Patent ID: 12244067

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The disclosure will now be described more specifically with reference to the following embodiments. It is to be noted that the following descriptions of some embodiments are presented herein for purpose of illustration and description only. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to be limited to the precise form disclosed.

The present disclosure provides, inter alia, an antenna and an electronic apparatus that substantially obviate one or more of the problems due to limitations and disadvantages of the related art. In one aspect, the present disclosure provides an antenna. In some embodiments, the antenna includes a microstrip feed line, a ground plate, a slot extending through the ground plate, and a radiating plate. Optionally, the radiating plate is on a side of the ground plate and the slot away from the microstrip feed line. Optionally, the radiating plate is configured to receive a signal from the microstrip feed line by aperture coupling through the slot. Optionally, the radiating plate comprises a plurality of radiating blocks spaced apart from each other.

FIG.1Ais a plan view of an antenna in some embodiments according to the present disclosure.FIG.1Billustrates the structure of a first conductive layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.1A.FIG.1Cillustrates the structure of a first dielectric layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.1A.FIG.1Dillustrates the structure of a second conductive layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.1A.FIG.1Eillustrates the structure of a second dielectric layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.1A.FIG.1Fillustrates the structure of a third conductive layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.1A.FIG.2Ais a cross-sectional view along an A-A′ line inFIG.1A. Referring toFIG.1AtoFIG.1F, andFIG.2A, the antenna includes a microstrip feed line FL, a ground plate GP, a slot ST extending through the ground plate GP, and a radiating plate RP. The radiating plate RP is on a side of the ground plate GP and the slot ST away from the microstrip feed line FL.

In some embodiments, the antenna includes a first conductive layer CL1; a first dielectric layer DL1on the first conductive layer CL1; a second conductive layer CL2on a side of the first dielectric layer DL1away from the first conductive layer CL1; a second dielectric layer DL2on a side of the second conductive layer CL2away from the first dielectric layer DL1; and a third conductive layer CL3on a side of the second dielectric layer DL2away from the second conductive layer CL2.

In some embodiments, the first conductive layer CL1includes the microstrip feed line FL; the second conductive layer CL2includes the ground plate GP; and the third conductive layer CL3includes the radiating plate RP.

In some embodiments, an orthographic projection of the first dielectric layer DL1on the second dielectric layer DL2at least partially overlaps with an orthographic projection of the slot ST on the second dielectric layer DL2. Optionally, the orthographic projection of the first dielectric layer DL1on the second dielectric layer DL2covers the orthographic projection of the slot ST on the second dielectric layer DL2. In some embodiments, an orthographic projection of the second dielectric layer DL2on the first dielectric layer DL1at least partially overlaps with an orthographic projection of the slot ST on the first dielectric layer DL1. Optionally, the orthographic projection of the second dielectric layer DL2on the first dielectric layer DL1covers the orthographic projection of the slot ST on the first dielectric layer DL1. The radiating plate RP is configured to receive a signal from the microstrip feed line FL by aperture coupling through the slot ST. For example, the radiating patch RP is activated by the microstrip feed line FL through aperture coupling.

In some embodiments, an orthographic projection of the ground plate GP and the slot ST on the first dielectric layer DL1covers an orthographic projection of the radiating plate RP on the first dielectric layer. In some embodiments, an orthographic projection of the ground plate GP on the first dielectric layer DL1covers an orthographic projection of the radiating plate RP on the first dielectric layer DL1except for in a region corresponding to the slot ST.

In some embodiments, an orthographic projection of the microstrip feed line FL on the first dielectric layer DL1at least partially overlaps with an orthographic projection of the slot ST on the first dielectric layer DL1. In one example, the microstrip feed line FL crosses over the slot ST.

In some embodiments, the radiating plate RP includes a plurality of radiating blocks BK spaced apart from each other. The plurality of radiating blocks BK are electrically isolated from each other, each of which is activated by the microstrip feed line FL through aperture coupling. As discussed in further details below, the inventors of the present disclosure discover that, surprisingly and unexpectedly, the bandwidth of the antenna can be significantly increased by having a radiating plate RP that is divided into a plurality of radiating blocks BK.

In some embodiments, the plurality of radiating blocks BK are formed by dividing a plate with one or more slits. The plate, prior to the dividing, may have a regular shape such as a polygonal shape, a circular shape, a cross shape, an elliptical shape, or an oval shape. A combination of the plurality of radiating blocks BK has an overall shape that is substantially the same as the shape of the plate prior to dividing. As shown inFIG.1F, an overall contour of the plurality of radiating blocks BK has a square shape, which is the shape of the plate before it's being divided into the plurality of radiating blocks BK by a plurality of first slits SL1and a plurality of second slits SL2.

The combination of the plurality of radiating blocks BK may have various appropriate shapes. Examples of appropriate shapes include a polygonal shape (e.g., a rectangular shape or a square shape), a circular shape, a cross shape, an elliptical shape, or an oval shape, and so on.

In some embodiments, the plurality of radiating blocks BK are spaced apart by a plurality of first slits SL1and a plurality of second slits SL2. A respective one of the plurality of first slits SL1extend substantially along a first direction DR1. A respective one of the plurality of second slits SL2extend substantially along a second direction SR2, the second direction DR2being different from the first direction DR1. As used herein, the term “extends substantially along” refers to an angle between the extension direction and the reference direction is in a range of 0 degree to approximately 15 degrees, e.g., 0 degree, 0 degree to 1 degree, 1 degree to 2 degrees, 2 degree to 5 degrees, 5 degree to 10 degrees, and 10 degree to 15 degrees.

Referring toFIG.1AandFIG.1D, the slot ST in some embodiments has a strip shape. A longitudinal direction of the slot ST is denoted as LDR inFIG.1D.FIG.2Billustrates included angles between a longitudinal direction of a slot and extension directions of slits in some embodiments according to the present disclosure. Referring toFIG.2B, the longitudinal direction LDR of the slot ST has a first included angle α1with respect to the first direction DR1, and a second included angle α2with respect to the second direction DR2.

The inventors of the present disclosure discover that, surprisingly and unexpectedly, values of the first included angle α1and the second included angle α2can also affect the performance of the antenna, e.g., to achieve increased bandwidth and gain. In some embodiments, as shown inFIG.2B, the first included angle α1is in a range of 35 degrees to 55 degrees (e.g., 35 degrees to 40 degrees, 40 degrees to 45 degrees, 45 degrees to 50 degrees, or 50 degrees to 55 degrees,); and the second included angle α2is in a range of 125 degrees to 145 degrees (e.g., 125 degrees to 130 degrees, 130 degrees to 135 degrees, 135 degrees to 140 degrees, or 140 degrees to 145 degrees). In one example, the first included angle α1is 45 degrees, and the second included angle α2is 135 degrees. A synergistic effect can be achieved by adopting a radiating plate including a plurality of radiating blocks and having the first included angle and the second included angle in the above-mentioned ranges.

The inventors of the present disclosure discover that, surprisingly and unexpectedly, orientation of the radiating plate relative to the ground plate can further affect the performance of the antenna, e.g., to achieve increased bandwidth and gain.FIG.2Cillustrates an overall shape of a radiating plate of the antenna depicted inFIG.1A. In some embodiments, as shown inFIG.1AtoFIG.1F,FIG.2B, andFIG.2C, the radiating plate RP has an overall polygonal shape (e.g., a square shape) having a plurality of sides (e.g., four sides of a square shape). Optionally, the plurality of sides comprises first sides S1extending along the first direction DR1and second sides S2extending along a second direction DR2. The longitudinal direction LDR of the slot ST has a first included angle α1with respect to the first direction DR1, and a second included angle α2with respect to the second direction DR2. In particular, the inventors of the present disclosure discover that an improved antenna bandwidth and gain can be achieved when the first included angle α1is in a range of 35 degrees to 55 degrees (e.g., 35 degrees to 40 degrees, 40 degrees to 45 degrees, 45 degrees to 50 degrees, or 50 degrees to 55 degrees,); and the second included angle α2is in a range of 125 degrees to 145 degrees (e.g., 125 degrees to 130 degrees, 130 degrees to 135 degrees, 135 degrees to 140 degrees, or 140 degrees to 145 degrees). In one example, the first included angle α1is 45 degrees, and the second included angle α2is 135 degrees.

