KR20240146508A - Antenna device for beamforming and wireless communication method using the same - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention provides an antenna device capable of implementing various beam patterns through a feed path including a variable switch. The antenna device comprises: an antenna array including a plurality of first antenna elements arranged in a 2X2 array and a plurality of second antenna elements arranged in a 2X2 array; a first switching circuit operating in multiple modes; a second switching circuit connected to the first switching circuit and the first antenna elements and operating in the multiple modes; a third switching circuit connected to the first switching circuit and the second antenna elements and operating in the multiple modes; and a processor connected to the first switching circuit, the second switching circuit, and the third switching circuit. The antenna device of the present invention may improve the coverage of wireless communication through an antenna array by utilizing a feed path including a variable switch.

Description

{ANTENNA DEVICE FOR BEAMFORMING AND WIRELESS COMMUNICATION METHOD USING THE SAME}

The present invention relates to an antenna device.

Recently, efforts are being made to commercialize next-generation (e.g., 5th-generation or pre-5G) communication systems to meet the increasing demand for wireless data traffic since the commercialization of 4G (4th-generation) communication systems. In addition, as part of these efforts, electronic devices including multiple antennas for transmitting and receiving various signals are being provided.

To achieve high data rates, 5G communication systems are being considered for implementation in high-frequency (mmWave) bands (e.g., 20 GHz to about 300 GHz). To mitigate path loss of radio waves and increase transmission distance of radio waves in high-frequency bands, beamforming, massive MIMO, antenna array, analog beamforming, and/or large scale antenna technologies are being discussed in 5G communication systems.

In particular, for beamforming of an antenna array, a method is utilized in which a phase shifter is placed on the path connected to each antenna to adjust the phase of the signal transmitted to each antenna, or a Butler matrix is used to transmit a signal with a specific phase difference to each antenna.

An object of the present invention is to provide an antenna device capable of implementing various beam patterns through a feed path including a variable switch.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, an antenna device includes an antenna array including a plurality of first antenna elements arranged in a 2X2 array, and a plurality of second antenna elements arranged in a 2X2 array, a first switching circuit operating in a plurality of modes, a second switching circuit connected to the first switching circuit and the first antenna elements and operating in the plurality of modes, a third switching circuit connected to the first switching circuit and the second antenna elements and operating in the plurality of modes, and a processor connected to the first switching circuit, the second switching circuit and the third switching circuit, wherein the processor controls at least some of the first switching circuit, the second switching circuit and the third switching circuit to operate in one of the plurality of modes based on one of a plurality of preset beam patterns, and transmits a signal having the beam pattern by supplying power to the antenna array through an electrical path including the first switching circuit, the second switching circuit and the third switching circuit.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, an electronic device including an antenna device includes a printed circuit board, an antenna array disposed on a first surface of the printed circuit board, a first switching circuit, a second switching circuit and a third switching circuit disposed on a second surface of the printed circuit board parallel to the first surface, and a processor controlling the first switching circuit, the second switching circuit and the third switching circuit such that the antenna array transmits a signal having one of a plurality of preset beam patterns, wherein the antenna array includes a plurality of first antenna elements arranged in a 2X2 array, and a plurality of second antenna elements arranged in a 2X2 array, and the first switching circuit is connected to the second switching circuit and the third switching circuit via a first variable switch operating in a plurality of modes, the second switching circuit is connected to the first antenna elements through center points of the first antenna elements on the first surface, and the third switching circuit is connected to the second antenna elements through center points of the second antenna elements on the first surface.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, a wireless communication method includes the steps of selecting one of a plurality of preset beam patterns, operating a first switching circuit in one of a plurality of modes based on the selected pattern, operating a second switching circuit and a third switching circuit connected to the first switching circuit in one of the plurality of modes based on the selected pattern, and transmitting a signal having the selected pattern by supplying power to an antenna array through an electrical path including the first switching circuit, the second switching circuit, and the third switching circuit, wherein the plurality of modes include a switch mode connecting an input terminal to one of a plurality of output terminals and a distribution mode connecting the input terminal to the plurality of output terminals, and wherein each of the first switching circuit, the second switching circuit, and the third switching circuit can output at least three or more signal combinations through the plurality of modes.

An antenna device according to an embodiment of the present invention can improve the coverage of wireless communication through an antenna array by using a power path including a variable switch.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an antenna device according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Fig. 2 is a circuit diagram showing the configuration of the antenna device of Fig. 1.
Fig. 3a is a circuit diagram showing the first switching circuit among the circuit configurations of Fig. 2.
FIG. 3b is a circuit diagram showing a first variable switch included in the first switching circuit of FIG. 3a.
Fig. 4a is a circuit diagram showing the second switching circuit among the circuit configurations of Fig. 2.
Fig. 4b is a circuit diagram showing a second variable switch included in the second switching circuit of Fig. 4a.
Fig. 4c is a circuit diagram showing the third switching circuit among the circuit configurations of Fig. 2.
Figure 5 illustrates a lookup table including the states of configurations of antenna devices according to beam patterns.
FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a method in which the antenna device of FIG. 1 transmits a signal having a designated beam pattern.
FIG. 7a illustrates a configuration in which an antenna device according to the present invention is arranged in an electronic device to transmit a signal having one of a plurality of beam patterns.
Figure 7b illustrates a form in which multiple beam patterns of Figure 7a are formed with respect to the first axis.
Figure 7c illustrates a form in which multiple beam patterns of Figure 7a are formed with respect to the second axis.
FIG. 8a illustrates beam patterns formed perpendicular to the second axis among the multiple beam patterns of FIG. 7a.
FIG. 8b illustrates beam patterns formed at a first angle with respect to the second axis among the plurality of beam patterns of FIG. 7a.
FIG. 8c illustrates beam patterns formed at a second angle with respect to the second axis among the plurality of beam patterns of FIG. 7a.
FIG. 8d illustrates beam patterns formed at a third angle with respect to the first axis among the plurality of beam patterns of FIG. 7a.
FIG. 9a illustrates a first side of a printed circuit board included in the antenna device of FIG. 1.
FIG. 9b illustrates a second side of a printed circuit board included in the antenna device of FIG. 1.
Figure 9c illustrates a cross-section of the printed circuit board of Figure 9a taken along line AA'.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described clearly and in detail so that a person having ordinary skill in the art can easily practice the present invention.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an antenna device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 1, an antenna device (100) according to one embodiment may include a processor (120), a switching circuit (300) connected to the processor (120), and an antenna (260).

The processor (120) may control at least one component (e.g., hardware or software component) connected to the processor (120) by executing software (or a program) and may perform various data processing or calculations. The processor (120) may include a central processing unit or a microprocessor, and may control the overall operation of the antenna device (100). Therefore, the operations performed by the antenna device (100) below may be understood as being performed under the control of the processor (120).

According to one embodiment, the processor (120) may support establishment of a communication channel in a band (e.g., about 6 GHz to about 60 GHz) to be used for wireless communication with an external network, and 5G network communication through the established communication channel. According to various embodiments, the external network may be a 5G network defined by 3GPP.

