EP3001499A1 - Optically quasi-transparent antenna system - Google Patents

Optically quasi-transparent antenna system Download PDF

Info

Publication number
EP3001499A1
EP3001499A1 EP14306461.6A EP14306461A EP3001499A1 EP 3001499 A1 EP3001499 A1 EP 3001499A1 EP 14306461 A EP14306461 A EP 14306461A EP 3001499 A1 EP3001499 A1 EP 3001499A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
component housing
function
radiating elements
antenna
radiofrequency radiation
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Granted
Application number
EP14306461.6A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP3001499B1 (en
Inventor
Jean-Pierre Harel
Gaetan Fauquert
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Nokia Shanghai Bell Co Ltd
Original Assignee
Alcatel Lucent Shanghai Bell Co Ltd
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Alcatel Lucent Shanghai Bell Co Ltd filed Critical Alcatel Lucent Shanghai Bell Co Ltd
Priority to EP14306461.6A priority Critical patent/EP3001499B1/en
Publication of EP3001499A1 publication Critical patent/EP3001499A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP3001499B1 publication Critical patent/EP3001499B1/en
Active legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

Links

Images

Classifications

    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01Q—ANTENNAS, i.e. RADIO AERIALS
    • H01Q1/00—Details of, or arrangements associated with, antennas
    • H01Q1/12—Supports; Mounting means
    • H01Q1/22—Supports; Mounting means by structural association with other equipment or articles
    • H01Q1/24—Supports; Mounting means by structural association with other equipment or articles with receiving set
    • H01Q1/241—Supports; Mounting means by structural association with other equipment or articles with receiving set used in mobile communications, e.g. GSM
    • H01Q1/246—Supports; Mounting means by structural association with other equipment or articles with receiving set used in mobile communications, e.g. GSM specially adapted for base stations
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01Q—ANTENNAS, i.e. RADIO AERIALS
    • H01Q21/00—Antenna arrays or systems
    • H01Q21/0006—Particular feeding systems
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01Q—ANTENNAS, i.e. RADIO AERIALS
    • H01Q21/00—Antenna arrays or systems
    • H01Q21/06—Arrays of individually energised antenna units similarly polarised and spaced apart
    • H01Q21/061—Two dimensional planar arrays
    • H01Q21/065—Patch antenna array