In some embodiments, referring toFIG.1AandFIG.1F, the plurality of first slits SL1are equispaced, and the plurality of second slits SL2are equispaced. Inter-slit distances of the plurality of first slits SL1may be the same as or different from inter-slit distances of the plurality of second slits SL2. In one specific example as depicted inFIG.1AandFIG.1F, inter-slit distances of the plurality of first slits SL1are substantially the same as inter-slit distances of the plurality of second slits SL2.

In one specific example, the first dielectric layer DL1has a thickness of 0.05 mm, and the second dielectric layer DL2has a thickness of 0.65 mm. Values of Dk/Df for the first dielectric layer DL1and the second dielectric layer DL2are 3.38/0.0027. Each of the first conductive layer CL1, the second conductive layer CL2, and the third conductive layer CL3has a thickness of 18.0 μm. Referring toFIG.1AtoFIG.1F, andFIG.2AtoFIG.2C, the radiating plate RP includes a plurality of radiating blocks BK, forming a periodic capacitors in series that are simultaneously activated via different resonant modes through the slot ST. First sides S1of the overall shape of the antenna have a first included angle α1with respect to the longitudinal direction LDR of the slot ST of 45 degrees, second sides S2of the overall shape of the antenna have a second included angle α2with respect to the longitudinal direction LDR of the slot ST of 135 degrees. A synergistic effect can be achieved, resulting in a significantly increased bandwidth and gain.FIG.3Aillustrates an S11 graph of the antenna depicted inFIG.1A. Referring toFIG.3A, the antenna has a −10 dB impedance bandwidth of 9.88 GHz (ranging from 24.12 GHz to 34.0 GHz), with a relative bandwidth of 34.0%.FIG.3Billustrates a realized gain curve of the antenna depicted inFIG.1Aat a central frequency point. Referring toFIG.3B, the gain at the central frequency point (28 GHz) is 9.97 dBi.FIG.3Cillustrates a realized gain curve of the antenna depicted inFIG.1Ain a frequency range of 24 GHz to 30 GHz. Referring toFIG.3C, in the frequency range of 24 GHz to 30 GHz, a minimum value of gain is 7.85 dBi at a frequency point 24 GHz, and a maximum value of gain is 10.03 dBi at a frequency point 28.5 GHz. A variation range of the gain values is 2.18 dB.

FIG.4Ais a plan view of an antenna in some embodiments according to the present disclosure.FIG.4Billustrates the structure of a first conductive layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.4A.FIG.4Cillustrates the structure of a first dielectric layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.4A.FIG.4Dillustrates the structure of a second conductive layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.4A.FIG.4Eillustrates the structure of a second dielectric layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.4A.FIG.4Fillustrates the structure of a third conductive layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.4A.FIG.5Ais a cross-sectional view along a B-B′ line inFIG.4A. Referring to FIG.4A toFIG.4F, andFIG.5B, the radiating plate RP in some embodiments is a unitary structure, e.g., without being divided into a plurality of radiating blocks.

FIG.5Billustrates an overall shape of a radiating plate of the antenna depicted inFIG.4A. Referring toFIG.5B, the radiating plate RP has an overall polygonal shape (e.g., a square shape) having a plurality of sides (e.g., four sides of a square shape). Optionally, the plurality of sides comprises first sides S1and second sides S2. Referring toFIG.5BandFIG.4D, the first sides S1extend along a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction LDR of the slot ST, and the second sides S2extend along a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction LDR of the slot ST.

FIG.6Aillustrates an S11 graph of the antenna depicted inFIG.4A. Referring toFIG.6A, the antenna has a −10 dB impedance bandwidth of 0 GHz.FIG.6Billustrates a realized gain curve of the antenna depicted inFIG.4Aat a central frequency point. Referring toFIG.6B, the gain at the central frequency point (28 GHz) is 7.81 dBi.FIG.6Cillustrates a realized gain curve of the antenna depicted inFIG.4Ain a frequency range of 24 GHz to 30 GHz. Referring toFIG.6C, in the frequency range of 24 GHz to 30 GHz, a minimum value of gain is 0 dBi at a frequency point 24 GHz, and a maximum value of gain is 7.81 dBi at a frequency point 28 GHz. A variation range of the gain values is 7.81 dB. As compared to the antenna depicted inFIG.1A, the relative impedance bandwidth of the antenna depicted inFIG.4Adeteriorates significantly; the gain at the central frequency point decreases; and the variation range of the gain values increases significantly.

By dividing the radiating plate into a plurality of radiating blocks, having the included angles between the longitudinal direction of a slot and extension directions of slits in certain ranges, and having the included angles between the longitudinal direction of a slot and extension directions of first sides and second sides of the overall shape of the radiating plate in certain ranges, the performance of the antenna can be significantly improved without the need for an additional feed network to improve the antenna gain.

FIG.7Ais a plan view of an antenna in some embodiments according to the present disclosure.FIG.7Billustrates the structure of a first conductive layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.7A.FIG.7Cillustrates the structure of a first dielectric layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.7A.FIG.7Dillustrates the structure of a second conductive layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.7A.FIG.7Eillustrates the structure of a second dielectric layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.7A.FIG.7Fillustrates the structure of a third conductive layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.7A.FIG.8Ais a cross-sectional view along a C-C′ line inFIG.7A. Referring toFIG.7AtoFIG.7F, andFIG.8B, the radiating plate RP in some embodiments is a unitary structure, e.g., without being divided into a plurality of radiating blocks.

FIG.8Billustrates an overall shape of a radiating plate of the antenna depicted inFIG.7A.FIG.8Cillustrates included angles between a longitudinal direction of a slot and extension directions of first sides and second sides of an overall shape of a radiating plate in some embodiments according to the present disclosure. Referring toFIG.8BandFIG.8C, the radiating plate RP has an overall polygonal shape (e.g., a square shape) having first sides S1extending along the first direction DR1and second sides S2extending along a second direction DR2. The longitudinal direction LDR of the slot ST has a first included angle α1with respect to the first direction DR1, and a second included angle α2with respect to the second direction DR2. The first included angle α1is in a range of 35 degrees to 55 degrees (e.g., 35 degrees to 40 degrees, 40 degrees to 45 degrees, 45 degrees to 50 degrees, or 50 degrees to 55 degrees,); and the second included angle α2is in a range of 125 degrees to 145 degrees (e.g., 125 degrees to 130 degrees, 130 degrees to 135 degrees, 135 degrees to 140 degrees, or 140 degrees to 145 degrees). In one example depicted inFIG.8C, the first included angle α1is 45 degrees, and the second included angle α2is 135 degrees.

FIG.9Aillustrates an S11 graph of the antenna depicted inFIG.7A.FIG.9Billustrates a realized gain curve of the antenna depicted inFIG.7Aat a central frequency point.FIG.9Cillustrates a realized gain curve of the antenna depicted inFIG.7Ain a frequency range of 24 GHz to 30 GHz.

Referring toFIG.9A, the antenna has a −10 dB impedance bandwidth of 0.77 GHz (ranging from 27.09 GHz to 27.86 GHz). Referring toFIG.9B, the gain at the central frequency point (28 GHz) is 8.04 dBi. Referring toFIG.9C, in the frequency range of 24 GHz to 30 GHz, a minimum value of gain is −2.06 dBi at a frequency point 24 GHz, and a maximum value of gain is 8.04 dBi at a frequency point 28 GHz. A variation range of the gain values is 10.1 dB. As compared to the antenna depicted inFIG.1A, the relative impedance bandwidth of the antenna depicted inFIG.7Adeteriorates significantly; the gain at the central frequency point decreases; and the variation range of the gain values increases significantly. As compared to the antenna depicted inFIG.4A, the relative impedance bandwidth of the antenna depicted inFIG.7Aincreases, the gain at the central frequency point slightly increases, and the variation range of the gain values increases.

Comparing the antenna depicted inFIG.4Awith the antenna depicted inFIG.7A, by having the included angles between the longitudinal direction of a slot and extension directions of first sides and second sides of the overall shape of the radiating plate in certain ranges (e.g., 45 degrees and 135 degrees), the performance of the antenna can be improved.