According to another embodiment, the processor (120) may support establishment of a communication channel corresponding to another designated band (e.g., about 6 GHz or less) among the bands to be used for wireless communication with an external network, and 5G network communication through the established communication channel.

According to another embodiment, the processor (120) may support establishment of a communication channel of a band to be used for wireless communication with an external network, and legacy network communication through the established communication channel. In this case, the external network may be a legacy network including a second generation (2G), 3G, 4G, or long term evolution (LTE) network.

The types and frequency bands of network communication supported by the processor (120) are not limited to those described above. However, the following description assumes that the processor (120) supports 5G network communication having a frequency band of 6 GHz or higher.

The switching circuit (300) can electrically connect the processor (120) and the antenna (260). More specifically, the switching circuit (300) can form an electrical path (or power supply path) from the processor (120) to the antenna (260).

According to one embodiment, the switching circuit (300) may include a first switching circuit (310), a second switching circuit (321), and a third switching circuit (322). More specifically, the switching circuit (300) may include a first switching circuit (310) that distributes an input signal to the second switching circuit (321) and the third switching circuit (322). In addition, the switching circuit (300) may include a second switching circuit (321) and a third switching circuit (322) that transmit a signal input from the first switching circuit (310) to the antenna (260).

According to one embodiment, the antenna (260) may be formed as an antenna array including a plurality of antenna elements that may be used for beamforming. Upon transmission, the processor (120) may control the phase of 5G Above6 RF signals to be transmitted to the outside of the antenna device (100) (e.g., a base station of a 5G network) through the antenna elements using the switching circuit (300). Additionally, upon reception, the processor (120) may convert the phase of 5G Above6 RF signals received from the outside to the same or substantially the same phase using the switching circuit (300). Through this, the antenna device (100) may transmit or receive through beamforming with an external network.

As described above, the processor (120) can control an electrical path (or power supply path) connected to the antenna (260) using the switching circuit (300). Through this, the processor (120) can cause the antenna (260) to transmit a signal having a designated beam pattern.

Through the above-described configurations, the antenna device (100) according to the present invention can reduce the cost and power required to adjust the phase and size of a signal for each of the plurality of antenna elements included in the antenna (260).

Fig. 2 is a circuit diagram showing the configuration of the antenna device of Fig. 1.

Referring to FIG. 2, an antenna device (100) according to one embodiment may include an antenna array (250) including a plurality of antenna elements (261 to 268).

According to one embodiment, the antenna array (250) may include a plurality of antenna elements (261 to 268) arranged to form a directional beam. In this case, the antenna array (250) may be understood to constitute the antenna (260) of FIG. 1.

More specifically, the antenna array (250) may include a plurality of first antenna elements (251) arranged in a 2X2 array. Additionally, the antenna array (250) may include a plurality of second antenna elements (252) arranged in a 2X2 array. Accordingly, the antenna array (250) may include a plurality of antenna elements (261 to 268) arranged in a 4X2 array.

However, the number and arrangement of antenna elements included in the antenna array (250) are not limited to the examples described above.

Additionally, the antenna device (100) may include a first switching circuit (310), a second switching circuit (321) connected to the first antenna elements (251), and a third switching circuit (322) connected to the second antenna elements (252). At this time, the first switching circuit (310), the second switching circuit (321), and the third switching circuit (322) may be electrically connected to the processor (120).

According to one embodiment, the first switching circuit (310) may be connected to the second switching circuit (321) and the third switching circuit (322).

More specifically, the first switching circuit (310) may include a plurality of output terminals (381, 382) each connected to the second switching circuit (321) and the third switching circuit (322). For example, the first switching circuit (310) may include a first output terminal (381) connected to the second switching circuit (321) and a second output terminal (382) connected to the third switching circuit (322).

Accordingly, the first switching circuit (310) can output a signal input through the input terminal (380) through at least some of the first output terminal (381) and the second output terminal (382).

Furthermore, the first switching circuit (310) may be connected to the first antenna elements (251) via the second switching circuit (321). Additionally, the first switching circuit (310) may be connected to the second antenna elements (252) via the third switching circuit (322).

The second switching circuit (321) may be placed at a position (e.g., P1) corresponding to the center point (or center) of the first antenna elements (261 to 264). In addition, the third switching circuit (322) may be placed at a position (e.g., P2) corresponding to the center point (or center) of the second antenna elements (265 to 268).

Additionally, the second switching circuit (321) may be connected to each of the first antenna elements (261 to 264) via a path of the same length. Additionally, the third switching circuit (322) may be connected to each of the second antenna elements (265 to 268) via a path of the same length.

At this time, for example, the second switching circuit (321) and the third switching circuit (322) can each be understood as SP4T (single pole 4-throw) switches, but are not limited thereto.

According to one embodiment, the processor (120) can feed power to the antenna array (250) through an electrical path including a first switching circuit (310), a second switching circuit (321), and a third switching circuit (322).

More specifically, the processor (120) can power the first antenna elements (251) via an electrical path that includes a first switching circuit (310) and a second switching circuit (321). Additionally, the processor (120) can power the second antenna elements (252) via an electrical path that includes a first switching circuit (310) and a third switching circuit (322).

Through the above-described configuration, the antenna device (100) according to the present invention can minimize the length of the power supply path from the switching circuit (321, 322) to the plurality of antenna elements (261 to 268) included in the antenna array (251, 252). Through this, the antenna device (100) according to the present invention can minimize path loss due to the power supply path.

The processor (120) can transmit a signal having a specific beam pattern through the antenna array (250). More specifically, the processor (120) can control a plurality of antenna elements (261 to 268) included in the antenna array (250) to output signals having a constant phase difference from each other.

Additionally, for this purpose, the processor (120) can control the variable switches included in each of the first switching circuit (310), the second switching circuit (321), and the third switching circuit (322) to operate in one of a plurality of modes.

More specifically, the processor (120) can operate the variable switch included in the first switching circuit (310) in one of the plurality of modes. Through this, the processor (120) can control the phases of signals output through the first switching circuit (310). For example, the processor (120) can operate the variable switch included in the first switching circuit (310) in one of the plurality of modes so that the elements arranged in the first direction (e.g., the x direction) among the plurality of antenna elements (261 to 268) transmit signals having a first phase difference.

In addition, the processor (120) can operate the variable switches included in the second switching circuit (321) and the third switching circuit (322) in one of the plurality of modes. Through this, the processor (120) can control the phase of a signal output through the second switching circuit (321) and the third switching circuit (322). For example, the processor (120) can operate the variable switches included in the second switching circuit (321) and the third switching circuit (322) in one of the plurality of modes so that the elements arranged in the second direction (e.g., the y direction) among the plurality of antenna elements (261 to 268) transmit signals having a second phase difference.

As described above, the processor (120) can control the variable switches included in each switching circuit (310, 321, 322) to operate in one of a plurality of modes. Through this, the processor (120) can transmit a signal having one of a plurality of beam patterns through a plurality of antenna elements (261 to 268) included in the antenna array (250).

Accordingly, the antenna device (100) according to the present invention can increase the number of beam patterns that can be implemented through the antenna array (250) by using switching circuits (310, 321, 322) that each operate in a plurality of modes.

