 654 can be configured to electrically couple the internal ground plane 610 to an external ground plane when the antenna assembly 600 is positioned on the external ground plane.

[0326] In some implementations, the conductive portions 654 can be foam portions with a conductive material wrapped around the foam portions. This configuration can allow some compression in the conductive portions 654 when the antenna assembly 600 is deployed on an external ground plane, which can assist with improved electrical contact between the external ground plane and the internal ground plane 610 via the conductive portions 654. In the illustrated example, the conductive portions 654 are block shaped, but any suitable shape can be used. Further, the conductive portions 654 may not be included and may not be desirable for all use cases of the antenna assembly 600.

[0327] As described herein, the radome 604 can be shaped to taper from the back side 622 towards the front side 620. While this shape can provide an advantage aerodynamic profile for the housing 602, the change in height of the radome 604 relative to the base 606 can limit the height of the radiating elements 670 that can be included in the antenna assembly 600 and their positions on the base.

[0328] In one example, the radome 604 may have a maximum height of less than 4 inches relative to the base 606. In some implementations, the base 606 may have a square shape, with a width of less than 18 inches. In other implementations, different sizes can be used for the components of the housing 602.

[0329] FIG. 32 shows a side view of the antenna assembly 600 with the radome 604 removed. As shown, the radiating elements 670 closer to the front side 620 (e.g., the radiating elements 900) can have a shorter height relative to the radiating elements 670 positioned closer to the back side 622. Accordingly, the radiating elements 670 can be selected based in part on their height and where they fit inside the low-profile housing 602. In some configurations where the radome 604 does not need to be low-profile, different radiating elements 670 can be used.

[0330] FIG. 28 shows a first partial section-view of the antenna assembly 600 and FIG. 30 shows a section view of the antenna assembly 600. As shown, the openings 634 in the radome 604 can extend relatively close to the base 606, which can advantageously provide improved airflow through the housing 602, but can restrict the positioning of the radiating elements 670 within the first internal volume 612. Accordingly, the radiating elements 670 can be arranged on the internal ground plane 610 in positions where they do not interfere or contact the ribs 642 which form the openings 634. For example, the ribs 642 can define compartments 644 where the radiating elements 670 can be positioned.

[0331] As shown in FIG. 31, in the illustrated configuration, the radiating elements 670 can be disposed around at least a portion of a perimeter of the cover 608. For example, the radiating elements 670 may extend along or be positioned along at least three sides of the cover 608. Due to the low height of the radome 604 at the front side 620 in the illustrated example, no radiating elements 670 are positioned along the front side 620 of the housing 602.

[0332] Referring now to FIGS. 35-37, which show various views of the antenna assembly 600 with a mounting system 690. The antenna assembly 600 may be coupled to the mounting system 690 to facilitate mounting the antenna assembly 600 to various other structures, such as vehicles. The mounting system 690 may include a body 692. The body 692 can be removably coupled to the housing 602 via the base 606. for example. The body 692 can include a cable opening 694 for routing cables from the antenna assembly 600 through the mounting system 690.

[0333] In the illustrated example, the mounting system 690 is configured to be magnetically coupled to external structures. As such, the mounting system 690 can include a plurality of magnets 696. The magnets 696 can allow the mounting system 690 and the antenna assembly 600 to be magnetically coupled to an external structure, such as a vehicle roof.

[0334] In some implementations, the antenna assembly 600 can include additional features as described with reference to the other antenna assemblies, units, and / or systems herein. For example, the antenna assembly 600 can include one or more vents, one or more fans, USB / ethemet ports, and / or the like. For example, the antenna assembly 600 can include multiple grooves that serve as vents to allow air to flow under the satellite user terminal 350 during use.

[0335] According to some implementations, the antenna assembly 600 can have a shaft mount configuration. In some implementations, the antenna assembly 600 can comprise mounting holes for a pole mount and / or a wall mount configuration which can be separate from a base unit.

[0336] According to some implementations, the antenna assembly 600 can be configured to support the satellite user terminal 650 at an angle relative to the base 606. The angle of the satellite user terminal 650 relative to the base 606 can provide an advantageous orientation angle for the satellite user terminal 650, where the satellite user terminal 650 is positioned at an advantageous angle for receiving a satellite transmission and / or signal from a satellite. According to some preferred implementations, the angle of orientation relative to horizontal can be between about 5 degrees and about 20 degrees, between about 6 degrees and about 18 degrees, between about 7 degrees and about 16 degrees, between about 7 degrees and about 14 degrees, between about 8 degrees and about 12 degrees, and / or between about 9 degrees and about 10 degrees.

[0337] Referring now to FIGS. 38A-38D, various views of another implementation of an antenna assembly 600A are shown. The antenna assembly 600A can include any of the components or features of the antenna assembly 600.

[0338] In the illustrated example, the antenna assembly 600A only includes the satellite user terminal 650A and does not include any additional radiating structures. For example, as shown in FIG. 38D, which shows a partial exploded view of the antenna assembly 600 A, the radome 604A may house the satellite user terminal 650 A in the second internal volume 614A. The satellite user terminal 650A can be coupled to the radome 604A (e.g., directly or by a support portion not shown).

[0339] The radome 604A can include openings 632A in the front side 620A and openings 634A in the back side 622A to define an airflow path through the second internal volume 614A and the housing 602A to cool the satellite user terminal 650A.

[0340] Although shown in FIG. 38D, the antenna assembly 600A may not include an internal ground plane 610A in the first internal volume 612A. However, the internal ground plane 610A may be included and may be coupled to the base 606 A in some implementations, particularly when the antenna assembly 600A includes radiating elements or other antenna structures.

[0341] The radome 604A can differ from the radome 604 of the antenna assembly 600 in that the radome 604A may not have a tapered profile. This design may not be as aerodynamic as the housing 602 of the antenna assembly 600 but can provide other benefits. For example, radiating elements can be positioned along all sides of the base 606A. Additionally, the same sized radiating elements can be used in the antenna assembly 600A with the height of the base 606A being relatively consistent throughout the first internal volume 612A, except in the center of the base 606A and where the openings 632A, 634A are positioned.

[0342] The antenna assembly 600A can include a cover 608A to secure the satellite user terminal 650A to the housing 602A. The satellite user terminal 650A may be angled relative to the base 606A or may be substantially parallel to the base 606A.

[0343] Be it known that we have invented new, original and ornamental designs for an ANTENNA ASSEMBLY OR PORTIONS THEREOF, of which the following is a specification, reference being had to the accompanying drawings, forming a part thereof.

[0344] FIG. 22 A is an embodiment of a front top perspective view of an antenna assembly or portions thereof showing our new design.

[0345] FIG. 22B is an embodiment of a back top perspective view of an antenna assembly or portions thereof showing our new design.

[0346] FIG. 23A is an embodiment of a top view of an antenna assembly or portions thereof showing our new design.

[0347] FIG. 23B is an embodiment of a bottom view of an antenna assembly or portions thereof showing our new design.

[0348] FIG. 23C is an embodiment of a left-side view of an antenna assembly or portions thereof showing our new design.

[0349] FIG. 23D is an embodiment of a right-side view of an antenna assembly or portions thereof showing our new design.

[0350] FIG. 23E is an embodiment of a back-side view of an antenna assembly or portions thereof showing our new design.

[0351] FIG. 23F is an embodiment of a front-side view of an antenna assembly or portions thereof showing our new design.

[0352] I claim: The ornamental design for an ANTENNA ASSEMBLY OR PORTIONS THEREOF, substantially as shown and described in FIGS. 22A-23F.Radiating Elements and Structures Including Multi-Band Antenna Elements

[0353] FIGS. 39A-39H illustrate various views of components of the multi-band radiator portions 100’, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure. Each multi-band radiator portion 100’ and / or multi-band antenna 100’ can include a multi-band radiating element 101’ and a ground connection 103’ (also referred to herein as a “grounding portion” or a “tuner”). The ground connection 103’ is configured to couple multi-band radiating element 101’ to a ground plane (e.g„ the baseplate 320 of the antenna assembly 300). FIGS. 39A and 39C-39F illustrate assorted views of the multi-band radiating element 101’. FIGS. 39B and 3G-39H illustrate the ground connection 103’. In some implementations, a different ground connection can be used with the radiating element 101 ’ to form the multi-band radiator portions 100’. The multi-band antennas 100, 100’, and the multi-band radiating element 101’ and ground connection 103’, can also be referred to as an antenna system, antenna components, antenna module, radiating systems, multi-band elements, and / or other reference to some or all of its components, etc. The multi-band elements can include one or more antenna elements and / or antenna components or systems. The multi-band elements may be of different shapes, operational ranges or frequencies, and sizes.

[0354] It is recognized that the multi-band radiator portions 100’ and / or multi-band antennas 100’ described herein are just one example of multi-band radiator portions that can be included in any of the antenna systems, units, or assemblies described herein. In other implementations, different multi-band radiator portions can be included. For example, the antenna assemblies 200 and 300 can include multi-band radiator portions that are similar oridentical to the multi-band radiator portions 100 described herein. Tn the illustrated implementation, the radiating element 101’ and the ground connection 103’ are constructed of metal (e.g., a conductive sheet). In some cases, the conductive sheet can have a thickness between 0.01 inches and 0.03 inches. In other implementations, the radiating element 101’ and / or ground connection 103’ could be constructed out of several rigid PCB portions or a single flex circuit PCB (e.g., supported by a radome or another RF-transparent supporting structure). Additional disclosure regarding antenna systems and assemblies including the multi-band radiator portions 100’ of FIGS. 39A-39H is further described in U.S. Application No. 18 / 894,607, filed September 24, 2024, entitled “Antenna Systems,” the entire contents of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. The disclosure and FIGS, in U.S. Application No. 18 / 894,607 can be used in connection with the disclosure and FIGS, described and shown herein.

