Patent Description:
In recent years, wireless communication has been progressing, and the use of an antenna based on a plurality of standards such as a wireless local area network (LAN) or Bluetooth (registered trademark) in one electronic device has started. A multiband antenna capable of transmitting and receiving signals in a plurality of frequency bands with one antenna has been suggested as an antenna for performing wireless communication in a plurality of frequency bands as described above (for example, Patent Literature (PTL) <NUM>).

A dual band antenna described in PTL <NUM> includes a straight part and a helical coil-like part. This helical coil-like part functions as a chalk coil for signals in high frequency bands and functions as part of a downsized antenna for signals in low frequency bands. Consequently, PTL <NUM> attempts to realize a dual band antenna which is of a compact size and capable of varying an effective electric length in accordance with a frequency.

<CIT> describes a dual band antenna module including a first radiator, a second radiator, a first filter and a second filter is provided. The first radiator resonates to generate a first frequency band and includes a first feeding end and a first ground end. The second radiator resonates to generate a second frequency band and includes a second feeding end and a second ground end. The first filter is extended from the first feeding end in a direction away from the first radiator and used for filtering the second frequency band. The second filter is extended from the second feeding end in a direction away from the second radiator and used for filtering the first frequency band.

<NPL>, describes a decoupling technique using a patterns ground structure for small MIMO antennas.

The present disclosure provides an antenna device which has two kinds of antennas resonating in mutually different frequency bands and is capable of adjusting the directivity in each of the antennas.

An antenna device according to the present disclosure includes: a first ground member which is connected to a ground; one or more first antennas which are connected to the first ground member and resonate in a first frequency band; a second ground member which is arranged at a position adjacent to the first ground member with a gap in between and connected to a ground different from the ground to which the first ground member is connected; one or more second antennas which are connected to the second ground member and resonate in a second frequency band different from the first frequency band; one or more first filters which connect the first ground member and the second ground member and attenuate a signal in the first frequency band; and one or more second filters which connect the first ground member and the second ground member at a position different from a position where the one or more first filters connect the first ground member and the second ground member, and which attenuate the signal in the first frequency band less than the one or more first filters.

The present disclosure can provide an antenna device which has two kinds of antennas resonating in mutually different frequency bands and is capable of adjusting the directivity in each of the antennas.

Hereinafter, the embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

Note that the embodiments described below each illustrate a comprehensive or detailed example. Numerical values, shapes, materials, components, arrangement positions and connection modes of the components, steps, a sequence of the steps, etc., illustrated in the embodiments below each form one example and are not intended to limit the present disclosure.

Moreover, each of the drawings is a schematic diagram and does not necessarily provide precise illustration. The same components in the respective drawings are provided with the same signs.

An antenna device according to Embodiment <NUM> will be described.

First, the configuration of the antenna device according to Embodiment <NUM> will be described with reference to <FIG> is a schematic plan view illustrating the configuration of antenna device <NUM> according to the present embodiment. The plan view in <FIG> provides a plan view of substrate <NUM> of antenna device <NUM>.

Antenna device <NUM> is an antenna which transmits and receives signals in a plurality of frequency bands. In the present embodiment, antenna device <NUM> transmits and receives the signal in the first frequency band and the signal in the second frequency band different from the first frequency band. The first frequency band and the second frequency band are not specifically limited, but the first frequency band is lower than the second frequency band in the present embodiment. More specifically, the first frequency band and the second frequency band are a <NUM> band and a <NUM> band, respectively. Consequently, antenna device <NUM> can be used as a dual band antenna in the <NUM> and <NUM> bands based on standards of a wireless LAN. As illustrated in <FIG>, antenna device <NUM> includes first ground member <NUM>, first antenna <NUM>, second ground member <NUM>, second antenna <NUM>, first filter <NUM>, and second filter <NUM>. In the present embodiment, antenna device <NUM> further includes substrate <NUM>.

First ground member <NUM> is a conductive member which is connected to a ground. The shape of first ground member <NUM> is not specifically limited. In the present embodiment, first ground member <NUM> has a membrane-like shape and is arranged in a predetermined region on substrate <NUM>. For example, a copper film or the like which is arranged on substrate <NUM> and patterned can be used as first ground member <NUM>.

Second ground member <NUM> is a conductive member which is arranged at a position adjacent to first ground member <NUM> with gap <NUM> in between and is connected to a ground different from the ground to which first ground member <NUM> is connected. The shape of second ground member <NUM> is not specifically limited. In the present embodiment, second ground member <NUM> is arranged in a region on substrate <NUM> adjacent to a region where first ground member <NUM> is arranged and has a membrane-like shape. For example, a copper film or the like which is arranged on substrate <NUM> and patterned can be used as second ground member <NUM>. Gap <NUM> is a portion which electrically insulates first ground member <NUM> and second ground member <NUM> from each other. In the present embodiment, gap <NUM> is a space which has a width of approximately <NUM>. The width of gap <NUM> is not limited to approximately <NUM>. The width of gap <NUM> may be, for example, approximately greater than or equal to one five-hundredth and less than or equal to one fiftieth of a wavelength corresponding to the first frequency band or the second frequency band. Moreover, the width of gap <NUM> may be greater than or equal to one two-hundredth or less than or equal to one hundredth of the wavelength corresponding to the first frequency band or the second frequency band.

First antenna <NUM> is an antenna which is connected to first ground member <NUM> and resonates in the first frequency band. In the present embodiment, first antenna <NUM> is a reversed F-type antenna which resonates in a <NUM> band. First antenna <NUM> is formed of a conductive member and has main body part 11a, power supply part 11b, and short-circuit part 11c. In the present embodiment, first antenna <NUM> is formed with a sheet metal formed of, for example, aluminum or copper. Main body part 11a is a portion which is isolated from first ground member <NUM> and extends along a main surface of substrate <NUM> where first ground member <NUM> is arranged. In the present embodiment, as illustrated in <FIG>, main body part 11a has a rectangular shape in a plan view of substrate <NUM>. The sum of electric lengths of two adjacent sides of rectangularly-shaped main body part 11a is approximately one fourth the wavelength corresponding to the first frequency band. Power supply part 11b is a portion to which the signal in the first frequency band is supplied. Power supply part 11b is connected to main body part 11a but not directly connected to first ground member <NUM>. Note that power supply part 11b is connected to first ground member <NUM> with main body part 11a and short-circuit part 11c in between. Power supply part 11b penetrates through, for example, first ground member <NUM> and substrate <NUM>, and a signal is supplied on the rear surface (that is, a main surface on the rear side of the main surface where first ground member <NUM> is arranged) of substrate <NUM>. Short-circuit part 11c is a portion which provides short-circuit between first ground member <NUM> and main body part 11a. Short-circuit part 11c is connected to main body part 11a and first ground member <NUM>.