In addition, the antenna device (100) according to the present invention can increase the coverage of wireless communication through the antenna array (250).

Fig. 3a is a circuit diagram showing a first switching circuit among the circuit configurations of Fig. 2. Fig. 3b is a circuit diagram showing a first variable switch included in the first switching circuit of Fig. 3a.

Referring to FIG. 3a, a first switching circuit (310) according to one embodiment may include a first variable switch (410) operating in multiple modes, a balun (421, 422) connected to an output terminal (412, 413) of the first variable switch (410), a first coupler (430), and a bidirectional amplifier (441, 442).

According to one embodiment, the first variable switch (410) can operate in multiple modes to transmit a signal input from the input terminal (380) of the first switching circuit (310) to the input terminal (411) to at least some of the first output terminal (412) and the second output terminal (413).

For example, the first variable switch (410) may operate in a switch mode to transmit a signal input to the input terminal (411) to one of the first output terminal (412) and the second output terminal (413). In addition, the first variable switch (410) may operate in a divider mode to transmit a signal input to the input terminal (411) to the first output terminal (412) and the second output terminal (413).

More specifically, referring to FIG. 3b, the first variable switch (410) may include a first path (391) connected from an input terminal (411) to a first output terminal (412). Additionally, the first variable switch (410) may include a second path (392) connected from the input terminal (411) to a second output terminal (413).

Additionally, the first variable switch (410) may include a plurality of transistors, resistors and capacitors connected to the first path (391) and the second path (392).

According to one embodiment, the processor (120) may open transistors connected to one of the first path (391) or the second path (392) of the first variable switch (410) and short transistors connected to the other path. Through this, the first variable switch (410) may operate in a switch mode that transmits an input signal to one of the first path (391) or the second path (392).

According to another embodiment, the processor (120) may short-circuit a plurality of transistors connected to the first path (391) and the second path (392), respectively. In addition, the processor (120) may activate (or turn on) the distribution transistor (351) connected to the first path (391) and the second path (392). Through this, the first variable switch (410) may operate in a distribution mode for distributing and transmitting the input signal to the first path (391) and the second path (392). At this time, for example, the first variable switch (410) may be understood as a Wilkinson power divider, but is not limited thereto.

Referring to FIG. 3a, the first switching circuit (310) may include a balun (421, 422) connected to an output terminal (412, 413) of the first variable switch (410). At this time, the first balun (421) connected to the first output terminal (412) and the second balun (422) connected to the second output terminal (413) may be formed in opposite directions.

Accordingly, when signals having the same phase are output through the first output terminal (412) and the second output terminal (413) of the first variable switch (410), signals having a phase difference of 180 degrees can be output through the first balun (421) and the second balun (422).

In addition, the first switching circuit (310) may include a first coupler (430) connected to the first variable switch (410) through a balun (421, 422) and a bidirectional amplifier (441, 442) connected to the first coupler (430). At this time, a signal output from the first coupler (430) may be transmitted to the first output terminal (381) and the second output terminal (382) through the bidirectional amplifier (441, 442).

According to one embodiment, when the first coupler (430) receives a signal from one of the first balun (421) and the second balun (422), it can output the received signal and a signal having a phase difference of 90 degrees from the received signal. For example, the first switching circuit (310) can output a signal having a phase of 0 degrees through the first output terminal (381), and a signal having a phase of -90 degrees through the second output terminal (382). As another example, the first switching circuit (310) can output a signal having a phase of -90 degrees through the first output terminal (381), and a signal having a phase of 0 degrees through the second output terminal (382).

According to another embodiment, when the first coupler (430) receives signals from the first balun (421) and the second balun (422), it can output signals having a phase difference of 180 degrees from each other. For example, the first switching circuit (310) can output a signal having a phase of 0 degrees through the first output terminal (381) and a signal having a phase of -180 degrees through the second output terminal (382).

Accordingly, the first switching circuit (310) can output a signal having a phase difference of 90 degrees from each other or a signal having a phase difference of 180 degrees from each other through the first output terminal (381) and the second output terminal (382).

As described above, the antenna device (100) according to the present invention can output a plurality of output signals having a preset phase difference from an input signal through the first variable switch (410) operating in a plurality of modes. Through this, the antenna device (100) according to the present invention can output at least three or more signal combinations from a signal of a specific phase.

Therefore, the antenna device (100) according to the present invention can increase the number of beam patterns that can be implemented through the antenna array (250). In addition, the antenna device (100) can improve the coverage of communication through beamforming formed through the antenna array (250).

Fig. 4a is a circuit diagram showing a second switching circuit in the circuit configuration of Fig. 2. Fig. 4b is a circuit diagram showing a second variable switch included in the second switching circuit of Fig. 4a. Fig. 4c is a circuit diagram showing a third switching circuit in the circuit configuration of Fig. 2.

Referring to FIG. 4A, a second switching circuit (321) according to an embodiment may be connected to the first antenna elements (261 to 264) via at least one variable switch (502, 503) and a plurality of second couplers (471 to 474), respectively. In addition, the antenna device (100) may further include a plurality of phase shifters (491 to 494) arranged between the second switching circuit (321) and the first antenna elements (261 to 264). In this case, the second switching circuit (321) may be referred to as a 2-dimensional Butler matrix.

According to one embodiment, the second switching circuit (321) may include a first sub-switch (501) connected to the first switching circuit (310), a second sub-switch (502) connected to the first sub-switch (501), and a third sub-switch (503).

The processor (120) can transmit a signal output from the first output terminal (381) of the first switching circuit (310) to the second sub-switch (502) or the third sub-switch (503) through the first sub-switch (501).

At this time, for example, the first sub-switch (501) may be referred to as a single pole double throw (SPDT) switch, but is not limited thereto. In addition, the second sub-switch (502) and the third sub-switch (503) may be referred to as reconfigurable switches that can operate in multiple modes.

When a signal output from the first output terminal (381) is transmitted to the second sub-switch (502) through the first sub-switch (501), the processor (120) can control the second sub-switch (502) to operate in one of a plurality of modes.

For example, the processor (120) may control the second sub-switch (502) to operate in a switch mode in which the second sub-switch (502) outputs the input signal to one of the plurality of output terminals. At this time, the processor (120) may output the input signal to one of the plurality of output terminals of the second sub-switch (502) based on a specified beam pattern.

For another example, the processor (120) may control the second sub-switch (502) to operate in a distribution mode in which it distributes and outputs an input signal to a plurality of output terminals. At this time, the signals output through the plurality of output terminals may have the same phase.

Referring to FIG. 4b together, the second sub-switch (502) according to one embodiment may include a first path (691) connected from an input terminal (611) to a first output terminal (612) and a second path (692) connected to a second output terminal (613).

Additionally, the second sub-switch (502) may include a plurality of transistors, resistors and capacitors connected to the first path (691) and the second path (692).

According to one embodiment, the processor (120) may open transistors connected to one of the first path (691) or the second path (692) of the second sub-switch (502) and short transistors connected to the other path. Through this, the second sub-switch (502) may operate in a switch mode that transmits an input signal through one of the first path (691) or the second path (692).