[0355] As shown in FIG. 39A, a radiating element 101’ can be one element or component of the multi-band radiator portion 100’. An upright low-band radiation portion 125’ (also referred to herein as the “body portion 125’”) can be a body portion of the radiating element 101’. The upright low-band radiation portion 125’ can be coupled to a feeding portion at a feed point 119’ (see e.g., FIG. 39C) to electrically excite the radiating element 101’. As shown in FIG. 39A, a second low-band radiation portion 129’ (also referred to herein as the “head portion 129’”) can be positioned at an angle relative to the body portion 125’ (e.g., the upright low-band radiation portion 125’) and extend such that the second low-band radiation portion 129’ is not coplanar with the upright low-band radiation portion 125’. In some other implementations, the second low-band radiation portion 129’ can be configured without a bend such that it is coplanar with the upright low-band radiation portion 125’. In some implementations, advantages of a bend can include having two distinct low-band radiating portions, reducing the total height of the system to be more compact and conserve space, and configuring the system to be able to easily cover and provide protection for the system in a compact configuration with multi-band coverage (e.g., in the antenna assembly 600). Having a compact radiating element 101’ (e.g., in part due to the bend between the upright low-band radiation portion 125’ and the second low-band radiation portion 129’) can allow the multiband radiator portions 100’ to be utilized in antenna assemblies where a low profile is required or desired. For example, it can be desirable in some implementations for the antenna assembly600 to have as low a profile as possible, to allow the antenna assembly 600 to be used in high wind operating conditions or applications that require low visual impact. Accordingly, when included in the antenna assembly 600, as the multi-band radiator portions 100’ represent the limiting factor in terms of total height of the antenna assembly 600, the low-profile multi-band radiator portions 100’ are particularly advantageous. In some implementations, the multi-band radiator portions 100’ can have a total height (e.g.. from the bottom of the feed point 119’ to the top of the second low-band radiation portion 129’) of between 0.75 inch and 3 inches. For example, the multi-band radiator portions 100’ may have a total height of less than 3 inches, less than 2.5 inches, less than 2 inches, less than 1.5 inches, less than 1 inches, and / or the like.

[0356] In some other implementations, the second low-band radiation portion 129’ can be coupled to a third low-band radiation portion, a fourth low-band radiation portion, and / or other radiation portions. In some implementations, material forming the second low-band radiation portion 129’ can extend in a direction further away from the upright low-band radiation portion 125’ and comprise a slit between the material such that portion of material on each side of the slit may form a third low-band radiation portion and a fourth low-band radiation portion respectively, that may be coplanar with and extend beyond the second low-band radiation portion 129’. In some implementations the third and fourth low-band radiation portions can be the same length and width. In some implementations, the length and / or width of the third low-band radiation portion may be different from the length and / or width of the fourth low-band radiation portion. In some implementations, one or more of the third low-band radiation portion and the fourth low-band radiation portion may be angled or bent or attached such that it is not coplanar with the second low-band radiation portion 129’. Adding variations in radiation portions can provide advantageous coverage in different areas of bandwidth in some implementations.

[0357] In some cases, the radiating element 101’ is a modified printed inverted-F antenna (PIFA) modified to have three bent arm members that make the radiating element 101’ a three-dimensional antenna as opposed to a two-dimensional antenna generally practiced in the art for printed inverted-F antennas. Furthermore, the radiating element 101’ can be a dualband monopole antenna, a multi-band 3D inverted F antenna, or a version of a 2D inverted F antenna similar to a PIFA that has a configuration that, when used in conjunction with high order electromagnetic modes generated or received by a transceiver and / or receiver (as istypically performed for PTFA antennas), permit the radiating element 101’ to have an operating frequency range of 500 MHz to 8 GHz.

[0358] The low-band portions (e.g.. upright low-band radiation portion 125’, the second low-band radiation portion 129’, and any additional low-band radiation portions) can be configured for radiation in the low-band (e.g., approximately 600 MHz to 900 MHz), including low-band odd multiples. The radiating element 101’ can also include additional portions configured for radiation above the low-band. For example, the radiating element 101’ can include one or more primary arms 127’ and / or one or more secondary arms 137’. The primary arms 127’ and the secondary arms 137’ may be configured for operation on different bands or the same bands. For example, the primary arms 127’ can be configured for radiation in the mid-band (e.g., approximately 1.7 GHz to 2.7 GHz) and the secondary arms 137’ can be configured for radiation in the C-band (e.g., approximately 3.4 GHz to 4.2 GHz). In the illustrated example, the radiating element 101’ includes two primary arms 127’ and two secondary arms 137’. However, more or fewer arms 127’, 137’ are possible. Further, in other implementations, the arms 127’, 137’ or additional / altemative arms can be included in the radiating element 101’ and configured for radiation in the high band Wi-Fi band (e.g., approximately 4.8 GHz to 7.25 GHz).

[0359] The arms 127’ can be coupled to a lower portion of the upright low-band radiation portion 125’. In some implementations, the arms 127’ can be coupled to an upper portion of the upright low-band radiation portion 125’. In some other implementations, one or more additional arms 127’ can be coupled to an upper portion of a low-band radiation portion (e.g., upright low-band radiation portion 125’, the second low-band radiation portion 129’, etc.). In some implementations the arms 127’ can have the same length. In some implementations arms 127’ can have different lengths. In some implementations, one or more of the aims 127’ can be positioned at an angle relative to the upright low-band radiation portion 125’ and / or relative to a ground plane (e.g., the ground plane 220, the baseplate 320, etc.). The arms 127’ can be positioned at the same angle or at different angles. The arms 127’ can be configured for radiation in the mid-band, including higher even order resonances. In some implementations, additional arm portions can be added or formed at selected locations to add coverage for additional high frequency bandwidth areas (e.g., the high band Wi-Fi band). For example, in some implementations, portions of the arms 127’ (and / or the arms 137’) may beslit, extended, angled, bent, modified, and / or otherwise connected to provide improved coverage areas.

[0360] As shown in FIG. 39E, in some implementations, each arm 127’ can include a first arm portion 133’ and a second arm portion 135’. The first arm portions 133’ can be coupled to or extend from the upright low-band radiation portion 125’, and the second arm portions 135’ can be coupled to or extend from the first arm portions 133’. The second arm portions 135’ can be at a different angle relative to the upright low-band radiation portion 125’ and a ground plane compared to the first arm portions 133’. The second arm portions 135’ can have a different width, thickness, length, and / or bend angle compared to the first arm portions 133’. These variations can improve return loss and radiation pattern performance in some cases. In the illustrated example, the first arm portions 133’ extend from a lower portion of the upright low-band radiation portion 125’ in a direction towards the second low-band radiation portion 129’. The first arm portions 133’ and the second low-band radiation portion 129’ can both extend away from the upright low-band radiation portion 125’. In some implementations, the arms 127’ can have a maximum height (relative to the ground plane 220, baseplate 320, etc.) that is substantially the same as the maximum height of the second low-band radiation portion 129’ (relative to the ground plane 220, baseplate 320, etc.).

[0361] The arms 137’ can extend from or be coupled to the upright low-band radiation portion 125’. For example, the arms 137’ can be coupled to an upper portion of the upright low-band radiation portion 125’. In some implementations, the arms 137’ can be positioned above the arms 127’, relative to a ground plane. In some implementations, the arms 137’ can be coupled to a lower portion of the upright low-band radiation portion 125’. For example, the arms 137’ may be positioned below the arms 127’. In some other implementations, one or more additional arms 137’ can be coupled to a low-band radiation portion of the radiating element 101’ (e.g.. the upright low-band radiation portion 125’, the second low-band radiation portion 129’, etc.). In some implementations the arms 137’ can have the same length. In some implementations arms 137’ can have different lengths. In some implementations, one or more of the arms 137’ can be positioned at an angle relative to the upright low-band radiation portion 125’ and / or relative to a ground plane (e.g., the ground plane 220, baseplate 320, etc.). The arms 137’ can be positioned at the same angle or at different angles. As described herein, the arms 137’ can be configured for radiation in the C-band (e.g., approximately 3.4 GHz to 4.2 GHz), including high even order resonances. In some implementations, additional arm portions can be added or formed at selected locations to add coverage for additional high frequency bandwidth areas (e.g., the C-band or higher). For example, in some implementations portions of the arms may be slit, extended, angled, bent, modified, and / or otherwise connected to provide improved coverage areas. In some implementations, the arms 137’ can be coplanar to the upright low-band radiation portion 125’, as shown in FIG. 39E. In some implementations, the arms 137’ can improve return loss at the upper end of the mobile telecommunications spectrum relative to the radiating element 101’, which may not include the additional arms similar to the arms 137’.

[0362] As shown in FIG. 39B, a ground connection 103’ (also referred to herein as the “tuner 103’”) can be adapted and configured to couple the radiating element 101’ with the a ground plane. The tuner 103’ can include a face plate 171’ that is configured to be coupled to a ground plane (e.g., the ground plane 220, baseplate 320, etc.). The tuner 103’ can include an arm portion 173’. which can be an arm portion coupled to the face plate 171’. The width of arm portion 173’ can be adjusted to accommodate clearance for transmission lines, such as coaxial cables (not shown) of an antenna assembly, which can be used to excite the radiating element 101’. For example, the illustrated width of the arm portion 173’ allows the coaxial cables to extend past the arm portion 173’, under the body 175’, and to be positioned adjacent the arm portion 173’ when coupled to the radiating element 101’. Low-band operation of the multi-band radiator portion 100’ is enhanced and can be adjusted by the length and width of body portion 125’ and head portion 129’ as well as the location, placement, and configuration of an opening (not shown) in body portion 125’. The tuner 103’ can include a body 175’ that includes an engagement portion 177’. The engagement portion 177’ can be adapted and configured to be positioned against the body portion 125’ of the radiating element 101’. For example, the engagement portion 177’ can be positioned against the upright low-band radiation portion 125’ such that the body 175’ is substantially orthogonal to the upright low-band radiation portion 125’. The engagement portion 177’ can include one or more tabs 183’. The tabs one or more tabs 183’ can be twist tabs. The one or more tabs 183’ can be received within one or more slots 131’ of the upright low-band radiation portion 125’. As such, the extension of the tabs 183’ through the slots 131’ can be a point of coupling, creating a ground connection for the multi-band radiator portion 100’. Use of the tabs 183’ and the slot 131’ for the groundconnection can improve grounding, reduce the part count, and / or reduce assembly time, compared to other coupling means such as a nut and threaded fastener. For example, to couple the ground connection 103’ to the radiating element 101’, the tabs 183’ can be inserted in the slots 131’ and twisted (e.g., with pliers) to create the connection. This type of connection can be completed more quickly than other connections (such as soldering, nut and fastener, etc.) and can provide a secured connection. In some cases, solder can optionally be used to improve the electrical connection between the ground connection 103’ and the radiating element 101’; however, the solder is generally not required for the mechanical or electrical connection to be established. The lateral position of the aim portion 173’ relative to body 175’ can also be selected to accommodate clearance for transmission lines. For example, while the arm portion 173’ is shown as positioned on one side of the body 175’, this position is not required and the arm portion 173’ could be centrally positioned on the body 175’ in other implementations. The position and width of the arm portion 173’ can also impact the performance of the multi-band radiator portion 100’ across the various bands.

