DE102008059268A1 - Positional recognition device for antenna, particularly mobile phone antenna, has integrated inclination sensor and global positioning system, where device is provided in control unit for adjusting electrical beam deflection with antenna - Google Patents

Abstract

An improved device for detecting the position of an antenna arrangement is characterized by the following features: The position detection device is provided in a control unit (19; RET) for adjusting the electrical beam reduction in antennas (1), in particular mobile radio antennas (1 '), - the control unit (19 ) is preferably retrofittable and / or interchangeable mounted or mounted on an antenna (1, 1 '), - the control unit (19) is on the antenna (1, 1') on a mechanical interface (23, 123) mounted or mounted and via the antenna (1, 1 ') firmly connected or connected, and - the control unit (19) has a data interface (21) via which the position detection device of a base station or a remote control device is controllable and / or evaluable.

Description

The The invention relates to a device for detecting the position of an antenna unit according to the preamble of claim 1.

A generic device is from the DE 20 2005 019 697 U1 known. For determining the orientation of one or more antennas belonging to an antenna arrangement, at least two GPS antennas, for example, which are connected to determine the orientation of the antenna or antenna arrangement, are provided on the upper side of the radome. These two GPS antennas are connected to a GPS module for evaluation. Alternatively, two GPS modules may be provided, each with an associated GPS antenna. The intended evaluation unit can be used to determine the alignment of the at least one antenna or antenna arrangement with a plurality of antennas in the azimuth direction.

alternative or additionally, an inclinometer is provided, what about the respective concrete elevation angle of the antenna arrangement can be determined, so the inclinations of the antenna array and usually the reflector over the vertical.

According to this Pre-publication are the mentioned GPS antennas or modules arranged on top of the radome or on a holding device attached to the antenna, for example at an angle at the top rearward holding device, so the GPS antennas or modules with horizontal offset from each other above the radome to come to rest.

An antenna device with an alignment or inclination sensor is also from the US 3,739,364 known. On a so-called reference plate, a multi-orientation sensor is arranged, which can detect an inclination of the antenna deviating from the vertical direction, once in an X-axis and a Y-axis perpendicular thereto.

The use of two position sensors is also in a device for measuring the bending movement of an antenna mast according to the EP 0 433 971 B1 (equals to DE 690 08 135 T2 ) proposed. The two sensor groups are arranged at a certain distance from each other, wherein the first sensor group is in a first plane and the second sensor group is in a second plane. Both planes are aligned parallel to each other and are offset in the axial direction of the antenna mast to each other. In order to detect the bending load, inclinometers are used, which can also be constructed in the form of so-called accelerometers.

About that In addition, systems for fast moving objects are known become aligned with an antenna receiving system. For example on ships or the like, it may be important the antenna always in a specific alignment position and location regardless of how the fast-moving body his situation changes. Therefore, for such moving Objects also developed electronic beam-swing systems have been independent of the locomotion of the object always to a specific destination (for example, a satellite) are aligned and stay. Such systems include in the Usually position sensors around the alignment in all three axes to each other capture.

Such a system is from the US 6,016,120 A to be known as known. In order to align the antenna located on a moving object (eg a ship) with a specific target in azimuth and elevation direction, the antenna device is further provided with a rotation device, whereby the antenna in the horizontal and vertical direction in accordance with the desired alignment position can be twisted.

Although basically with the illustrated systems the Alignment determined an antenna and with appropriate adjustment even be tracked to a desired location can, the described methods are sometimes very expensive. Second, the systems for proprietary solutions thought or require at least a lot of effort if they to be retrofitted. Especially for retrofitting is a precise work and Durchveressen the entire antenna necessary to exactly grasp their starting position. this is also valid for any calibration still to be performed.

In contrast, It is an object of the present invention an improved device for detecting the orientation and / or inclination of an antenna arrangement to create, which preferably also easy to be retrofitted should. In other words, the inventive Solution also for already installed antennas be usable. Because changes to an antenna or on an antenna group at the installation usually a lot of effort mean, should be provided in the context of the invention installation effort be kept as minimal as possible.

The The object is achieved according to the invention solved in claim 1 features. advantageous Embodiments of the invention are in the subclaims specified.

By the present invention is a surprisingly simple and also designed first easy to handle and thereby in practice very efficient solution for a particular retrofittable device for detecting the orientation and / or the position of an antenna or antenna system created to determine all necessary data can.

By Such retrofit systems can be before In addition, a cost-effective control of the change of inclinations of antennas, for example, after a storm or a storm, especially in the context of a remote inquiry check. In addition, seismic activities can also be done be covered by this, if indeed by a Position change (tilt position) of an antenna is detected or the tilt sensors also respond to a linear acceleration. This is especially beneficial when making a change the position, ie the orientation and / or an occurring acceleration 3-axis is detected (ie with respect to three spatial axes). Especially when antenna systems with large area the inventive device for detection the orientation of the antenna assembly are equipped, let especially here in seismic activities but gather additional important information even in bad weather.