Second antenna <NUM> is an antenna which is connected to second ground member <NUM> and resonates in the second frequency band different from the first frequency band. In the present embodiment, second antenna <NUM> is a revered F-type antenna which resonates in a <NUM> band. Second antenna <NUM> is formed of a conductive member and has main body part 21a, power supply part 21b, and short-circuit part 21c. In the present embodiment, second antenna <NUM> is formed with a sheet metal formed of, for example, aluminum or copper. Main body part 21a is a portion which is isolated from second ground member <NUM> and extends along the main surface of substrate <NUM> where second ground member <NUM> is arranged. In the present embodiment, as illustrated in <FIG>, main body part 21a has a rectangular shape in a plan view of substrate <NUM>. The sum of electric lengths of two adjacent sides of rectangularly-shaped main body part 21a is approximately one fourth the wavelength corresponding to the second frequency band. Power supply part 21b is a portion to which the signal in the second frequency band is supplied. Power supply part 21b is connected to main body part 21a but not directly connected to second ground member <NUM>. Note that power supply part 21b is connected to second ground member <NUM> with main body part 21a and short-circuit part 21c in between. For example, power supply part 21b passes through second ground member <NUM> and substrate <NUM> and receives supply of a signal on the rear surface (that is, the main surface on the rear side of the main surface where second ground member <NUM> is arranged) of substrate <NUM>. Short-circuit part 21c is a portion which provides short circuit between second ground member <NUM> and main body part 21a. Short-circuit part 21c is connected to main body part 21a and second ground member <NUM>.

Substrate <NUM> is an electrically insulated plate-shaped member which serves as a base for antenna device <NUM>. Substrate <NUM> has first antenna <NUM>, first ground member <NUM>, second antenna <NUM>, second ground member <NUM>, first filter <NUM>, and second filter <NUM> arranged on one of main surfaces. In the present embodiment, substrate <NUM> is a rectangular, plate-shaped dielectric. Substrate <NUM> is, for example, a glass epoxy substrate.

First filter <NUM> is a frequency filter which connects first ground member <NUM> and second ground member <NUM> and attenuates the signal in the first frequency band. In the present embodiment, first filter <NUM> attenuates the signal in the first frequency band more than the signal in the second frequency band. First filter <NUM> is arranged at a position where the distance from first antenna <NUM> is less than or equal to one half of the wavelength corresponding to the first frequency band and where the distance from second antenna <NUM> is less than or equal to one half of the wavelength corresponding to the second frequency band.

For example, a bypass filter having capacitors can be used as first filter <NUM> which attenuates the signal in the first frequency band. First filter <NUM> is connected to first ground member <NUM> and second ground member <NUM> across gap <NUM>. One example of first filter <NUM> will be described with reference to <FIG> is a circuit diagram illustrating a configuration example of first filter <NUM> according to the present embodiment. As illustrated in <FIG>, first filter <NUM> has: two capacitors C1 and C2 which are serially connected; and an inductor L which is connected between tracks between two capacitors C1 and C2. For example, the capacitance of capacitors C1 and C2 is <NUM> pF and the inductance of inductor L is <NUM> nH. The capacitance of capacitors C1 and C2 may be <NUM> pF and the inductance of inductor L may be 3nH. First filter <NUM> having such a circuit configuration makes it possible to realize a frequency filter which attenuate the signal in the first frequency band and permits the passage of the signal in the second frequency band therethrough. Moreover, a circuit obtained by plurally and serially connecting the circuit illustrated in <FIG> may be used as first filter <NUM>. Note that the configuration of first filter <NUM> is not limited to such a configuration. Hereinafter, a general circuit configuration of first filter <NUM> will be described with reference to <FIG> is a circuit diagram illustrating a general configuration of first filter <NUM> according to the present embodiment. As illustrated in <FIG>, first filter <NUM> has: two capacitors C1 and C2 which are serially connected; two inductors L1 and L2; and capacitor C3 and inductor L3 which are connected in a flat row. Adjusting the capacitance of each capacitor and the inductance of each inductor makes it possible to realize first filter <NUM> which has desired frequency characteristics. A circuit obtained by plurally and serially connecting the circuit illustrated in <FIG> may be used as first filter <NUM>. First filter <NUM> may also be a so-called meta material which has a circuit configuration as illustrated in <FIG>.

Second filter <NUM> is a frequency filter which connects first ground member <NUM> and second ground member <NUM> at a position different from the corresponding position for first filter <NUM> and attenuates the signal in the first frequency band less than first filter <NUM>. In the present embodiment, second filter <NUM> permits the passage of the signal in the first frequency band therethrough. For example, the attenuation of the signal in the first frequency band may be smaller on the second filter than on first filter <NUM> by <NUM> dB or more. Moreover, the signal in the second frequency band may be attenuated on second filter <NUM>. In the present embodiment, second filter <NUM> attenuates the signal in the second frequency band more than the signal in the first frequency band. Second filter <NUM> is arranged at a position where the distance from first antenna <NUM> is less than or equal to one half of the wavelength corresponding to the first frequency band and the distance from second antenna <NUM> is less than or equal to one half of the wavelength corresponding to the second frequency band.

For example, a low pass filter having inductors may be used as second filter <NUM> which attenuates the signal in the second frequency band. Second filter <NUM> is connected to first ground member <NUM> and second ground member <NUM> across gap <NUM>. Second filter <NUM> is also typically represented by the circuit illustrated in <FIG> as is the case with first filter <NUM>. The circuit configuration on second filter <NUM> according to the present embodiment is appropriately determined in accordance with required frequency characteristics. A circuit in which the circuit illustrated in <FIG> is plurally and serially connected may be used as second filter <NUM>. Moreover, second filter <NUM> may be a so-called meta material which has a circuit configuration as illustrated in <FIG>.

Next, the action and effect of antenna device <NUM> according to the present embodiment will be described. The directivity of each of first antenna <NUM> and second antenna <NUM> according to antenna device <NUM> according to the present embodiment depends on not only the shapes of first antenna <NUM> and second antenna <NUM> but also the shape and dimension of the grounds connected. For example, the directivity of first antenna <NUM> depends on the shape and dimension of first ground member <NUM> connected. Thus, it is possible to adjust the shape and dimension of first ground member <NUM> in order to adjust the directivity of first antenna <NUM>, but the degree of freedom in the shape and dimension of first ground member <NUM> can be limited by, for example, surrounding members such as second ground member <NUM>. The freedom in the shape and dimension of first ground member <NUM> cannot be adjusted in order to adjust the directivity of first antenna <NUM> as described above in some cases.