[0363] The ground connection 103’ can be elevated relative to the feed location 119’ of the radiating element 101’ in some implementations. For example, the face plate 171’ can be coupled to a portion of a ground plane that is higher than the feed point 119’ in some antenna assemblies described herein. Such a raised connection provides advantages to achieve the multi-band coverage. Dimensions can be selected to provide harmonic resonance at higher odd orders in some implementations. The grounding portion 103’ provides advantages for achieving multiple advantageous resonances. Also, the selection of the dimensions for radiating portion 100’ may also be adjusted to impact the radiation patterns of the fundamental mode as well as the higher order modes. For example, in some implementations, the height, width, and clearance provided for by the size of arm portion 173’ can be advantageously selected. Additionally, the length and width of body portion 175’ can also be advantageously selected. For example, the width and length of the arm portion 173’ and the body 175’ can be adjusted for impedance matching as well as to achieve a desired radiation pattern for the multiband radiator portion 100’. The locations of the one or more slots 131’ and one or more tabs 183’, when coupled together for the grounding connection create a symbiotic connection to provide a resonance of desired impedance to match a desired frequency and bandwidth and radiation pattern for a low-band frequency configuration in some implementations. In theillustrated example, the slots 131’ are near the vertical center of the upright low-band radiation portion 125’. The vertical position of the slots 131’ on the upright low-band radiation portion 125’ is related to the height or length of the arm portion 173’. In other implementations, the slots 131’ can be located higher or lower on upright low-band radiation portion 125’ relative to the vertical axis. The location of the slots 131’ (e.g., where the ground connection 103’ attaches) relative to the height of the upright low-band radiation portion 125’ is selected for impedance matching and the desired behavior of the higher order modes (e.g., where the higher order modes occur). The relative dimensions are also selected so that the radiation patterns come off of the radiating element 101’ in the desired shape and / or direction. The width between the slots 131’ can also be variable. In the illustrated example, each slot 131’ is located approximately centrally between the central vertical axis of the upright low-band radiation portion 125’ and an outside edge of the upright low-band radiation portion 125’. In other examples, the slots 131’ can be closer or further apart from each other. In some cases, decreasing the width between the slots 131’ can require the height of the slots 131’ to also be reduced relative to the upright low-band radiation portion 125’ for optimal performance of the multi-band radiator portion 100’. In some cases, it can be desirable for the slots 131’ to be located as high on the upright low-band radiation portion 125’ as possible for improved structural benefits. However, the height of the slots 131’ is selected generally selected for a balance of good structural support and performance of the multi-band radiator portion 100’ across all desired bands.

[0364] FIG. 39C shows coupling points 117a’ of the radiating element 101’. The twin coupling points 117a’ can be used to attach the multi-band radiator portion 100’ to a non-conductive structural stand coupled to a ground plane. For example, the non-conductive structural stand can be secured to the ground plane. More isolation can be created from the ground plane by expanding the space 113’ and / or the space 111’ between the twin coupling points 117a’ and a feed point location 119’. The feed point location 119’ is configured to receive an electrical connection to excite the radiating element 101’. For example, the center conductor of the coaxial cable can be electrically and mechanically coupled to the feed point 119’ with the outer conductor being electrically and mechanically coupled to the ground plane. The space 111’ can be selected primarily for impedance matching purposes and may vary depending on the particular implementation of the multi-band radiator portion 100’ and theantenna assembly it is incorporated in. For example, changing the dimensions or structure of the ground plane can result in a variation in the size of the space 111’. In some implementations, the feed point 119’ can be twice the height (e.g.. space 111’ can be doubled) or greater and / or the feed point 119’ can be twice the width (e.g., the narrow width tab 109’ can be doubled) or greater. In other implementations, a feed point 119’ with different structural features can be used. For example, the radiating element 101’ may include a feed point that is a tab. The tab feed point may extend substantially perpendicular to the upright low-band radiation portion 125’. In one example, the radiating element 101’ can include a feed point that includes a spacer with a push rivet or established via a heat stake operation. In some implementations, the feed point of the radiating element 101’ can be configured to be snap fit into a slot or configured as a push pass connection.

[0365] In some other implementations, features and aspects of the multi-band radiator portions 100’ can be further described as follows. FIG. 39C illustrates the radiating element 101’ that can be coupled to a ground plane of an antenna assembly described herein, and electrically excited at the feed point 119’. For example, as described above, the center conductor of the coaxial cable can be coupled to the feed point 119’ with the outer conductor being coupled to the ground plane. The feed point 119’ can extend from or be coupled to the upright low-band radiation portion 125’ with what can be a narrow width tab 109’. Additional isolation between the upright low-band radiation portion 125’ and the ground plane can be obtained by adjusting space 111’ and consequently the coupling location reference 113’. For additional mechanical support, the upright low-band radiation portion 125’ can have a non-conductive coupling mechanism (not shown) to the ground plane. The upright low-band radiation portion 125’ can have a coupling point (e.g., one or more slots 131’) for attaching the grounding portion 103’ with via the one or more tabs 183’. As noted above, also extending from / coupled to the upright low-band radiation portion 125’ can be one or more primary arms 127’ and / or one or more secondary arms 137’. The arms 127’, 137’ can assist with the dominate radiation in the mid-band and C-band for the multi-band radiator portion 100’. One or more portions similar to the arms 127’, 137’ may be used for assisting in the high band portion of the radiation are realizable in the implementation of this approach. Higher even order resonances may radiate from portions similar to the arms 127’, 137’ of the radiating element 101’ to assist in the multi-band properties of the device. Furthermore, there can be theadditional head portion 129’ coupled to the upright low-band radiation portion 125’ that may be perpendicular in nature for its orientation. Though it is not necessary for it to be bent near 90-degrees as depicted in this illustration and can be shown to be perceptibly straight in other implementations. By bending the low-band radiation portion of the radiating element 101’ to realize two distinct portions (e.g., the upright low-band radiation portion 125’ and the second low-band radiation portion 129’), the total height of the radiating element 101’ is reduced and as such the total volume of the antenna assembly to most likely provide environmental protection is consequently reduced. The low-band operation of the radiating element 101’ is determined by several factors. Some of the factors are the length and width of the upright low-band radiation portion 125’ and of the second low-band radiation portion 129’, the location of opening one or more slots 131’, and / or the grounding portion 103’.

[0366] FIG. 39B illustrates the grounding portion of the device 103’. The face plate 171’ can extend from or be coupled to the arm 173’. The width of the arm 173’ can be adjusted to accommodate clearance for assembly purposes for a transmission line of the antenna assembly that may be used for excitation of the multi-band radiator portion 100’. The body 175’ can extend from or be coupled to arm 173’. The engagement portion 177’ can be coupled to or form a portion of the body 175’. The engagement portionl77’ can also have one or more coupling points (e.g., one or more tabs 183’) that are configured to couple to the opening one or more slots 131’ of the radiating element 101’ in the assembled multi-band radiator portion 100’. The height of the arm 173’, the width of the arm 173’, the clearance provided for in the arm 173’, the length of body 175’, and the symbiotic location of slots 131’ and / or tabs 183’ can provide for a reactance that counterbalances the reactance of the low-band impedance to provide a resonance of desired impedance match for the desired frequency and bandwidth for the low-band radiation. The location of the coupling points (e.g., one or more tabs 183’) and the length and width of the grounding portion 103’ are also chosen to provide higher odd order resonant harmonics at the desired locations to cover a portion of the frequency band of the multi-band performance of the antenna assembly. Further, the relative dimensions described above also influence the radiation pattern generated by the RF excitation of the multi-band radiator portion 100’.

[0367] FIG. 39C illustrates a back side view of the radiating element 101’. Twin coupling points 117a’ in the radiating element 101’ may be coupled to a non-conductive object(not shown), which can be coupled to the ground plane of the antenna assembly (e.g., the antenna assembly 200, 300, etc.). This coupling may provide mechanical stability for the multiband radiator portions 100’ while not disturbing or inhibiting the ground connection provided by the ground connection 103’.

[0368] FIGS. 39D-39F provide additional views of the radiating element 101’. As shown in FIGS. 39D and 39F, the second low-band radiation portion 129’ can include one or more clearances. For example, the second low-band radiation portion 129’ can include one or more first clearances 157a’ and / or one or more second clearances 157b’. The clearances 157a’, 157b’ can be holes or openings formed in the second low-band radiation portion 129’. The clearances 157a’, 157b’ may allow for ease of assembly of the completed multi-band radiator portions 100’. FIG. 39G-39H provide additional views of the ground connection 103’ of the multi-band radiator portions 100’.

[0369] Another example of a multi-band radiator portion 101’ that can be used in addition to or alternatively to the multi-band radiator portions 101’ in the multi-band multielement antenna 100 is described further herein with reference to at least FIGS. 40A-40K. It is recognized that any discussion of the features or arrangements of the multi-band radiator portions 101’ in the multi-band multi-element antenna 100 of the multi-band antenna assembly 1904 can apply to the multi-band radiator portions 1901 and the multi-band multi-element antenna assembly 1904. Similarly, such discussion can also apply to any alternative antennas and / or radiator portions included in an implementation of the multi-band multi-element antenna systems of antenna units 200, 300, 1900, and / or those of other multi-band antenna systems disclosed herein, any of which can be are included in alternative antenna configurations, such as for example, the antenna assembly 1904 and / or for the other antenna units disclosed herein.