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to the field of telecommunication antenna systems transmitting microwave radio waves. It relates more particularly to so-called "optically quasi-transparent" antenna systems for an observer.
  • An antenna system is usually composed of several network antennas ("Antenna Array”). It may especially be planar antennas called “patch” or dipole alignments working in a given frequency band, which are intended more particularly for cell phone applications.
  • optical near-transparent antenna systems are at the center of operators' interest for their visual and aesthetic qualities allowing them a better integration into the landscape.
  • Optically quasi-transparent a device that allows the visible light to pass in a proportion of at least 80%, so that the human eye does not identify at first glance the presence of such a device.
  • Some quasi-transparent antenna systems already exist that include a radome and quasi-transparent radiating elements.
  • currently installed network antenna systems must evolve to a lower and lower visual impact, lower size and weight, and improved radiating system characteristics.
  • variable electric tilt antennas require a complex radiating power supply network that has many parts and is difficult to achieve for the purpose of near-transparency.
  • the different materials used for these quasi-transparent embodiments often have very different thermal behaviors that lead to an elaborate mechanical structure.
  • Multiband antenna systems usually group together in a common mechanical structure several network antennas ("Panel Antenna”) in network. These antenna systems comprise several rows of radiating elements operating in different frequency domains. For example, some multiband antenna systems tend to be large with an impact on wind resistance and high weight. This can lead to potential problems concerning the mounting hardware and installation of the antennas, but also on the support structure (mast, pylon, tower, wall, etc ...) and the mechanical parts providing the interface.
  • antenna systems comprising networked panel antennas are sold "as is", that is to say that the functionalities of the supply network of the radiating elements are predetermined. If an adaptation is necessary in the event of a modification or an update concerning the characteristics or performances of the power supply network, or if a new functionality is required, all the constituents of the antenna system must to be changed.
  • the object of the present invention is an antenna system comprising at least one component housing the radiofrequency radiation function comprising network radiating elements powered electrically by at least one power supply line, and at least one component housing the function of power supply of the radiating elements.
  • the component housing the radiofrequency radiation function and the component housing the power supply function are electrically connected, and they are physically separated and distant.
  • the component housing the radiofrequency radiation function and the component housing the electrical supply function are sufficiently distant and arranged so as not to be simultaneously visible by an observer placed in front of the component housing the radiofrequency radiation function.
  • Radiofrequency radiation including the mechanical chassis that must be installed on the support (mast, pylon, tower, wall, etc ...) required by the cellular telecommunications network.
  • the realization of the general mechanical structure of the antenna is facilitated because the number of parts and different materials to use is limited.
  • the component housing the radiofrequency radiation function of the antenna comprises the mechanical structure of the antenna, for example the frame including in particular a reflector and a radome, and the alignment of the radiating elements provided with their individual power supply line.
  • the component housing the power supply function of the radiating elements includes dividers, phase shifters, cables and individual power lines that are necessary for supplying the radiating elements in phase as well as amplitude.
  • the problem of the quasi-transparent integration of the supply network of the radiating elements is avoided.
  • the realization of a component housing the quasi-transparent power supply function is indeed a difficult task because it brings together many power lines and necessary devices (dividers, phase shifters, etc ).
  • This component requires the use of materials with excellent conductivity that is not accessible with transparent or near-transparent materials such as transparent conductive oxides, such as tin-doped indium oxide (for "Indium Tin Oxide "), silver-doped tin oxide AgHT, aluminum-doped zinc, etc., for example.
  • the component housing the radiofrequency radiation function is seen by an observer.
  • the component housing the radiofrequency radiation function has a limited number of parts, which makes it easier to control its visual impact and to improve the quasi-transparency of the antenna system as seen by the observer.
  • the component housing the power supply function is connected to the component housing the radiofrequency radiation function by a multi-strand cable, each strand being connected to a power supply line for at least one radiating element of the component housing the radiofrequency function.
  • radiofrequency radiation Preferably the feed line and the strand are coaxial cables.
  • the component housing the radiofrequency radiation function is of the so-called “optically quasi-transparent" type.
  • the component housing the radiofrequency radiation function is disposed on one side of a support and the component housing the power supply function is disposed on the opposite side of the support.
  • the component housing the power supply function is placed in the vicinity of a base station.
  • a polarization T is a three-port device that has the function of allowing a radio frequency signal and a continuous electric current to pass at the same time through a single coaxial cable, and also a digital communication signal.
  • This device thus makes it possible to connect devices located at a distance from a base station BTS (for "Base Station” in English) by using a smaller number of cables.
  • Polarization T's are usually used to power electromechanical control units such as RET (for "Remote Electrical Tilt" in English) and ACU (for "Antenna Control Unit” in English). When these control units are in the vicinity of the BTS, it is possible to use a larger number of cables and shorter length.
  • This solution is particularly advantageous for complex, heavy and large antenna systems, such as systems comprising multiband antennas.
  • the figures 1 a and 1b respectively illustrate an antenna system 1 according to the prior art and a quasi-transparent antenna system 10 according to the invention which are placed on a wall 2, such as a building wall for example. Here they are represented as perceived by an observer facing them.
  • the individual supply lines of the radiating elements connected to the antenna supply network are arranged in reinforcements placed along the edges of the panel antenna in order to reduce the visual impact of its central portion.
  • the thickness of the peripheral reinforcements 3 of the antenna is an obstacle to the objective of producing an optically quasi-transparent antenna system.
  • the component housing the function of electric power of the radiating elements is placed on the opposite side of the wall. It is connected to the radiating elements of the component housing the radiofrequency radiation function by means of jumper cables 11 ("jumper cable"), one by polarization, extending the individual supply lines of the radiating elements.
  • the individual supply lines can be coaxial cables or microstrip lines (English microstrip) or stripline triplates.
  • the component housing the power supply function of the radiating elements being offset, the peripheral reinforcements 12 of the antenna no longer have to house this component. They can therefore be substantially thinner and / or composed of a material having an appearance close to that of the support, and thus less visible to the observer than in the case of the antenna system 1 of the prior art ( fig.1a ).
  • a system of 10 cross-polarized directional antenna comprises a substantially flat and rectangular reflector and an array of radiating elements carried by said reflector.
  • Each radiating element comprises at least two first conductors mounted head-to-tail, powered by a first external source of energy and forming a first dipole, and two second conductors mounted analogously to the first conductors, powered by a second external source of energy and forming a second dipole.
  • a dipole is defined by two straight conductors, which are mounted on two supports for their attachment to the reflector and are connected to the terminals (+) and (-) of a power source.
  • the arrayed radiators are aligned along the longitudinal axis of the reflector.
  • FIG 2 illustrates an embodiment of a VET variable tilt antenna system 20 which comprises at least one panel antenna 21 comprising a network of cross-polarized (+ 45 ° and -45 °) array elements 22 phase.
  • the antenna-panel 21 comprises a network of supply lines 23A, 23B, each of these lines being intended for the supply of one or more radiating elements 22.
  • the supply lines 23A, 23B are grouped in bundles of lines for each polarization and connected to the bridging cables, either by their extension in the form of strands or by means of connectors.
  • the radiating elements 22 of the antenna panel 21 are disposed on a common reflector 25 in substantially transparent conductive material such as indium oxide doped with tin ITO, or a fabric composed of son thin conductor, e.g. copper wire with a mesh size less than or equal to ⁇ / 10.
  • the aligned radiating elements 22 are separated by transverse partitions 26 which in particular improve the insulation between the radiating elements 22 and flanked by longitudinal partitions 27 which contribute to the formation of the horizontal beam -3 dB of the radiation pattern of the antenna system 20.
  • These partitions 26, 27 have a conductive surface covering a light transparent material preferably, such as PC polycarbonate for example, in order to reduce the overall weight of the antenna system 20.
  • Thinner peripheral reinforcements 28 are sufficient to ensure the mechanical rigidity of the antenna system 20. They are preferably formed by massive metal parts.
  • FIG. 3 A schematic cross sectional view of the antenna system 20 is illustrated on the figure 3 .
  • Antenna system parts with a mechanical function are made from a lightweight transparent material such as PC polycarbonate. When a conductivity function must also be ensured, these parts are covered with an indium oxide film doped with tin ITO or with a wire mesh of copper wires.
  • the antenna-panel 21 comprises radiating elements 22 aligned on a reflector 25.
  • the radiating elements 22 are separated from each other by transverse partitions 26 and framed by longitudinal partitions 27 which participate in the formation of the radiation pattern of the system Antenna 20.
  • the partitions 26, 27 represent a large conductive surface, and they are preferably made of an indium oxide layer doped with tin ITO deposited on a polycarbonate PC support for example.
  • Peripheral reinforcements 28 ensure the rigidity of the assembly.
  • the radiating elements 22 are protected by a radome 29.
  • a deposit of indium oxide doped with tin ITO may cover the peripheral reinforcements 28.
  • the radome it is not necessary for the radome to include metal parts.
  • the peripheral reinforcements 28 and the radome 29 may also be made in one piece.
  • the cross-polarized radiating element 22 comprises for each polarization two collinear dipoles 22A and 22B.
  • the dipoles 22A and 22B deserve particular attention with regard to the conductivity, and the use of a copper wire cloth is appropriate.
  • the dipoles of each polarization intersect at right angles.
  • the radiating element 22 is surmounted by a parasitic element 30.
  • parasitic element is meant a conductive element disposed above a dipole, which is not powered, directly via the dipole. He is often referred to as the "director”.
  • the parasitic element 30 is used to increase the width of the frequency band of the radiating element 22.
  • Each polarization of the radiating element 22 is electrically powered respectively by an individual supply line 23A or 23B terminating in a coupling device 31 ensuring the transfer of energy between the individual supply lines 23A, 23B and the radiating elements 22.
  • the supply lines 23A, 23B individual may especially be carried out by depositing copper on a transparent support.
  • the individual supply lines 23A, 23B are grouped into line beams 32A, 32B respectively for each polarization.
  • a bridging cable, gathering the coaxial cable strands, provides the transport of radio frequency signals between the panel antenna comprising the radiating elements and the component housing the power supply function.
  • the antenna system comprises a panel antenna 40 fixed on a support 41 such as a wall and having a row of radiating elements 42 arranged on a common reflector.
  • the network of single polarization feed lines is illustrated in this example.
  • Each radiating element 42 has at least one individual supply line 43 .
  • the supply lines 43 of the same polarization are grouped into a bundle of lines 44.
  • the bundle of lines 44 is extended in the form of a multi-strand cable which serves as a bridging cable 45 between the component housing the radiation function radio frequency, comprising the antenna-panel 40, and the component housing the power supply function 46.
  • the component housing the power supply function 46 is connected to the base station BTS transceiver (for "Base Transceiver Station” in English) by at least one short coaxial cable 47 , most often standard type 3/8 "or 1 ⁇ 2 'associated with connectors 7/16.
  • An antenna system comprising dual polarization radiating elements, at least two cables will be required between the base station BTS and the component housing the radiofrequency radiation function.
  • a bias T is a device that allows a single coaxial cable to be used both as a communication medium and as a power cable between the base station BTS and the component housing the power supply function.
  • the component housing the power supply function placed at a distance from the component housing the radiofrequency radiation function, can be arranged near the base station BTS. This proximity avoids having to use a polarization T as the control of the ACU control unit, located in the component housing the power supply function 46, can be performed using several standard low cables. length.
  • placing the component housing the power supply function 46 away from the component housing the radiofrequency radiation function has several advantages.
  • This arrangement has the advantage of allowing easy access to the component housing the power supply function 46 for maintenance operations.
  • the component housing the power supply function 46 can now be easily replaced. It also becomes possible to exchange it by one of the many types of usable configuration, ie passive, active or mixed type. For example, a customer may request a renovation or exchange of the component housing the power supply function by another type of power supply network having a different phase / amplitude distribution between the radiating elements. Or the replacement of a passive component housing the power supply function by an active power supply.
  • This arrangement also directly improves the visual integration of the antenna system by simplifying the design of the component housing the radiofrequency radiation function, by reducing the number of parts and materials to be integrated in this component housing the radiofrequency radiation function.
  • the number of coaxial cables 44 used depends on the number of radiating elements 42.
  • Such an antenna system is particularly suitable for use in the city center for which the visual impact / accessibility / performance budget is positive.
  • the figure 5 illustrates schematically in cross section a bridging cable 50 which has a multi-stranded configuration.
  • the bridging cable 50 has several strands 51 which may correspond to the extensions of the individual supply lines of the radiating elements.
  • the strands 51 are necessary to connect the radiating elements to the component housing the remote power supply function, for example near the BTS base station.
  • each strand 51 of coaxial structure comprises a central conductor having a diameter d of approximately 3.9 mm.
  • the bridging cable 50 supplying eight radiating elements (or groups of radiating elements) here has an outside diameter D of approximately 12.89 mm. This value is of the same order of magnitude as the diameter of a standard coaxial cable (eg type 1/2 "diameter - 13.8 mm) normally used for the power supply of panels antennas.
  • the reduction of the total weight of the component housing the radiofrequency radiation function makes it possible to envisage the possibility of going so far as to eliminate the peripheral reinforcements, for example by producing a single piece, having a transparent conductive surface (ITO film or conductive fabric), the radome and the reflector.
  • ITO film or conductive fabric transparent conductive surface
  • a lower weight of the component housing the radiofrequency radiation function also allows the installation of the antenna system in locations where the currently known configuration would not allow: the weight of the antenna system relative to the wind force can be a limiting factor for installation on certain masts, pylons or towers. In such a situation, it is not possible to envisage the exchange of an antenna system installed by a larger or heavier antenna system.
  • the physical separation and the distance between the component housing the radiofrequency radiation function and the component housing the power supply function introduces an improvement in all aspects of the antenna system.
  • the present invention is not limited to the described embodiments, but it is capable of many variants accessible to those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit of the invention.
  • This solution has been described for an antenna system comprising a VET variable-inclination one-band panel antenna having + 45 ° / -45 ° cross-polarized radiating elements. Nevertheless, it is clear to those skilled in the art that this solution is applicable to an antenna system comprising any other type of antenna, in particular a multiband antenna, an antenna with "patch" type radiating elements, an antenna integrating liabilities and assets, etc.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Computer Networks & Wireless Communication (AREA)
  • Variable-Direction Aerials And Aerial Arrays (AREA)
  • Support Of Aerials (AREA)
  • Details Of Aerials (AREA)