According to another embodiment, the processor (120) may short a plurality of transistors connected to the first path (691) and the second path (692), respectively. In addition, the processor (120) may activate (or turn on) the distribution transistor (651) connected to the first path (691) and the second path (692). Through this, the second sub-switch (502) may operate in a distribution mode for distributing and transmitting the input signal to the first path (691) and the second path (692). At this time, for example, the second sub-switch (502) may be understood as a Wilkinson power divider, but is not limited thereto.

Furthermore, the second sub-switch (502) according to one embodiment may further include at least one matching element (670) connected to the first path (691) and the second path (692). More specifically, the second sub-switch (502) may further include a plurality of matching elements (670) connected to the first path (691) and the second path (692) so that the plurality of output terminals (612, 613) from the 2-1 coupler (471) are recognized as having the same impedance.

Through this, the antenna device (100) according to the present invention can minimize reflection loss due to reflection of a signal occurring between a switch (e.g., second sub-switch (502)) and a coupler (e.g., second-first coupler (471)).

According to one embodiment, when a signal is transmitted to the second sub-switch (502) through the first sub-switch (501), the processor (120) can transmit the signal transmitted from the first sub-switch (501) to the second-1 coupler (471) through the second sub-switch (502).

Furthermore, the 2-1 coupler (471) can output the signal transmitted from the 2nd sub-switch (502) as a plurality of signals having a specified phase difference. For example, when the 2nd sub-switch (502) operates in a switch mode, the 2-1 coupler (471) can output a signal received from the 2nd sub-switch (502) and a signal having a specific phase difference (e.g., 90 degrees) from the received signal.

For another example, when the second sub-switch (502) operates in a distribution mode, the second-1 coupler (471) can output signals received from the second sub-switch (502). At this time, the signals output from the second-1 coupler (471) can have the same phase.

Furthermore, the 2-2 coupler (472) and the 2-4 coupler (474) can output a signal received from the 2-1 coupler (471) and a signal having a specific phase difference (e.g., 90 degrees) from the received signal.

For example, the 2-2 coupler (472) can transmit a signal received from the 2-1 coupler (471) to the 1-1 antenna element (261). In addition, the 2-2 coupler (472) can transmit a signal having a phase difference of 90 degrees from the signal received from the 2-1 coupler (471) to the 1-2 antenna element (262).

In addition, the 2-4 coupler (474) can transmit a signal received from the 2-1 coupler (471) to the 1-3 antenna element (263). In addition, the 2-4 coupler (474) can transmit a signal having a phase difference of 90 degrees from the signal received from the 2-1 coupler (471) to the 1-4 antenna element (264).

According to another embodiment, when a signal is transmitted to the third sub-switch (503) through the first sub-switch (501), the processor (120) may transmit the signal transmitted from the first sub-switch (501) through the third sub-switch (503) to the second-third coupler (473).

The processor (120) can control the third sub-switch (503) to operate in a switch mode that outputs an input signal to one of a plurality of output terminals or a distribution mode that distributes the signal to a plurality of output terminals.

However, the configuration of the third sub-switch (503) can be understood as being substantially the same as the configuration of the second sub-switch (502) described above. In addition, the operation of the processor (120) controlling the third sub-switch (503) can be understood as being the same as the operation of the processor (120) controlling the second sub-switch (502) described above.

Therefore, redundant descriptions regarding the configuration of the third sub-switch (503) and the operation of the processor (120) to control the third sub-switch (503) are omitted.

When the third sub-switch (503) operates in a switch mode, the 2-3 coupler (473) can output a signal received from the third sub-switch (503) and a signal having a specific phase difference (e.g., 90 degrees) from the received signal. In addition, when the third sub-switch (503) operates in a distribution mode, the 2-3 coupler (473) can receive signals having the same phase from the third sub-switch (503) and output them so as to have the same phase.

Furthermore, the signal transmitted from the first sub-switch (501) can be transmitted to the first antenna elements (261 to 264) through the second-3 coupler (473), the second-2 coupler (472), and the second-4 coupler (474).

According to one embodiment, the processor (120) may operate at least some of the plurality of phase shifters (491 to 494) such that signals transmitted to the first antenna elements (261 to 264) have a phase difference according to a specific beam pattern.

The processor (120) can control at least some of the first phase shifter (CH1) (491) and the second phase shifter (CH2) (492) so that the signals transmitted to the first-first antenna element (261) and the first-second antenna element (262) have a phase difference according to a specific beam pattern.

For example, the processor (120) may activate the first phase shifter (491) when the signals output from the 2-2 coupler (472) have a phase difference of 90 degrees. Through this, the processor (120) may change the phase of the signal transmitted to the 1-1 antenna element (261) by 45 degrees so that the signals transmitted to the 1-1 antenna element (261) and the 1-2 antenna element (262) have a phase difference of 45 degrees.

Additionally, the processor (120) may control at least some of the third phase converter (CH3) (493) and the fourth phase converter (CH4) (494) so that the signals transmitted to the first-third antenna elements (263) and the first-fourth antenna elements (264) have a phase difference according to a specific beam pattern.

For example, the processor (120) may activate the third phase shifter (493) when the signals output from the 2-4 coupler (474) have a phase difference of 90 degrees. Through this, the processor (120) may change the phase of the signal transmitted to the 1-3 antenna element (263) by 45 degrees so that the signals transmitted to the 1-3 antenna element (263) and the 1-4 antenna element (264) have a phase difference of 45 degrees.

Referring to FIG. 4c, a third switching circuit (322) according to an embodiment may include a fourth sub-switch (504) connected to the first switching circuit (310), a fifth sub-switch (505) connected to the fourth sub-switch (504), and a sixth sub-switch (506). In this case, the third switching circuit (322) may be named a 2-dimensional Butler matrix.

The processor (120) can transmit a signal received from the second output terminal (382) of the first switching circuit (310) through the fourth sub-switch (504) to the fifth sub-switch (505) or the sixth sub-switch (506).

At this time, for example, the fourth sub-switch (504) may be referred to as a single pole double throw (SPDT) switch, but is not limited thereto.

The processor (120) can control the fifth sub-switch (505) or the sixth sub-switch (506) that receives a signal from the fourth sub-switch (504) to operate in one of a plurality of modes.

At this time, the fifth sub-switch (505) and the sixth sub-switch (506) may be referred to as variable switches that can operate in multiple modes, respectively. More specifically, the fifth sub-switch (505) and the sixth sub-switch (506) may be referred to as variable switches that operate in a switch mode that outputs an input signal to one of multiple output terminals or a distribution mode that distributes and outputs the signal to multiple output terminals, respectively.

The configuration of the fifth sub-switch (505) and the sixth sub-switch (506) can be understood as being substantially the same as the configuration of the second sub-switch (502) described above in FIG. 4B. In addition, the operation of the processor (120) controlling the fifth sub-switch (505) or the sixth sub-switch (506) can be understood as being the same as the operation of the processor (120) controlling the second sub-switch (502) as described above.