[0370] FIGS. 40A-40K illustrate various views of components of an implementation of the multi-band radiator portions 100, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure. Each multi-band radiator portion 100 can include a multi-band radiating element 101 and a ground connection 103. The ground connection 103 is configured to couple to multi-band radiating element 101 to a ground plane. FIGS. 40A and 40C-40F illustrate assorted view of the multi-band radiating element 101. FIGS. 40B and 40G-40K illustrate the ground connection 103. It is recognized that the multi-band radiator portions 100 describedherein are just one example of multi-band radiator portions that can be included in the antenna assemblies described herein. In other implementations, different multi-band radiator portions can be included. The antenna assemblies herein can include multi-band radiator portions that are similar or identical to any of the antennas described and / or illustrated in U.S. Patent Application No. 11,283,149, filed September 30, 2019, titled “ANTENNA SYSTEM” and in U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 712.000, filed April 1, 2022, titled “ANTENNA SYSTEM,” the entire contents of both of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

[0371] As shown in FIG. 40A, a radiating element 101 can be one element or component of the multi-band radiator portion 100. An upright low band radiation portion 125 (also referred to herein as the “body portion 125”) can be a body portion of the radiating element 101. The upright low band radiation portion 125 can be coupled to a feeding portion at a feed point 119 (see e.g., FIG. 40C) to electrically excite the radiating element 101. As shown in FIG. 40A, a second low band radiation portion 129 (also referred to herein as the “head portion 129”) can be positioned at an angle relative to the body portion (e.g.. the upright low band radiation portion 125) and extend such that the second low band radiation portion 129 is not coplanar with the upright low band radiation portion 125. In some other implementations, the second low band radiation portion 129 can be configured without a bend such that it is coplanar with the upright low band radiation portion 125. In some implementations, advantages of a bend can include having two distinct low band radiating portions, reducing the total height of the system to be more compact and conserve space, and configuring the system to be able to easily cover and provide protection for the system in a compact configuration with multi-band coverage (e.g., in the antenna assembly 200, 300, etc.). In some other implementations the second low band radiation portion 129 can be coupled to a third low band radiation portion, a fourth low band radiation portion, and / or other radiation portions. In some implementations, material forming the second low band radiation portion 129 can extend in a direction further away from the upright low band radiation portion 125 and comprise a slit between the material such that portion of material on each side of the slit may form a third low band radiation portion and a fourth low band radiation portion respectively, that may be coplanar with and extend beyond the second low band radiation portion 129. In some implementations the third and fourth low band radiation portions can be the same length and width. In some implementations, the length and / or width of the third low band radiationportion may be different from the length and / or width of the fourth low band radiation portion. In some implementations, one or more of the third low band radiation portion and the fourth low band radiation portion may be angled or bent or attached such that it is not coplanar with the second low band radiation portion 129. Adding variations in radiation portions can provide advantageous coverage in different areas of bandwidth in some implementations.

[0372] In some cases, the radiating element 101 is a modified printed inverted-F antenna (PIFA) modified to have three bent arm members that make the radiating element 101 a three-dimensional antenna as opposed to a two-dimensional antenna generally practiced in the art for printed inverted F antenna. Furthermore, the radiating element 101 can be a dual band monopole antenna, a multi-band 3D inverted F antenna, or a version of a 2D inverted F antenna similar to a PIFA, that has a configuration that, when used in conjunction with high order electromagnetic modes generated or received by a transceiver and / or receiver (as is typically performed for PIFA antenna), permit the radiating element 101 to have an operating frequency range of 600 MHz to 7.25 GHz.

[0373] The low band portions (e.g., upright low band radiation portion 125, the second low band radiation portion 129, and / or any additional low band radiation portions) can be configured for radiation in the low band, including low band odd multiples. The high band radiation portion can comprise one or more arms 127 configured for high band radiation. In the illustrated example, the radiating element 101 includes two anus 127. The two arms 127 can be coupled to a lower portion of the upright low band radiation portion 125. In some implementations, the arms 127 can be coupled to an upper portion of the upright low band radiation portion 125. In some other implementations, one or more additional arms can be coupled to an upper portion of a low band radiation portion (e.g., upright low band radiation portion 125, the second low band radiation portion 129, etc.). In some implementations the arms 127 can have the same length. In some implementations arms 127 can have different lengths. In some implementations, one or more of the arms 127 can be positioned at an angle relative to the upright low band radiation portion 125 and / or relative to a ground plane. The arms 127 can be positioned at the same angle or at different angles. The arms 127 can be configured for radiation in the high band, including high even order resonances. In some implementations, additional arm portions can be added or formed at selected locations to add coverage for additional high frequency bandwidth areas. For example, in someimplementations portions of the arms may be slit, extended, angled, bent, modified, and / or otherwise connected to provide improved coverage areas.

[0374] As shown in FIG. 40B, a ground connection 103 (also referred to herein as the “tuner 103” or the “grounding portion 103”) can be adapted and configured to couple the radiating element 101 with a ground plane. The tuner 103 can include a face plate 171 that is configured to be coupled to a ground plane. The tuner 103 can include an arm portion 173, which can be an arm portion coupled to the face plate 171. The width of arm portion 173 can be adjusted to accommodate clearance for transmission lines (not shown), which can be used to excite the radiating element 101. Low band operation of the multi-band radiator portions 100 is enhanced and can be adjusted by the length and width of body portion 125 and head portion 129 as well as the location, placement, and configuration of an opening 117b (see e.g., FIG. 40C) in body portion 125. The tuner 103 can include a base portion 177. The base portion 177 can be adapted and configured to be positioned against the body portion 125 of the radiating element 101 such that the opening in the base 177 and the opening 117b can be a point of coupling creating a ground connection for the multi-band radiator portion 100. The raised ground connection being elevated relative to the feed location provides advantages to achieve the multiband coverage. Dimensions can be selected to provide harmonic resonance at higher odd orders in some implementations. The grounding portion provides advantages for achieving multiple advantageous resonances. For example, in some implementations, the height, width, and clearance provided for by the size of arm portion 173 can be advantageously selected. Additionally, the length and width of body portion 175 can also be advantageously selected. The location of opening 117b and the corresponding connecting location of the coupling point 181b, shown in FIG. 40J, when coupled together for the grounding connection create a symbiotic connection to provide a resonance of desired impedance to match a desired frequency and bandwidth for a low band frequency configuration in some implementations. FIG. 40C shows twin coupling points 117a of the radiating element 101. The twin coupling points 117a can be used to attach the multi-band radiator portion 100 to a nonconductive structural stand coupled to a ground plane. More isolation can be created from a ground plane by expanding the space 111 as well as decreasing the width 109. The feed point location 119 is configured to receive an electrical connection to excite the radiating element 101.

[0375] In some other implementations, features and aspects of the multi-band radiator portions 100 can be further described as follows. FIG. 40C illustrates the radiating element 101 that can be coupled to a ground plane of an antenna assembly and electrically excited at the feed point 119. The feed point 119 can be coupled to the upright low band radiation portion 125 with what can be a narrow width tab 109. Additional isolation between the upright low band radiation portion 125 and the a ground plane can be obtained by adjusting 111 and consequently the coupling location reference 113. For additional mechanical support, the upright low band radiation portion 125, can have a non-conductive coupling mechanism (not shown) to a ground plane. The upright low band radiation portion 125 can have a coupling point 117b for attaching the grounding portion 103 with the coupling point 181b (see e.g., FIG.40 J). As noted above, also coupled to the upright low band radiation portion 125 can be two arms 127. The arms 127 can assist with the dominate radiation in the high band for the multiband radiator portion 100. One or more portions similar to the arms 127 may be used for assisting in the high band portion of the radiation are realizable in the implementation of this approach. Higher even order resonances may radiate from portions similar to the arms 127 of the radiating element 101 to assist in the multi-band properties of the device. Furthermore, there can be the additional head portion 129 coupled to the upright low band radiation portion 125 that may be perpendicular in nature for its orientation. Though it is not necessary for it to be bent near 90-degrees as depicted in this illustration and can be shown to be perceptibly straight in other implementations, by bending the low band radiation portion of the radiating element 101 to realize two distinct portions (e.g., the upright low band radiation portion 125 and the second low band radiation portion 129), the total height of the radiating element 101 is reduced and as such the total volume of the antenna assembly can also be reduced as desired. The low band operation of the radiating element 101 is determined by several factors. Some of the factors are the length and width of upright low band radiation portion 125 and of second low band radiation portion 129, the location of opening 117b, and / or the grounding portion 103.

[0376] FIG. 40B illustrates the grounding portion of the device 103. The face plate 171 can be coupled to the arm 173. The width of the arm 173 can be adjusted to accommodate clearance for assembly purposes for a transmission line that may be used for excitation of the multi-band radiator portion 100. The body 175 can be coupled to arm 173. The base 177 canbe coupled to the body 175. The base 177 can also have a coupling point 178 that is configured to couple to the opening 117b of the radiating element 101 in the assembled multi-band radiator portion 100. The height of the arm 173, the width of the arm 173, the clearance provided for in the arm 173, the length of body 175, and the symbiotic location of opening 117b and coupling point 181b all provide for a reactance that counterbalances the reactance of the low band impedance to provide a resonance of desired impedance match for the desired frequency and bandwidth for the low band radiation. The location of the coupling point 181b and the length and width of the grounding portion 103 are also chosen to provide higher odd order resonant harmonics at the desired locations to cover a portion of the frequency band of the multi-band performance of the antenna assembly the radiating portion 100 is incorporated in.

[0377] FIG. 40C illustrates a back side view of the radiating element 101. Twin coupling points 117a in the radiating element 101 may be coupled to a non-conductive object (not shown), which can be coupled to a ground plane. This coupling may provide mechanical stability for the multi-band radiator portions 100 while not disturbing or inhibiting the ground connection provided by tuner 103.

[0378] FIGS. 40D-40F provide additional views of the radiating element 101. As shown in FIGS. 40D and 40F, the second low band radiation portion 129 can include one or more clearances. For example, the second low band radiation portion 129 can include one or more first clearances 157a. one or more second clearances 157b, and / or one or more third clearances 157c. The clearances 157a, 157b, 157c may allow for ease of assembly of the completed multi-band radiator portions 100. FIG. 40G-40K provide additional views of the ground connection 103 of the multi-band radiator portions 100.

[0379] In some implementations, a different ground connection, such as the ground connection 103’ of at least FIG. 39B or a similar ground connection, can be used with the multi-band radiator portions 100. For example, FIGS. 40L-40N show an implementation of the multi-band radiator portion 100 in the form of multi-band radiator portion 100” that includes a ground connection 103”. The radiating element 101” of the multi-band radiator portion 100” differs from the radiating element 101 of the multi-band radiator portion 100 in that the radiating element 101” includes slots 131” instead of opening 117b for coupling to the ground connection 103”. The ground connection 103” is similar to the ground connection 103’described with reference to FIGS. 39A-39H above and includes like reference numbers ending in a “double prime” instead of a single “prime” accordingly.

[0380] FIGS. 41A-41J illustrate various views of components of an example implementation of an antenna / multi-band radiator portion 500, in accordance with some aspects of this disclosure. While the multi-band radiator portions 500 are described for use with the antenna assembly 600. it is recognized that the multi-band radiator portion 500 can be used in any antenna assembly.

[0381] Each multi-band radiator portion 500 can include a multi-band radiating element 501. Each multi-band radiator portion 500 can include a ground connection 503 (also referred to herein as a “grounding portion”). The ground connection can be electrically and mechanically coupled to the radiating element 501. The ground connection 503 is configured to couple multi-band radiating element 501 to a ground plane / ground reference, such as the internal ground plane 610 of the antenna assembly 600.