Abstract

Le système d'antennes comporte au moins un composant abritant la fonction de rayonnement radiofréquence comprenant des éléments rayonnants en réseau alimentés électriquement par au moins une ligne d'alimentation, et au moins un composant abritant la fonction d'alimentation électrique des éléments rayonnants. Le composant abritant la fonction de rayonnement radiofréquence et le composant abritant la fonction d'alimentation électrique sont reliés électriquement et ils sont physiquement séparés et distants. De préférence le composant abritant la fonction de rayonnement radiofréquence et le composant abritant la fonction d'alimentation électrique sont suffisamment distants et disposés de manière à ne pas être simultanément visibles par un observateur placés en face du composant abritant la fonction de rayonnement radiofréquence.The antenna system comprises at least one component housing the radiofrequency radiation function comprising network radiating elements electrically powered by at least one supply line, and at least one component housing the electrical supply function of the radiating elements. The component housing the radiofrequency radiation function and the component housing the power supply function are electrically connected and they are physically separate and remote. Preferably, the component housing the radiofrequency radiation function and the component housing the electrical supply function are sufficiently distant and arranged so as not to be simultaneously visible by an observer placed in front of the component housing the radiofrequency radiation function.

Description

DOMAINEFIELD

La présente invention se rapporte au domaine des systèmes d'antennes de télécommunication transmettant des ondes radioélectriques hyperfréquences. Elle concerne plus particulièrement les systèmes d'antennes dits « optiquement quasi-transparents » pour un observateur.The present invention relates to the field of telecommunication antenna systems transmitting microwave radio waves. It relates more particularly to so-called "optically quasi-transparent" antenna systems for an observer.

ARRIERE PLANBACKGROUND

Un système d'antennes est habituellement composé de plusieurs antennes en réseau (« Antenna Array » en anglais). Il peut notamment s'agir d'antennes planaires dite « patch » ou d'alignements de dipôles travaillant dans une bande de fréquence donnée, qui sont destinés plus particulièrement aux applications de la téléphonie cellulaire.An antenna system is usually composed of several network antennas ("Antenna Array"). It may especially be planar antennas called "patch" or dipole alignments working in a given frequency band, which are intended more particularly for cell phone applications.

Actuellement, les systèmes d'antennes de télécommunication comportent notamment des antennes de type « panneau » comprenant des éléments rayonnants en réseau. On entend ici par antenne-panneau, un alignement d'éléments rayonnants fonctionnant dans un domaine de fréquence donné et comportant son propre système d'alimentation. Une antenne-panneau a comme constituants principaux :

  • une face avant qui est conçue pour rayonner les ondes radioélectriques hyperfréquences, et dans ce but elle comprend le plus souvent une pluralité d'éléments rayonnants alignés ;
  • une face arrière qui regroupe tous les dispositifs nécessaires au fonctionnement en réseau, comme notamment des diviseurs, des déphaseurs, des câbles et des lignes d'alimentation qui sont nécessaires à une alimentation convenable de tous les éléments rayonnants autant en phase qu'en amplitude ; et
  • une structure mécanique globale qui comprend notamment un radôme et d'autres moyens permettant d'installer l'antenne-panneau sur le support choisi comme un mât, un pylône, une tour ou un mur par exemple.
Currently, telecommunication antenna systems comprise in particular "panel" type antennas comprising networked radiating elements. The term "antenna-panel" here means an alignment of radiating elements operating in a given frequency range and comprising its own power supply system. An antenna-panel has as main constituents:
  • a front face which is designed to radiate microwave radio waves, and for this purpose it most often comprises a plurality of aligned radiating elements;
  • a rear face which groups together all the devices necessary for network operation, such as dividers, phase shifters, cables and supply lines which are necessary for a suitable supply of all the radiating elements as much in phase as in amplitude; and
  • a global mechanical structure which comprises in particular a radome and other means for installing the antenna-panel on the support chosen as a mast, a tower, a tower or a wall for example.