However, antenna device <NUM> according to the present embodiment includes second filter <NUM> which permits the passage of the signal in the first frequency band resonating at first antenna <NUM> therethrough, which thus makes it possible to enlarge a region functioning as a ground for the signal in the first frequency band to an outside of a region of first ground member <NUM>. That is, second filter <NUM> makes it possible to transmit at least part of the signal in the first frequency band to second ground member <NUM>, so that a region of second ground member <NUM> located closely to second filter <NUM> functions as a ground for the signal in the first frequency band.

Moreover, when part of the signal in the first frequency band passes through first filter <NUM>, at least part of the signal in the first frequency band resonating at first antenna <NUM> can be transmitted to second ground member <NUM> through first filter <NUM>. Thus, a region of second ground member <NUM> located closely to first filter <NUM> also functions as a ground for the signal in the first frequency band. Here, the size of the region of second ground member <NUM> functioning as the ground for the signal in the first frequency band varies depending on the degree of attenuation of the signal in the first frequency band on first filter <NUM>. Thus, the size of the region of second ground member <NUM> functioning as the ground for the signal in the first frequency band is greater at the vicinity of first filter <NUM> than at the vicinity of second filter <NUM>. As described above, the size of the region functioning as the ground for the signal in the first frequency band varies in accordance with the degree of attenuation for the signal in the first frequency band on first filter <NUM> and second filter <NUM>.

As described above, the region of second ground member <NUM> functioning as the ground for the signal in the first frequency band resonating at first antenna <NUM> varies in accordance with the arrangement and frequency characteristics of first filter <NUM> and second filter <NUM>. Therefore, the shape and dimension of the region functioning as the ground for the signal in the first frequency band can be adjusted by adjusting the arrangement and frequency characteristics of first filter <NUM> and second filter <NUM>. Consequently, it is possible to adjust the directivity of first antenna <NUM>.

Moreover, since the distance from first antenna <NUM> is less than or equal to one half of the wavelength corresponding to the first frequency band in each of first filter <NUM> and second filter <NUM> in the present embodiment, the aforementioned effect is even more remarkable.

Moreover, the directivity of first antenna <NUM> has been described above, but the directivity of second antenna <NUM> can also be adjusted by adjusting the arrangement and frequency characteristics of first filter <NUM> and second filter <NUM>, as is the case with the directivity of first filter <NUM>. For example, second filter <NUM> may attenuate the signal in the second frequency band and the attenuation of the signal in the second frequency band may be smaller on first filter 31than on second filter <NUM>. For example, the attenuation of the signal in the second frequency band may be smaller on first filter <NUM> than on second filter <NUM> by <NUM> dB or more. As a result of the passage of the signal in the second frequency band through first filter <NUM>, the region of first ground member <NUM> located closely to first filter <NUM> functions as a ground for the signal in the second frequency band. When part of the signal in the second frequency band passes through second filter <NUM>, at least part of the signal in the second frequency band can be transmitted from second ground member <NUM> to first ground member <NUM> through second filter <NUM>. Thus, the region of first ground member <NUM> located closely to second filter <NUM> also functions as a ground for the signal in the second frequency band.

As described above, the region of first ground member <NUM> functioning as the ground for the signal in the second frequency band resonating at second antenna <NUM> varies in accordance with the arrangement and frequency characteristics of first filter <NUM> and second filter <NUM>. Therefore, the arrangement and frequency characteristics of first filter <NUM> and second filter <NUM> can be adjusted to adjust the shape and dimension of the region functioning as the ground for the signal in the second frequency band. Consequently, it is possible to adjust the directivity of second antenna <NUM>.

Moreover, since the distance from second antenna <NUM> is less than or equal to one half of the wavelength corresponding to the second frequency band on each of first filter <NUM> and second filter <NUM> in the present embodiment, the aforementioned effect is even more remarkable.

Antenna device <NUM> according to the present embodiment includes two filters including first filter <NUM> and second filter <NUM>, but antenna device <NUM> may include three or more filters which are arranged at mutually different positions and connect first ground member <NUM> and second ground member <NUM>. Consequently, the directivity of each of first antenna <NUM> and second antenna <NUM> can be more finely adjusted.

An antenna device according to Embodiment <NUM> will be described. The antenna device according to the present embodiment differs from the antenna device according to Embodiment <NUM> mainly in the total number of antennas and the shapes of ground members. Hereinafter, the antenna device according to the present embodiment will be described, focusing on the differences from antenna device <NUM> according to Embodiment <NUM>.

First, the configuration of the antenna device according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to <FIG> is a schematic plan view illustrating the configuration of antenna device <NUM> according to the present embodiment. As is the case with antenna device <NUM> according to Embodiment <NUM>, antenna device <NUM> transmits and receives a signal in a first frequency band and a signal in a second frequency band different from the first frequency band. As illustrated in <FIG>, antenna device <NUM> includes first ground member <NUM>, two first antennas <NUM> and <NUM>, second ground member <NUM>, two second antennas <NUM> and <NUM>, two first filters <NUM> and <NUM>, and two second filters <NUM> and <NUM>. Antenna device <NUM> further includes substrate <NUM> in the present embodiment.

First ground member <NUM> is a conductive member which is connected to a ground. In the present embodiment, first ground member <NUM> has an annular shape and is arranged in a region around second ground member <NUM> on substrate <NUM>.

Second ground member <NUM> is a conductive member which is arranged at a position adjacent to first ground member <NUM> with gap <NUM> in between and connected to a ground different from the ground to which first ground member <NUM> is connected. The shape of second ground member <NUM> is not specifically limited. In the present embodiment, second ground member <NUM> has a rectangular shape and is arranged in a region on substrate <NUM> surrounded by a region where first ground member <NUM> is arranged. Gap <NUM> is a portion which electrically insulates first ground member <NUM> and second ground member <NUM>. Gap <NUM> is a void which has a width of approximately <NUM> in the present embodiment.

First antennas <NUM> and antenna <NUM> are antennas which are connected to first ground member <NUM> and resonate in the first frequency band. In the present embodiment, first antennas <NUM> and <NUM> have the same configuration as the configuration of first antenna <NUM> according to Embodiment <NUM>. As illustrated in <FIG>, first antennas <NUM> and <NUM> are respectively arranged on the left and right of second ground member <NUM>.

Second antennas <NUM> and <NUM> are antennas which are connected to second ground member <NUM> and resonate in the second frequency band different from the first frequency band. In the present embodiment, second antennas <NUM> and <NUM> have the same configuration as the configuration of second antenna <NUM> according to Embodiment <NUM>.

Substrate <NUM> is an electrically insulating plate-shaped member which serves as a base for antenna device <NUM>. Arranged on one main surface of substrate <NUM> are: first antennas <NUM> and <NUM>, first ground member <NUM>, second antennas <NUM> and <NUM>, second ground member <NUM>, first filters 131and <NUM>, and second filters <NUM> and <NUM>.