With the measurement and detection of the tilt position of the antenna can then, of course - especially if additional Measures are provided for adjustments an optimal setting of the antenna are made. this applies In particular, if the antenna, for example, with a corresponding controllable tilt and / or rotation device is provided. In front but especially when a beam lowering (down tilt) of the antennas should be set electrically different (in itself unchanged mechanical alignment position), can be detected at changed inclination of the antenna here if necessary by changing the so-called down tilt angle an adaptation to be made on the controllable ways so that the antenna nevertheless with its main beam direction in one radiates optimal angle.

The Solution according to the invention can be easily retrofitted to already delivered and installed antennas become. Above all, it is also already installed Antennas of great importance, since the invention related as well implemented and realized with such already installed antennas can be replaced without these already installed antennas or changes need to be made to them.

According to the invention, a so-called RET unit is used, ie an above all retrofittable electronic device for different setting of a radiation angle, namely a so-called down-tilts, as this basically from the EP 1 356 539 B1 is known, the disclosure of which is fully incorporated by reference.

These retrofit systems are so-called remote electrical tilt devices, which is also referred to as RET device for short. By means of such a RET system, the electrical radiation angle of an antenna can be remotely controlled. For this purpose, according to the above EP 1 356 539 B1 For example, proposed to grow such a system at a mechanical interface below the antenna device, ie outside the radome. Such antennas are provided for example with a manual rotatable adjusting member, which is arranged directly below a Radom downwardly covering the antenna flange, which is connected via an adjusting mechanism with the located inside the radome phase shifters in order to adjust the phase shifter different. As a result, the maturities in the individual feed lines can be changed, whereby the Absenkwinkel can be set according to different. As in the above EP 1 356 539 B1 described, the remotely controllable electronic control unit RET can now be attached to this mechanical interface in order to be able to adjust the lowering angle of an antenna remotely via this antenna.

These described RET unit is then connected to a control line, about which provided in the RET unit drive device targeted can be operated so that over the mentioned transmission linkage the provided inside the antenna phrases are adjusted can, what about the runtime changes set a desired Absenkwinkel different can be.

in the Under the present invention, it is now proposed that mentioned position and / or position detection device in such, preferably retrofittable RET unit with accommodate.

• – bei einer eindeutigen Ausrichtung ist die Ausrichtung der Antenne sofort feststellbar;
• – sind mehrere eindeutig definierte oder zumindest bekannte Ausrichtungs-Möglichkeiten gegeben, so muss eine entsprechende Einstellung für das System durch Eingabe entsprechender Parameter oder durch Kalibrierung durchgeführt werden; oder
• – bei einer völlig unbekannten Ausrichtung der Antenne muss die entsprechende Ausrichtung erst durch Kalibrierung festgestellt werden.

Since the retrofittable control unit for adjusting the electrical beam reduction (RET unit) is mounted in exact axial assignment to an antenna or an antenna group, usually at the bottom, the Radom final mounting plate (on which the coaxial connections for the antenna cables are provided) , is thereby ensured that the integrated in such a unit Lage- and / or Po tion detection device can also accurately capture the corresponding alignment of the antenna. Therefore, a used position sensor in the mentioned RET unit does not necessarily have to be subsequently measured and calibrated when mounted on an antenna or an antenna group. After mounting the RET unit to the antenna, it can then be determined whether the antenna is exactly vertical or not. For this purpose, a display device must then be closed, in which case several cases (ie several calibration and / or adjustment methods) are possible, namely:

• - With a clear orientation, the orientation of the antenna is immediately detectable;
• If there are several clearly defined or at least known alignment possibilities, a corresponding setting for the system must be carried out by input of appropriate parameters or by calibration; or
• - If the antenna is completely unknown, the alignment must be determined by calibration.

alternative or in addition, at least one GPS system (ie with at least a GPS antenna), via which at least one global position determination the relevant antenna can be performed. Also this GPS system is housed in the mentioned RET unit.

In However, a preferred embodiment is at least two position sensors in the retrofittable control unit for Adjusting the electric beam reduction provided, namely a Displacement out of the vertical out in two angled to each other directions, preferably in two perpendicular to each other standing directions (namely in an X and a Y direction). After installation and if necessary Assignment of the position sensors to the antenna housing can then be determined in which direction, based on the respective Main beam direction, a tilt of the antenna or the antenna mast deviating from the vertical.

The corresponding possibility for assigning the position sensors to the antenna housing are mentioned above and discussed.

is the user only at a monitoring regarding the antenna is interested in the extent to which the orientation of the antenna is different from an origin or predetermined orientation in the case of position sensors with two axes no adjustment or Calibration necessary.

After all are at least in another preferred embodiment two global positioning systems are provided below briefly referred to as GPS systems, regardless of on which principle they are based and / or by which operator Such systems are provided (known are NAVSTAR GPS, the Galileo system etc.).

hereby Not only can the position of an antenna also be remotely monitored exactly determined and checked, but it can be offset when using at least two, with horizontal component lying GPS antennas or GPS modules can also be detected with which azimuth angle z. B. the main beam direction of an antenna is aligned. The signals of the GPS antennas are preferably evaluated for synchronization with a GPS receiver. In addition, further accuracy enhancing Measures such as the use of additional recipients and / or antennas are used.