Les systèmes d'antennes dits « optiquement quasi-transparents » sont au centre de l'intérêt des opérateurs pour leurs qualités visuelles et esthétiques leur permettant une meilleure intégration dans le paysage. On entend par « optiquement quasi-transparent », un dispositif qui laisse passer la lumière visible dans une proportion d'au moins 80%, de telle sorte que l'oeil humain n'identifie pas au premier coup d'oeil la présence d'un tel dispositif. Certains systèmes d'antennes de conception quasi-transparente existent déjà qui comprennent un radôme et des éléments rayonnants quasi-transparents. Toutefois les systèmes d'antennes en réseau actuellement installés doivent évoluer vers un impact visuel de plus en plus faible, une taille et un poids moindres, et une amélioration des caractéristiques du système d'alimentation des éléments rayonnants.The so-called "optically near-transparent" antenna systems are at the center of operators' interest for their visual and aesthetic qualities allowing them a better integration into the landscape. "Optically quasi-transparent ", a device that allows the visible light to pass in a proportion of at least 80%, so that the human eye does not identify at first glance the presence of such a device. Some quasi-transparent antenna systems already exist that include a radome and quasi-transparent radiating elements. However, currently installed network antenna systems must evolve to a lower and lower visual impact, lower size and weight, and improved radiating system characteristics.

Par exemple, les antennes à inclinaison électrique variable dites VET (pour « Variable Electric Tilt » en anglais) nécessitent un réseau d'alimentation des éléments rayonnants complexe qui comporte de nombreuses pièces et qui est difficile à réaliser dans un objectif de quasi-transparence. En outre, les différents matériaux utilisés pour ces réalisations quasi-transparentes ont souvent des comportements thermiques très différents qui conduisent à une structure mécanique élaborées.For example, the so-called variable electric tilt antennas (VETs) require a complex radiating power supply network that has many parts and is difficult to achieve for the purpose of near-transparency. In addition, the different materials used for these quasi-transparent embodiments often have very different thermal behaviors that lead to an elaborate mechanical structure.

Les systèmes d'antennes multibandes regroupent habituellement dans une structure mécanique commune plusieurs antennes-panneaux ("Panel Antenna" en anglais) en réseau. Ces systèmes d'antennes comprennent plusieurs rangées d'éléments rayonnants fonctionnant dans des domaines de fréquence différents. Certains systèmes d'antennes multibandes ont par exemple tendance à avoir de grandes dimensions avec une incidence sur la résistance au vent et un poids élevé. Ceci peut entrainer des problèmes potentiels concernant le matériel de montage et d'installation des antennes, mais aussi sur la structure du support (mât, pylône, tour, mur, etc...) et les pièces mécanique assurant l'interface.Multiband antenna systems usually group together in a common mechanical structure several network antennas ("Panel Antenna") in network. These antenna systems comprise several rows of radiating elements operating in different frequency domains. For example, some multiband antenna systems tend to be large with an impact on wind resistance and high weight. This can lead to potential problems concerning the mounting hardware and installation of the antennas, but also on the support structure (mast, pylon, tower, wall, etc ...) and the mechanical parts providing the interface.

Aujourd'hui les systèmes d'antennes comportant des antennes-panneaux en réseau sont vendus « en l'état », c'est à dire que les fonctionnalités du réseau d'alimentation des éléments rayonnants sont prédéterminées. Si une adaptation est nécessaire dans le cas d'une modification ou d'une mise à jour concernant les caractéristiques ou les performances du réseau d'alimentation, ou si une nouvelle fonctionnalité est requise, l'ensemble des constituants du système d'antennes doit être changé.Today, antenna systems comprising networked panel antennas are sold "as is", that is to say that the functionalities of the supply network of the radiating elements are predetermined. If an adaptation is necessary in the event of a modification or an update concerning the characteristics or performances of the power supply network, or if a new functionality is required, all the constituents of the antenna system must to be changed.

RESUMEABSTRACT

De la part des opérateurs, un besoin s'exprime donc de disposer de systèmes d'antennes en réseau ayant un impact visuel moindre et des fonctionnalités adaptables à l'évolution de la demande des utilisateurs. En particulier ils sont dans l'attente d'un système d'antennes à inclinaison électrique variable VET de très faible impact visuel, de taille et de poids moindres, et ayant un réseau d'alimentation des éléments rayonnants proposant des fonctionnalités aptes à être adaptées et/ou améliorées.On the part of the operators, a need is therefore expressed to have networked antenna systems having a lower visual impact and adaptable functionalities to the changing demands of users. In particular, they are waiting for a VET variable tilt antenna system of very low visual impact, of smaller size and weight, and having a radiating power supply network offering functionalities adapted to be adapted and / or improved.

L'objet de la présente invention est un système d'antennes comportant au moins un composant abritant la fonction de rayonnement radiofréquence comprenant des éléments rayonnants en réseau alimentés électriquement par au moins une ligne d'alimentation, et au moins un composant abritant la fonction d'alimentation électrique des éléments rayonnants. Le composant abritant la fonction de rayonnement radiofréquence et le composant abritant la fonction d'alimentation électrique sont reliés électriquement, et ils sont physiquement séparés et distants. De préférence le composant abritant la fonction de rayonnement radiofréquence et le composant abritant la fonction d'alimentation électrique sont suffisamment distants et disposés de manière à ne pas être simultanément visibles par un observateur placés en face du composant abritant la fonction de rayonnement radiofréquence.The object of the present invention is an antenna system comprising at least one component housing the radiofrequency radiation function comprising network radiating elements powered electrically by at least one power supply line, and at least one component housing the function of power supply of the radiating elements. The component housing the radiofrequency radiation function and the component housing the power supply function are electrically connected, and they are physically separated and distant. Preferably, the component housing the radiofrequency radiation function and the component housing the electrical supply function are sufficiently distant and arranged so as not to be simultaneously visible by an observer placed in front of the component housing the radiofrequency radiation function.

Une ou plusieurs des fonctions nécessaires du réseau d'alimentation électrique des éléments rayonnants sont déportées à distance du composant abritant la fonction de rayonnement radiofréquence de l'antenne, permettant ainsi de simplifier, en rendant plus petit et plus léger, le composant abritant la fonction de rayonnement radiofréquence, notamment le châssis mécanique qui doit être installé sur le support (mât, pylône, tour, mur, etc...) requis par le réseau de télécommunication cellulaire. La réalisation de la structure mécanique générale de l'antenne est facilitée car le nombre de pièces et de matériaux différents à utiliser est limité.One or more of the necessary functions of the electrical supply network of the radiating elements are remotely distanced from the component housing the radiofrequency radiation function of the antenna, thus making it possible to simplify, by making the component housing the function smaller and lighter. radiofrequency radiation, including the mechanical chassis that must be installed on the support (mast, pylon, tower, wall, etc ...) required by the cellular telecommunications network. The realization of the general mechanical structure of the antenna is facilitated because the number of parts and different materials to use is limited.

