Small Cell Antenna Link Structure for Hidden Cables and Beam Steering
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional small cell base station antenna apparatuses face challenges in maintaining a clean appearance due to exposed cables and struggle with dual band frequency coverage, especially when installed indoors, where cable connections are complex and difficult to manage.
Innovation Solution
The proposed solution involves a small cell base station antenna apparatus with a multi-function link that allows tilting and steering of antenna modules, conceals cables using a cable accommodation pipe, and enables dual band coverage by partitioning antenna modules to adjust directivity without exposing external cables, facilitating indoor installations in public places, densely populated areas, and large shopping malls or airport buildings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If the antenna module and radio unit are connected using external cables in a conventional outdoor installation structure, then the electrical connection between components is achieved, but the aesthetic appearance is degraded due to exposed cables
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the radio unit inside the antenna module housing, with cables nested within internal channels and compartments. The radio unit is positioned within the antenna module's internal space, eliminating external cable exposure while maintaining electrical connections through internal routing paths.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the antenna module and radio unit into a single integrated apparatus. The radio unit and antenna module are merged into one compact structure where cables are contained within the unified housing, transforming two separate outdoor components into one aesthetically pleasing indoor unit.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a single antenna module is used in each radio unit, then the device structure is simplified, but the dual band frequency coverage capability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the antenna system into multiple antenna modules, each designed to cover specific frequency bands. By segmenting the antenna coverage into separate modules (e.g., one for sub-6GHz and another for mmWave), the system achieves dual band capability while keeping each individual module relatively simple in structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs antenna modules with multi-functional capabilities to cover different frequency bands. The same basic antenna module structure can be configured for different frequency ranges, providing universal adaptability across multiple bands without requiring entirely different hardware designs.
3Ease of operation
If the antenna module is fixed in position, then the installation structure is simplified, but the directivity adjustment capability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates adjustable mounting mechanisms that allow the antenna module to change its orientation and directivity after installation. The mounting structure includes movable components that enable dynamic adjustment of the antenna's pointing direction while maintaining a relatively simple fixed base structure.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a small cell base station antenna apparatus, and more particularly, comprises: a radio unit (RU); one or more antenna modules installed on the radio unit so as to be capable of tilting and steering operations; and a multi-function link for mediating the installation of the one or more respective antenna modules on the radio unit, wherein the multi-function link includes male connectors that electrically connect female connectors included in the antenna modules and the radio unit, thus providing the benefits of improving the workability of indoor installation and facilitating the construction of a small cell base station.