In a further preferred embodiment of the invention Furthermore, a third position sensor is still provided, which is a position detection in a third, to the other two axes angled and preferably perpendicular axis allows. This offers advantages especially if a RET unit is not at a substantial downwardly aligned junction at the bottom of a Antenna arrangement (Radom) is grown, but z. B. at one rearward straight connection point the antenna arrangement (ie with a rear-facing interface). In this case, the so-called RET unit would come not in vertical direction, but horizontal direction to lie, so that one of the two above-mentioned position sensors is not effective would. In this case with horizontal cultivation would then the vertical attachment of the RET unit ineffective or only partially effective and not necessary third position sensor only more complementary effective to a positional deviation in one X- and a Y-axis (ie with respect to a horizontal plane) to be able to capture.

The inventive retrofittable control unit for adjusting the electronic beam reduction at least with the one integrated tilt sensor and / or with the at least one (or more) GPS system can also be used if this unit is not just facing a single relative position the antenna can be mounted or aligned, but if For example, two or more defined relative positions between RET unit and antenna / radome or even any relative positions possible are.

Preferably, the device can also independently send an alarm message when suddenly a deviation from a predetermined position can be detected or a presettable threshold is exceeded with respect to a position deviation.

After all the determined measured values are preferably also smoothed (averaged) to block out the swinging of the mast by the wind.

The The invention will be explained below with reference to drawings. In detail:

1 a schematic side view of a mobile radio antenna, which is attached to a mast, and with an attached below the radome control unit according to the invention;

2 a schematic spatially reproduced simplified embodiment of an inventive RET unit with integrated position sensors and GPS antennas;

3 : one too 2 modified embodiment with lateral extensions to arrange GPS antennas in greater side distance to each other;

4 : An alternative embodiment for mounting a RET unit with position sensors, wherein the RET unit is not mounted in the vertical direction and from below but in the horizontal direction of connection preferably from the back of an antenna (in the case of three sensors is this Ausführungsbei game generally applicable;

5 : a modified embodiment to 1 a common line which is split into an antenna side line and a control line for the RET unit equipped with the present invention using a bias tee (crossover); and

6 : a schematic circuit arrangement for such a bias tea.

In 1 is a schematic side view of an antenna 1 , in particular a mobile radio antenna 1 shown at a mast 3 is attached. As a rule, the antenna comprises a multiplicity of radiators, radiator elements or radiator groups arranged one above the other at least in the vertical direction, for example in the form of dipole radiators or patch radiators or other radiator devices. The radiators are usually in front of a reflector 4 arranged, with the radiators within a radome 5 protected from environmental influences. In 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the position of the reflector 4 inside the radome 5 indicated.

Such antenna devices consisting of simple or composite dipole radiators, dipole crosses, dipole squares, so-called vector dipoles in cup-shaped dipole arrangements or in the form of patch emitters etc. are, for example, the prior art publication WO 98/01923 A1 , the WO 2004/100315 A1 . WO 03/065505 A1 or the WO 99/31757 A1 known.

Usually the back side 7 the antenna device by means of mechanical holding means 9 on the mast shown 3 attached, but can also be attached to other support devices such as house walls, etc.

A Such antenna can usually be in exact vertical alignment, d. H. be aligned in the Z direction. In individual cases also comes a mounting into consideration, in which the axial direction Deviating Z 'of the antenna at a preselected angle inclined to the vertical, d. H. usually in their direction of radiation inclined to the horizontal plane.

The underside of such antennas is usually with a termination plate or a flange 11 equipped, on which usually several electrical interfaces 13 are provided on which antenna cables 15 for example, using connectors or connectors (couplers) 123 be connected. The antenna may be a single or multi-band antenna (radiating and / or receiving, for example, in a polarization or preferably in two polarizations perpendicular to each other), which are often aligned in a so-called X-arrangement with respect to the vertical / horizontal, whose polarization planes are thus rotated in a + 45 ° angle or -45 ° angle with respect to a vertical or horizontal plane. In this respect, reference is made to the known systems. About the individual antenna cables 15 For example, the feed and receive signals are transmitted to or from the radiators, preferably for the different frequency bands and the two polarizations separately.

How basically from the EP 1 356 539 B1 is known, is provided on the underside of the antenna on a manually operable adjusting member, about which a running into the interior of the radome adjustment is actuated, for example, axially positionally variable, about which not shown in detail phase shifter can be adjusted so that a different electrical Absenkwinkel the radiator elements can be adjusted.