Cette solution permet de résoudre certains inconvénients de l'art antérieurs en séparant la fonction de rayonnement radiofréquence de l'antenne de la fonction d'alimentation électrique des éléments rayonnants. Le composant abritant la fonction de rayonnement radiofréquence de l'antenne comprend la structure mécanique de l'antenne, par exemple le châssis incluant notamment un réflecteur et un radôme, et de l'alignement des éléments rayonnants munis de leur ligne d'alimentation individuelle. Le composant abritant la fonction d'alimentation électrique des éléments rayonnants comprend notamment des diviseurs, des déphaseurs, des câbles et les lignes d'alimentation individuelles qui sont nécessaires à l'alimentation des éléments rayonnants autant en phase qu'en amplitude.This solution solves some of the disadvantages of the prior art by separating the radiofrequency radiation function of the antenna from the power supply function of the radiating elements. The component housing the radiofrequency radiation function of the antenna comprises the mechanical structure of the antenna, for example the frame including in particular a reflector and a radome, and the alignment of the radiating elements provided with their individual power supply line. The component housing the power supply function of the radiating elements includes dividers, phase shifters, cables and individual power lines that are necessary for supplying the radiating elements in phase as well as amplitude.

Ainsi pour les antennes optiquement quasi-transparentes, on s'exonère du problème de l'intégration quasi-transparente du réseau d'alimentation des éléments rayonnants. La réalisation d'un composant abritant la fonction d'alimentation électrique quasi-transparent est en effet une tâche difficile car il rassemble de nombreuses lignes d'alimentation et des dispositifs nécessaires (diviseurs, déphaseurs , etc...). Ce composant impose l'utilisation de matériaux avec une excellente conductivité qui n'est pas accessible avec des matériaux transparents ou quasi-transparents comme des oxydes conducteurs transparents, tels que l'oxyde d'indium dopé à l'étain ITO (pour « Indium Tin Oxyde » en anglais), l'oxyde d'étain dopé à l'argent AgHT, le zinc dopé à l'aluminium, etc..., par exemple.Thus, for optically quasi-transparent antennas, the problem of the quasi-transparent integration of the supply network of the radiating elements is avoided. The realization of a component housing the quasi-transparent power supply function is indeed a difficult task because it brings together many power lines and necessary devices (dividers, phase shifters, etc ...). This component requires the use of materials with excellent conductivity that is not accessible with transparent or near-transparent materials such as transparent conductive oxides, such as tin-doped indium oxide (for "Indium Tin Oxide "), silver-doped tin oxide AgHT, aluminum-doped zinc, etc., for example.

Après l'installation du composant abritant la fonction de rayonnement radiofréquence, on est ainsi en mesure de pouvoir remplacer totalement ou partiellement le composant abritant la fonction d'alimentation électrique déporté, soit pour une adaptation, soit pour l'amélioration des fonctionnalités par exemple.After installation of the component housing the radiofrequency radiation function, it is thus possible to be able to completely or partially replace the component housing the remote power supply function, either for adaptation or for the improvement of functionalities for example.

Dans cette solution, seul le composant abritant la fonction de rayonnement radiofréquence est vu par un observateur. En outre le composant abritant la fonction de rayonnement radiofréquence comporte un nombre de pièces limité, ce qui permet de maitriser plus aisément son impact visuel et d'améliorer la quasi-transparence du système d'antennes vu par l'observateur.In this solution, only the component housing the radiofrequency radiation function is seen by an observer. In addition, the component housing the radiofrequency radiation function has a limited number of parts, which makes it easier to control its visual impact and to improve the quasi-transparency of the antenna system as seen by the observer.

Selon un aspect, le composant abritant la fonction d'alimentation électrique est relié au composant abritant la fonction de rayonnement radiofréquence par un câble multibrins, chaque brin étant relié à une ligne d'alimentation pour au moins un élément rayonnant du composant abritant la fonction de rayonnement radiofréquence. De préférence la ligne d'alimentation et le brin sont des câbles coaxiaux.In one aspect, the component housing the power supply function is connected to the component housing the radiofrequency radiation function by a multi-strand cable, each strand being connected to a power supply line for at least one radiating element of the component housing the radiofrequency function. radiofrequency radiation. Preferably the feed line and the strand are coaxial cables.

Selon un autre aspect, le composant abritant la fonction de rayonnement radiofréquence est de type dit « optiquement quasi-transparent ».In another aspect, the component housing the radiofrequency radiation function is of the so-called "optically quasi-transparent" type.

Selon encore un autre aspect, le composant abritant la fonction de rayonnement radiofréquence est disposé sur une face d'un support et le composant abritant la fonction d'alimentation électrique est disposé sur la face opposée du support.In yet another aspect, the component housing the radiofrequency radiation function is disposed on one side of a support and the component housing the power supply function is disposed on the opposite side of the support.

Selon encore un autre aspect, le composant abritant la fonction d'alimentation électrique est placé au voisinage d'une station de base.In yet another aspect, the component housing the power supply function is placed in the vicinity of a base station.

Le système d'antennes a notamment pour avantages

  • une augmentation de la quasi-transparence du système d'antennes,
  • une conception simplifiée du composant abritant la fonction de rayonnement radiofréquence,
  • une plus grande facilité à échanger et/ou rénover la partie du réseau d'alimentation contenue dans le composant abritant la fonction d'alimentation électrique des éléments rayonnants,
  • la possibilité d'installer le système d'antennes dans des emplacements où la taille et le poids des systèmes d'antenne connus ne le permettrait pas,
  • la possibilité de s'affranchir de l'utilisation d'un T de polarisation (« bias-tee » en anglais) en plaçant le composant abritant la fonction d'alimentation électrique des éléments rayonnants à proximité de la station de base.
The antenna system has particular advantages
  • an increase in the quasi-transparency of the antenna system,
  • a simplified design of the component housing the radiofrequency radiation function,
  • greater ease in exchanging and / or renovating the portion of the power supply network contained in the component housing the electrical power supply function of the radiating elements,
  • the possibility of installing the antenna system in locations where the size and weight of known antenna systems would not allow it,
  • the possibility of avoiding the use of a polarization T ("bias-tee" in English) by placing the component housing the power supply function of the radiating elements near the base station.

Rappelons qu'un T de polarisation est un dispositif à trois ports qui a pour fonction de permettre de faire transiter en même temps par un seul câble coaxial un signal radiofréquence et un courant électrique continu, et aussi un signal de communication digital. Ce dispositif permet ainsi de connecter des appareils situés à une certaine distance d'une station de base BTS (pour « Base Station » en anglais) en ayant recours à un nombre moindre de câbles. Les T de polarisation sont habituellement utilisés pour alimenter des unités de commande électro-mécaniques telles que des RET (pour « Remote Electrical Tilt » en anglais) et des ACU (pour « Antenna Control Unit » en anglais). Lorsque ces unités de commande se trouvent au voisinage des BTS, on peut utiliser un nombre de câbles plus important et de moindre longueur.Recall that a polarization T is a three-port device that has the function of allowing a radio frequency signal and a continuous electric current to pass at the same time through a single coaxial cable, and also a digital communication signal. This device thus makes it possible to connect devices located at a distance from a base station BTS (for "Base Station" in English) by using a smaller number of cables. Polarization T's are usually used to power electromechanical control units such as RET (for "Remote Electrical Tilt" in English) and ACU (for "Antenna Control Unit" in English). When these control units are in the vicinity of the BTS, it is possible to use a larger number of cables and shorter length.