FIG.10Ais a plan view of an antenna in some embodiments according to the present disclosure.FIG.10Billustrates the structure of a first conductive layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.10A.FIG.10Cillustrates the structure of a first dielectric layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.10A.FIG.10Dillustrates the structure of a second conductive layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.10A.FIG.10Eillustrates the structure of a second dielectric layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.10A.FIG.10Fillustrates the structure of a third conductive layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.10A.

FIG.11Ais a cross-sectional view along a D-D′ line inFIG.10A.FIG.11Billustrates included angles between a longitudinal direction of a slot and extension directions of slits in some embodiments according to the present disclosure.FIG.11Cillustrates an overall shape of a radiating plate of the antenna depicted inFIG.10A.

Comparing the antenna depicted inFIG.10Awith the antenna depicted inFIG.1A, extension directions of the slits relative to the longitudinal direction of the slot in the antenna depicted inFIG.10Aare different from those in the antenna depicted inFIG.1A. Referring toFIG.10A,FIG.10D,FIG.10F, andFIG.11B, a respective one of the plurality of first slits SL1extend substantially along a first direction DR1. A respective one of the plurality of second slits SL2extend substantially along a second direction SR2, the second direction DR2being different from the first direction DR1. The longitudinal direction LDR of the slot ST has a first included angle α1with respect to the first direction DR1, and a second included angle α2with respect to the second direction DR2. In the antenna depicted inFIG.10A, the first included angle α1is in a range of −10 degrees to 10 degrees (e.g., −10 degrees to −5 degrees, −5 degrees to 0 degrees, 0 degrees to 5 degrees, or 5 degrees to 10 degrees), and the second included angle α2is in a range of 80 degrees to 100 degrees (e.g., 80 degrees to 85 degrees, 85 degrees to 90 degrees, 90 degrees to 95 degrees, 95 degrees to 100 degrees). In one example as depicted inFIG.11B, the first included angle α1is 0 degrees, and the second included angle α2is 90 degrees. In another example as depicted inFIG.2B, the first included angle α1is 45 degrees, and the second included angle α2is 135 degrees.

Comparing the antenna depicted inFIG.10Awith the antenna depicted inFIG.1A, the orientation of the radiating plate relative to the ground plate in the antenna depicted inFIG.10Ais different from those in the antenna depicted inFIG.1A. Referring toFIG.10A,FIG.10D,FIG.10F, andFIG.11B, the radiating plate RP has an overall polygonal shape (e.g., a square shape) having first sides S1extending along the first direction DR1and second sides S2extending along a second direction DR2. The longitudinal direction LDR of the slot ST has a first included angle α1with respect to the first direction DR1, and a second included angle α2with respect to the second direction DR2. In the antenna depicted inFIG.10A, the first included angle α1is in a range of −10 degrees to 10 degrees (e.g., −10 degrees to −5 degrees, −5 degrees to 0 degrees, 0 degrees to 5 degrees, or 5 degrees to 10 degrees), and the second included angle α2is in a range of 80 degrees to 100 degrees (e.g., 80 degrees to 85 degrees, 85 degrees to 90 degrees, 90 degrees to 95 degrees, or 95 degrees to 100 degrees). In one example as depicted inFIG.11B, the first included angle α1is 0 degrees, and the second included angle α2is 90 degrees. In another example as depicted inFIG.2B, the first included angle α1is 45 degrees, and the second included angle α2is 135 degrees.

FIG.12Aillustrates an S11 graph of the antenna depicted inFIG.10A.FIG.12Billustrates a realized gain curve of the antenna depicted inFIG.10Aat a central frequency point.FIG.12Cillustrates a realized gain curve of the antenna depicted inFIG.10Ain a frequency range of 24 GHz to 30 GHz.

Referring toFIG.12A, the antenna has a −10 dB impedance bandwidth of 8.12 GHz (ranging from 23.16 GHz to 31.28 GHz), with a relative bandwidth of 29.8%. Referring toFIG.12B, the gain at the central frequency point (28 GHz) is 10.02 dBi. Referring toFIG.12C, in the frequency range of 24 GHz to 30 GHz, a minimum value of gain is 8.27 dBi at a frequency point 24 GHz, and a maximum value of gain is 10.42 dBi at a frequency point 29 GHz. A variation range of the gain values is 2.15 dB. As compared to the antenna depicted inFIG.1A, the relative impedance bandwidth of the antenna depicted inFIG.10Adecreases; the gain at the central frequency point remains substantially the same; and the variation range of the gain values remains substantially the same.

Comparing the antenna depicted inFIG.10Awith the antenna depicted inFIG.1A, by having the included angles between extension directions of the slits and the longitudinal direction of the slot in certain ranges (e.g., 45 degrees and 135 degrees), and by having the included angles between the longitudinal direction of a slot and extension directions of first sides and second sides of the overall shape of the radiating plate in certain ranges (e.g., 45 degrees and 135 degrees), the performance of the antenna can be improved.

Comparing the antenna depicted inFIG.10Awith the antenna depicted inFIG.4A, by having the radiating plate made of a plurality of radiating blocks, the performance of the antenna can be significantly improved.

FIG.13Ais a plan view of an antenna in some embodiments according to the present disclosure.FIG.13Billustrates the structure of a first conductive layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.13A.FIG.13Cillustrates the structure of a first dielectric layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.13A.FIG.13Dillustrates the structure of a second conductive layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.13A.FIG.13Eillustrates the structure of a second dielectric layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.13A.FIG.13Fillustrates the structure of a third conductive layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.13A.FIG.14is a cross-sectional view along a E-E′ line inFIG.13A. The antenna depicted inFIG.13AtoFIG.13Fdiffers from the antenna depicted inFIG.10AtoFIG.10Fin that the radiating plate RP has a smaller area. The antenna depicted inFIG.10AtoFIG.10Fhas a radiating plate RP comprising four columns and four rows of plurality of radiating blocks, whereas the antenna depicted inFIG.13AtoFIG.13Fhas a radiating plate RP comprising four columns and two rows of radiating blocks. The area of the radiating plate RP in the antenna depicted inFIG.13AtoFIG.13Fis half of that in the antenna depicted inFIG.10AtoFIG.10F. A total number of radiating blocks in the radiating plate RP in the antenna depicted inFIG.13AtoFIG.13Fis half of that in the antenna depicted inFIG.10AtoFIG.10F.

FIG.15Aillustrates an S11 graph of the antenna depicted inFIG.13A.FIG.15Billustrates a realized gain curve of the antenna depicted inFIG.13Aat a central frequency point.FIG.15Cillustrates a realized gain curve of the antenna depicted inFIG.13Ain a frequency range of 24 GHz to 30 GHz.

Referring toFIG.15A, the antenna has a −10 dB impedance bandwidth of 8.76 GHz (ranging from 25.24 GHz to 34.00 GHz), with a relative bandwidth of 29.5%. Referring toFIG.15A, the gain at the central frequency point (28 GHz) is 8.18 dBi. Referring toFIG.15C, in the frequency range of 24 GHz to 30 GHz, a minimum value of gain is 6.31 dBi at a frequency point 24 GHz, and a maximum value of gain is 8.18 dBi at a frequency point 27.5 GHz. A variation range of the gain values is 1.87 dB. As compared to the antenna depicted inFIG.1A, the relative impedance bandwidth of the antenna depicted inFIG.13Adecreases; the gain at the central frequency point decreases; and the variation range of the gain values decreases. As compared to the antenna depicted inFIG.10A, the relative impedance bandwidth of the antenna depicted inFIG.13Aremains substantially the same; the gain at the central frequency point decreases; and the variation range of the gain values decreases.