[0382] FIG. 41A shows a perspective view of the multi-band radiating element 501 and the ground connection 503 coupled together and secured to the mounting portion 114. The mounting portion 114 can be the same or similar to the support portion 666. As shown in FIG.41A, fasteners 505 can be used to secure the multi-band radiating element 501 to the mounting portion 114. The fasteners 505 can also be used to secure the mounting portion 502 and the ground connection 503 to the internal ground plane 610.

[0383] FIGS. 41B-41F illustrate assorted views of the multi-band radiating element 501. FIGS. 41G-41J illustrate assorted views of the ground connection 503. It is recognized that the multi-band radiator portion 500 described herein is just one example of multi-band radiator portions that can be included in the antenna assembly 600. In other implementations, different multi-band radiator portions (e.g., the multi-band radiator portion 500A of FIGS.42A-42D, the multi-band radiator portions 500B of FIGS. 41A-41D, and / or the like) can be included.

[0384] Referring first to FIGS. 41B-41F, various views of the multi-band radiating element 501 are shown. The multi-band radiating element 501 can define a three-dimensional radiating portion that includes several unique portions. The geometry of these unique portions can be configured in a way such that the RF energy that is radiated by the multi-band radiatorportion 500 has an intended direction that is nearly parallel to a ground plane that the multiband radiator portion 500 is coupled to (e.g., the internal ground plane 610).

[0385] When one or more multi-band radiator portions 500 are incorporated into the antenna assembly 600, a radiation intensity that is somewhat stable around its perimeter is a typical requirement for the radiation profile for antennas servicing customer premises equipment. This is radiation that is in the same plane or only slightly above the plane of the internal ground plane 610 and of somewhat equal intensity at a fixed distance away from the internal ground plane 610. This type of radiation pattern is known as omni-directional for those familiar with wireless telecommunication technology.

[0386] With continued reference to FIGS.41B-41F, the geometry of the multi-band radiator portion 500 can allow for close proximity spacing of other radiating elements of the antenna assembly 600. To accommodate this close spacing, the height of the multi-band radiating element 501 can be greater than other three-dimensional inverted F antennas. To obtain close proximity spacing between the radiating elements on the internal ground plane 610, the geometry of the multi-band radiating element 501 has several unique features.

[0387] A perspective view of the multi-band radiating element 501 of the antenna 500 is shown in FIG.41B in isolation. The radiating element 501 can include an upright portion 525. As shown in FIG. 41A, the ground connection 503 can be configured to be coupled to the radiating element 501 at the upright portion 525.

[0388] The upright portion 525 is a resonating component of the radiating element 501. When the radiating element 501 has a three-dimensional structure, the upright portion 525 can be configured as a first resonating component. The upright portion 525 can be configured to resonate within a low-frequency band approximately between 600 MHz and 1 GHz during use. Accordingly, the upright portion 525 can be a first low-band radiating portion of the radiating element 501 and is referred to herein as such.

[0389] A back view of the radiating element 501 is shown in FIG. 41C. The upright portion 525 has a height H and a width W. The upright portion 525 can have a greater height H than width W. For example, the upright portion 525 can have a height H to width W ratio of 1:1 or greater. In the illustrated example, the upright portion 525 has a height H to width W ratio of at least 2:1. In other implementations, different ratios are possible.

[0390] In some implementations, the upright portion 525 has a height H to width W ratio of 1.5:1 or greater. In some implementations, the upright portion 525 has a height H to width W ratio 2:1 or greater. In some implementations, the upright portion 525 has a height H to width W ratio 2.5:1 or greater. In some implementations, the upright portion 525 has a height H to width W ratio 3: 1 or greater.

[0391] As shown in at least FIGS. 41B and 41D, the radiating element 501 can include a head portion 529. The head portion 529 can extend from a top side or top edge of the upright portion 525. In the illustrated example, the head portion 529 extends substantially perpendicularly to the upright portion 525. For example, an angle of approximately 90-degrees can be defined between the head portion 529 and the upright portion 525. In other implementations, the head portion 529 can extend at a non-perpendicular angle relative to the upright portion 525 (e.g., an angle between 0-degrees and 180-degrees).

[0392] The head portion 529 can have a length L. The upright portion 525 can have a greater height H than the length L of the head portion 529. For example, the upright portion 525 and the head portion 529 can have a height H to length L ratio of 1:1 or greater. In the illustrated example, the height H to length L ratio is at least 2:1. In other implementations, different ratios are possible.

[0393] In some implementations, the ratio of the height H of the upright portion 525 to the length L of the head portion 529 is 1.5:1 or greater. In some implementations, the ratio of the height H of the upright portion 525 to the length L of the head portion 529 is 2:1 or greater. In some implementations, the ratio of the height H of the upright portion 525 to the length L of the head portion 529 is 2.5:1 or greater. In some implementations, the ratio of the height H of the upright portion 525 to the length L of the head portion 529 is 3:1 or greater.

[0394] The head portion 529 can have the same width W as the upright portion 525, as shown in FIG. 41C. In other implementations, the head portion 529 and the upright portion 525 can have different widths.

[0395] The head portion 529 is a resonating component of the radiating element 501. When the radiating element 501 has a three-dimensional structure, the head portion 529 can be configured as a second resonating component. The head portion 529can be configured to resonate within a low-frequency band approximately between 600 MHz and 1 GHz duringuse. Accordingly, the head portion 529 can be a second low-band radiating portion of the radiating element 501 and is referred to herein as such.

[0396] As shown in at least FIG. 41C. the multi-band radiating element 501 of the multi-band radiator portion 500 can include a feed portion 519. For example, the radiating element 501 can include the feed portion 519, the first low-band radiating portion 525 and / or the second low-band radiating portion 529. The feed portion 519 can extend from the bottom of the first low band radiating portion 525.

[0397] The multi-band radiating element 501 can also include one or more arms 527, as described further herein. The low-band portions (e.g., upright low-band radiation portion 525, the second low-band radiation portion 529, and any additional low-band radiation portions) can be configured for radiation in the low-band (e.g., approximately 600 MHz to 1 GHz), including low-band odd multiples, in some implementations.

[0398] The first low band radiating portion 525 can include one or more coupling points or mounting features 517a (e.g., holes) to facilitate mounting the multi-band radiating element 501 to the internal ground plane 610. For example, as shown in FIG. 41 A, the coupling points 517a can receive fasteners 505 to couple the multi-band radiating element 501 to the mounting portion 114. The mounting portion 114 can then be coupled to the internal ground plane 610 (e.g., using additional fasteners).

[0399] When utilized in an antenna assembly, such as the antenna assembly 600, the first low band radiating portion 525 can extend substantially vertically from the internal ground plane 610. Accordingly, in some implementations, the first low band radiating portion 525 can be an upright portion / body portion of the radiating element 501.

[0400] As noted here, the upright portion 525 can have a smaller width than other antennas. The upright portion 525 can have a larger height than width. In some implementations, the upright portion 525 can have a height to width ratio that is 2: 1 or greater.

[0401] The upright portion 525 can include at least one coupling point 531. The coupling point 531 can be used to couple the radiating element 501 to the ground portion 503, as described further herein. The coupling point 531 can be configured as a slot.

[0402] In the example of FIGS. 41C and 41F, a coupling point 531 is shown. In other examples, the radiating element 501 can include multiple coupling points 531. The number of coupling points 531 included in the upright portion 525 can depend on the type ofground connection 503 utilized and the number of tabs 583 included in the ground connection 503. The upright portion 525 can be used for all portions of the desired frequency band of operation to support the RF requirements for the desired frequency band of operation.

[0403] The multi-band radiating element 501 can also include additional portions configured for radiation above the low-band. For example, as noted above, the multi-band radiating element 501 can include one or more arms 527. The one or more arms 527 can be configured to radiate above the low-band. Accordingly, the arms 527 may be referred to as “high-band radiating portions”. For example, the one or more arms 527 can be configured for radiation in the mid-band (e.g., approximately 1.7 GHz to 2.7 GHz) and / or in the C-band (e.g., approximately 3.4 GHz to 4.2 GHz), which can include higher even order resonances.

[0404] In the illustrated example, the multi-band radiating element 501 includes two arms 527, a left arm 527 and a right arm 527. In other implementations, more or less arms 527 are possible.

[0405] In other implementations, the arms 527 or additional / al ternative arms can be included in the radiating element 501 and configured for radiation in the Wi-Fi band (e.g., approximately 4.8 GHz to 7.25 GHz). The illustrated example of the multi-band radiating element 501 does not include secondary arms. However, in some implementations, the multiband radiating element 501 may include additional arms that may extend from the first low-band radiating portion 525, the arms 527, and / or the second low band radiating portion 529 of the radiating element 501. In some implementations, additional arm portions can be added or formed at selected locations to add coverage for additional high frequency bandwidth areas (e.g., the high band Wi-Fi band). For example, in some implementations, portions of the arms 527 may be slit, extended, angled, bent, modified, and / or otherwise connected to provide improved coverage areas.

[0406] The arms 527 can extend from or be coupled to the upright portion 525. For example, a right arm 527 can extend from a right side or a right edge of the upright portion 525 and a left arm 527 can extend from a left side or a left edge of the upright portion 525.

[0407] The arms 527 can be resonating components of the radiating element 501. For example, the left arm 527 can be configured as a third resonating component and the right arm 527 can be configured as a fourth resonating component. In use, the arms 527 can beconfigured to resonate within a mid-frequency band approximately between 1.7 GHz and 2.7 GHz.

[0408] In the illustrated example, the radiating element 501 includes connecting portions 541 for connecting the upright portion 525 to the arms 527. For example, the radiating element 501 can include a first connecting portion 541 for connecting the left arm 527 to the upright portion 525 and a second connecting portion 541 for connecting the right ami 527 to the upright portion 525.

[0409] With reference to FIG. 41E, the connecting portions 541 can extend a short distance from the upright portion 525 to reduce the overall width of the radiating element 501. In the illustrated example, the arms 527 extend away from the upright portion 525. For example, a greater than 90-degree angle (e.g.. an angle between 90-degrees and 180-degrees) is defined between each arm 527 and a front face of the upright portion 525 in the illustrated example. In other implementations, the arms 527 may extend perpendicularly from the upright portion 525 at an angle of approximately 90-degrees.