Cette solution est particulièrement avantageuse pour des systèmes d'antenne complexes, lourds et de grande taille, comme les systèmes comprenant des antennes multibandes.This solution is particularly advantageous for complex, heavy and large antenna systems, such as systems comprising multiband antennas.

BREVE DESCRIPTIONBRIEF DESCRIPTION

D'autres caractéristiques et avantages apparaîtront à la lecture de la description qui suit d'un mode de réalisation, donné bien entendu à titre illustratif et non limitatif, et dans le dessin annexé sur lequel

  • les figures 1 a et 1 b 1 illustrent la vue qu'a un observateur d'un système d'antennes 1 selon l'art antérieur et d'un système d'antennes 10 quasi-transparent selon l'invention respectivement,
  • la figure 2 illustre schématiquement une vue en perspective d'une antenne-panneau comprenant une rangée d'éléments rayonnants à polarisation croisée,
  • la figure 3 illustre en coupe schématique transversale l'antenne-panneau de la figure 2,
  • la figure 4 illustre schématiquement un mode de réalisation d'un système d'antennes,
  • la figure 5 illustre en coupe schématique transversale un câble du réseau d'alimentation des éléments rayonnants.
Other characteristics and advantages will appear on reading the following description of an embodiment, given of course by way of illustration and not limitation, and in the accompanying drawing in which:
  • the figures 1 a and 1 b 1 illustrate the view of an observer of an antenna system 1 according to the prior art and a quasi-transparent antenna system 10 according to the invention respectively,
  • the figure 2 schematically illustrates a perspective view of a panel antenna comprising a row of cross-polarizing radiating elements,
  • the figure 3 illustrates in cross-sectional schematic the antenna-panel of the figure 2 ,
  • the figure 4 schematically illustrates an embodiment of an antenna system,
  • the figure 5 illustrates in cross-sectional schematic a cable of the supply network of the radiating elements.

La terminologie directionnelle comme « gauche », « droite », « haut », « bas », « avant », « arrière », « vertical », horizontal », etc... est utilisée en référence à l'orientation des figures ici décrites. Parce que les éléments composant les modes de réalisation de la présente invention peuvent être placés dans des orientations différentes, la terminologie directionnelle n'est utilisée ici qu'à des fins d'illustration et n'est nullement limitative.Directional terminology such as "left", "right", "up", "down", "forward", "backward", "vertical", horizontal ", etc. is used with reference to the orientation of the figures here described. Because the elements composing the embodiments of the present invention can be placed in different orientations, the directional terminology is only used here for purposes of illustration and is in no way limiting.

DESCRIPTION DETAILLEEDETAILED DESCRIPTION

Les figures 1 a et 1 b illustre respectivement un système d'antennes 1 selon l'art antérieur et un système d'antennes 10 quasi-transparent selon l'invention qui sont placés sur une paroi 2, telle qu'un mur de bâtiment par exemple. Ici ils sont représentés tels que le perçoit un observateur qui leur fait face.The figures 1 a and 1b respectively illustrate an antenna system 1 according to the prior art and a quasi-transparent antenna system 10 according to the invention which are placed on a wall 2, such as a building wall for example. Here they are represented as perceived by an observer facing them.

Dans le système d'antennes 1 de l'art antérieur (figure 1a), les lignes d'alimentation individuelles des éléments rayonnants connectées au réseau d'alimentation de l'antenne sont disposées dans des renforts placés le long des bords de l'antenne panneau dans le but de réduire l'impact visuel de sa partie centrale. Cependant l'épaisseur des renforts périphériques 3 de l'antenne est un obstacle vis-à-vis de l'objectif de réaliser un système d'antennes optiquement quasi-transparent.In the antenna system 1 of the prior art ( figure 1a ), the individual supply lines of the radiating elements connected to the antenna supply network are arranged in reinforcements placed along the edges of the panel antenna in order to reduce the visual impact of its central portion. However, the thickness of the peripheral reinforcements 3 of the antenna is an obstacle to the objective of producing an optically quasi-transparent antenna system.

Dans le système d'antennes 10 de la figure 1b, le composant abritant la fonction d'alimentation électrique des éléments rayonnants est placé sur la face opposée de la paroi. Il est relié aux éléments rayonnants du composant abritant la fonction de rayonnement radiofréquence par l'intermédiaire de câbles de pontage 11 («jumper cable » en anglais), un par polarisation, prolongeant les lignes d'alimentation individuelles des éléments rayonnants. Les lignes d'alimentation individuelles peuvent être des câbles coaxiaux ou bien des lignes microrubans (« microstrip » en anglais) ou triplaques «< stripline » en anglais). Dans ce système d'antennes 10, le composant abritant la fonction d'alimentation électrique des éléments rayonnants étant déporté, les renforts périphériques 12 de l'antenne n'ont plus à abriter ce composant. Ils peuvent donc être sensiblement plus fins et/ou composé d'un matériau ayant une apparence proche de celle du support, et ainsi moins visibles pour l'observateur que dans le cas du système d'antennes 1 de l'art antérieur (fig.1a).In the antenna system 10 of the figure 1b , the component housing the function of electric power of the radiating elements is placed on the opposite side of the wall. It is connected to the radiating elements of the component housing the radiofrequency radiation function by means of jumper cables 11 ("jumper cable"), one by polarization, extending the individual supply lines of the radiating elements. The individual supply lines can be coaxial cables or microstrip lines (English microstrip) or stripline triplates. In this antenna system 10, the component housing the power supply function of the radiating elements being offset, the peripheral reinforcements 12 of the antenna no longer have to house this component. They can therefore be substantially thinner and / or composed of a material having an appearance close to that of the support, and thus less visible to the observer than in the case of the antenna system 1 of the prior art ( fig.1a ).

Dans ce mode de réalisation, un système d'antennes 10 directionnelles à polarisation croisée comporte un réflecteur sensiblement plan et rectangulaire plan et un réseau d'éléments rayonnants portés par ce réflecteur. Chaque élément rayonnant comporte au moins deux premiers conducteurs montés tête-bêche, alimentés par une première source extérieure d'énergie et formant un premier dipôle, et deux deuxièmes conducteurs montés de manière analogue aux premiers conducteurs, alimentés par une deuxième source extérieure d'énergie et formant un deuxième dipôle. Un dipôle est défini par deux conducteurs droits, qui sont montés sur deux supports pour leur fixation au réflecteur et sont reliés aux bornes (+) et (-) d'une source d'alimentation. Les éléments rayonnants en réseau sont alignés selon l'axe longitudinal du réflecteur.In this embodiment, a system of 10 cross-polarized directional antenna comprises a substantially flat and rectangular reflector and an array of radiating elements carried by said reflector. Each radiating element comprises at least two first conductors mounted head-to-tail, powered by a first external source of energy and forming a first dipole, and two second conductors mounted analogously to the first conductors, powered by a second external source of energy and forming a second dipole. A dipole is defined by two straight conductors, which are mounted on two supports for their attachment to the reflector and are connected to the terminals (+) and (-) of a power source. The arrayed radiators are aligned along the longitudinal axis of the reflector.