FIG.16Ais a plan view of an antenna in some embodiments according to the present disclosure.FIG.16Billustrates the structure of a first conductive layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.16A.FIG.16Cillustrates the structure of a first dielectric layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.16A.FIG.16Dillustrates the structure of a second conductive layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.16A.FIG.16Eillustrates the structure of a second dielectric layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.16A.FIG.16Fillustrates the structure of a third conductive layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.16A.FIG.17is a cross-sectional view along an F-F′ line inFIG.16A. The antenna depicted inFIG.16AtoFIG.16Fdiffers from the antenna depicted inFIG.10AtoFIG.10Fin that the radiating plate RP is divided into twice as many rows. The antenna depicted inFIG.16AtoFIG.16Fhas a same area as the antenna depicted inFIG.10AtoFIG.10F. The antenna depicted inFIG.10AtoFIG.10Fhas a radiating plate RP comprising four columns and four rows of radiating blocks, whereas the antenna depicted inFIG.16AtoFIG.16Fhas a radiating plate RP comprising four columns and eight rows of radiating blocks. A total number of radiating blocks in the radiating plate RP in the antenna depicted inFIG.16AtoFIG.16Fis twice of that in the antenna depicted inFIG.10AtoFIG.10F.

Because a total number of rows increases while a total number of columns remains the same, in some embodiments, inter-slit distances of the plurality of first slits SL1are different from inter-slit distances of the plurality of second slits SL2. In one example as depicted inFIG.16F, the inter-slit distances of the plurality of first slits SL1are half of the inter-slit distances of the plurality of second slits SL2.

FIG.18Aillustrates an S11 graph of the antenna depicted inFIG.16A.FIG.18Billustrates a realized gain curve of the antenna depicted inFIG.16Aat a central frequency point.FIG.18Cillustrates a realized gain curve of the antenna depicted inFIG.16Ain a frequency range of 24 GHz to 30 GHz.

Referring toFIG.18A, the antenna has a −10 dB impedance bandwidth of 3.80 GHz (ranging from 26.77 GHz to 30.57 GHz), with a relative bandwidth of 13.2%. Referring toFIG.18B, the gain at the central frequency point (28 GHz) is 5.97 dBi. Referring toFIG.18C, in the frequency range of 24 GHz to 30 GHz, a minimum value of gain is 3.98 dBi at a frequency point 24 GHz, and a maximum value of gain is 6.01 dBi at a frequency point 27.5 GHz. A variation range of the gain values is 2.03 dB.

As compared to the antenna depicted inFIG.10A, the relative impedance bandwidth of the antenna depicted inFIG.18Asignificantly decreases; the gain at the central frequency point decreases; and the variation range of the gain values remains substantially the same. The comparison indicates that, while maintaining an area of the radiating plate substantially the same, increasing a total number of rows of radiating blocks does not always necessarily enhances the performance of the antenna.

FIG.19Ais a plan view of an antenna in some embodiments according to the present disclosure.FIG.19Billustrates the structure of a first conductive layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.19A.FIG.19Cillustrates the structure of a first dielectric layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.19A.FIG.19Dillustrates the structure of a second conductive layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.19A.FIG.19Eillustrates the structure of a second dielectric layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.19A.FIG.19Fillustrates the structure of a third conductive layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.19A.

FIG.20Ais a cross-sectional view along an G-G′ line inFIG.19A.FIG.20Billustrates included angles between a longitudinal direction of a slot and extension directions of slits in some embodiments according to the present disclosure.FIG.20Cillustrates an overall shape of a radiating plate of the antenna depicted inFIG.19A.

Comparing the antenna depicted inFIG.19Awith the antenna depicted inFIG.16A, extension directions of the slits relative to the longitudinal direction of the slot in the antenna depicted inFIG.19Aare different from those in the antenna depicted inFIG.16A. Referring toFIG.19A,FIG.19D,FIG.19F, andFIG.20B, a respective one of the plurality of first slits SL1extend substantially along a first direction DR1. A respective one of the plurality of second slits SL2extend substantially along a second direction SR2, the second direction DR2being different from the first direction DR1. The longitudinal direction LDR of the slot ST has a first included angle α1with respect to the first direction DR1, and a second included angle α2with respect to the second direction DR2. In the antenna depicted inFIG.19A, the first included angle α1is in a range of 35 degrees to 55 degrees (e.g., 35 degrees to 40 degrees, 40 degrees to 45 degrees, 45 degrees to 50 degrees, or 50 degrees to 55 degrees,); and the second included angle α2is in a range of 125 degrees to 145 degrees (e.g., 125 degrees to 130 degrees, 130 degrees to 135 degrees, 135 degrees to 140 degrees, or 140 degrees to 145 degrees). In one example, the first included angle α1is 45 degrees, and the second included angle α2is 135 degrees.

Comparing the antenna depicted inFIG.19Awith the antenna depicted inFIG.16A, the orientation of the radiating plate relative to the ground plate in the antenna depicted inFIG.19Ais different from those in the antenna depicted inFIG.16A. Referring toFIG.19A,FIG.19D,FIG.19F, andFIG.20B, the radiating plate RP has an overall polygonal shape (e.g., a square shape) having first sides S1extending along the first direction DR1and second sides S2extending along a second direction DR2. The longitudinal direction LDR of the slot ST has a first included angle α1with respect to the first direction DR1, and a second included angle α2with respect to the second direction DR2. In the antenna depicted inFIG.19A, the first included angle α1is in a range of 35 degrees to 55 degrees (e.g., 35 degrees to 40 degrees, 40 degrees to 45 degrees, 45 degrees to 50 degrees, or 50 degrees to 55 degrees,); and the second included angle α2is in a range of 125 degrees to 145 degrees (e.g., 125 degrees to 130 degrees, 130 degrees to 135 degrees, 135 degrees to 140 degrees, or 140 degrees to 145 degrees). In one example, the first included angle α1is 45 degrees, and the second included angle α2is 135 degrees.

FIG.21Aillustrates an S11 graph of the antenna depicted inFIG.19A.FIG.21Billustrates a realized gain curve of the antenna depicted inFIG.19Aat a central frequency point.FIG.21Cillustrates a realized gain curve of the antenna depicted inFIG.19Ain a frequency range of 24 GHz to 30 GHz.

Referring toFIG.21A, the antenna has a −10 dB impedance bandwidth of 6.88 GHz (ranging from 23.20 GHz to 30.08 GHz), with a relative bandwidth of 25.8%. Referring toFIG.21B, the gain at the central frequency point (28 GHz) is 8.63 dBi. Referring toFIG.21C, in the frequency range of 24 GHz to 30 GHz, a minimum value of gain is 7.74 dBi at a frequency point 24 GHz, and a maximum value of gain is 8.81 dBi at a frequency point 27 GHz. A variation range of the gain values is 1.07 dB.

As compared to the antenna depicted inFIG.1A, the relative impedance bandwidth of the antenna depicted inFIG.19Adecreases; the gain at the central frequency point decreases; but the variation range of the gain values decreases. As compared to the antenna depicted inFIG.16A, the relative impedance bandwidth of the antenna depicted inFIG.19Aincreases; the gain at the central frequency point increases; and the variation range of the gain values decreases.

Comparing the antenna depicted inFIG.19Awith the antenna depicted inFIG.16A, by having the included angles between extension directions of the slits and the longitudinal direction of the slot in certain ranges (e.g., 45 degrees and 135 degrees), and by having the included angles between the longitudinal direction of a slot and extension directions of first sides and second sides of the overall shape of the radiating plate in certain ranges (e.g., 45 degrees and 135 degrees), the performance of the antenna can be improved.

FIG.22Ais a plan view of an antenna in some embodiments according to the present disclosure.FIG.22Billustrates the structure of a first conductive layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.22A.FIG.22Cillustrates the structure of a first dielectric layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.22A.FIG.22Dillustrates the structure of a second conductive layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.22A.FIG.22Eillustrates the structure of a second dielectric layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.22A.FIG.22Fillustrates the structure of a third conductive layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.22A.FIG.23is a cross-sectional view along an H-H′ line inFIG.22A. The antenna depicted inFIG.22AtoFIG.22Fdiffers from the antenna depicted inFIG.10AtoFIG.10Fin that the radiating plate RP is divided into twice as many columns. The antenna depicted inFIG.22AtoFIG.22Fhas a same area as the antenna depicted inFIG.10AtoFIG.10F. The antenna depicted inFIG.10AtoFIG.10Fhas a radiating plate RP comprising four columns and four rows of radiating blocks, whereas the antenna depicted inFIG.22AtoFIG.22Fhas a radiating plate RP comprising eight columns and four rows of radiating blocks. A total number of radiating blocks in the radiating plate RP in the antenna depicted inFIG.22AtoFIG.22Fis twice of that in the antenna depicted inFIG.10AtoFIG.10F.