As is known, at such a mechanical interface or connection point 23 (in this case in the form of a screw connection 123 ) a preferably retrofittable device for electric beam lowering, a so-called RET unit 19 to be assembled. Preference is given to the underlying connection plate 11 a threaded approach, for example, provided with an external thread on which a threaded sleeve located at the upper end of the RET unit can be screwed tight. Through this (axial) screw connection 123 the RET unit is mounted and at the same time through the threaded extension and the threaded connection in exact axial assignment to the antenna 1 , ie also in exact axial alignment with the radiator elements located in the interior of the radome and the reflector 4 kept aligned and mounted. This puts the antenna 1 and the RET 19 a fixed total unit, based on the antenna mast 3 can only be adjusted together in the azimuth direction and / or elevation direction.

Preferably at the bottom of the RET unit 19 or elsewhere is an electrical interface 21 for example in the form of a connector 121 (For example, in the form of a coaxial connector, coupler, etc.) provided on what a control line, so a control cable 25 to control the RET unit and thus to adjust the Absenkwinkels can be connected. Instead of a coaxial connector as well as another connector may be provided, for example, a multi-pin connector. In the case of the connection and the control based on an AISG protocol, this could be an eight-pin connector, in which in addition to two data lines and the supply voltage of, for example, 12 volts and 24 volts can be transmitted.

This RET unit 19 is according to the invention with at least one tilt sensor 27 (in 1 indicated only schematically), which is constructed and / or adjusted so that a deviation in the inclination of the RET unit relative to a vertical Z-axis can be seen. Alternatively or additionally, at least one GPS system for determining the position in the RET unit is provided.

Because the RET unit 19 at their junction 23 on an antenna or antenna arrangement 1 in exact axial (assignment is mounted or mountable, can in the assembled state via the mentioned inclination sensor 27 in the RET unit 19 not only a positional deviation of the axial extent Z 'of the RET unit 19 relative to a vertical axis Z, but also a tilt deviation of the Z-axis of the antenna assembly from the vertical Z-axis (thus usually also a corresponding deviation from the inclination of the reflector assembly 4 ge compared to the vertical Z-axis) are accurately detected.

Consequently can by the use of such, preferably retrofittable RET unit with corresponding antennas instead of a manual one electric beam lowering not only a preferably remotely controllable set electrical beam reduction but at the same time without additional technical measures also a position detection and detecting a positional deviation of the antenna from the exact vertical Orientation be performed.

This is, as described, easily possible only if the mentioned RET unit can preferably be mounted only in a fixed relative assignment and orientation to the antenna at this, in which the tilt sensor 27 due to its orientation in the RET unit 19 For example, can detect a tilt position of the antenna deviating from the vertical axis in a plane which extends through the vertical axis and is perpendicular to the reflector in the direction of the antenna. Because to be recognized by the one tilt sensor 27 Among other things, an inclination deviation of the antenna in the beam direction, in which the down-tilt is set.

In The rule is the azimuth of the main beam direction perpendicular to the reflector aligned. Especially with multi-column antennas, the beam However, be clearly steered aside. Here you can Slope values only as a corresponding inclination of the antenna housing be considered.

Otherwise would have to be carried out locally when using a RET unit with only one inclination sensor pre-adjustment and measurement to the effect that the RET unit 19 initially in such a relative twisting position fixed to the antenna 1 is mounted so as to be able to detect, for example, an inclination of the antenna in the main beam direction with respect to the vertical Z-axis (for example, in a tilt angle corresponding to a certain inclination a).

• – bei einer eindeutigen Ausrichtung ist die Ausrichtung der Antenne sofort feststellbar;
• – sind mehrere eindeutig definierte oder zumindest bekannte Ausrichtungs-Möglichkeiten gegeben, so muss eine entsprechende Einstellung für das System durch Eingabe entsprechender Parameter oder durch Kalibrierung durchgeführt werden; oder
• – bei einer völlig unbekannten Ausrichtung der Antenne muss die entsprechende Ausrichtung erst durch Kalibrierung festgestellt werden.

For this purpose, a display device must then be connected, in which case several cases (ie different calibration and / or adjustment methods) are possible, namely:

• - With a clear orientation, the orientation of the antenna is immediately detectable;
• If there are several clearly defined or at least known alignment possibilities, a corresponding setting for the system must be carried out by input of appropriate parameters or by calibration; or
• - If the antenna is completely unknown, the alignment must be determined by calibration.

In case of breakage of the antenna mount, the antenna may also tilt to the side so that the one sensor can not register it. For this and in the event that the RET unit in several defined positions (for example, in four 90 ° steps) relative to the antenna arrangement or even in any relative position to the antenna assembly can be mounted on this, according to the invention are two inclination sensors 27 and 127 provided, which can detect a tilt detection in two different directions, preferably in two different mutually perpendicular axes (transverse to the vertical Z axis). Preferably should by these tilt sensors 27 . 127 A position deviation relative to the vertical in the X and Y directions can be detected. This offers the advantage that when fixing the RET unit 19 can ultimately be detected when the antenna or the associated antenna mast should be inclined in any direction out of the vertical out. In general, the different cases for the calibration and / or adjustment methods, which have already been mentioned several times above, apply again, on the basis of which the corresponding position detection can then be carried out. It can be accurately determined by the two, acting in different directions inclination sensors in which azimuth direction the inclination is determined and what size is the inclination angle.