[0410] The arms 527 can extend in substantially the same direction that the upright portion 525 faces. In some implementations, the arms 527 can extend at an angle away from the upright portion 525. The arms 527 can initially extend substantially horizontally from the upright portion 525.

[0411] The arms 527 can include one or more bend portions. For example, as shown in FIG. 41D, each arm 527 can include a first arm portion 533 that extends from the upright portion 525 (e.g., via the connecting portion 541) and a second arm portion 535 that extends from the first arm portion 533.

[0412] The first arm portions 533 can extend from the upright portion 525 at a nonzero angle relative to the horizontal. For example, as shown in FIG. 41D, the first arm portions 533 can extend in a direction towards the head portion 529. As such, the first arm portions 533 can extend from the upright portion 525 at an angle relative to the horizontal of between 0-degree and 90-degrees. In the illustrated example, the second arm portion 535 can extend approximately vertically from the first arm portion 533. Other angles are possible between the first arm portions 533 and the second arm portion 535.

[0413] When multiple arms 527 are included, as in the illustrated example, the arms 527 can be similar or identical except that the left arm 527 extends from the left side / left edgeof the upright portion 525 and the right arm 527 extends from the right side / right edge of the upright portion 525.

[0414] The arms 527 may have a shorter height than the upright portion 525. In other examples, the arms may have a height such that they extend near or beyond the height of the second low band radiating portion 529.

[0415] The second arm portion 535 of the arms 527 can be used to collectively support radiation in the 1.6 GHz to 8 GHz frequency band for the arms 527. In some implementations, including the illustrated example, the arms 527 can have the same height. In other implementations, the arms 527 can have different heights. In the illustrated example, the second arm portion 535 and the first arm portion 533 have substantially equal thickness and width. In some implementations, the second arm portions 535 can have a different width, thickness, length, and / or bend angle compared to the first arm portions 533.

[0416] As noted above, the radiating element 501 can optionally include the second low band radiator portion 529 to aid in accomplishing radiation in the low-band (e.g., approximately 600 MHz to 1 GHz). The second low band radiating portion 529 can extend from the top of the upright portion 525. In some implementations, the second low band radiating portion 529 can be a head radiating portion / element and can extend at a substantially perpendicular angle from the upright portion 525. In some implementations, the head portion 529 can be orthogonal to the upright portion 525 (e.g., not coplanar). In other implementations, the head portion 529 may extend from and be coplanar to the upright portion 525.

[0417] In some cases, the head portion 529 can be defined by a bend in the material forming the upright portion 525. In some implementations, advantages of a bend can include having two distinct low-band radiating portions, reducing the total height of the system to be more compact and conserve space, and configuring the system to be able to easily cover and provide protection for the system in a compact configuration with multi-band coverage (e.g., in the antenna assembly 600). Having a compact radiating element 501 (e.g., in part due to the bend between the upright low-band radiation portion 525 and the second low-band radiation portion 529) can allow the multi-band radiator portions 500 to be utilized in antenna assemblies where a low profile is required or desired. For example, in some applications, it can be desirable for the antenna assembly 600 to have as low a profile as possible, to allow the antenna assembly 600 to be used in high wind operating conditions or applications that require lowvisual impact. Accordingly, as the multi-band radiator portions 500 represent the limiting factor in terms of total height of the antenna assembly 600, the low-profile multi-band radiator portions 500 can be advantageous.

[0418] In some implementations, the multi-band radiator portions 500 can have a total height (e.g., from the bottom of the feed point 519 to the top of the second low-band radiation portion 529) of between 0.75 inch and 3.75 inches. For example, the multi-band radiator portions 500 may have a total height of less than 3.75 inches, less than 3.5 inches, less than 3 inches, less than 2.5 inches, less than 2 inches, less than 1.5 inches, less than 1 inches, and / or the like.

[0419] The length of low band radiator portion 529 can be significantly shorter than other radiating structures to accommodate the closer spacing of neighboring antenna elements. The additional height of upright portion 525 allows for a shorter than typical second low band radiating portion 529. The ratio and orientation of all portions of radiating element 501 allow for both dominate and higher order modes to support a somewhat omni-directional radiation characteristic for the multi-band radiator portion 500.

[0420] In some other implementations, the second low-band radiation portion 529 can be coupled to a third low-band radiation portion, a fourth low-band radiation portion, and / or other radiation portions. In some implementations, material forming the second low-band radiation portion 529 can extend in a direction further away from the upright low-band radiation portion 525 and comprise a slit between the material such that portion of material on each side of the slit may form a third low-band radiation portion and a fourth low-band radiation portion respectively, that may be coplanar with and extend beyond the second low-band radiation portion 529. In some implementations the third and fourth low-band radiation portions can be the same length and width. In some implementations, the length and / or width of the third low-band radiation portion may be different from the length and / or width of the fourth low-band radiation portion. In some implementations, one or more of the third low-band radiation portion and the fourth low-band radiation portion may be angled or bent or attached such that it is not coplanar with the second low-band radiation portion 529. Adding variations in radiation portions can provide advantageous coverage in different areas of bandwidth, in some implementations.

[0421] In some cases, the multi-band radiating element 501 is a modified printed inverted-F antenna (PIFA) modified to have three bent arm members that make the radiating element 501 a three-dimensional antenna as opposed to a two-dimensional antenna generally practiced in the art for printed inverted-F antennas. Furthermore, the multi-band radiating element 501 can be a dual-band monopole antenna, a multi-band 3D inverted F antenna, or a version of a 2D inverted F antenna similar to a PIFA that has a configuration that, when used in conjunction with high order electromagnetic modes generated or received by a transceiver and / or receiver (as is typically performed for PIFA antennas), permit the multi-band radiating element 501 to have an operating frequency range of 450 MHz to 8 GHz.

[0422] As described above, the radiating element 501 can include an upright portion 525, a head portion 529, a left arm 527, and a right arm 527. The head portion 529 can extend from a top side or edge of the upright portion 525. The left arm 527 can extend from a left side or edge of the upright portion 525. The right arm 527 can extend from a right side or edge of the upright portion 525.

[0423] FIGS. 41D-41F provide additional views of the radiating element 501. As shown in FIGS. 41E and 41F, the second low-band radiation portion 529 can include one or more clearances. For example, the second low-band radiation portion 529 can include one or more first clearances 557a and / or one or more second clearances 557b. The clearances 557a, 557b can be holes or openings formed in the second low-band radiation portion 529. The clearances 557a, 557b may allow for ease of assembly of the completed multi-band radiator portions 500, but are not required.

[0424] Referring now to FIGS. 41C and 41F, the radiating element 501 can include a coupling point 531 in the upright portion 525 for electrically and mechanically coupling the radiating element 501 to the ground connection 503. The coupling point 531 can be an opening in the upright portion 525 for receiving a portion of the ground connection 503 (e.g., the tab 583). In the illustrated example, the coupling point 531 is configured as a slot, and is referred to herein as such. In the illustrated example, the slot 531 is a horizontal slot. In other examples, the slot 531 can be a vertical slot.

[0425] In the illustrated example, the slot 531 is below the vertical center of the upright portion 525. The vertical position of the slot 531 on the upright portion 525 is relatedto the height or length of the first arm portion 573. In other implementations, the slot 531 can be located higher or lower on upright portion 525 relative to the vertical axis.

[0426] In some implementations, the slot 531 is located on a lower third of the upright portion 525. In some implementations, the slot 531 is located on a lower half of the upright portion 525. In some implementations, the slot 531 is located along a central horizontal axis of the upright portion 525. In some implementations, the slot 531 is located on an upper half of the upright portion 525.

[0427] The location of the slot 531 (e.g., where the ground connection 503 attaches) relative to the height H of the upright portion 525 can be selected for impedance matching and the desired behavior of the higher order modes (e.g., where the higher order modes occur). The relative dimensions are also selected so that the radiation patterns come off of the radiating element 501 in the desired shape and / or direction. When multiple slots 531 are included, the width between the slots 531 can also be variable. For example, when two slots 531 are included, each slot 531 can located approximately centrally between the central vertical axis A-A (see FIG. 41F) of the upright portion 525 and an outside edge of the upright low-band radiation portion 525. In other examples, the slots 531 can be closer or further apart from each other. In some cases, decreasing the width between the slots 531 can require the height of the slots 531 to also be reduced relative to the upright low-band radiation portion 525 for optimal performance of the multi-band radiator portion 500.

[0428] With refence to FIG. 41F, the central vertical axis A-A is shown. In some implementations, the slot 531 can be located along the central vertical axis A-A. However, in the illustrated example, the slot 531 is positioned between the central vertical axis A-A and an edge / side of the upright portion 525. The slot 531 can be positioned between the central vertical axis A-A and a left-side edge or a right-side edge of the upright portion 525.

[0429] One advantage of positioning the coupling point / slot 531 off-center from the vertical axis A-A is that this configuration allows room for the coaxial cable 118 to centrally connect to the feed portion 519. As shown in FIG. 41F, the feed portion 519 is located on the vertical axis A-A of the upright portion 525 in the illustrated example. Accordingly, the off-center coupling point 531 provides for easier assembly / manufacturing of the antenna assembly 600.

[0430] Providing the coupling point 531 along the central vertical axis A- A generally provides for more balanced radiation patterns from the antenna 500, which can be desirable. However, for ease of manufacturing, the coupling point 531 is provided off center from the central vertical axis A-A in the antenna 500. While testing the radiation patterns generated with the off-center coupling point 531, it was determined that this arrangement provides a surprising benefit of allowing the ratios of the various components of the radiating element 501 (e.g., the upright portion 525, the head portion 529, and / or the arms 527) to be adjusted without significant loss in performance from the antenna 500. For example, as shown in FIGS. 41A-41D, the ratio of the height of the upright portion 525 and the length of the head portion 529 can be adjusted without significant loss in performance from the antenna 500. Because of this result, the size of the antenna 500 can be adjusted to fit into a variety of different sized antenna assemblies, which is desirable. For example, different applications require different sized antennas 500. In some cases, lower profile antennas are required. As such, being able to resize the antenna 500 with predicable results and without a significant loss of performance is beneficial.

[0431] In one example, the antenna 500 can be re-sized by having a shorter upright portion 525 and a longer head portion 529. Usually, such changes result in significant changes in the performance of the antenna; however, in the case of the antenna 500, these negative performance changes are not produced when re-sizing the antenna 500.

[0432] One possible reason for this beneficial result is that the off-center coupling between the radiating element 501 and the ground connection 503 (e.g., the asymmetric coupling point 531). creates a small imbalance in the resonances. However, based on testing, the imbalance broadens the resonances as two resonances are stacked on top of each other. With two stacked resonances, the bandwidth is not as variable for the higher order resonances, particularly for resonances above 1 GHz. Accordingly, this arrangement can double the number of higher order resonances for the antenna 500.