Because a total number of columns increases while a total number of rows remains the same, in some embodiments, inter-slit distances of the plurality of first slits SL1are different from inter-slit distances of the plurality of second slits SL2. In one example as depicted inFIG.22F, the inter-slit distances of the plurality of first slits SL1are twice of the inter-slit distances of the plurality of second slits SL2.

FIG.24Aillustrates an S11 graph of the antenna depicted inFIG.22A.FIG.24Billustrates a realized gain curve of the antenna depicted inFIG.22Aat a central frequency point.FIG.24Cillustrates a realized gain curve of the antenna depicted inFIG.22Ain a frequency range of 24 GHz to 30 GHz.

Referring toFIG.24A, the antenna has a −10 dB impedance bandwidth of 7.98 GHz (ranging from 22.28 GHz to 30.26 GHz), with a relative bandwidth of 30.3%. Referring toFIG.24B, the gain at the central frequency point (28 GHz) is 10.33 dBi. Referring toFIG.24C, in the frequency range of 24 GHz to 30 GHz, a minimum value of gain is 8.54 dBi at a frequency point 24 GHz, and a maximum value of gain is 10.96 dBi at a frequency point 29.5 GHz. A variation range of the gain values is 2.42 dB.

As compared to the antenna depicted inFIG.1A, the relative impedance bandwidth of the antenna depicted inFIG.22Adecreases; the gain at the central frequency point increases; and the variation range of the gain values increases. As compared to the antenna depicted inFIG.16A, the relative impedance bandwidth of the antenna depicted inFIG.22Aincreases; the gain at the central frequency point increases; and the variation range of the gain values increases. The comparison indicates that, while maintaining an area of the radiating plate substantially the same, increasing a total number of columns of radiating blocks, within a certain range, may further enhance the performance of the antenna.

FIG.25Ais a plan view of an antenna in some embodiments according to the present disclosure.FIG.25Billustrates the structure of a first conductive layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.25A.FIG.25Cillustrates the structure of a first dielectric layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.25A.FIG.25Dillustrates the structure of a second conductive layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.25A.FIG.25Eillustrates the structure of a second dielectric layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.25A.FIG.25Fillustrates the structure of a third conductive layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.25A.

Comparing the antenna depicted inFIG.25Awith the antenna depicted inFIG.22A, extension directions of the slits relative to the longitudinal direction of the slot in the antenna depicted inFIG.25Aare different from those in the antenna depicted inFIG.22A. Referring toFIG.25A,FIG.25D,FIG.25F, andFIG.26B, a respective one of the plurality of first slits SL1extend substantially along a first direction DR1. A respective one of the plurality of second slits SL2extend substantially along a second direction SR2, the second direction DR2being different from the first direction DR1. The longitudinal direction LDR of the slot ST has a first included angle α1with respect to the first direction DR1, and a second included angle α2with respect to the second direction DR2. In the antenna depicted inFIG.25A, the first included angle α1is in a range of 35 degrees to 55 degrees (e.g., 35 degrees to 40 degrees, 40 degrees to 45 degrees, 45 degrees to 50 degrees, or 50 degrees to 55 degrees,); and the second included angle α2is in a range of 125 degrees to 145 degrees (e.g., 125 degrees to 130 degrees, 130 degrees to 135 degrees, 135 degrees to 140 degrees, or 140 degrees to 145 degrees). In one example, the first included angle α1is 45 degrees, and the second included angle α2is 135 degrees.

Comparing the antenna depicted inFIG.25Awith the antenna depicted inFIG.22A, the orientation of the radiating plate relative to the ground plate in the antenna depicted inFIG.25Ais different from those in the antenna depicted inFIG.22A. Referring toFIG.25A,FIG.25D,FIG.25F, andFIG.26B, the radiating plate RP has an overall polygonal shape (e.g., a square shape) having first sides S1extending along the first direction DR1and second sides S2extending along a second direction DR2. The longitudinal direction LDR of the slot ST has a first included angle α1with respect to the first direction DR1, and a second included angle α2with respect to the second direction DR2. In the antenna depicted inFIG.25A, the first included angle α1is in a range of 35 degrees to 55 degrees (e.g., 35 degrees to 40 degrees, 40 degrees to 45 degrees, 45 degrees to 50 degrees, or 50 degrees to 55 degrees,); and the second included angle α2is in a range of 125 degrees to 145 degrees (e.g., 125 degrees to 130 degrees, 130 degrees to 135 degrees, 135 degrees to 140 degrees, or 140 degrees to 145 degrees). In one example, the first included angle α1is 45 degrees, and the second included angle α2is 135 degrees.

FIG.26Ais a cross-sectional view along an I-I′ line inFIG.25A.FIG.26Billustrates included angles between a longitudinal direction of a slot and extension directions of slits in some embodiments according to the present disclosure.FIG.26Cillustrates an overall shape of a radiating plate of the antenna depicted inFIG.25A.

FIG.27Aillustrates an S11 graph of the antenna depicted inFIG.25A.FIG.27Billustrates a realized gain curve of the antenna depicted inFIG.25Aat a central frequency point.FIG.27Cillustrates a realized gain curve of the antenna depicted inFIG.25Ain a frequency range of 24 GHz to 30 GHz.

Referring toFIG.27A, the antenna has a −10 dB impedance bandwidth of 6.93 GHz (ranging from 23.08 GHz to 30.01 GHz), with a relative bandwidth of 26.1%. Referring toFIG.27B, the gain at the central frequency point (28 GHz) is 8.61 dBi. Referring toFIG.27C, in the frequency range of 24 GHz to 30 GHz, a minimum value of gain is 7.79 dBi at a frequency point 29.5 GHz, and a maximum value of gain is 8.83 dBi at a frequency point 27 GHz. A variation range of the gain values is 1.04 dB.

As compared to the antenna depicted inFIG.1A, the relative impedance bandwidth of the antenna depicted inFIG.25Adecreases; the gain at the central frequency point decreases; but the variation range of the gain values decreases. As compared to the antenna depicted inFIG.22A, the relative impedance bandwidth of the antenna depicted inFIG.25Adecreases; the gain at the central frequency point decreases; but the variation range of the gain values decreases.

Comparing the antenna depicted inFIG.25Awith the antenna depicted inFIG.22A, by having the included angles between extension directions of the slits and the longitudinal direction of the slot in certain ranges (e.g., 45 degrees and 135 degrees), and by having the included angles between the longitudinal direction of a slot and extension directions of first sides and second sides of the overall shape of the radiating plate in certain ranges (e.g., 45 degrees and 135 degrees), the variation range of the gain values can be adjusted.

FIG.28Ais a plan view of an antenna in some embodiments according to the present disclosure.FIG.28Billustrates the structure of a first conductive layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.28A.FIG.28Cillustrates the structure of a first dielectric layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.28A.FIG.28Dillustrates the structure of a second conductive layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.28A.FIG.28Eillustrates the structure of a second dielectric layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.28A.FIG.28Fillustrates the structure of a third conductive layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.28A.FIG.29Ais a cross-sectional view along a J-J′ line inFIG.28A.

FIG.29Billustrates included angles between a longitudinal direction of a slot and extension directions of slits in some embodiments according to the present disclosure. The antenna depicted inFIG.28AtoFIG.28Fdiffers from the antenna depicted inFIG.1AtoFIG.1Fin that a combination of the plurality of radiating blocks in the radiating plate RP has an overall circular shape. The radiating plate RP has an overall circular shape.

FIG.30Aillustrates an S11 graph of the antenna depicted inFIG.28A.FIG.30Billustrates a realized gain curve of the antenna depicted inFIG.28Aat a central frequency point.FIG.30Cillustrates a realized gain curve of the antenna depicted inFIG.28Ain a frequency range of 24 GHz to 30 GHz.

Referring toFIG.30A, the antenna has a −10 dB impedance bandwidth of 10.07 GHz (ranging from 22 GHz to 32.07 GHz), with a relative bandwidth of 37.2%. Referring toFIG.30B, the gain at the central frequency point (28 GHz) is 9.04 dBi. Referring toFIG.30C, in the frequency range of 24 GHz to 30 GHz, a minimum value of gain is 8.19 dBi at a frequency point 24 GHz, and a maximum value of gain is 9.56 dBi at a frequency point 29.5 GHz. A variation range of the gain values is 1.37 dB.