Therefore, redundant descriptions regarding the configuration of the fifth sub-switch (505) and the sixth sub-switch (506) and the operation of the processor (120) controlling the fifth sub-switch (505) or the sixth sub-switch (506) are omitted.

Furthermore, the processor (120) can transmit signals having a specified phase difference to the second antenna elements (265 to 268) through a plurality of third couplers (475 to 478) and a plurality of phase shifters (495 to 498).

As described above, the processor (120) can control the phase difference between signals transmitted to the plurality of antenna elements (261 to 268) by using the variable switches (503, 504, 505, 506) and the plurality of couplers (471 to 478) included in the second switching circuit (321) and the third switching circuit (322). In addition, the processor (120) can control the phase difference between signals transmitted to the plurality of antenna elements (261 to 268) by using the plurality of phase shifters (491 to 498) connected to the plurality of antenna elements (261 to 268).

Through this, the antenna device (100) according to the present invention can increase the number of beam patterns that can be implemented through the antenna array (250). In addition, the antenna device (100) can improve the coverage of communication through beamforming formed through the antenna array (250).

Figure 5 illustrates a lookup table including the states of configurations of antenna devices according to beam patterns.

Referring to FIG. 5, an antenna device (100) according to one embodiment may further include a memory that stores a lookup table (500) including a plurality of beam patterns.

A lookup table (500) according to one embodiment may include states of a first switching circuit (310), a second switching circuit (321), a third switching circuit (322), and a plurality of phase converters (471 to 478) for each of a plurality of beam patterns.

In addition, the beam pattern included in the lookup table (500) may include a plurality of components representing the phase difference, the direction and the inclination of the beam, of signals transmitted to the plurality of antenna elements for each axis. For example, when the beam pattern of the first beam has a component of “1R+2D”, the first beam may be formed in a positive direction through signals having a phase difference of 45 degrees with respect to the x-axis. In addition, the first beam described above may be formed in a negative direction through signals having a phase difference of 90 degrees with respect to the y-axis.

The processor (120) can control at least some of the first switching circuit (310), the second switching circuit (321), the third switching circuit (322), and the plurality of phase converters (471 to 478) based on one of the plurality of beam patterns previously stored in the lookup table (500).

More specifically, for example, when the beam pattern has a component of “1R,” the antenna device (100) can transmit signals having a phase difference of 45 degrees in the positive direction with respect to the x-axis through the plurality of antenna elements (261 to 268). Additionally, when the beam pattern has a component of “3L,” the antenna device (100) can transmit signals having a phase difference of 135 degrees in the negative direction with respect to the x-axis through the plurality of antenna elements (261 to 268).

To this end, the processor (120) can control the first switching circuit (310) and at least some of the plurality of phase converters (471 to 478). More specifically, the processor (120) can control the input terminal (411) of the first variable switch (410) to operate in a switch mode in which it is connected to the first output terminal (412). In addition, the processor (120) can activate the first phase converter (CH1) (491) and the third phase converter (CH3) (493).

In addition, when the beam pattern has a component of “2U”, the antenna device (100) can transmit signals having a phase difference of 90 degrees in the positive direction with respect to the y-axis through the plurality of antenna elements (261 to 268). To this end, the processor (120) can control the second switching circuit (321) and the third switching circuit (322). More specifically, the processor (120) can control the second switching circuit (321) and the third switching circuit (322) to operate in a switch mode. For example, the processor (120) can control the second switching circuit (321) to operate in a switch mode in which the input terminal (611) of the second sub-switch (502) is connected to the first output terminal (612).

For another example, when the beam pattern has a component of “1L,” the antenna device (100) can transmit signals having a phase difference of 45 degrees in the negative direction with respect to the x-axis through the plurality of antenna elements (261 to 268). Additionally, when the beam pattern has a component of “3R,” the antenna device (100) can transmit signals having a phase difference of 135 degrees in the positive direction with respect to the x-axis through the plurality of antenna elements (261 to 268).

To this end, the processor (120) can control the first switching circuit (310) and at least some of the plurality of phase converters (471 to 478). More specifically, the processor (120) can control the input terminal (411) of the first variable switch (410) to operate in a switch mode in which it is connected to the second output terminal (413). In addition, the processor (120) can activate the second phase converter (CH2) (492) and the fourth phase converter (CH4) (494).

In addition, when the beam pattern has a “2D” component, the antenna device (100) can transmit signals having a phase difference of 90 degrees in the negative direction with respect to the y-axis through a plurality of antenna elements (261 to 268). To this end, the processor (120) can control the second switching circuit (321) and the third switching circuit (322) to operate in a switch mode. For example, the processor (120) can control the second switching circuit (321) to operate in a switch mode in which the input terminal (611) of the second sub-switch (502) is connected to the second output terminal (613).

As another example, when the beam pattern has a component of “2R” or “2L,” the antenna device (100) may transmit signals having a phase difference of 45 degrees with respect to the x-axis through a plurality of antenna elements (261 to 268). To this end, the processor (120) may control the first switching circuit (310) to operate in a distribution mode.

In addition, when the beam pattern has a component of “M”, the antenna device (100) can transmit signals having the same phase with respect to the y-axis through a plurality of antenna elements (261 to 268). Through this, the antenna device (100) can form a beam in a direction perpendicular to the y-axis. To this end, the processor (120) can control the second switching circuit (321) and the third switching circuit (322) to operate in a distribution mode.

That is, the processor (120) can control at least some of the first variable switch (410) and the plurality of phase shifters (471 to 478) included in the first switching circuit (310) so that the elements arranged in the first direction (e.g., +x direction) among the plurality of antenna elements (261 to 268) transmit signals having a first phase difference (e.g., 45 degrees, 90 degrees, or 135 degrees).

Additionally, the processor (120) may control variable switches (503, 504, 505, 506) included in the second switching circuit (321) and the third switching circuit (322) so that elements among the plurality of antenna elements (261 to 268) arranged in a second direction (e.g., +y direction) transmit signals having a second phase difference (e.g., 0 degrees, 45 degrees, or 90 degrees).

However, the state of the configurations of the antenna device (100) according to the plurality of beam patterns stored through the lookup table (500) is not limited to the above-described example, and may be referenced as various states for forming a beam according to the components of the beam pattern.

As described above, the antenna device (100) according to the present invention can form a beam according to one of a plurality of preset beam patterns through a plurality of switching circuits (310, 321, 322) and a plurality of phase converters (471 to 478) that can operate in a plurality of modes.

Through this configuration, the antenna device (100) according to the present invention can increase the number of beam patterns that can be implemented through the plurality of antenna elements (261 to 268). Furthermore, the antenna device (100) can increase the coverage of wireless communication through the beam formed through the plurality of antenna elements (261 to 268).

FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a method in which the antenna device of FIG. 1 transmits a signal having a designated beam pattern.

Referring to FIG. 6, a processor (120) according to one embodiment may transmit a signal having one pattern among a plurality of preset beam patterns.

More specifically, the processor (120) can power a plurality of antenna elements (261 to 268) (or, antenna array (250)) through the first switching circuit (310), the second switching circuit (321), and the third switching circuit (322). Through this, the processor (120) can transmit a signal having a specific beam pattern through the plurality of antenna elements (261 to 268).