On considérera maintenant la figure 2 qui illustre un mode de réalisation d'un système d'antennes 20 à inclinaison électrique variable VET qui comporte au moins une antenne-panneau 21 comprenant une rangée d'éléments rayonnants 22 à polarisation croisée (+45° et -45°) en réseau phasé. L'antenne-panneau 21 comporte un réseau de lignes d'alimentation 23A, 23B, chacune de ces lignes étant destinée à l'alimentation d'un ou plusieurs éléments rayonnants 22. Les lignes d'alimentation 23A, 23B sont regroupées en faisceaux de lignes pour chaque polarisation et connectées aux câbles de pontage, soit par leur prolongement sous forme de brins, soit par l'intermédiaire de connecteurs.We will now consider the figure 2 which illustrates an embodiment of a VET variable tilt antenna system 20 which comprises at least one panel antenna 21 comprising a network of cross-polarized (+ 45 ° and -45 °) array elements 22 phase. The antenna-panel 21 comprises a network of supply lines 23A, 23B, each of these lines being intended for the supply of one or more radiating elements 22. The supply lines 23A, 23B are grouped in bundles of lines for each polarization and connected to the bridging cables, either by their extension in the form of strands or by means of connectors.

Les éléments rayonnants 22 de l'antenne-panneau 21 sont disposés sur un réflecteur 25 commun en matériau conducteur quasi-transparent, comme l'oxyde d'indium dopé à l'étain ITO ou une toile composée de fils conducteur minces, par exemple des fils de cuivre avec une taille de maille inférieure ou égale à λ/10. Les éléments rayonnants 22 alignés sont séparés par des cloisons transversales 26 qui améliorent notamment l'isolation entre les éléments rayonnants 22 et encadrés par des cloisons longitudinales 27 qui contribuent à la formation du faisceau horizontal -3 dB du diagramme de rayonnement du système d'antennes 20. Ces cloisons 26, 27 ont une surface conductrice recouvrant un matériau transparent léger de préférence, comme du polycarbonate PC par exemple, afin de réduire le poids global du système d'antennes 20. Des renforts périphériques 28 de faible épaisseur suffisent à assurer la rigidité mécanique du système d'antennes 20. Ils sont de préférence formés par des pièces métalliques massives.The radiating elements 22 of the antenna panel 21 are disposed on a common reflector 25 in substantially transparent conductive material such as indium oxide doped with tin ITO, or a fabric composed of son thin conductor, e.g. copper wire with a mesh size less than or equal to λ / 10. The aligned radiating elements 22 are separated by transverse partitions 26 which in particular improve the insulation between the radiating elements 22 and flanked by longitudinal partitions 27 which contribute to the formation of the horizontal beam -3 dB of the radiation pattern of the antenna system 20. These partitions 26, 27 have a conductive surface covering a light transparent material preferably, such as PC polycarbonate for example, in order to reduce the overall weight of the antenna system 20. Thinner peripheral reinforcements 28 are sufficient to ensure the mechanical rigidity of the antenna system 20. They are preferably formed by massive metal parts.

Une vue en coupe transversale schématique du système d'antenne 20 est illustrée sur la figure 3. Les pièces du système d'antennes ayant une fonction mécanique sont fabriquées à partir d'un matériau transparent léger comme du polycarbonate PC. Lorsqu'une fonction de conductivité doit être également assurée, ces pièces sont recouvertes d'un film d'oxyde d'indium dopé à l'étain ITO ou d'une toile maillée de fils de cuivre.A schematic cross sectional view of the antenna system 20 is illustrated on the figure 3 . Antenna system parts with a mechanical function are made from a lightweight transparent material such as PC polycarbonate. When a conductivity function must also be ensured, these parts are covered with an indium oxide film doped with tin ITO or with a wire mesh of copper wires.

L'antenne-panneau 21 comporte des éléments rayonnants 22 alignés sur un réflecteur 25. Les éléments rayonnants 22 sont séparés les uns des autres par des cloisons transversales 26 et encadrés par des cloisons longitudinales 27 qui participent à la formation du diagramme de rayonnement du système d'antennes 20. Les cloisons 26, 27 représentent une surface conductrice importante, et elles sont de préférence constituées d'une couche d'oxyde d'indium dopé à l'étain ITO déposée sur un support en polycarbonate PC par exemple.The antenna-panel 21 comprises radiating elements 22 aligned on a reflector 25. The radiating elements 22 are separated from each other by transverse partitions 26 and framed by longitudinal partitions 27 which participate in the formation of the radiation pattern of the system Antenna 20. The partitions 26, 27 represent a large conductive surface, and they are preferably made of an indium oxide layer doped with tin ITO deposited on a polycarbonate PC support for example.

Des renforts périphériques 28 assurent la rigidité de l'ensemble. Les éléments rayonnants 22 sont protégés par un radôme 29. Un dépôt d'oxyde d'indium dopé à l'étain ITO peut recouvrir les renforts périphériques 28. Toutefois, il n'est pas nécessaire que le radôme comporte des pièces métalliques. Les renforts périphériques 28 et le radôme 29 peuvent aussi être réalisés en une seule pièce.Peripheral reinforcements 28 ensure the rigidity of the assembly. The radiating elements 22 are protected by a radome 29. A deposit of indium oxide doped with tin ITO may cover the peripheral reinforcements 28. However, it is not necessary for the radome to include metal parts. The peripheral reinforcements 28 and the radome 29 may also be made in one piece.

L'élément rayonnant 22 à polarisation croisée comporte pour chaque polarisation deux dipôles colinéaires 22A et 22B. Les dipôles 22A et 22B méritent une attention particulière en ce qui concerne la conductivité, et l'utilisation d'une toile de fils de cuivre est appropriée. Les dipôles de chaque polarisation se croisent à angle droit. L'élément rayonnant 22 est surmonté d'un élément parasite 30. On entend par élément parasite un élément conducteur, disposé au dessus d'un dipôle, qui n'est pas alimenté, directement par l'intermédiaire du dipôle. Il est souvent désigné par le terme « directeur ». L'élément parasite 30 est utilisé pour augmenter la largeur de la bande de fréquence de l'élément rayonnant 22. The cross-polarized radiating element 22 comprises for each polarization two collinear dipoles 22A and 22B. The dipoles 22A and 22B deserve particular attention with regard to the conductivity, and the use of a copper wire cloth is appropriate. The dipoles of each polarization intersect at right angles. The radiating element 22 is surmounted by a parasitic element 30. By parasitic element is meant a conductive element disposed above a dipole, which is not powered, directly via the dipole. He is often referred to as the "director". The parasitic element 30 is used to increase the width of the frequency band of the radiating element 22.