Each of first filters 131and <NUM> and second filters <NUM> and <NUM> is a frequency filter which connects first ground member <NUM> and second ground member <NUM>. First filters 131and <NUM> have the same configuration as the configuration of first filter <NUM> according to Embodiment <NUM> and attenuate the signal in the first frequency band. Second filters <NUM> and <NUM> have the same configuration as the configuration of second filter <NUM> according to Embodiment <NUM>, attenuate the signal in the first frequency band less than first filters 131and <NUM>, and permit the passage of the signal in the first frequency band therethrough. First filter <NUM> and second filter <NUM> are arranged between first antenna <NUM> and second ground member <NUM>. First filter <NUM> and second filter <NUM> are arranged between first antenna <NUM> and second ground member <NUM>.

In the present embodiment, each of first filters 131and <NUM> and second filters <NUM> and <NUM> is arranged at a position where the distance from either of two first antennas <NUM> and <NUM> is less than or equal to one half of the wavelength corresponding to the first frequency band. Moreover, each of first filters 131and <NUM> and second filters <NUM> and <NUM> is arranged at a position where the distance from either of second antennas <NUM> and <NUM> is less than or equal to one half of the wavelength corresponding to the second frequency band.

Next, the action and effect of antenna device <NUM> according to the present embodiment will be described. As is the case with antenna device <NUM> according to Embodiment <NUM>, antenna device <NUM> according to the present embodiment includes second filters <NUM> and <NUM> which connect first ground member <NUM> and second ground member <NUM> and permits the passage of the signal in the first frequency band therethrough. Consequently, at least part of the signal in the first frequency band can be transmitted to second ground member <NUM> by second filters <NUM> and <NUM>, and thus a region of second ground member <NUM> located closely to second filters <NUM> and <NUM> functions as a ground for the signal in the first frequency band resonating at each first antenna.

Moreover, when part of the signal in the first frequency band resonating at first antennas <NUM> and <NUM> passes through first filters 131and <NUM>, a region of second ground member <NUM> located closely to first filters 131and <NUM> also functions as a ground for the signal in the first frequency band.

As described above, the region of second ground member <NUM> which functions as the ground for the signal in the first frequency band resonating at first antennas <NUM> and <NUM> varies in accordance with the arrangement and frequency characteristics of first filters 131and <NUM> and second filters <NUM> and <NUM>. Therefore, the shape and dimension of the region which functions as the ground for the signal in the first frequency band can be adjusted by adjusting the arrangement and frequency characteristics of first filters 131and <NUM> and second filters <NUM> and <NUM>. Consequently, it is possible to adjust the directivity of first antennas <NUM> and <NUM>.

Moreover, the directivity of first antennas <NUM> and <NUM> has been described above, and as is the case with first antennas <NUM> and <NUM>, the directivity of second antennas <NUM> and <NUM> can be adjusted by adjusting the arrangement and frequency characteristics of first filters 131and <NUM> and second filters <NUM> and <NUM>.

An antenna device according to Embodiment <NUM> will be described. The antenna device according to the present embodiment differs from antenna device <NUM> according to Embodiment <NUM> mainly in the configuration of a gap between the first ground member and the second ground member. The antenna device according to the present embodiment will be described below, focusing on the difference from antenna device <NUM> according to Embodiment <NUM>.

First, the configuration of the antenna device according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to <FIG> is a schematic plan view illustrating the configuration of antenna device 101a according to the present embodiment. As is the case with antenna device <NUM> according to Embodiment <NUM>, antenna device 101a transmits and receives the signal in the first frequency band and the signal in the second frequency band different from the first frequency band. As illustrated in <FIG>, antenna device 101a includes first ground member <NUM>, first antennas <NUM> and <NUM>, second ground member <NUM>, second antennas <NUM> and <NUM>, first filters 131and <NUM>, second filters <NUM> and <NUM>, and substrate <NUM>. Antenna device 101a according to the present embodiment further includes conductive members <NUM> to <NUM>. In the present embodiment, second ground member <NUM> is arranged next to first ground member <NUM> with spaces <NUM> to <NUM> and conductive members <NUM> to <NUM> in between.

Conductive members <NUM> to <NUM> are conductive members which achieve conduction between first ground member <NUM> and second ground member <NUM>. Consequently, conductive members <NUM> to <NUM> divide the space between first ground member <NUM> and second ground member <NUM>. The distance from each of conductive members <NUM> to <NUM> to first antenna <NUM> and the distance from each of conductive members <NUM> to <NUM> to first antenna <NUM> are longer than one half of the wavelength corresponding to the first frequency band. Consequently, the characteristics of first antennas <NUM> and <NUM> do not substantially vary depending on whether conductive members <NUM> to <NUM> are present or absent. That is, the influence of conductive members <NUM> to <NUM> on first antennas <NUM> and <NUM> is ignorable. Moreover, the distance from each of conductive members <NUM> to <NUM> to second antenna <NUM> and the distance from each of conductive members <NUM> to <NUM> to second antenna <NUM> are longer than one half of the wavelength corresponding to the second frequency band. Consequently, the characteristics of second antennas <NUM> and <NUM> do not substantially vary depending on whether conductive members <NUM> to <NUM> is present or absent. That is, the influence of conductive members <NUM> to <NUM> on second antennas <NUM> and <NUM> is ignorable. The widths of conductive members <NUM> to <NUM> are not specifically limited, but are less than or equal to approximately one two hundredth respective wavelengths corresponding to the first frequency band and the second frequency band in the present embodiment.

Next, the action and effect of antenna device 101a according to the present embodiment will be described in comparison to antenna device <NUM> according to Embodiment <NUM>. First ground member <NUM> has an annular inner peripheral edge in antenna device <NUM> according to Embodiment <NUM>. Here, a current is likely to flow at an edge of the conductive member forming a general antenna, and thus the current can flow along the aforementioned inner peripheral edge. Thus, the inner peripheral edge functions as an antenna, so that unnecessary electromagnetic waves may be generated. Similarly, the outer peripheral edge of second ground member <NUM> also functions as an antenna, so that unnecessary electromagnetic waves may be generated. On the contrary, in antenna device 101a according to the present embodiment, the space between first ground member <NUM> and second ground member <NUM> is divided into four spaces <NUM> to <NUM> by conductive members <NUM> to <NUM>. Accordingly, the inner peripheral edge of first ground member <NUM> and the outer peripheral edge of second ground member <NUM> are also divided. Thus, the generation of the unnecessary electromagnetic waves at the inner peripheral edge of first ground member <NUM> and the outer peripheral edge of second ground member <NUM> can be suppressed.

Note that, in the present embodiment, antenna device 101a includes four conductive members <NUM> to <NUM>, but the total number of conductive members is not limited to four and is only required to be one or more.