For fixed and unambiguous alignment assignment of the RET unit to an antenna 1 a factory calibration of the evaluation can be made so that the one tilted value recorded a position deviation exactly in the direction perpendicular to the reflector of the antenna and the second position sensor position deviations in a vertical plane extending perpendicular thereto. If an assignment of the RET unit in several defined positions or even in any position be possible, after the successful installation on the antenna, a calibration or adjustment must be made such that the measurement signals for the two position sensors determined accordingly, stored and / or be assigned or converted, so that the output values refer to the direction perpendicular to the reflector or transverse thereto (it is already referred to the above multiple ways of detecting the orientation of the antenna or a necessary calibration).

The System does not require that the two inclination sensors in certain Directions must lie. If the situation is known, however However, the evaluation of the data can be converted to any frame of reference for the tilt directions. For the inclination direction can for example the antenna housing, the reflector, the azimuth angle of the Main beam direction, etc. serve.

As in particular from the schematic representation in a spatial view according to 2 As can be seen, at least one global positioning system GPS is present in the RET unit to be retrofitted 31 and preferably at least two offset GPS systems 31 or at least two GPS antennas 31 ' provided with an associated GPS module. The two GPS antennas or GPS modules 31 are preferably arranged offset in the horizontal direction or substantially in the horizontal direction. The inclination sensors are preferably located inside the housing, since the metallic environment has no influence. In addition, a GPS system can be used to evaluate at which geostationary location an antenna is mounted. This can always be determined via remote inquiry. In the case of two mutually offset GPS antennas, not only the angle of inclination, ie the negative elevation angle relative to the horizontal plane, but also the azimuth angle can be determined, in which the correspondingly determined assignment of the RET unit to the antenna the assigned antenna is located.

Such a GPS system is sufficient even if, for example, on an antenna mast in the circumferential direction three or more described antenna are mounted. For example, if the antenna devices are offset by 120 ° to each other (when using three such antenna devices) when determining the azimuth orientation, an antenna can be a correspondingly exact assignment to the main beam direction of the other antenna device 1 be performed. This is true even if the other antenna devices are aligned at different angles to a reference antenna. If not only the one-time alignment, but also the attachment of the individual antennas should be monitored, this method is no longer sufficient.

As the measurement accuracy increases and the error deviation decreases, the greater the horizontal distance to the GPS system 31 is - as shown schematically in 3 is indicated - even extension sections 33 on the housing 35 the RET unit 19 be provided, which may protrude, for example, web or arm-shaped away from each other, preferably protrude in the horizontal direction, so that at the most remote points of these extension sections 33 the mentioned two GPS antennas 31 are housed.

Based on 4 is schematically shown a different application case insofar as here the on the basis of the RET unit explained above 19 not at a lower vertical, rather than vertical antenna 23 but at a rearward rather than horizontally oriented at an antenna connection point 23 ' to be mounted (for example, again by means of a screw connection 123 ).

In this case, in the embodiment according to 1 to 3 rather horizontal position sensors acting in the X and Y directions 27 . 127 not both be effective, since by the 90 ° twisted installation a positional deviation then only in Z and X direction (or Z and Y direction) would be recognizable. In the case of two sensors, their orientation must therefore be adapted to the application.

Therefore, in another preferred embodiment, there are three tilt sensors 27 . 127 and 227 provided, which are in three angularly aligned axes, preferably in three mutually perpendicular axes X-, Y- and Z-effective. In this case, depending on the installation position 1 to 3 or after 4 always at least two sensors are effective, which can detect a positional deviation relative to the lying in the horizontal plane X or Y axis. When using three sensors, the HF adapter can therefore be used in any position.

It in this case are always two, i. H. at least two position sensors effective to a positional deviation from the vertical Z-direction extension in two mutually perpendicular directions in the horizontal plane to record and evaluate.

The explained retrofittable control unit (RET) for adjusting the electric beam lowering with the integrated sensors cooperates with a likewise provided evaluation device, preferably in the housing 35 the RET unit 19 is housed with. This is the evaluation of the tilt detection (to determine a possible down-tilt angle) and / or to detect the orientation of the antenna and / or to detect the global position of the antenna, wherein the entire data traffic and the supply then via a connected control line 25 to an optionally remote central control and evaluation is handled.

About the mentioned control line 25 So should the data for the control and / or the return transmission of the position of the mentioned phase shifter and thus the data for the setting of a beam reduction and the data traffic with respect to the at least one position sensor 27 . 127 . 227 and the at least one or preferably both GPS systems or modules 31 . 31 ' be handled. In principle, however, it would also be possible, but this is preferably not carried out, that a separate electrical interface is provided for the one or more position sensors and for the one or more GPS systems or antennas, on which a separate transmission or data cable can be connected in order to handle this data traffic for the position sensors and GPS units separately from the electric beam reduction.