First, at step S10, the processor (120) may select one pattern from among a plurality of preset beam patterns. For example, referring to FIG. 5, the processor (120) may select one beam pattern from among a plurality of beam patterns stored in a lookup table (500).

The processor (120) can select one of a plurality of beam patterns depending on the status of the antenna device (100) or the communication status with an external network.

For example, the processor (120) may select one of a plurality of beam patterns based on a signal (e.g., an RRC message (radio resource control message)) received from a base station through a plurality of antenna elements (261 to 268).

For another example, the processor (120) may select one beam pattern among a plurality of beam patterns based on control according to preset software (or program). At this time, the software described above may include a beam pattern set according to the state of the antenna device (100).

As another example, the processor (120) may select one of a plurality of beam patterns based on input received from an electrically connected component (e.g., a coprocessor or an application processor).

However, the operation of the processor (120) selecting one beam pattern among a plurality of beam patterns is not limited to the example described above.

At step S20, the processor (120) can control the first switching circuit (310) to operate in one of a plurality of modes based on the selected beam pattern. More specifically, the processor (120) can control the first variable switch (410) included in the first switching circuit (310) to operate in one of the switch mode and the distribution mode based on the selected beam pattern.

For example, if the selected beam pattern has a “1R” or “3L” component, the processor (120) can control the first variable switch (410) to operate in a switch mode. At this time, the processor (120) can control the input terminal (411) of the first variable switch (410) to be connected to the first output terminal (412).

For another example, if the selected beam pattern has a “2L” component, the processor (120) may control the first variable switch (410) to operate in a distribution mode.

At step S30, the processor (120) can control the second switching circuit (321) and the third switching circuit (322) to operate in one of a plurality of modes based on the selected beam pattern. More specifically, the processor (120) can control at least some of the variable switches (502, 503, 505, 506) included in the second switching circuit (321) and the third switching circuit (322) to operate in one of the switch mode and the distribution mode based on the selected beam pattern.

For example, if the selected beam pattern has a “2U” or “2D” component, the processor (120) can control the variable switches included in the second switching circuit (321) and the third switching circuit (322) to operate in a switch mode.

For another example, if the selected beam pattern has an “M”, “1U” or “1D” component, the processor (120) may control the variable switches included in the second switching circuit (321) and the third switching circuit (322) to operate in a distribution mode.

Furthermore, the processor (120) can operate at least some of the plurality of phase shifters arranged between the second switching circuit (321) and the third switching circuit (322) and the antenna array (250). Through this, the processor (120) can control the phase difference between signals transmitted to the plurality of antenna elements (261 to 268).

At step S40, the processor (120) can power the antenna array (250) through an electrical path including a first switching circuit (310), a second switching circuit (321), and a third switching circuit (322). Through this, the antenna device (100) can transmit a signal having a selected beam pattern.

At this time, the electrical path for each of the plurality of antenna elements (261 to 268) included in the antenna array (250) may have the same electrical length.

As described above, the processor (120) can control the variable switch included in the first switching circuit (310) so that the elements arranged in the first direction among the plurality of antenna elements (261 to 268) transmit signals having a first phase difference.

Additionally, the processor (120) can control variable switches included in the second switching circuit (321) and the third switching circuit (322) so that elements arranged in a second direction intersecting the first direction among the plurality of antenna elements (261 to 268) transmit signals having a second phase difference.

Through the above-described configuration, the antenna device (100) according to the present invention can transmit a signal having a beam pattern selected from among a plurality of beam patterns by using a switching circuit that operates in a plurality of modes.

Therefore, the antenna device (100) according to the present invention can increase the number of beam patterns that can be implemented through the antenna array (250). In addition, the antenna device (100) can improve the coverage of wireless communication through beamforming formed through the antenna array (250).

FIG. 7a illustrates a configuration in which an antenna device according to the present invention is arranged in an electronic device to transmit a signal having one of a plurality of beam patterns. FIG. 7b illustrates a configuration in which the plurality of beam patterns of FIG. 7a are formed with respect to a first axis. FIG. 7c illustrates a configuration in which the plurality of beam patterns of FIG. 7a are formed with respect to a second axis.

Referring to FIG. 7a, an electronic device (10) according to one embodiment may include a first antenna device (101) arranged toward the rear side (11) of the electronic device (10) and a second antenna device (102) arranged toward the side side (12) of the electronic device (10).

More specifically, the electronic device (10) may include a first antenna device (101) having a plurality of antenna elements (701) arranged inside the electronic device (10) so as to face the rear (11) of the electronic device (10). Additionally, the electronic device (10) may include a second antenna device (102) having a plurality of antenna elements (702) arranged inside the electronic device (10) so as to face the side (12) of the electronic device (10).

At this time, it can be understood that the first antenna device (101) and the second antenna device (102) have substantially the same configuration.

The first antenna device (101) can form at least one beam in a direction (e.g., +z direction) from the inside of the electronic device (10) toward the rear surface (11). More specifically, the first antenna device (101) arranged toward the rear surface (11) of the electronic device (10) can form at least one of a plurality of beams (700) having different beam patterns.

Additionally, the second antenna device (102) can form at least one beam in a direction (e.g., in the -y direction) toward the side (12) from the inside of the electronic device (10).

Referring to FIG. 7b, a first antenna device (101) according to one embodiment can form a plurality of beams having a certain angle with respect to a first axis (e.g., x-axis).

For example, the first antenna device (101) can transmit signals having a phase difference of 45 degrees in the positive direction with respect to the x-axis through a plurality of antenna elements (701). Through this, the first antenna device (101) can form a beam having a component of “1R” with respect to the x-axis.

As another example, the first antenna device (101) can transmit signals having a phase difference of 90 degrees in the negative direction with respect to the x-axis via a plurality of antenna elements (701). Through this, the first antenna device (101) can form a beam having a component of “2L” with respect to the x-axis.

As another example, the first antenna device (101) can transmit signals having a phase difference of 135 degrees in the negative direction with respect to the x-axis via a plurality of antenna elements (701). Through this, the first antenna device (101) can form a beam having a component of “3L” with respect to the x-axis.

Referring to FIG. 7c, the first antenna device (101) according to one embodiment can form a plurality of beams having a certain angle with respect to the second axis (e.g., the y axis).

For example, the first antenna device (101) can transmit signals having a phase difference of 45 degrees in the positive direction with respect to the y-axis via a plurality of antenna elements (702). Through this, the first antenna device (101) can form a beam having a component of “1U” with respect to the y-axis.

As another example, the first antenna device (101) can transmit signals having a phase difference of 90 degrees in the negative direction with respect to the y-axis via a plurality of antenna elements (702). Through this, the first antenna device (101) can form a beam having a “2D” component with respect to the y-axis.

As another example, the first antenna device (101) can transmit signals having the same phase with respect to the y-axis via a plurality of antenna elements (702). Through this, the first antenna device (101) can form a beam having a component of “M” with respect to the y-axis.