An antenna device according to Embodiment <NUM> will be described. The antenna device according to the present embodiment differs from antenna device <NUM> according to Embodiment <NUM> mainly in that a conductive member capable of having influence on the directivity of each antenna is further provided. Hereinafter, the antenna device according to the present embodiment will be described, focusing on the difference from antenna device <NUM> according to Embodiment <NUM>.

First, the configuration of the antenna device according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to <FIG> is a schematic plan view illustrating the configuration of antenna device <NUM> according to the present embodiment. As illustrated in <FIG>, antenna device <NUM> includes first ground member <NUM>, first antenna <NUM>, second ground member <NUM>, second antenna <NUM>, first filter <NUM>, second filter <NUM>, substrate <NUM>, and peripheral circuit <NUM>.

Substrate <NUM> is an electrically insulating plate-shaped member which serves as a base for antenna device <NUM>. As is the case with substrate <NUM> according to Embodiment <NUM>, first antenna <NUM>, first ground member <NUM>, second antenna <NUM>, second ground member <NUM>, first filter <NUM>, and second filter <NUM> are arranged on one of main surfaces of substrate <NUM>. In the present embodiment, peripheral circuit <NUM> is further arranged on one of the main surfaces of substrate <NUM>.

Peripheral circuit <NUM> is a circuit which is arranged on substrate <NUM> and is one example of the conductive member included in antenna device <NUM>. In the present embodiment, peripheral circuit <NUM> is arranged at a position adjacent to first ground member <NUM> and opposite to second ground member <NUM> with respect to first antenna <NUM>. In other words, first antenna <NUM> is arranged between peripheral circuit <NUM> and second ground member <NUM>. The configuration of peripheral circuit <NUM> is not specifically limited. Peripheral circuit <NUM> may be, for example, a circuit which generates or extracts a signal supplied to first antenna <NUM> and second antenna <NUM> or may be, for example, a circuit which extracts signals with a predetermined frequency from the signals received by first antenna <NUM> and second antenna <NUM>.

As is the case with first filter <NUM> according to Embodiment <NUM>, first filter <NUM> is a frequency filter which connects first ground member <NUM> and second ground member <NUM> and attenuates the signal in the first frequency band. In the present embodiment, first filter <NUM> attenuates the signal in the first frequency band more than the signal in the second frequency band. First filter <NUM> permits the passage of the signal in the second frequency band therethrough.

As is the case with second filter <NUM> according to Embodiment <NUM>, second filter <NUM> is a frequency filter which connects first ground member <NUM> and second ground member <NUM> and attenuates the signal in the first frequency band more than the signal in the second frequency band. In the present embodiment, second filter <NUM> attenuates the signal in the second frequency band more than the signal in the first frequency band. Second filter <NUM> permits the passage of the signal in the first frequency band therethrough.

Next, the action and effect of antenna device <NUM> according to the present embodiment will be described. Antenna device <NUM> according to the present embodiment includes peripheral circuit <NUM> as described above. Peripheral circuit <NUM> includes many conductive members such as a ground wire and thus can have influence on the directivity of each antenna included in antenna device <NUM>. More specifically, the directivity of the antenna can be biased in a direction opposite to the direction from the antenna to the conductive member. In the example illustrated in <FIG>, peripheral circuit <NUM> has the greatest influence on the directivity of first antenna <NUM> arranged at a position adjacent to peripheral circuit <NUM>. More specifically, as a result of the arrangement of peripheral circuit <NUM>, the directivity of first antenna <NUM> can be biased in the direction (that is, a direction from first antenna <NUM> to second ground member <NUM>) opposite to the direction from first antenna <NUM> to peripheral circuit <NUM>.

However, in the present embodiment, at least second filter <NUM> permits the passage of the signal in the first frequency band therethrough. Consequently, a region of second ground member <NUM> located closely to second filter <NUM> functions as a ground for the signal in the first frequency band resonating at first antenna <NUM>. Thus, effect as if first ground member <NUM> is enlarged to an area where second ground member <NUM> is arranged is provided. Therefore, the directivity of first antenna <NUM> biased in a direction towards second ground member <NUM> can be suppressed. Moreover, antenna device <NUM> may further include, in addition to first filter <NUM> and second filter <NUM>, a frequency filter which connects first ground member <NUM> and second ground member <NUM> and permits the passage of the signal in the first frequency band therethrough. Consequently, the influence of peripheral circuit <NUM> on the directivity of first antenna <NUM> can be even more suppressed.

An antenna device according to Embodiment <NUM> will be described. As is the case with antenna device <NUM> according to Embodiment <NUM>, the antenna device according to the present embodiment includes a conductive member which can have influence on the directivity of each antenna. The antenna device according to the present embodiment differs from antenna device <NUM> according to Embodiment <NUM> in the configuration of the conductive member. Hereinafter, the antenna device according to the present embodiment will be described, focusing on the difference from antenna device <NUM> according to Embodiment <NUM>.

First, the configuration of the antenna device according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to <FIG> are respectively a schematic view and side view illustrating the configuration of antenna device 201a according to the present embodiment. As illustrated in <FIG>, antenna device 201a according to the present embodiment includes first ground member <NUM>, first antenna <NUM>, second ground member <NUM>, second antenna <NUM>, first filter 231a, second filter 232a, substrate 250a, frame 280a, and support <NUM>.

Substrate 250a is an electrically insulating plate-shaped member which serves as a base for antenna device 201a. As is the case with substrate <NUM> according to Embodiment <NUM>, first antenna <NUM>, first ground member <NUM>, second antenna <NUM>, second ground member <NUM>, first filter 231a, and second filter 232b are arranged on one main surface of substrate 250a. In the present embodiment, substrate 250a is arranged on frame 280a with support <NUM> in between, as illustrated in <FIG>. Note that substrate 250a may be directly arranged on frame 280a without support <NUM> in between.

Frame 280a is a structure with substrate 250a fixed thereon and is one example of the conductive member which is included in antenna device 201a. Frame 280a includes wall part <NUM> and pedestal part <NUM>. Frame 280a is formed of a conductive material such as, for example, aluminum or magnesium.

Wall part <NUM> is a plate-shaped portion which is provided upright on pedestal part <NUM>. As illustrated in <FIG>, the length of wall part <NUM> from pedestal part <NUM> is longer than the distance from pedestal part <NUM> to first antenna <NUM> and second antenna <NUM>. In the present embodiment, wall part <NUM> is arranged at a position adjacent to first ground member <NUM> and opposite to second ground member <NUM> with respect to first antenna <NUM>. In other words, first antenna <NUM> is arranged between wall part <NUM> and second ground member <NUM>.

Pedestal part <NUM> is a plate-shaped portion on which substrate 250a is arranged. In the present embodiment, pedestal part <NUM> has a loading surface the dimension of which is greater than the dimension of the main surface of substrate 250a, and substrate 250a is arranged on the aforementioned loading surface.