[0433] While it is generally desirable for the radiation pattems / resonances to be balanced, the off-center coupling point 531 appears to broaden out all of the higher order resonances for the antenna 500, which makes it easier to adjust the ratios of the radiating element 501. Where multiple antennas 500 are included in an assembly (e.g., the multi-band radiator portion 500), the crowding of the antennas 500 generally creates some level ofimbalance, even when the radiation pattern for an individual antenna is balanced. Accordingly, the antenna 500 provides a benefit of being customizable, without negative consequences or in-line with the consequences generally provided in multi-element antennas.

[0434] The substantially vertical nature of the arms 527 (e.g., the second arm portions 535) may also contribute to the robustness of the antenna 500 design. For example, the vertical aims 527 can contribute to mutual coupling.

[0435] Additionally, as noted above, there are other benefits associated with the off-center coupling point 531. For example, a simpler ground connection 503 can be used, which can require only a single tap point with only one twist point, as described further below. This ground connection 503 and radiating element 501 arrangement can allow for improved manufacturing tolerances, which is desirable.

[0436] In other implementations, where a single slot 531 is included, the single slot 531 can be centrally located on the upright portion 525. In some cases, it can be desirable for the slot 531 to be located as high on the upright low-band radiation portion 525 as possible for improved structural benefits. However, the height of the slot 531 is generally selected for an acceptable balance of good structural support and performance of the multi-band radiator portion 500 across all desired bands.

[0437] Referring back to FIG. 41C, the coupling points 517 of the radiating element 501 are shown. As described herein, the twin coupling points 517 can be used to attach the multi-band radiator portion 500 to a non-conductive structural stand, such as the mounting portions 114, which can in turn be coupled to the internal ground plane 610. More isolation can be created from the internal ground plane 610 by expanding the space 513 and / or the space 511 between the twin coupling points 517 and the feed point location 519.

[0438] The feed point location 519 is configured to receive an electrical connection to excite the radiating element 501. For example, the center conductor of the coaxial cable 118 can be electrically and mechanically coupled to the feed point 519 with the outer conductor being electrically and mechanically coupled to the internal ground plane 610. The space 511 can be selected primarily for impedance matching purposes and may vary depending on the particular implementation of the multi-band radiator portion 500 and the antenna assembly 600. For example, changing the dimensions or structure of the internal ground plane 610 can result in a variation in the size of the space 511. In some implementations, the feed point 519-Ill-can be twice the height (e.g., space 511 can be doubled) or greater and / or the feed point 519 can be twice the width or greater.

[0439] In other implementations, a feed point 519 with different structural features can be used. In one example, the radiating element 501 can include a feed point that includes a spacer with a push rivet or established via a heat stake operation. In some implementations, the feed point of the radiating element 501 can be configured to be snap fit into a slot or configured as a push pass connection.

[0440] Referring now to FIGS. 41G-41J, various views of the ground connection 503 of the multi-band radiator portion 500 are shown. In the illustrated examples, the grounding portion 503 is made of sheet metal. In other implementations, one or more PCB portions with electrically conducting surfaces on one or more sides or layers may be used for the ground connection 503. As shown in FIG. 41A, the ground connection 503 is configured to couple the radiating element 501 with a ground reference, such as the internal ground plane 610.

[0441] The ground connection 503 can include a face plate 571 that is configured to be coupled to a ground plane (e.g., the internal ground plane 610). For example, the coupling points 571 can be a first coupling point of the ground connection 503. The ground connection 503 can include a first arm portion 573 and a second arm portion 575. The first arm portion 573 can extend from or be coupled to the face plate 571. The second arm portion 575 can extend from or be coupled to the first arm portion 573. The width of first arm portion 573 can be adjusted to accommodate clearance for transmission lines, such as coaxial cables of antenna assembly 600. which can be used to excite the radiating element 501. For example, the illustrated width of the first arm portion 573 allows the coaxial cables to extend past the first arm portion 573 and to be positioned adjacent the first arm portion 573 when coupled to the multi-band radiating element 501.

[0442] Low-band operation of the multi-band radiator portion 500 can be enhanced and can be adjusted by the length and width of upright portion 525 and head portion 529 as well as the location, placement, and configuration of the coupling point 531 in upright portion 525. In some instances, for example, the height of upright portion 525 can be half the height as demonstrated in FIG. 41B and head portion 529 will be increased in length and the coupling point 531, second arm 575, first arm portion 573, and coupling point 571 maybe be adjustedto impedance match as well as align the higher order resonant frequencies to specific RF bands to accommodate a radome 604 that has a smaller distance between its top surface and internal ground plane 610. One example of such an implementation is the antenna 500A shown in FIGS. 42A-42D, for example. Another example is the antenna 500B shown in FIGS. 41A-41D.

[0443] The second arm portion 575 extends from the first arm portion 573 and can include an engagement portion 577. The engagement portion 577 can be adapted and configured to be positioned against the upright portion 525 of the radiating element 501. For example, the engagement portion 577 can be positioned against the upright low-band radiation portion 525 such that the second arm portion 575 is substantially orthogonal to the upright portion 525. The engagement portion 577 can include one or more tabs 583.

[0444] In the illustrated example, the engagement portion 577 includes a single tab 583. The tab 583 can be a twist tab. The tab 583 can be received within the coupling point 531 when configured as a slot in the upright low-band radiation portion 525. As such, the extension of the tab 583 through the slot 531 can be a point of coupling, creating a ground connection for the multi-band radiator portion 500.

[0445] Use of the tab 583 and the slot 531 for the ground connection can improve grounding, reduce the part count, and / or reduce assembly time, compared to other coupling means such as a nut and threaded fastener. For example, to couple the ground connection 503 to the radiating element 501, the tab 583 can be inserted into the slot 531 and twisted (e.g., with pliers) to create the connection. This type of connection can be completed more quickly than other connections (such as soldering, nut and fastener, etc.) and can provide a secure connection. In some cases, solder can optionally be used to improve the electrical connection between the ground connection 503 and the radiating element 501; however, the solder is generally not required for the mechanical or electrical connection to be established.

[0446] The lateral position of the first arm portion 573 relative to second arm portion 575 can also be selected to accommodate clearance for transmission lines. For example, while the second arm portion 575 can have a larger width than the first arm portion 573 in some implementations, and the first arm portion 573 can extend from a side or a central portion of the second arm portion 575. The position and width of the first arm portion 573 can also impact the performance of the multi-band radiator portion 500 across the various bands.

[0447] In some implementations, the ground connection 503 can be elevated relative to the feed location 519 of the radiating element 501 in the assembled antenna assembly 600. For example, the face plate 571 can be coupled to a portion of the internal ground plane 610 that is higher than the feed point 519 in the assembled antenna assembly 600. Such a raised connection provides advantages to achieve the multi-band coverage. Dimensions can be selected to provide harmonic resonance at higher odd orders in some implementations. The ground connection 503 provides advantages for achieving multiple advantageous resonances.

[0448] The selection of the dimensions for radiating portion 500 may also be adjusted to impact the radiation patterns of the fundamental mode as well as the higher order modes. For example, in some implementations, the height, width, and clearance provided for by the size of first arm portion 573 can be advantageously selected. Additionally, the length and width of second arm portion 575 can also be advantageously selected. For example, the width and length of the first arm portion 573 and second arm portion 575 can be adjusted for impedance matching as well as to achieve a desired radiation pattern for the multi-band radiator portion 500. The locations of the one or more slots 531 and one or more tabs 583, when coupled together for the grounding connection 503 create a symbiotic connection to provide a resonance of desired impedance to match a desired frequency and bandwidth and radiation pattern for a low-band frequency configuration in some implementations.

[0449] In some implementations, coupling points 571 and 583 are present to electrically couple to the ground plane (e.g., the internal ground plane 610) and radiating element 501, respectively. The width, thickness and height of portions 573 and 575 are selected so that the desired radiation pattern characteristics are maintained while providing an impedance match between the multi-band radiating element 501 and the characteristic impedance of the RF transmission lines that connect the radio that is part of the 5G wireless communication link to the multi-element multi-band antenna 102.

[0450] In some other implementations, features and aspects of the multi-band radiator portions 500 can be further described as follows. FIG. 41C illustrates the radiating element 501 that can be coupled to the internal ground plane 610 of the antenna assembly 600, and electrically excited at the feed point 519. For example, as described above, the center conductor of the coaxial cable 118 can be coupled to the feed point 519 with the outerconductor being coupled to the internal ground plane 610. The feed point 519 can extend from or be coupled to the upright low-band radiation portion 525 with what can be a narrow width tab. Additional isolation between the upright low-band radiation portion 525 and the internal ground plane 610 can be obtained by adjusting space 511 and consequently the coupling location reference 513.

[0451] For additional mechanical support, the upright low-band radiation portion 525 can have a non-conductive coupling mechanism (e.g., the mounting portions 114) to the internal ground plane 610. The upright low-band radiation portion 525 can have a coupling point (e.g., one or more slots 531) for attaching the grounding portion 503 with via the one or more tabs 583. As noted above, extending from / coupled to the upright low-band radiation portion 525 can be one or more aims 527. The arms 527 can assist with the dominate radiation in the mid-band and C-band for the multi-band radiator portion 500. One or more portions similar to the arms 527 may be used for assisting in the high band portion of the radiation are realizable in the implementation of this approach. Higher even order resonances may radiate from portions similar to the arms 527 of the radiating element 501 to assist in the multi-band properties of the device. Furthermore, there can be the additional head portion 529 coupled to the upright low-band radiation portion 525 that may be perpendicular in nature for its orientation. Though it is not necessary for the second low-band radiation portion 529 to be bent near 90-degrees as depicted in this illustration and can be shown to be perceptibly straight in other implementations. By bending the low-band radiation portion of the radiating element 501 to realize two distinct portions (e.g., the upright low-band radiation portion 525 and the second low-band radiation portion 529), the total height of the radiating element 501 is reduced and as such the total volume of the antenna assembly 600 to most likely provide environmental protection is consequently reduced.

[0452] The low-band operation of the radiating element 501 is determined by several factors. Some of the factors are the length and width of the first low-band radiation portion 525 and of the second low-band radiation portion 529, the location of opening one or more slots 531, and / or the grounding portion 503.