Finally, the embodiment according to 5 in which it is shown that at least in one antenna line 15 a so-called "bias tea" 45 can be interposed, so a so-called crossover (diplexer) or Fernspeiseweiche 45 which transmits the high-frequency RF signals to the radiator elements or of the radiator elements as transparent as possible and thereby the data or control signals for the RET unit 19 branches off, so the operation of the RET unit, the electrical beam reduction on the one hand and for the position sensors or the GPS modules to the other are necessary. The retransmission of the corresponding data is also carried out by the RET unit 19 over a comparatively short data cable 25 , This data cable 25 runs between the interface 21 (there, for example, using a connector 121 ) and the other electrical interface 22 (also optionally using a connector 122 ) on the so-called bias tea 45 , This data cable 25 So leads from the RET unit 19 to the mentioned crossover 45 What about the data then about the common feed line 115 in the direction of the base station. As a result, the essential advantage is realized that no further cabling on the mast is more necessary.

In 6 is the principle (circuit diagram) for the crossover and the bias tee 45 reproduced, wherein the common feed line 115 the corresponding high frequency signal HS is transmitted to the antenna from a branch point 47 off via the in the following antenna cable 15 switched capacitor. In the outgoing branch are low-frequency signals (low-frequency signals) and / or supply voltages and direct currents through the coil 53 to the control line 25 (ie to the RET unit 19 ) forwarded. The series connection of the mentioned coil acts 53 and in 6 additionally in addition to ground or housing connected capacitor 55 additionally as a low-pass filter with which the high-frequency HF is additionally separated from the low-frequency LF decoupling.

It is only for the sake of completeness he guesses that the control commands for the RET unit 19 for example, can be modulated on a low-frequency carrier signal with a corresponding low frequency. For example, comes as a carrier frequency, a frequency of 2 MHz in question, this frequency and the corresponding NF signal formed thus has a much lower frequency than the RF frequency of the antenna signals, the z. B. at 900 MHz or higher.

There Such bias teas or crossovers (for example in shape a diplex) disconnect the high frequency cable, playing next to the Frequency range the insertion loss and the VSWR an essential role.

The evaluation device and the associated electronics can be constructed so that the control unit 19 automatically sends out an alarm message if a deviation from a predetermined orientation (elevation direction and / or azimuth direction) and / or inclination to the side can be determined, possibly even when exceeding specifiable limit or threshold values.

Furthermore, by means of the evaluation device 37 Smoothing the measured values are made in order to hide by this determination a vibration of the mast in the wind and disregarded.

For such a smoothing process, the time constant be specified differently. For example, you can choose between 0.1 seconds to 100 seconds vary. The values can however also be exceeded and exceeded.

additionally It can be provided that the measured values of the position sensors and / or Position sensors (GPS sensors or GPS systems) with temporal Resolution sampled and cached. at exceeding a short peak deviation can an alarm is automatically triggered and transmitted be (via the control line), taking the history preferably remains stored. The complete data will be only on request from a central control unit queried and then sent out. This is possible, for example, in the case seismic activity that has large amounts of data about Lines with low transmission rates while avoiding can be transmitted from high overloads.

It has already been discussed on the different variants, if, for example, only one position sensor or multiple position sensors should be used, and these in the correct position in relation to the orientation to bring the antenna or mount.

Preferably, an absolute calibration is carried out within the framework of the factory production of a RET unit with the inventively provided at least one position sensor. Several position positions can be set and an associated sensor signal can be measured. When using two position sensors 27 . 127 For example, with a variation in one deflection, both axes can already be calibrated, namely in the direction of an X axis and in the direction of a Y axis (in the horizontal direction), in order to determine the deviation in both directions away from the vertical Z axis , The measured positions can represent the extreme values (for example at +/- 30 ° inclination), or a larger number of support points or support measurements can be determined and stored at a maximum adjustment path. An interpolation to be performed between these interpolation points (in the adjustment range or as extreme values) or also an extrapolation can be described linearly or else by means of mathematical functions, for example on a curved curve, especially trigonometric functions.

After all can implement a temperature compensation via a map be, z. B. by means of at least two support points. Possible is also here - as described above - a corresponding analog Method for carrying out an interpolation or a Extrapolation. In the cases described is the device then each absolutely calibrated and it can be used as a measuring device be used for tilt determination, since its installation position at the antenna clearly and exactly by the mechanical connection is predetermined.

Should, as described above, also a third sensor 227 be used, it must also be taken into account in the described manner in a calibration, even if preferably still temperature coefficients for determining temperature-dependent components are included in the calculation.

If Tilt sensors z. B. as an integrated circuit on a circuit board are soldered, the orientation of the measuring axes of the Sensors corresponding to the housing of the intermediate piece inaccurate. This calibration also ensures that the intermediate piece the inclinations relative to the housing of the intermediate piece outputs.