As compared to the antenna depicted inFIG.1A, the relative impedance bandwidth of the antenna depicted inFIG.28Aincreases; the gain at the central frequency point decreases; but the variation range of the gain values decreases.

FIG.31Ais a plan view of an antenna in some embodiments according to the present disclosure.FIG.31Billustrates the structure of a first conductive layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.31A.FIG.31Cillustrates the structure of a first dielectric layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.31A.FIG.31Dillustrates the structure of a second conductive layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.31A.FIG.31Eillustrates the structure of a second dielectric layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.31A.FIG.31Fillustrates the structure of a third conductive layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.31A.FIG.32is a cross-sectional view along a K-K′ line inFIG.31A. Referring toFIG.31AtoFIG.31F, andFIG.32, the radiating plate RP in some embodiments is a unitary structure, e.g., without being divided into a plurality of radiating blocks.

FIG.33Aillustrates an S11 graph of the antenna depicted inFIG.31A.FIG.33Billustrates a realized gain curve of the antenna depicted inFIG.31Aat a central frequency point.FIG.33Cillustrates a realized gain curve of the antenna depicted inFIG.31Ain a frequency range of 24 GHz to 30 GHz. Referring toFIG.33A, the antenna has a −10 dB impedance bandwidth of 2.1 GHz (ranging from 25.48 GHz to 27.58 GHz), with a relative bandwidth of 7.9%. Referring toFIG.33B, the gain at the central frequency point (28 GHz) is 6.19 dBi. Referring toFIG.33C, in the frequency range of 24 GHz to 30 GHz, a minimum value of gain is 0.74 dBi at a frequency point 24 GHz, and a maximum value of gain is 6.24 dBi at a frequency point 27.5 GHz. A variation range of the gain values is 5.5 dB. As compared to the antenna depicted inFIG.31A, the relative impedance bandwidth of the antenna depicted inFIG.31Adeteriorates significantly; the gain at the central frequency point decreases; and the variation range of the gain values increases.

By dividing the radiating plate into a plurality of radiating blocks, having the included angles between the longitudinal direction of a slot and extension directions of slits in certain ranges, and having the included angles between the longitudinal direction of a slot and extension directions of first sides and second sides of the overall shape of the radiating plate in certain ranges, the performance of the antenna can be significantly improved without the need for an additional feed network to improve the antenna gain.

The antenna depicted inFIG.31Adiffers from the antenna depicted inFIG.4Ain that a combination of the plurality of radiating blocks in the radiating plate RP has an overall circular shape. As compared to the antenna depicted inFIG.4A, the relative impedance bandwidth of the antenna depicted inFIG.31Aincreases; the gain at the central frequency point decreases; and the variation range of the gain values decreases.

FIG.34Ais a plan view of an antenna in some embodiments according to the present disclosure.FIG.34Billustrates the structure of a first conductive layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.34A.FIG.34Cillustrates the structure of a first dielectric layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.34A.FIG.34Dillustrates the structure of a second conductive layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.34A.FIG.34Eillustrates the structure of a second dielectric layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.34A.FIG.34Fillustrates the structure of a third conductive layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.34A.FIG.35Ais a cross-sectional view along a L-L′ line inFIG.34A.FIG.35Billustrates included angles between a longitudinal direction of a slot and extension directions of slits in some embodiments according to the present disclosure. The antenna depicted inFIG.34AtoFIG.34Fdiffers from the antenna depicted inFIG.10AtoFIG.10Fin that a combination of the plurality of radiating blocks in the radiating plate RP has an overall circular shape. The radiating plate RP has an overall circular shape.

Comparing the antenna depicted inFIG.34Awith the antenna depicted inFIG.28A, extension directions of the slits relative to the longitudinal direction of the slot in the antenna depicted inFIG.34Aare different from those in the antenna depicted inFIG.28A. Referring toFIG.34A,FIG.34D,FIG.34F, andFIG.35, a respective one of the plurality of first slits SL1extend substantially along a first direction DR1. A respective one of the plurality of second slits SL2extend substantially along a second direction SR2, the second direction DR2being different from the first direction DR1. The longitudinal direction LDR of the slot ST has a first included angle α1with respect to the first direction DR1, and a second included angle α2with respect to the second direction DR2. In the antenna depicted inFIG.34A, the first included angle α1is in a range of −10 degrees to 10 degrees (e.g., −10 degrees to −5 degrees, −5 degrees to 0 degrees, 0 degrees to 5 degrees, or 5 degrees to 10 degrees), and the second included angle α2is in a range of 80 degrees to 100 degrees (e.g., 80 degrees to 85 degrees, 85 degrees to 90 degrees, 90 degrees to 95 degrees, 95 degrees to 100 degrees). In one example as depicted inFIG.35B, the first included angle α1is 0 degrees, and the second included angle α2is 90 degrees. In another example as depicted inFIG.2B, the first included angle α1is 45 degrees, and the second included angle α2is 135 degrees.

FIG.36Aillustrates an S11 graph of the antenna depicted inFIG.34A.FIG.36Billustrates a realized gain curve of the antenna depicted inFIG.34Aat a central frequency point.FIG.36Cillustrates a realized gain curve of the antenna depicted inFIG.34Ain a frequency range of 24 GHz to 30 GHz.

Referring toFIG.36A, the antenna has a −10 dB impedance bandwidth of 10.33 GHz (ranging from 23.54 GHz to 33.87 GHz), with a relative bandwidth of 35.9%. Referring toFIG.36B, the gain at the central frequency point (28 GHz) is 8.69 dBi. Referring toFIG.36C, in the frequency range of 24 GHz to 30 GHz, a minimum value of gain is 7.46 dBi at a frequency point 24 GHz, and a maximum value of gain is 9.34 dBi at a frequency point 30 GHz. A variation range of the gain values is 1.88 dB. As compared to the antenna depicted inFIG.28A, the relative impedance bandwidth of the antenna depicted inFIG.34Adecreases; the gain at the central frequency point decreases; and the variation range of the gain values increases.

Comparing the antenna depicted inFIG.34Awith the antenna depicted inFIG.28A, by having the included angles between extension directions of the slits and the longitudinal direction of the slot (e.g., 45 degrees and 135 degrees), the performance of the antenna can be improved.

Comparing the antenna depicted inFIG.34Awith the antenna depicted inFIG.31A, by having the radiating plate made of a plurality of radiating blocks, the performance of the antenna can be significantly improved.

FIG.37Ais a plan view of an antenna in some embodiments according to the present disclosure.FIG.37Billustrates the structure of a first conductive layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.37A.FIG.37Cillustrates the structure of a first dielectric layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.37A.FIG.37Dillustrates the structure of a second conductive layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.37A.FIG.37Eillustrates the structure of a second dielectric layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.37A.FIG.37Fillustrates the structure of a third conductive layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.37A.FIG.38is a cross-sectional view along a M-M′ line inFIG.37A. Referring toFIG.37AtoFIG.37F, andFIG.38, the radiating plate RP in some embodiments is a unitary structure, e.g., without being divided into a plurality of radiating blocks.

The antenna depicted inFIG.37AtoFIG.37Fdiffers from the antenna depicted inFIG.31Aand the antenna depicted inFIG.4Ain that a combination of the plurality of radiating blocks has an overall cross shape. The radiating plate RP has an overall cross shape.

FIG.39Aillustrates an S11 graph of the antenna depicted inFIG.37A.FIG.39Billustrates a realized gain curve of the antenna depicted inFIG.37Aat a central frequency point.FIG.39Cillustrates a realized gain curve of the antenna depicted inFIG.37Ain a frequency range of 24 GHz to 30 GHz. Referring toFIG.39A, the antenna has a −10 dB impedance bandwidth of 0.44 GHz (ranging from 23.80 GHz to 24.24 GHz), with a relative bandwidth of 1.8%. Referring toFIG.39B, the gain at the central frequency point (28 GHz) is 7.71 dBi. Referring toFIG.39C, in the frequency range of 24 GHz to 30 GHz, a minimum value of gain is 2.78 dBi at a frequency point 25 GHz, and a maximum value of gain is 8.97 dBi at a frequency point 29 GHz. A variation range of the gain values is 6.19 dB. As compared to the antenna depicted inFIG.28A, the relative impedance bandwidth of the antenna depicted inFIG.37Adeteriorates significantly; the gain at the central frequency point decreases; and the variation range of the gain values increases.