[0453] FIG. 41G shows a perspective view of the grounding portion of the ground connection 503. The face plate 571 can extend from or be coupled to the first arm portion 573. The width of the first arm portion 573 can be adjusted to accommodate clearance for assemblypurposes for a transmission line of the antenna assembly 600 that may be used for excitation of the multi-band radiator portion 500. The second arm portion 575 can extend from or be coupled to first arm portion 573. The engagement portion 577 can be coupled to or form a portion of the second arm portion 575. The engagement portion 577 can also have one or more coupling points (e.g., one or more tabs 583) that are configured to couple to the opening one or more slots 531 of the radiating element 501 in the assembled multi-band radiator portion 500. The height of the first arm portion 573, the width of the first arm portion 573, the clearance provided for in the first arm portion 573, the length of second arm portion 575, and the symbiotic location of slots 531 and / or tabs 583 can provide for a reactance that counterbalances the reactance of the low-band impedance to provide a resonance of desired impedance match for the desired frequency and bandwidth for the low-band radiation. The location of the coupling points (e.g., one or more tabs 583) and the length and width of the grounding portio...

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. An antenna assembly comprising:a housing comprising:a base;a radome configured to be coupled to the base to define a first internal volume between the base and the radome, the radome comprising:a first side comprising one or more first openings; and a second side opposite the first side, the second side comprising one or more second openings;a cover configured to be coupled to the radome to define a second internal volume between the cover and the radome, andwherein the radome is configured to support a satellite user terminal at an angle relative to the base in the second internal volume, with the cover securing the satellite user terminal to the radome.wherein the one or more first openings and the one or more second openings allow fluid communication between the second internal volume and an environment external to the antenna assembly;an internal ground plane supported by the base and disposed within the first internal volume; anda plurality of radiating elements disposed within the first internal volume and configured to be electrically coupled to the internal ground plane, the plurality of radiating elements comprising:a first radiating element configured to radiate at an upper ultra-high frequency band;one or more second radiating elements configured to radiate over a second frequency range; andone or more third radiating elements configured to radiate over a third frequency range.

2. An antenna assembly comprising:a housing comprising:a base; anda radome configured to be coupled to the base to define an internal volume between the base and the radome.

3. The antenna assembly of claim 2, further comprising: an internal ground plane supported by the base and disposed within the internal volume.

4. The antenna assembly of claim 3, further comprising a plurality of radiating elements disposed within the internal volume and configured to be electrically coupled to the internal ground plane.

5. The antenna assembly of any of claims 2 to 4, wherein the radome comprises a support portion for supporting a satellite user terminal.

6. The antenna assembly of claim 5, wherein the support portion is positioned above the base and outside of the internal volume.

7. The antenna assembly of claim 5 or claim 6, wherein the support portion is at an angle relative to the base such that the radome is configured to support the satellite user terminal at the angle relative to the base.

8. The antenna assembly of any of claims 5 to 7, wherein the housing further comprises a cover configured to be coupled to the radome to secure the satellite user terminal to the housing, wherein a second internal volume is defined between the radome and the cover, and wherein the support portion is disposed within the second internal volume.

9. The antenna assembly of any of claims 2 to 8, wherein the housing comprises: one or more first openings disposed in a first side of the housing; and one or more second openings disposed in a second side of the housing, wherein the first side is opposite the second side, and wherein the one or more first openings and the one or more second openings define an airflow path through at least a portion of the housing.

10. The antenna assembly of claim 9, wherein the one or more first openings and the one or more second openings are in fluid communication with the second internal volume such that the airflow path extends though the second internal volume.

11. The antenna assembly of claim 10, wherein the airflow path is configured to promote a heat exchange between fluid traveling along the airflow path and the satellite user terminal when supported by the radome.

12. The antenna assembly of any of claims 3 to 11, wherein the base comprises a base opening and the internal ground plane comprises a ground plane opening at least partially aligned with the base opening, and wherein the base opening and the ground plane opening are configured for routing cables through the housing.

13. The antenna assembly of claim 12, wherein the radome comprises a radome opening for routing a cable from the satellite user terminal through the housing.

14. The antenna assembly of any of claims 5 to 13, further comprising the satellite user terminal.

15. The antenna assembly of any of claims 4 to 14, wherein the plurality of radiating elements comprises a first radiating element configured to radiate at a public safety frequency band.

16. The antenna assembly of claim 15, wherein the first radiating element comprises a three-dimensional radiating element comprising:an upright portion;a head portion extending from a top side of the upright portion;a left arm extending from a left side of the upright portion; and a right arm extending from a right side of the upright portion.

17. The antenna assembly of claim 16, wherein the upright portion is configured as a first resonating component, the head portion is configured as a second resonating component, the left arm is configured as a third resonating component, and the right arm is configured a fourth resonating component, andwherein the first resonating component and the second resonating component are configured to resonate within a frequency band approximately between 380 MHz and 512 GHz during use, and the third resonating component and the fourth resonating component are configured to resonate within a frequency band approximately between 698 MHz and 941 MHz during use, and / orwherein the first resonating component and the second resonating component are configured to resonate within a frequency band approximately between 450 MHz and 470 GHz during use, and the third resonating component and the fourth resonating component are configured to resonate within a frequency band approximately between 764 MHz and 869 MHz during use.

18. The antenna assembly of any of claims 4 to 17, wherein the plurality of radiating elements comprise one or more second radiating elements, and wherein the one or more second radiating elements are one or more Wi-Fi radiating elements configured to radiate and receive radio-frequency signals within at least one wireless local area network frequency band.

19. The antenna assembly of any of claims 4 to 18, wherein the plurality of radiating elements comprise one or more third radiating elements, and wherein the one or more third radiating elements are one or more cellular radiating elements configured to radiate and receive radio-frequency signals within at least one cellular communication frequency band.

20. An antenna assembly comprising:a case comprising:a base defining a first internal volume; anda lid defining a second internal volume, wherein the lid is pivotably coupled to the base and configured to move between a closed configuration and an open configuration to selectively permit access to an interior of the case; a baseplate configured to be removably coupled to the lid, the baseplate comprising:a first baseplate portion configured to support a satellite user terminal; anda second baseplate portion comprising one or more openings to allow fluid communication between the first internal volume and the second internal volume,wherein the second baseplate portion is configured to be disposed at least partially within the first baseplate portion such that the first baseplate portion at least partially surrounds the second baseplate portion; a plurality of radiating elements disposed within the second internal volume and supported by the second baseplate portion;one or more base fans disposed within the base and configured to direct a flow of gases into the first internal volume from an environment external to the case;one or more lid fans disposed within the lid and configured to direct the flow of gases from the first internal volume into the second internal volume; andone or more vents disposed within the lid and configured to direct the flow of gases from the second internal volume to the environment external to the case, wherein the case is configured to move between a first configuration where the base is substantially coplanar to a surface supporting the case and a second configuration where the base is at an angle relative to the surface supporting the case.

21. An antenna assembly comprising:a case comprising:a base at least partially defining a first internal volume; anda lid at least partially defining a second internal volume, wherein the lid is pivotably coupled to the base and configured to move between a closed configuration and an open configuration to selectively permit access to an interior of the case.

22. The antenna assembly of claim 21, further comprising:a baseplate coupled to the lid and separating the first internal volume from the second internal volume.

23. The antenna assembly of claim 22, further comprising:a plurality of radiating elements disposed within the second internal volume and supported by the baseplate.

24. The antenna assembly of any of claims 21 to 23, further comprising a support portion for supporting a satellite user terminal within the second internal volume25. The antenna assembly of claim 24, wherein the support portion is coupled to a baseplate, and wherein the baseplate is coupled to the lid and separating the first internal volume from the second internal volume.

26. The antenna assembly of claim 25, wherein the support portion is configured to support the satellite user terminal above the baseplate such that a gap exists between a bottom of the satellite user terminal and a top of the baseplate.

27. The antenna assembly of any of claims 25 to 26, wherein the baseplate comprises one or more openings configured to allow fluid exchange between the first internal volume and the second internal volume through the baseplate.

28. The antenna assembly of any of claims 25 to 27, wherein the baseplate is removably coupled to the lid.

29. The antenna assembly of any of claims 25 to 28, wherein the baseplate comprises: a first baseplate portion; anda second baseplate portion removably coupled to the first baseplate portion.

30. The antenna assembly of claim 29, wherein the support portion is coupled to the second baseplate portion.

31. The antenna assembly of claim 29 or claim 30. wherein the second baseplate portion comprises a first opening for routing a cable from the satellite user terminal through the baseplate and into the first internal volume.

32. The antenna assembly of any of claims 25 to 31, wherein the baseplate is an internal ground plane and / or wherein the baseplate is configured to act as a heat sink for at least one of the plurality of radiating elements or the satellite user terminal.

33. The antenna assembly of any of claims 25 to 32, wherein the support portion comprises a conductive material such that the support portion can conduct heat from the satellite user terminal towards the baseplate.

34. The antenna assembly of any of claims 21 to 33, further comprising one or more base fans coupled to the base and configured to, in operation, cause a flow of gases to enter the first internal volume from an external environment.

35. The antenna assembly of claim 34, wherein each of the one or more base fans is positioned at an opening in the base, and wherein each opening in the base has a filter for filtering the flow of gases.

36. The antenna assembly of any of claims 21 to 35, further comprising one or more lid fans disposed within the lid and configured to, in operation, cause a flow of gases to enter the second internal volume.

37. The antenna assembly of claim 36, wherein each of the one or more lid fans is coupled to the baseplate and positioned at an opening in the baseplate such that the flow of gases enters the second internal volume from the first internal volume.

38. The antenna assembly of claim 36 or claim 37, further comprising one or more vents disposed within the lid or coupled to the lid, wherein the one or more vents are configured to direct the flow of gases from the second internal volume to an external environment.

39. The antenna assembly of claim 38, wherein the one or more base fans and the one or more lids fans are configured to, in operation, cause a flow of gases to enter the first internalvolume, pass through the baseplate into the second internal volume, and exit the case through the lid.

40. The antenna assembly of any of claims 21 to 39, further comprising the satellite user terminal.

41. The antenna assembly of any of claims 21 to 40, wherein the case further comprises a leg pivotably coupled to a bottom surface of the base, wherein the leg is configured to move between a stowed configuration and an extended configuration, and wherein the leg causes the case to be at an angle relative to a surface supporting the case when in the extended configuration.

42. The antenna assembly of any of claims 23 to 41, wherein the plurality of radiating elements comprise one or more cellular radiating elements configured to radiate and receive radio-frequency signals within at least one cellular communication frequency band.

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