Base Station Antenna Array Feeding for Narrower Beamwidth
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing base station antennas face challenges in meeting performance requirements for half-power beamwidth and beam directivity due to the use of small radiating elements, which result in larger element beamwidths and difficulty in achieving desired antenna characteristics.
Innovation Solution
The base station antenna design incorporates first and second linear arrays with radiating elements that are fed collectively by a phase shifter and power divider, allowing for narrower beamwidths and improved directivity through precise amplitude and phase control of RF signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If small radiating elements are used, then the antenna size is reduced, but the element beamwidth increases and beam directivity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the radiating element into multiple sub-elements (first radiating element, second radiating element, third radiating element, fourth radiating element) arranged in a specific geometric configuration. This segmentation allows each sub-element to contribute to the overall radiation pattern, enabling narrower beamwidth and improved directivity while maintaining a compact overall antenna structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from conventional planar element arrangements to a three-dimensional configuration where radiating elements are positioned at different spatial coordinates (x, y, z dimensions). This dimensional expansion allows for more precise control of the radiation pattern in both azimuth and elevation planes, achieving narrower beamwidth without increasing the overall antenna footprint.
2Device complexity
If conventional feeding networks are used, then the device complexity is low, but the beamwidth control precision is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic beamforming capabilities through independent phase and amplitude control of each radiating element. The feeding network includes variable phase shifters and amplitude controllers that can dynamically adjust the radiation pattern, enabling precise beamwidth control and directional steering while maintaining a relatively simple overall architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter variation in the feeding network to control beam characteristics. By adjusting phase shifts and amplitude ratios for different radiating elements, the system can precisely control the beamwidth and direction without requiring complex structural changes. This parameter-based control allows flexible optimization of antenna performance.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This configuration reduces the half-power beamwidth and enhances the directivity of antenna beams in both azimuth and elevation planes, improving overall antenna performance.
Implementation Method 1
fed collectively by a phase shifter and power divider, allowing for narrower beamwidths and improved directivity through precise amplitude and phase control of RF signals
Data Source
AI summary
A base station antenna includes a first radio frequency (“RF”) port; a second RF port; a first array of radiating elements that includes a first radiating element, the first radiating element including first and second radiators each having the first polarization direction, wherein the first radiator is coupled to the first RF port; a second array of radiating elements that includes a second radiating element, the second radiating element including a third radiator having the first polarization direction; and a first power divider having a first input that is coupled to the second RF port, and first and second outputs that are respectively coupled to the second and third radiators.