Support <NUM> is a member which is arranged between frame 280a and substrate 250a. Support <NUM> is connected to frame 280a and substrate 250a. Support <NUM> may be connected to frame 280a and substrate 250a with an adhesive agent or the like or a screw or the like. Antenna device 201a according to the present embodiment includes four cylindrically-shaped supports <NUM>, which are respectively arranged at four corners of substrate 250a. Moreover, frame 280a is connected to one of two circular bottom surfaces of cylindrically shaped support <NUM> and substrate 250a is connected to the other one of the bottom surfaces of support <NUM>.

First filter 231a is a frequency filter which connects first ground member <NUM> and second ground member <NUM> and attenuates the signal in the first frequency band, as is the case with first filter <NUM> according to Embodiment <NUM>. In the present embodiment, first filter 231a attenuates the signal in the first frequency band more than the second frequency band. First filter 231a may attenuate or may not attenuate the signal in the second frequency band.

Second filter 232a is a frequency filter which connects first ground member <NUM> and second ground member <NUM> and attenuates the signal in the first frequency band less than first filter 231a, as is the case with second filter <NUM> according to Embodiment <NUM>. In the present embodiment, second filter 232a may attenuate or may not attenuate the signal in the second frequency band.

Next, the action and effect of antenna device 201a according to the present embodiment will be described. Antenna device 201a according to the present embodiment includes frame 280a as described above. Frame 280a is a conductive member and thus can have influence on the directivity of each antenna included in antenna device 201a. More specifically, the directivity of the antenna can be biased in a direction opposite to the direction from the antenna towards the conductive member. In the examples illustrated in <FIG>, frame 280a has the greatest influence on the directivity of first antenna <NUM> arranged at a position adjacent to wall part <NUM>. More specifically, as a result of the arrangement of frame 280a, the directivity of first antenna <NUM> can be biased in a direction opposite to the direction from first antenna <NUM> towards frame 280a (that is, a direction from first antenna <NUM> towards second ground member <NUM>).

However, in the present embodiment, at least second filter 232a permits the passage of the signal in the first frequency band therethrough. Consequently, a portion of second ground member <NUM> located closely to second filter 232a functions as a ground for the signal in the first frequency band resonating at first antenna <NUM>. Thus, effect as if first ground member <NUM> is enlarged to a region where second ground member <NUM> is arranged is provided. Therefore, the bias of the directivity of first antenna <NUM> in the direction towards second ground member <NUM> can be suppressed. Moreover, antenna device 201a may further include, in addition to first filter 231a and second filter 232a, a frequency filter which connects first ground member <NUM> and second ground member <NUM> and permits the passage of the signal in the first frequency band therethrough. Consequently, the influence of frame 280a on the directivity of first antenna <NUM> can be even more suppressed.

An antenna device according to Embodiment <NUM> will be described. The antenna device according to the present embodiment differs from antenna device <NUM> according to Embodiment <NUM>, etc. mainly in the total number and arrangement of antennas and filters. Hereinafter, the antenna device according to the present embodiment will be described, focusing on the differences from antenna device <NUM> according to Embodiment <NUM>.

First, the configuration of the antenna device according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to <FIG>. <FIG> is a schematic perspective view illustrating the configuration of antenna device <NUM> according to the present embodiment. <FIG> is a schematic plan view illustrating the configuration of first layer part 302a of antenna device <NUM> according to the present embodiment. <FIG> illustrates a plan view of a main surface of substrate 350a included in first layer part 302a. <FIG> is a schematic plan view illustrating the configuration of second layer part 302b of antenna device <NUM> according to the present embodiment. <FIG> illustrates a plan view in a plan view of the main surface of substrate 350b included in second layer part 302b.

As illustrated in <FIG>, antenna device <NUM> according to the present embodiment includes: first layer part 302a; and second layer part 302b which is arranged separately from first layer part 302a. In the present embodiment, second layer part 302b is arranged in a manner such that the main surface of substrate 350b included in second layer part 302b is parallel to the main surface of substrate 350a included in first layer part 302a. Note that, for example, an electrically insulating spacer for fixing relative positions with respect to first layer part 302a and second layer part 302b is arranged between first layer part 302a and second layer part 302b, which is not illustrated.

As illustrated in <FIG>, first layer part 302a includes first ground member <NUM>, first antennas <NUM> to <NUM>, second ground member 329a, second antennas <NUM> to <NUM>, first filters 331a, 333a, 334a, and 335a, second filters 331b, 333b, 334b, and 335b, third filter 332a, fourth filter 332b, and substrate 350a.

First ground member <NUM> is a conductive member which is connected to a ground. In the present embodiment, first ground member <NUM> has an annular shape and is arranged in a region around second ground member 329a on substrate 350a. First ground member <NUM> has an outer peripheral edge and an inner peripheral edge shaped into a square shape and a pentagonal shape, respectively.

Each of first antennas <NUM> to <NUM> is an antenna which is connected to first ground member <NUM> and resonates in the first frequency band. In the present embodiment, first antennas <NUM> to <NUM> have the same configuration as the configuration of first antenna <NUM> according to Embodiment <NUM>. As illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>, each of first antennas <NUM> to <NUM> is arranged closely to each vertex of the square-shaped outer peripheral edge of first ground member <NUM>. A distance from each one of the first antennas to the other one of the first antennas located more closely to the aforementioned first antenna is approximately one half of the wavelength corresponding to the first frequency band. That is, the distance between first antenna <NUM> and first antenna <NUM>, the distance between first antenna <NUM> and first antenna <NUM>, the distance between first antenna <NUM> and first antenna <NUM>, and the distance between first antenna <NUM> and first antenna <NUM> are approximately one half of the wavelength corresponding to the first frequency band.

Second ground member 329a is a conductive member which is arranged at a position adjacent to first ground member <NUM> with gap <NUM> in between and is connected to a ground different from the ground to which first ground member <NUM> is connected. In the present embodiment, second ground member 329a has a pentagonal shape and is arranged in a region surrounded by a region on substrate 350a where first ground member <NUM> is arranged. Gap <NUM> is a region between first ground member <NUM> and second ground member 329a. Gap <NUM> has a width of approximately <NUM> in the present embodiment.

Each of second antennas <NUM> to <NUM> is an antenna which is connected to second ground member 329a and resonates in the second frequency band. In the present embodiment, second antennas <NUM> to <NUM> have the same configuration as the configuration of second antenna <NUM> according to Embodiment <NUM>. As illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>, second antennas <NUM> to <NUM> are arranged closely to respective vertexes of second ground member 329a of a pentagonal shape. A distance from each one of the second antennas to the closest other one of the second antennas is approximately one half of the wavelength corresponding to the second frequency band. That is, the distance between second antenna <NUM> and second antenna <NUM>, the distance between second antenna <NUM> and second antenna <NUM>, the distance between second antenna <NUM> and second antenna <NUM>, the distance between second antenna <NUM> and second antenna <NUM>, and the distance between second antenna <NUM> and second antenna <NUM> are approximately one half of the wavelength corresponding to the second frequency band.