Through the above-described configuration, the antenna device (101, 102) according to the present invention can form at least one beam among a plurality of beams having at least 22 different beam patterns. Through this, the antenna device (101, 102) according to the present invention can increase the coverage of wireless communication through beamforming.

FIG. 8A illustrates beam patterns formed perpendicularly to a second axis among the plurality of beam patterns of FIG. 7A. FIG. 8B illustrates beam patterns formed at a first angle with respect to the second axis among the plurality of beam patterns of FIG. 7A. FIG. 8C illustrates beam patterns formed at a second angle with respect to the second axis among the plurality of beam patterns of FIG. 7A. FIG. 8D illustrates beam patterns formed at a third angle with respect to the first axis among the plurality of beam patterns of FIG. 7A.

Referring to FIG. 8A, an antenna device (101, 102) according to an embodiment can form a plurality of beams that are perpendicular to a second axis (e.g., y-axis). For example, the antenna device (101, 102) can transmit signals having a specified phase difference (e.g., 45 degrees, 90 degrees, 135 degrees) with respect to the x-axis through the plurality of antenna elements (701, 702). Through this, the antenna device (101, 102) can form a plurality of beams that are perpendicular to the y-axis and have a specified angle with respect to the x-axis.

Referring to FIG. 8B, an antenna device (101, 102) according to an embodiment can form a plurality of beams having a first angle with respect to a second axis (e.g., y-axis). For example, the antenna device (101, 102) can transmit signals having a phase difference of 45 degrees with respect to the y-axis and a specified phase difference (e.g., 90 degrees) with respect to the x-axis through the plurality of antenna elements (701, 702). Through this, the antenna device (101, 102) can form a plurality of beams having a “1U” component with respect to the y-axis and a specified angle with respect to the x-axis.

Referring to FIG. 8C, the antenna device (101, 102) according to one embodiment can form a plurality of beams having a second angle with respect to a second axis (e.g., y-axis). For example, the antenna device (101, 102) can transmit signals having a phase difference of 90 degrees with respect to the y-axis and a designated phase difference (e.g., 45 degrees, 90 degrees, 135 degrees) with respect to the x-axis through the plurality of antenna elements (701, 702). Through this, the antenna device (101, 102) can form a plurality of beams having a “2U” component with respect to the y-axis and a designated angle with respect to the x-axis.

Referring to FIG. 8d, the antenna device (101, 102) according to one embodiment can form a plurality of beams having a third angle with respect to a first axis (e.g., x-axis). For example, the antenna device (101, 102) can transmit signals having a phase difference of 90 degrees with respect to the x-axis and a designated phase difference (e.g., 0 degrees, 45 degrees, 90 degrees) with respect to the y-axis through the plurality of antenna elements (701, 702). Through this, the antenna device (101, 102) can form a plurality of beams having a “2R” component with respect to the x-axis and a designated angle with respect to the y-axis.

As described above, the antenna device (101, 102) according to the present invention can form at least some of a plurality of beams having different patterns by using a plurality of switching circuits connected to a plurality of antenna elements. For example, the antenna device (101, 102) can form at least 22 beams having different patterns by using a plurality of switching circuits connected to a plurality of antenna elements (701, 702).

Through this, the antenna device (101, 102) according to the present invention can increase the number of beam patterns that can be implemented through a plurality of antenna elements. Furthermore, the antenna device (100) can increase the coverage of wireless communication through a beam formed through a plurality of antenna elements.

FIG. 9a illustrates a first side of a printed circuit board included in the antenna device of FIG. 1. FIG. 9b illustrates a second side of a printed circuit board included in the antenna device of FIG. 1. FIG. 9c illustrates a cross-section of the printed circuit board of FIG. 9a taken along line A-A'.

Referring to FIGS. 9A to 9C together, in one embodiment, the antenna device (100) may include a printed circuit board (20), first antenna elements (251), second antenna elements (252), a first switching circuit (310), a second switching circuit (321), and a third switching circuit (322). However, components of the antenna device (100) that are identical or substantially identical to the aforementioned components have been given the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions are omitted.

A printed circuit board (20) may include a plurality of conductive layers and a plurality of non-conductive layers alternately laminated with the conductive layers. The printed circuit board (20) may provide electrical connections between various electronic components arranged on the printed circuit board (20) and/or the outside by using wires and conductive vias (371, 372) formed on the conductive layers.

Referring to FIG. 9a, a plurality of antenna elements (261 to 268) included in an antenna array (251, 252) may be formed on a first surface (21) of a printed circuit board (20).

According to another embodiment, the antenna array (250) may be formed inside the printed circuit board (20). In addition, the antenna array (250) may be understood as a plurality of antenna arrays (e.g., a dipole antenna array, and/or a patch antenna array) of the same or different shapes or types. However, the antenna array (250) according to the present invention is described as a patch antenna array.

At this time, a plurality of antenna elements (261 to 268) included in the antenna array (251, 252) may be arranged in a 4X2 array. More specifically, the antenna array (251, 252) may include a plurality of first antenna elements (261 to 264) arranged in a 2X2 array and a plurality of second antenna elements (265 to 268) arranged in a 2X2 array.

Referring to FIG. 9b, the first switching circuit (310), the second switching circuit (321), and the third switching circuit (322) may be arranged on a second surface (22) parallel to the first surface (21) of the printed circuit board (20).

At this time, the first switching circuit (310) may be connected to the second switching circuit (321) and the third switching circuit (322). For example, the first switching circuit (310) may be connected to the second switching circuit (321) and the third switching circuit (322) with the same electrical length, but is not limited thereto.

Additionally, the first switching circuit (310), the second switching circuit (321), and the third switching circuit (322) can be connected to the processor (120) through the printed circuit board (20).

Referring to FIGS. 9A and 9B together, the second switching circuit (321) may be positioned at a position (e.g., P1) corresponding to the center point (or, center) (P1') of the first antenna elements (261 to 264). More specifically, the second switching circuit (321) may be positioned at a position (e.g., P1) corresponding to the center point (P1') of the first antenna elements (261 to 264) on the second surface (22) of the printed circuit board (20).

Additionally, the third switching circuit (322) may be positioned at a position (e.g., P2) corresponding to the center point (or, center) (P2') of the second antenna elements (265 to 268). More specifically, the third switching circuit (322) may be positioned at a position (e.g., P2) corresponding to the center point (P2') of the second antenna elements (265 to 268) on the second surface (22) of the printed circuit board (20).

Referring to FIGS. 9A and 9C together, the second switching circuit (321) may be connected to the first antenna elements (251) via the first conductive via (371). Additionally, the third switching circuit (322) may be connected to the second antenna elements (252) via the second conductive via (372).

At this time, the first conductive via (371) and the second conductive via (372) can be formed through the printed circuit board (20).

According to one embodiment, the second switching circuit (321) may be connected to the center point (P1') of the first antenna elements (251). Additionally, the third switching circuit (322) may be connected to the center point (P2') of the second antenna elements (252).