When using two GPS systems 31 . 31 ' can be determined in the evaluation itself, the data obtained, it being assumed that in general the GPS antennas) are relative to the RET unit and the housing of the RET unit mounted in exactly predefined position. Regarding the different ones Possibilities of assignment, alignment and calibration is made to the statements made above also with respect to the different calibration and / or adjustment options. Should be as explained during assembly at the mechanical interface 23 for example, using a screw connection 123 the RET unit can be fixed about its longitudinal axis in several or arbitrary positions on the antenna, of course, after fixation by measurement or calibration or input exact assignment of GPS systems to the housing of the antenna and an exact vertical orientation or inclination of the antenna or Antenna mast are made in relation to the housing of the RET unit to correctly determine an exact spatial determination of a tilt of the antenna can.

The Evaluation of the tilt sensors is calibrated in the factory if required (ie manufacturer), u. a. with respect to the housing axes of the intermediate piece. The GPS antennas may be due Be already sufficiently positioned the greater distance. On site, therefore, there must always be an association between the housing of the RF adapter and the antenna housing be determined as regards the different calibration and / or adjustment methods has already been explained.

For the position sensors are all suitable types of sensors into consideration. A so-called MEMS inertial sensor / ultra-compact linear accelerometer is preferred used. It is therefore a micro-electro-mechanical System with an inertia sensor, a so-called ultra-compact linear accelerometer.

such Sensors measure acceleration in two directions. exploited is the inertia of a test mass (weight) against a spring is deflected. The test mass is electrically conductive and represents an element of a capacitive half-bridge. A shift in the test mass changes the balance the capacitive half-bridge, which evaluated electronically can be. The mechanics are micro-machined and together with the evaluation electronics integrated into an IC. The integrated circuit (IC) is with a certain accuracy for acceleration measurement specified and has a factory calibration from the manufacturer.

The integrated circuit (IC) is also able to detect very slow accelerations up to the static case. At different inclinations of an evaluated axis, the force of gravity acts differently in the direction of this axis, resulting in a corresponding displacement of the test mass result. However, since the integrated circuit (IC) for this application is not specified, it is preferably provided to additionally calibrate such an integrated circuit at the factory. At the same time there can be fluctuations in the installation position in the RET unit 19 be compensated.

Instead of the illustrated preferred tilt or position sensor can also be a deflected weight on an angle sensor, z. B. a potentiometer can be used. Equally well known also optical and / or magnetic angle sensors. After all as a sensor could also be a resistance path in an electric conductive liquid can be used after fluid level to a changing Resistance value leads.

restrictions with regard to the use of such sensors basically exist Not.

Finally, it should be noted that, where appropriate, a second RET unit may be provided, which in principle is quite similar to the first RET unit 19 can be constructed. That is, the second RET unit 19 at least one additional GPS antenna to include, with another separate evaluation 35 is not necessary in this second RET unit. Rather, the provided in the second RET unit GPS antenna via an additional cable provided with the first RET unit 19 and the evaluation device accommodated therein 35 be electrically connected, so that this evaluation can be done using at least two mutually offset GPS antennas.

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list The documents listed by the applicant have been automated generated and is solely for better information recorded by the reader. The list is not part of the German Patent or utility model application. The DPMA takes over no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• - DE 202005019697 U1 [0002]
• US 3739364 [0005]
• - EP 0433971 B1 [0006]
• - DE 69008135 T2 [0006]
• - US 6016120 A [0008]
• - EP 1356539 B1 [0016, 0017, 0017, 0043]
• WO 98/01923 A1 [0039]
• WO 2004/100315 A1 [0039]
• WO 03/065505 A1 [0039]
• WO 99/31757 A1 [0039]

Claims (23)