Substrate 350a is an electrically insulating plate-shaped member which serves as a base for first layer part 302a of antenna device <NUM>. Arranged on one main surface of substrate 350a are: first antennas <NUM> to <NUM>, first ground member <NUM>, second antennas <NUM> to <NUM>, second ground member 329a, first filters 331a, 333a, 334a, and 335a, second filters 331b, 333b, 334b, and 335b, third filter 332a, and fourth filter 332b.

Each of first filters 331a, 333a, 334a, and 335a, second filters 331b, 333b, 334b, and 335b, third filter 332a, and fourth filter 332b is a frequency filter which connects first ground member <NUM> and second ground member 329a. First filters 331a, 333a, 334a, and 335a have the same configuration as the configuration of first filter <NUM> according to Embodiment <NUM> and attenuate the signal in the first frequency band. Second filters 331b, 333b, 334b, and 335b have the same configuration as the configuration of second filter <NUM> according to Embodiment <NUM>, attenuate the signal in the first frequency band less than first filters 331a, 333a, 334a, and 335a, and permit the passage of the signal in the first frequency band therethrough. In the present embodiment, third filter 332a attenuates the signal in the second frequency band. Fourth filter 332b attenuates the second frequency band less than third filter 332a and permits the passage of the signal in the second frequency band therethrough.

In the present embodiment, each of the filters arranged in first layer part 302a is arranged at a position where the distance from any of four first antennas <NUM> to <NUM> is less than or equal to one half of the wavelength corresponding to the first frequency band. Moreover, each filter is arranged at a position where the distance from any of five second antennas <NUM> to <NUM> is less than or equal to one half of the wavelength corresponding to the second frequency band.

As illustrated in <FIG>, second layer part 302b includes third ground member 329b, third antennas <NUM> to <NUM>, and substrate 350b.

Third ground member 329b is a conductive member which is connected to a ground different from the ground to which first ground member <NUM> is connected. Third ground member 329b may be connected to, for example, the same ground as the ground to which second ground member 329a is connected. In the present embodiment, third ground member 329b has a hexagonal shape and is arranged on substrate 350b. Third ground member 329b is arranged on a plane different from the plane on which second ground member 329a is arranged. In the present embodiment, third ground member 329b is arranged along second ground member 329a.

Each of third antennas <NUM> to <NUM> is an antenna which is connected to third ground member 329b and resonates in the second frequency band. In the present embodiment, third antennas <NUM> to <NUM> have the same configuration as the configuration of second antenna <NUM> according to Embodiment <NUM>. Each of third antennas <NUM> to <NUM> is arranged in a manner such that the distance to the other third antenna is approximately one half of the wavelength corresponding to the second frequency band. Specifically, the distance between third antenna <NUM> and third antenna <NUM>, the distance between third antenna <NUM> and third antenna <NUM>, and the distance between third antenna <NUM> and third antenna <NUM> are approximately one half of the wavelength corresponding to the second frequency band. Moreover, a distance between third antenna <NUM> and second antennas <NUM> and <NUM> of first layer part 302a, a distance between third antenna <NUM> and second antennas <NUM> and <NUM> of first layer part 302a, a distance between third antenna <NUM> and second antennas <NUM> and <NUM> of first layer part 302a are also approximately one half of the wavelength corresponding to the second frequency band.

Substrate 350b is an electrically insulating plate-shaped member which serves as a base for second layer part 302b of antenna device <NUM>. Third antennas <NUM> to <NUM> and third ground member 329b are arranged on one main surface of substrate 350b.

Next, the action and effect of antenna device <NUM> according to the present embodiment will be described. Antenna device <NUM> according to the present embodiment includes second filters 331b, 333b, 334b, and 335b which connect first ground member <NUM> and second ground member 329a and permit the passage of the signal in the first frequency band therethrough, as is the case with antenna device <NUM> according to Embodiment <NUM>. Consequently, at least part of the signal in the first frequency band can be transmitted to second ground member 329a by each second filter, and thus a region of second ground member 329a located closely to each second filter functions as a ground for the signal in the first frequency band resonating at each first antenna.

Moreover, when part of the signal in the first frequency band resonating at each first antenna passes through each first filter, a region of second ground member 329a located closely to each first filter also function as a ground for the signal in the first frequency band resonating at each first antenna.

As described above, the region of second ground member 329a which functions as the ground for the signal in the first frequency band resonating at each first antenna varies in accordance with the arrangement and frequency characteristics of each filter of first layer part 302a. Therefore, the arrangement and frequency characteristics of each filter can be adjusted to adjust the shape and dimension of the region which functions as the ground for the signal in the first frequency band. Consequently, it is possible to adjust the directivity of each first antenna. As is the case with antenna device <NUM> according to the present embodiment in particular, when second layer part 302b is included, for example, third ground member 329a included in second layer part 302b can have influence on the directivity of each first antenna. The arrangement and frequency characteristics of each filter can also be adjusted to adjust the directivity of each first antenna so as to suppress the aforementioned influence in such antenna device <NUM>.

The directivity of each first antenna has been described above, but the directivity of each second antenna included in first layer part 302a can also be adjusted by adjusting the arrangement and frequency characteristics of each filter, as is the case with each first antenna. In particular, the influence of second layer part 302b on the directivity of each second antenna arranged at first layer part 302a is large in antenna device <NUM> according to the present embodiment. The arrangement and frequency characteristics of each filter can be adjusted to adjust the directivity of each second antenna so as to suppress the aforementioned influence in such antenna device <NUM>.

Moreover, antenna device <NUM> includes four first antennas <NUM> to <NUM> resonating in the first frequency band and is thus applicable to 4x4 multiple-input and multiple-output (MIMO) in the signal in the first frequency band. Moreover, antenna device <NUM> includes the eight antennas (second antennas <NUM> to <NUM> and third antennas <NUM> to <NUM>) resonating in the second frequency band and is thus applicable to 8x8 MIMO in the second frequency band.

Next, an antenna device according to a variation of the present embodiment will be described. The shape of second ground member 329a in antenna device <NUM> according to Embodiment <NUM> is a pentagonal shape, but the shape of second ground member 329a is not limited to the aforementioned shape. Hereinafter. , the antenna device according to the present variation will be described, referring to an example in which the shape of second ground member 329a is not a pentagonal shape.

The shape of second ground member 329a is a square shape having the same total number of sides as the total number of first antennas in the antenna device according to the present variation.

Moreover, the shape of the inner peripheral edge of first ground member <NUM> is a square shape as is the case with second ground member 329a in the antenna device according to the present variation.