More specifically, the second switching circuit (321) may be connected to the first antenna elements (251) via a first conductive via (371) connected to the center points (P1') of the first antenna elements (261 to 264). Additionally, the third switching circuit (322) may be connected to the second antenna elements (252) via a second conductive via (372) connected to the center points (P2') of the second antenna elements (265 to 268).

Through the above-described configuration, the antenna device (100) according to the present invention can secure a power supply path of the same length from a power source (e.g., a power management integrated circuit (PMIC)) to a plurality of antenna elements (261 to 268). Through this, the antenna device (100) according to the present invention can minimize the process requirement for adjusting the power supply path.

In addition, through the above-described configuration, the antenna device (100) according to the present invention can minimize the length of the power supply path from the switching circuit (321, 322) to the plurality of antenna elements (261 to 268) included in the antenna array (251, 252). Through this, the antenna device (100) according to the present invention can minimize path loss due to the power supply path.

As described above, the antenna device (100) according to an embodiment of the present invention can increase the number of beam patterns that can be implemented with a plurality of antenna elements by using a variable switch that operates in a plurality of modes. Through this, the antenna device (100) can increase the coverage of wireless communication through beamforming using a plurality of antenna elements.

In addition, the antenna device (100) according to the present invention can minimize the power supply path for the plurality of antenna elements by using a switching circuit arranged in the middle of the plurality of antenna elements. Through this, the antenna device (100) according to the present invention can minimize the path loss due to the power supply path.

In addition, the antenna device (100) according to the present invention can secure the same power supply path for the plurality of antenna elements by using a switching circuit arranged in the middle of the plurality of antenna elements. Through this, the antenna device (100) according to the present invention can minimize the process cost for forming the power supply path.

In addition to the embodiments described above, embodiments that are simply designed or can be easily modified will also be included in the present invention. In addition, the present invention will also include techniques that can be easily modified and implemented using the embodiments. Therefore, the scope of the present invention should not be limited to the embodiments described above, but should be determined by the claims described below as well as the equivalents of the claims of this invention.

10: Electronic devices
20: Printed Circuit Board
100: Antenna device
101: First antenna device
102: Second antenna device
120: Processor
250: Antenna Array
251: First antenna elements
252: Second antenna elements
261 to 268: Multiple antenna elements
300: Switching circuit
310: First switching circuit
321: Second switching circuit
322: Third switching circuit
371: 1st Challenge Via
372: 2nd Challenge Via
411: 1st variable switch
421, 422: Balun
430: 1st coupler
471 to 478: Multiple couplers
491 to 498: Multiple phase converters
500: Lookup Table
501: 1st sub switch
502; 2nd sub switch
503; 3rd sub switch
504: 4th sub switch
505; 5th sub switch
506; 6th sub switch
670: Matching element

Claims (10)

In the antenna device,
An antenna array comprising a plurality of first antenna elements arranged in a 2X2 array, and a plurality of second antenna elements arranged in a 2X2 array;
A first switching circuit operating in multiple modes;
A second switching circuit connected to the first switching circuit and the first antenna elements, and operating in the plurality of modes;
a third switching circuit connected to the first switching circuit and the second antenna elements and operating in the plurality of modes; and
A processor connected to the first switching circuit, the second switching circuit, and the third switching circuit,
The above processor:
Based on one beam pattern among a plurality of preset beam patterns, at least some of the first switching circuit, the second switching circuit and the third switching circuit are controlled to operate in one mode among the plurality of modes,
An antenna device that transmits a signal having the beam pattern by supplying power to the antenna array through an electrical path including the first switching circuit, the second switching circuit, and the third switching circuit. In the first paragraph,
Further comprising a plurality of phase shifters arranged between the second switching circuit and the first antenna elements, and between the third switching circuit and the second antenna elements,
An antenna device, wherein the processor controls at least some of the plurality of phase shifters based on the beam pattern among the plurality of beam patterns. In the second paragraph,
An antenna device wherein the plurality of modes include a switch mode for connecting an input terminal to one of a plurality of output terminals and a distribution mode for connecting the input terminal to the plurality of output terminals. In the third paragraph,
The first switching circuit comprises a first reconfigurable switch that operates in the plurality of modes,
An antenna device wherein the processor controls the first variable switch to operate in one of the plurality of modes so that the antenna elements arranged in the first direction among the first antenna elements and the second antenna elements transmit signals having a first phase difference, and activates at least some of the plurality of phase shifters. In paragraph 4,
The second switching circuit comprises a second variable switch that operates in the plurality of modes,
An antenna device wherein the processor controls the second variable switch to operate in one of the plurality of modes so that antenna elements arranged in a second direction intersecting the first direction among the first antenna elements transmit signals having a second phase difference, and activates at least some of the plurality of phase shifters. In paragraph 5,
The third switching circuit comprises a third variable switch that operates in the plurality of modes,
An antenna device wherein the processor operates the third variable switch in one of the plurality of modes so that the antenna elements arranged in the second direction among the second antenna elements transmit a signal having the second phase difference. In the first paragraph,
The second switching circuit is positioned at a position corresponding to the center of the first antenna elements,
An antenna device, wherein the third switching circuit is positioned corresponding to the center of the second antenna elements. In paragraph 5,
The second variable switch further includes a first sub-switch connected to the first switching circuit, a second sub-switch and a third sub-switch operating in the plurality of modes,
The above processor:
Through the first sub-switch, the first switching circuit is connected to one of the second sub-switch and the third sub-switch,
An antenna device that controls the second sub-switch or the third sub-switch to operate in one of the plurality of modes so that a signal output from the first switching circuit is transmitted to the first antenna elements with the first phase difference and the second phase difference. In an electronic device including an antenna device,
printed circuit board;
An antenna array disposed on a first surface of the printed circuit board;
A first switching circuit, a second switching circuit and a third switching circuit, which are arranged on a second surface of the printed circuit board parallel to the first surface; and
A processor controlling the first switching circuit, the second switching circuit and the third switching circuit to cause the antenna array to transmit a signal having one of a plurality of preset beam patterns;
The antenna array comprises a plurality of first antenna elements arranged in a 2X2 array, and a plurality of second antenna elements arranged in a 2X2 array,
The first switching circuit is connected to the second switching circuit and the third switching circuit through a first variable switch that operates in multiple modes,
The second switching circuit is connected to the first antenna elements through the center point of the first antenna elements on the first side,
An electronic device wherein the third switching circuit is connected to the second antenna elements through a center point of the second antenna elements on the first side. In a wireless communication method,
A step of selecting one pattern from among a plurality of preset beam patterns;
A step of operating the first switching circuit in one of a plurality of modes based on the selected pattern;
A step of operating a second switching circuit and a third switching circuit connected to the first switching circuit in one of the plurality of modes based on the selected pattern; and
A step of transmitting a signal having the selected pattern by supplying power to the antenna array through an electrical path including the first switching circuit, the second switching circuit and the third switching circuit,
The above plurality of modes include a switch mode for connecting an input terminal to one of a plurality of output terminals and a distribution mode for connecting the input terminal to the plurality of output terminals.
A wireless communication method, wherein each of the first switching circuit, the second switching circuit, and the third switching circuit outputs at least three signal combinations through the plurality of modes.

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