Device for detecting the position of an antenna ( 1 ), in particular a mobile radio antenna ( 1' ), with the following features: the position detection device comprises at least one integrated tilt sensor ( 27 . 127 . 227 ), about which an inclination of the device for position detection and about the vertical alignment (Z 'axis) and the inclination of the antenna ( 1 . 1' ) is detectable and measurable relative to a vertical (Z direction), and / or a GPS system ( 31 ) - with at least one evaluation unit for determining the inclination of the position detection device and thus the connected antenna ( 1 . 1' ) and / or for determining the position or orientation of the antenna ( 1 . 1' ) characterized by the following further features: - the position detection device is in a control unit ( 19 ; RET) for adjusting the electric beam reduction in antennas ( 1 ), in particular mobile radio antennas ( 1' ), - the control unit ( 19 ) is preferably retrofittable and / or interchangeable with an antenna ( 1 . 1' ) mountable or mounted, - the control unit ( 19 ) is on the antenna ( 1 . 1' ) at a mechanical interface ( 23 ) mountable and mounted and above with the antenna ( 1 . 1' ) permanently connectable or connected, and - the control unit ( 19 ) has a data interface ( 21 ), via which the position detection device can be controlled and / or evaluated by a base station or a remote control device. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that at least two inclination sensors ( 27 . 127 . 227 ) are provided, which in two angularly extending and preferably mutually perpendicular axes (X and Y direction) a tilt detection of the control unit ( 19 ) and thus the connected antenna ( 1 ) relative to the vertical (Z-axis). Device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that a third inclination sensor ( 227 ) for performing a tilt detection in a relative to the first and second sensor ( 27 . 127 ) is provided at an angle and preferably perpendicularly standing third axis (Z-axis). Device according to claim 3, characterized in that the control unit ( 19 ) substantially in the vertical direction at the bottom or at the back of the antenna ( 1 . 1' ) at a mechanical interface ( 23 ) is mountable. Device according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that at least two GPS systems ( 31 ) or two GPS antennas ( 31 ' ) for global positioning of the antenna ( 1 . 1' ) are provided. Device according to claim 5, characterized in that at least two offset from one another, preferably offset substantially in the horizontal direction to each other GPS systems ( 31 ) or GPS antennas ( 31 ' ) on or in the control unit ( 19 ), about which the orientation and / or the main radiation direction of the antenna ( 1 ) can be determined in the azimuth direction. Device according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that a control unit ( 19 ) surrounding housing ( 35 ) with at least one extension section ( 33 ) provided by the housing ( 35 ) are oriented away starting with horizontal component away. Device according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the evaluation device for evaluating the signals of the at least one inclination sensor ( 27 . 127 . 227 ) and / or the at least one GPS antenna ( 31 ) in the control unit ( 19 ) is housed. Device according to claim 8, characterized in that the evaluation device emits an alarm message when from the at least one inclination sensor ( 27 . 127 . 227 ) and / or the at least one GPS system ( 31 ) A signal deviation from a predetermined value, preferably after exceeding a threshold value can be determined. Device according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that a smoothing circuit is provided, over which the at least one inclination sensor ( 27 . 127 . 227 ) and / or the at least one GPS system ( 31 ) he averaged readings or signals to be smoothed. Device according to claim 10, characterized that the time constant for smoothing the measured values or signals variable and preferably between 0.1 Seconds to 100 seconds is adjustable. Device according to one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that a memory device in the control unit ( 19 ; RET) is provided, over which the at least one position sensor ( 27 . 127 . 227 ) and / or the at least one GPS system ( 21 ) data can be stored, which are preferably read independently or on query and can be transmitted via the control line. Device according to one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the control unit ( 19 ; RET) is constructed such that that of the at least one position sensor ( 27 . 127 . 227 ) and / or the at least one GPS system ( 31 ) can be scanned with high temporal resolution. Device according to one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that the control unit ( 19 ) on the antenna ( 1 . 1' ) by means of a screw connection ( 123 ) is mounted in a fixed axial assignment. Device according to one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that the control unit ( 19 ; RET), in particular the associated housing ( 35 ) only in a predeterminable relative position (twisting position) on the antenna ( 1 ) is mountable. Device according to one of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that the control unit ( 19 ; RET), in particular the associated housing ( 35 ) in several predefinable or arbitrary positions or twist positions on the antenna ( 1 ), whereby an exact inclination detection of the control unit ( 19 ; RET) and thus the antenna ( 1 . 1' ) to those in the control unit ( 19 ; RET) inclination sensors ( 27 . 127 272 ) can be assigned by measurement, input or calibration. Device according to one of claims 1 to 16, characterized in that the measured values of the at least one or preferably a plurality of position sensors ( 27 . 127 . 272 ) and / or the at least one GPS system ( 31 ) is scanned with high temporal resolution and preferably cacheable. Device according to one of claims 1 to 17, characterized in that the control unit ( 19 ) is provided with an alarm, over which an alarm message can be sent automatically when exceeding a threshold value. Device according to one of claims 1 to 18, characterized in that only one data cable ( 25 ) to the control unit ( 19 ; RET), about which the traffic for the at least one tilt sensor ( 27 . 127 . 272 ) and preferably at least one GPS antenna ( 31 ) as well as the data flow for controlling a electrical steel lowering (down-tilt) for the antenna ( 1 . 1' ) as well as the supply of the entire control unit ( 19 ). Device according to claim 19, characterized in that the data cable ( 25 ) to the base station or to a remote controller. Device according to claim 19, characterized in that the data cable ( 25 ) to a crossover (diplexer 45 ), via which the antenna signals from a common antenna line ( 15 . 115 ) to the connected antennas ( 1 . 1' ) and data signals and / or DC components via a data cable ( 25 ) to the control unit ( 19 ; RET) are transferable. Device according to one of claims 1 to 21, characterized in that the inclination sensor ( 27 . 127 . 227 ) consists of a mass inertial sensor and / or an acceleration sensor. Device according to one of claims 1 to 22, characterized in that a further control unit ( 19 ; RET) with another GPS antenna ( 31 . 31 ' ), this further GPS antenna ( 31 . 31 ' ) in the further control unit ( 19 ; RET) with the first control unit ( 19 ; RET) and above with the evaluation device integrated therein ( 35 ) connected is.