In this case, each first antenna may be arranged at a position opposing the vicinity of the center of each side of the inner peripheral edge of the rectangular shape of first ground member <NUM>.

Moreover, the shape of gap <NUM> in the present variation may also be different from the shape of the gap of antenna device <NUM> according to Embodiment <NUM>. Hereinafter, gap <NUM> of the antenna device according to the present variation will be described with reference to <FIG> is a schematic plan view illustrating a configuration of gap <NUM> of the antenna device according to the present variation. <FIG> illustrates only one side of gap <NUM> of a square shape.

As illustrated in <FIG>, the antenna device according to the present variation includes conductive members <NUM>, as is the case with antenna device 101a according to Embodiment <NUM>. In the present variation, four conductive members <NUM> are respectively arranged at positions corresponding to four vertexes of second ground member 329a of a square shape. That is, first ground member <NUM> and second ground member 329a are conducted at each of the vertexes of gap <NUM> of a square shape by conductive members <NUM>. Consequently, the same effect as that provided by antenna device 101a according to Embodiment <NUM> can also be provided in the antenna device according to the present variation.

Moreover, as is the case with the antenna device according to the present variation, when first ground member <NUM> and second ground member 329a are conducted by conductive members <NUM>, the antenna device may not include any first filter and second filter.

Moreover, as illustrated in <FIG>, first ground member <NUM> has a plurality of first convex parts 315c which project towards second ground member 329a at the inner peripheral edge in the present variation. In the example illustrated in <FIG>, the plurality of first convex parts 315c are arranged at equal intervals and have the same length. Moreover, second ground member 329a has a plurality of second convex parts 329ac which project towards first ground member <NUM> at the outer peripheral edge. In the example illustrated in <FIG>, the plurality of second convex parts 329ac are arranged at equal intervals and have the same length. That is, each of the inner peripheral edge of first ground member <NUM> and the outer peripheral edge of second ground member 329a is comb-shaped.

The plurality of first convex parts 315c and the plurality of second convex parts 329ac are arranged alternately. In other words, one second convex part 329ac is arranged between two adjacent first convex parts 315c and one first convex part 315c is arranged between two adjacent second convex parts 329ac. With the plurality of first convex parts 315c of first ground member <NUM> and the plurality of second convex parts 329ac of second ground member 329a, part of the signal in the first frequency band can be transmitted from first ground member <NUM> to second ground member 329a and part of the signal in the second frequency band can be transmitted from second ground member 329a to first ground member <NUM>. Thus, the shapes and dimensions of the plurality of first convex parts 315c and the plurality of second convex parts 329ac can be adjusted to adjust the region of second ground member 329a which functions as the ground for the signal in the first frequency band and adjust the region of first ground member <NUM> which functions as the ground for the signal in the second frequency band. Therefore, the directivity of each antenna can be adjusted.

As described above, the shapes of the inner peripheral edge of first ground member <NUM> and the shape of second ground member 329a are not limited to a pentagon and may be a polygon other than the pentagon or a shape, such as an oval, other than the polygon. Moreover, the shape of the inner peripheral edge of first ground member <NUM> and the shape of second ground member 329a may be a polygon which has the same total number of vertexes (or sides) as the total number of the first antennas.

Note that the antenna device according to the present variation includes four conductive members <NUM> but the total number of conductive members <NUM> is only required to be one or more.

Moreover, the configuration of antenna device <NUM> according to Embodiment <NUM> and the configuration of the antenna device according to the present variation may be combined as appropriate. For example, antenna device <NUM> according to Embodiment <NUM> may include conductive member <NUM>. Moreover, first ground member <NUM> of antenna device <NUM> according to Embodiment <NUM> may have a plurality of first convex parts 315c at the inner peripheral edge thereof, and second ground member 329a may have a plurality of second convex parts 329ac at the outer peripheral edge thereof. Moreover, first ground member <NUM> of antenna device <NUM> according to Embodiment <NUM> may not include the filters. Moreover, first ground member <NUM> according to the present variation may not include the plurality of first convex parts 315c and second ground member 329a may not include the plurality of second convex parts 329ac. Moreover, the antenna device according to the present variation may not include conductive members <NUM> and may include the same filters as the filters of Embodiment <NUM>.

The antenna device of the present disclosure has been described above based on the embodiments, but the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above. Those obtained by making various modifications, conceivable to those skilled in the art, to the embodiments described above may also be included in the scope of the present disclosure without departing from the spirits of the present disclosure.

For example, the first frequency band is lower than the second frequency band in the embodiments described above, but the first frequency band may be higher than the second frequency band.

A copper film is used as the first ground member and the second ground member in the embodiments described above but any conductive member other than the copper film may be used. For example, a sheet metal formed of copper or aluminum may be used as the first ground member and the second member.

Moreover, a sheet metal is used as the first antenna and the second antenna in the embodiments described above, but a conductive member other than the sheet metal may be used. For example, a conductive film such as a copper film formed on an insulating substrate may also be used as the first antenna and the second antenna.

Each of the gaps between the first ground member and the second ground member is a void in the embodiments described above but the configuration of the gap is not specifically limited as long as the first ground member and the second ground member can be electrically insulated from each other. For example, an insulating material may be filled in the gap.

The width of the gap between the first ground member and the second ground member is fixed in the embodiments described above, but the aforementioned width may not be fixed. For example, the width of the gap may be changed in accordance with the dimension of each filter at the sections where the first filter and the second filter are arranged.

Moreover, the shape of each ground member may be changed as appropriate in the embodiment described above. For example, a slit-like insulation region (that is, a region where the ground members are not formed) may be arranged inside of each ground member. Such an insulation region can be arranged around each antenna to thereby adjust the directivity of each antenna.

Other modes such as a mode realized by combining the components and the functions in the embodiments in a desired manner may also be included in the present disclosure within a scope not departing from the spirits of the present disclosure.

For example, each of the antenna devices according to Embodiments <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> may include peripheral circuit <NUM> according to Embodiment <NUM> or frame 280a according to Embodiment <NUM>.

Claim 1:
An antenna device, comprising:
a first ground member (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) which is connected to a ground;
one or more first antennas (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) which are connected to the first ground member and configured resonate in a first frequency band;
a second ground member (<NUM>, <NUM>, 329a) which is arranged at a position adjacent to the first ground member with a gap (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) in between and connected to a ground different from the ground to which the first ground member is connected;
one or more second antennas (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) which are connected to the second ground member and configured to resonate in a second frequency band different from the first frequency band;
one or more first filters (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, 231a, 331a, 333a, 334a) which connect the first ground member and the second ground member and configured to attenuate a signal in the first frequency band; and
one or more second filters (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, 232a, 331b, 333b, 334b) which connect the first ground member and the second ground member at a position different from a position where the one or more first filters connect the first ground member and the second ground member, and which are configured to attenuate the signal in the first frequency band less than the one or more first filters.