By dividing the radiating plate into a plurality of radiating blocks, having the included angles between the longitudinal direction of a slot and extension directions of slits in certain ranges, and having the included angles between the longitudinal direction of a slot and extension directions of first sides and second sides of the overall shape of the radiating plate in certain ranges, the performance of the antenna can be significantly improved without the need for an additional feed network to improve the antenna gain.

As compared to the antenna depicted inFIG.31A, the relative impedance bandwidth of the antenna depicted inFIG.37Adecreases; the gain at the central frequency point increases; and the variation range of the gain values increases. As compared to the antenna depicted inFIG.4A, the relative impedance bandwidth of the antenna depicted inFIG.37Aincreases; the gain at the central frequency point decreases; and the variation range of the gain values decreases. Thus, the antenna in which a combination of the plurality of radiating blocks has an overall circular shape has a better performance than to the antenna in which a combination of the plurality of radiating blocks has an overall cross shape, and the antenna in which a combination of the plurality of radiating blocks has an overall cross shape has a better performance than to the antenna in which a combination of the plurality of radiating blocks has an overall square shape.

FIG.40Ais a plan view of an antenna in some embodiments according to the present disclosure.FIG.40Billustrates the structure of a first conductive layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.40A.FIG.40Cillustrates the structure of a first dielectric layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.40A.FIG.40Dillustrates the structure of a second conductive layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.40A.FIG.40Eillustrates the structure of a second dielectric layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.40A.FIG.40Fillustrates the structure of a third conductive layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.40A. Referring toFIG.40AtoFIG.40F, the radiating plate RP in some embodiments is a unitary structure, e.g., without being divided into a plurality of radiating blocks.

FIG.41Ais a cross-sectional view along an N-N′ line inFIG.40A.FIG.41Billustrates an overall shape of a radiating plate of the antenna depicted inFIG.40A.FIG.41Cillustrates included angles between a longitudinal direction of a slot and extension directions of first sides and second sides of an overall shape of a radiating plate in some embodiments according to the present disclosure. Referring toFIG.41BandFIG.41C, the radiating plate RP has an overall polygonal shape (e.g., a cross shape) having first sides S1extending along the first direction DR1and second sides S2extending along a second direction DR2. The longitudinal direction LDR of the slot ST has a first included angle α1with respect to the first direction DR1, and a second included angle α2with respect to the second direction DR2. The first included angle α1is in a range of 35 degrees to 55 degrees (e.g., 35 degrees to 40 degrees, 40 degrees to 45 degrees, 45 degrees to 50 degrees, or 50 degrees to 55 degrees,); and the second included angle α2is in a range of 125 degrees to 145 degrees (e.g., 125 degrees to 130 degrees, 130 degrees to 135 degrees, 135 degrees to 140 degrees, or 140 degrees to 145 degrees). In one example depicted inFIG.41C, the first included angle α1is 45 degrees, and the second included angle α2is 135 degrees.

FIG.42Aillustrates an S11 graph of the antenna depicted inFIG.40A.FIG.42Billustrates a realized gain curve of the antenna depicted inFIG.40Aat a central frequency point.FIG.42Cillustrates a realized gain curve of the antenna depicted inFIG.40Ain a frequency range of 24 GHz to 30 GHz.

Referring toFIG.42A, the antenna has a −10 dB impedance bandwidth of 0.84 GHz (ranging from 26.70 GHz to 27.54 GHz), with a relative bandwidth of 3.0%. Referring toFIG.42B, the gain at the central frequency point (28 GHz) is 7.38 dBi. Referring toFIG.42C, in the frequency range of 24 GHz to 30 GHz, a minimum value of gain is −3.45 dBi at a frequency point 24 GHz, and a maximum value of gain is 8.12 dBi at a frequency point 27.5 GHz. A variation range of the gain values is 11.57 dB. As compared to the antenna depicted in FIG.28A, the relative impedance bandwidth of the antenna depicted inFIG.40Adeteriorates significantly; the gain at the central frequency point decreases; and the variation range of the gain values increases significantly. As compared to the antenna depicted inFIG.37A, the relative impedance bandwidth of the antenna depicted inFIG.40Aincreases, the gain at the central frequency point decreases, and the variation range of the gain values increases significantly.

Comparing the antenna depicted inFIG.37Awith the antenna depicted inFIG.40A, by having the included angles between the longitudinal direction of a slot and extension directions of first sides and second sides of the overall shape of the radiating plate in certain ranges (e.g., 45 degrees and 135 degrees), the performance of the antenna can be improved.

FIG.43Ais a plan view of an antenna in some embodiments according to the present disclosure.FIG.43Billustrates the structure of a first conductive layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.43A.FIG.43Cillustrates the structure of a first dielectric layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.43A.FIG.43Dillustrates the structure of a second conductive layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.43A.FIG.43Eillustrates the structure of a second dielectric layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.43A.FIG.43Fillustrates the structure of a third conductive layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.43A. The antenna depicted inFIG.43AtoFIG.43Fdiffers from the antenna depicted inFIG.37AtoFIG.37Fin that the radiating plate RP includes a plurality of radiating blocks BK.

FIG.44Ais a cross-sectional view along a O-O′ line inFIG.43A.FIG.44Billustrates included angles between a longitudinal direction of a slot and extension directions of slits in some embodiments according to the present disclosure.FIG.44Cillustrates an overall shape of a radiating plate of the antenna depicted inFIG.43A.

Comparing the antenna depicted inFIG.43Awith the antenna depicted inFIG.37A, extension directions of the slits relative to the longitudinal direction of the slot in the antenna depicted inFIG.44Aare different from those in the antenna depicted inFIG.37A. Referring toFIG.43A,FIG.43D,FIG.43F, andFIG.44B, a respective one of the plurality of first slits SL1extend substantially along a first direction DR1. A respective one of the plurality of second slits SL2extend substantially along a second direction SR2, the second direction DR2being different from the first direction DR1. The longitudinal direction LDR of the slot ST has a first included angle α1with respect to the first direction DR1, and a second included angle α2with respect to the second direction DR2. In the antenna depicted inFIG.43A, the first included angle α1is in a range of −10 degrees to 10 degrees (e.g., −10 degrees to −5 degrees, −5 degrees to 0 degrees, 0 degrees to 5 degrees, or 5 degrees to 10 degrees), and the second included angle α2is in a range of 80 degrees to 100 degrees (e.g., 80 degrees to 85 degrees, 85 degrees to 90 degrees, 90 degrees to 95 degrees, or 95 degrees to 100 degrees). In one example as depicted inFIG.44B, the first included angle α1is 0 degrees, and the second included angle α2is 90 degrees.

Comparing the antenna depicted inFIG.43Awith the antenna depicted inFIG.37A, the orientation of the radiating plate relative to the ground plate in the antenna depicted inFIG.43Ais different from those in the antenna depicted inFIG.37A. Referring toFIG.43A,FIG.43D,FIG.43F, andFIG.44B, the radiating plate RP has an overall polygonal shape (e.g., a cross shape) having first sides S1extending along the first direction DR1and second sides S2extending along a second direction DR2. The longitudinal direction LDR of the slot ST has a first included angle α1with respect to the first direction DR1, and a second included angle α2with respect to the second direction DR2. In the antenna depicted inFIG.43A, the first included angle α1is in a range of −10 degrees to 10 degrees (e.g., −10 degrees to −5 degrees, −5 degrees to 0 degrees, 0 degrees to 5 degrees, or 5 degrees to 10 degrees), and the second included angle α2is in a range of 80 degrees to 100 degrees (e.g., 80 degrees to 85 degrees, 85 degrees to 90 degrees, 90 degrees to 95 degrees, or 95 degrees to 100 degrees). In one example as depicted inFIG.44B, the first included angle α1is 0 degrees, and the second included angle α2is 90 degrees.

FIG.45Aillustrates an S11 graph of the antenna depicted inFIG.43A.FIG.45Billustrates a realized gain curve of the antenna depicted inFIG.43Aat a central frequency point.FIG.45Cillustrates a realized gain curve of the antenna depicted inFIG.43Ain a frequency range of 24 GHz to 30 GHz.

Referring toFIG.45A, the antenna has a −10 dB impedance bandwidth of 9.58 GHz (ranging from 23.04 GHz to 32.62 GHz), with a relative bandwidth of 34.4%. Referring toFIG.45B, the gain at the central frequency point (28 GHz) is 9.18 dBi. Referring toFIG.45C, in the frequency range of 24 GHz to 30 GHz, a minimum value of gain is 7.95 dBi at a frequency point 24 GHz, and a maximum value of gain is 10.20 dBi at a frequency point 30 GHz. A variation range of the gain values is 2.25 dB. As compared to the antenna depicted inFIG.28A, the relative impedance bandwidth of the antenna depicted inFIG.43Adecreases; the gain at the central frequency point decreases significantly; and the variation range of the gain values increases significantly.

As compared to the antenna depicted inFIG.37A, the relative impedance bandwidth of the antenna depicted inFIG.43Aincreases significantly; the gain at the central frequency point increases significantly; and the variation range of the gain values decreases significantly. By dividing the radiating plate into a plurality of radiating blocks, the performance of the antenna can be significantly improved without the need for an additional feed network to improve the antenna gain.

FIG.46Ais a plan view of an antenna in some embodiments according to the present disclosure.FIG.46Billustrates the structure of a first conductive layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.46A.FIG.46Cillustrates the structure of a first dielectric layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.46A.FIG.46Dillustrates the structure of a second conductive layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.46A.FIG.46Eillustrates the structure of a second dielectric layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.46A.FIG.46Fillustrates the structure of a third conductive layer in an antenna depicted inFIG.46A. The antenna depicted inFIG.46AtoFIG.46Fdiffers from the antenna depicted inFIG.41AtoFIG.41Fin that the radiating plate RP includes a plurality of radiating blocks BK.

FIG.47Ais a cross-sectional view along a P-P′ line inFIG.46A.FIG.47Billustrates included angles between a longitudinal direction of a slot and extension directions of slits in some embodiments according to the present disclosure.FIG.47Cillustrates an overall shape of a radiating plate of the antenna depicted inFIG.46A.

In some embodiments, the plurality of radiating blocks BK are spaced apart by a plurality of first slits SL1and a plurality of second slits SL2. A respective one of the plurality of first slits SL1extend substantially along a first direction DR1. A respective one of the plurality of second slits SL2extend substantially along a second direction SR2, the second direction DR2being different from the first direction DR1. In some embodiments, as shown inFIG.47B, the first included angle α1is in a range of 35 degrees to 55 degrees (e.g., 35 degrees to 40 degrees, 40 degrees to 45 degrees, 45 degrees to 50 degrees, or 50 degrees to 55 degrees,); and the second included angle α2is in a range of 125 degrees to 145 degrees (e.g., 125 degrees to 130 degrees, 130 degrees to 135 degrees, 135 degrees to 140 degrees, or 140 degrees to 145 degrees). In one example, the first included angle α1is 45 degrees, and the second included angle α2is 135 degrees.

In some embodiments, as shown inFIG.46AtoFIG.46F,FIG.47B, andFIG.47C, the radiating plate RP has an overall polygonal shape (e.g., a cross shape) having first sides S1extending along the first direction DR1and second sides S2extending along a second direction DR2. The longitudinal direction LDR of the slot ST has a first included angle α1with respect to the first direction DR1, and a second included angle α2with respect to the second direction DR2. In particular, the inventors of the present disclosure discover that an improved antenna bandwidth and gain can be achieved when the first included angle α1is in a range of 35 degrees to 55 degrees (e.g., 35 degrees to 40 degrees, 40 degrees to 45 degrees, 45 degrees to 50 degrees, or 50 degrees to 55 degrees,); and the second included angle α2is in a range of 125 degrees to 145 degrees (e.g., 125 degrees to 130 degrees, 130 degrees to 135 degrees, 135 degrees to 140 degrees, or 140 degrees to 145 degrees). In one example, the first included angle α1is 45 degrees, and the second included angle α2is 135 degrees.

FIG.48Aillustrates an S11 graph of the antenna depicted inFIG.46A.FIG.48Billustrates a realized gain curve of the antenna depicted inFIG.46Aat a central frequency point.FIG.48Cillustrates a realized gain curve of the antenna depicted inFIG.46Ain a frequency range of 24 GHz to 30 GHz.

Referring toFIG.48A, the antenna has a −10 dB impedance bandwidth of 8.47 GHz (ranging from 22 GHz to 30.47 GHz), with a relative bandwidth of 32.2%. Referring toFIG.48B, the gain at the central frequency point (28 GHz) is 9.50 dBi. Referring toFIG.48C, in the frequency range of 24 GHz to 30 GHz, a minimum value of gain is 8.30 dBi at a frequency point 24 GHz, and a maximum value of gain is 9.85 dBi at a frequency point 29 GHz. A variation range of the gain values is 1.55 dB. As compared to the antenna depicted inFIG.28A, the relative impedance bandwidth of the antenna depicted inFIG.48Adecreases; the gain at the central frequency point increases; but the variation range of the gain values increases slightly.

As compared to the antenna depicted inFIG.43A, the relative impedance bandwidth of the antenna depicted inFIG.46Adecreases; but the gain at the central frequency point increases slightly; and the variation range of the gain values decreases significantly. Comparing the antenna depicted inFIG.46Awith the antenna depicted inFIG.43A, by having the included angles between extension directions of the slits and the longitudinal direction of the slot in certain ranges (e.g., 45 degrees and 135 degrees), and by having the included angles between the longitudinal direction of a slot and extension directions of first sides and second sides of the overall shape of the radiating plate in certain ranges (e.g., 45 degrees and 135 degrees), the performance of the antenna can be improved

As compared to the antenna depicted inFIG.40A, the relative impedance bandwidth of the antenna depicted inFIG.46Aincreases significantly; the gain at the central frequency point increases significantly; and the variation range of the gain values decreases significantly. By dividing the radiating plate into a plurality of radiating blocks, the performance of the antenna can be significantly improved without the need for an additional feed network to improve the antenna gain.

FIG.49illustrates an antenna array comprising a plurality of antenna described in the present disclosure. Referring toFIG.49, the antenna array is a ±45° polarized 1*4 MIMO antenna array, which can be used in 5G millimeter wave mobile communication due to its advantages such as ultra-broadband low-profile high-gain miniaturization.

In another aspect, the present disclosure provide an electronic apparatus. In some embodiments, the electronic apparatus includes an antenna described herein, and one or more circuits. In one example, the electronic apparatus is a communication apparatus. In some embodiments, the communication apparatus includes the antenna described herein, a signal circuit, and a controller.

The foregoing description of the embodiments of the invention has been presented for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form or to exemplary embodiments disclosed. Accordingly, the foregoing description should be regarded as illustrative rather than restrictive. Obviously, many modifications and variations will be apparent to practitioners skilled in this art. The embodiments are chosen and described in order to explain the principles of the invention and its best mode practical application, thereby to enable persons skilled in the art to understand the invention for various embodiments and with various modifications as are suited to the particular use or implementation contemplated. It is intended that the scope of the invention be defined by the claims appended hereto and their equivalents in which all terms are meant in their broadest reasonable sense unless otherwise indicated. Therefore, the term “the invention”, “the present invention” or the like does not necessarily limit the claim scope to a specific embodiment, and the reference to exemplary embodiments of the invention does not imply a limitation on the invention, and no such limitation is to be inferred. The invention is limited only by the spirit and scope of the appended claims. Moreover, these claims may refer to use “first”, “second”, etc. following with noun or element. Such terms should be understood as a nomenclature and should not be construed as giving the limitation on the number of the elements modified by such nomenclature unless specific number has been given. Any advantages and benefits described may not apply to all embodiments of the invention. It should be appreciated that variations may be made in the embodiments described by persons skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the present invention as defined by the following claims. Moreover, no element and component in the present disclosure is intended to be dedicated to the public regardless of whether the element or component is explicitly recited in the following claims.