Chaque polarisation de l'élément rayonnant 22 est alimentée électriquement respectivement par une ligne d'alimentation 23A ou 23B individuelle aboutissant à un dispositif de couplage 31 assurant le transfert d'énergie entre les lignes d'alimentation 23A, 23B individuelles et les éléments rayonnants 22. Les lignes d'alimentation 23A, 23B individuelles peuvent notamment être réalisées par un dépôt de cuivre sur un support transparent. Les lignes d'alimentation 23A, 23B individuelles sont regroupées en faisceaux de lignes 32A, 32B respectivement pour chaque polarisation. Un câble de pontage, rassemblant les torons de câbles coaxiaux, assure le transport des signaux radiofréquence entre l'antenne-panneau comprenant les éléments rayonnants et le composant abritant la fonction d'alimentation électrique.Each polarization of the radiating element 22 is electrically powered respectively by an individual supply line 23A or 23B terminating in a coupling device 31 ensuring the transfer of energy between the individual supply lines 23A, 23B and the radiating elements 22. . The supply lines 23A, 23B individual may especially be carried out by depositing copper on a transparent support. The individual supply lines 23A, 23B are grouped into line beams 32A, 32B respectively for each polarization. A bridging cable, gathering the coaxial cable strands, provides the transport of radio frequency signals between the panel antenna comprising the radiating elements and the component housing the power supply function.

Dans le mode de réalisation schématiquement illustré sur la figure 4, le système d'antennes comprend une antenne-panneau 40 fixée sur un support 41 tel qu'un mur et comportant une rangée d'éléments rayonnants 42 disposés sur un réflecteur commun. Le réseau des lignes d'alimentation d'une seule polarisation est illustré dans le présent exemple. Chaque élément rayonnant 42 possède au moins une ligne d'alimentation 43 individuelle. Les lignes d'alimentation 43 d'une même polarisation sont regroupées en un faisceau de lignes 44. Le faisceau de lignes 44 se prolonge sous la forme d'un câble multibrins qui sert de câble de pontage 45 entre le composant abritant la fonction de rayonnement radiofréquence, comprenant l'antenne-panneau 40, et le composant abritant la fonction d'alimentation électrique 46. Il est aussi possible d'intercaler un connecteur radiofréquence multibrin à la sortie de l'antenne-panneau 40 pour connecter le faisceau de lignes 44 au câble de pontage 45, afin de permettre une plus grande flexibilité dans les caractéristiques des câbles mis en oeuvre. Le composant abritant la fonction d'alimentation électrique 46 est relié à la station de base émettrice/réceptrice BTS (pour « Base Transceiver Station » en anglais) par au moins un câble de liaison 47 coaxial de faible longueur, le plus souvent de type standard 3/8" ou ½' associé à des connecteurs 7/16. Pour un système d'antennes comportant des éléments rayonnants à double polarisation, au moins deux câbles seront nécessaires entre la station de base BTS et le composant abritant la fonction de rayonnement radiofréquence.In the embodiment schematically illustrated on the figure 4 , the antenna system comprises a panel antenna 40 fixed on a support 41 such as a wall and having a row of radiating elements 42 arranged on a common reflector. The network of single polarization feed lines is illustrated in this example. Each radiating element 42 has at least one individual supply line 43 . The supply lines 43 of the same polarization are grouped into a bundle of lines 44. The bundle of lines 44 is extended in the form of a multi-strand cable which serves as a bridging cable 45 between the component housing the radiation function radio frequency, comprising the antenna-panel 40, and the component housing the power supply function 46. It is also possible to insert a multi-stranded radio frequency connector at the output of the antenna-panel 40 to connect the line beam 44 to the bridging cable 45, to allow greater flexibility in the characteristics of the cables used. The component housing the power supply function 46 is connected to the base station BTS transceiver (for "Base Transceiver Station" in English) by at least one short coaxial cable 47 , most often standard type 3/8 "or ½ 'associated with connectors 7/16. An antenna system comprising dual polarization radiating elements, at least two cables will be required between the base station BTS and the component housing the radiofrequency radiation function.

Un T de polarisation est un dispositif qui permet d'utiliser un seul câble coaxial à la fois comme support de communication et comme câble d'alimentation entre la station de base BTS et le composant abritant la fonction d'alimentation électrique. Dans la solution proposée, le composant abritant la fonction d'alimentation électrique, placé à distance du composant abritant la fonction de rayonnement radiofréquence, peut être disposé à proximité de la station de base BTS. Cette proximité évite de devoir utiliser un T de polarisation dans la mesure où le pilotage de l'unité de commande ACU, située dans le composant abritant la fonction d'alimentation électrique 46, peut être effectuée à l'aide de plusieurs câbles standards de faible longueur. Le fait de placer ainsi le composant abritant la fonction d'alimentation électrique 46 à distance du composant abritant la fonction de rayonnement radiofréquence présente plusieurs avantages.A bias T is a device that allows a single coaxial cable to be used both as a communication medium and as a power cable between the base station BTS and the component housing the power supply function. In the proposed solution, the component housing the power supply function, placed at a distance from the component housing the radiofrequency radiation function, can be arranged near the base station BTS. This proximity avoids having to use a polarization T as the control of the ACU control unit, located in the component housing the power supply function 46, can be performed using several standard low cables. length. Thus placing the component housing the power supply function 46 away from the component housing the radiofrequency radiation function has several advantages.

Cette disposition présente notamment l'avantage d'autoriser un accès aisé au composant abritant la fonction d'alimentation électrique 46 pour les opérations de maintenance. Le composant abritant la fonction d'alimentation électrique 46 peut désormais être facilement remplacé. Il devient également possible de l'échanger par l'un des nombreux types de configuration utilisables, c'est à dire de type passif, actif ou mixte. Par exemple, un client peut demander une rénovation ou un échange du composant abritant la fonction d'alimentation électrique par un autre type de réseau d'alimentation comportant une distribution différente en phase/amplitude entre les éléments rayonnants. Ou bien le remplacement d'un composant passif abritant la fonction d'alimentation électrique par un réseau d'alimentation actif. Du point de vue de la production et de la distribution de tels produits, il est avantageux de séparer le composant abritant la fonction de rayonnement radiofréquence du composant abritant la fonction d'alimentation électrique afin de réduire le nombre de pièces référencées car un composant abritant la fonction de rayonnement radiofréquence peut avoir plusieurs usages selon le composant abritant la fonction d'alimentation électrique qui lui est associé.This arrangement has the advantage of allowing easy access to the component housing the power supply function 46 for maintenance operations. The component housing the power supply function 46 can now be easily replaced. It also becomes possible to exchange it by one of the many types of usable configuration, ie passive, active or mixed type. For example, a customer may request a renovation or exchange of the component housing the power supply function by another type of power supply network having a different phase / amplitude distribution between the radiating elements. Or the replacement of a passive component housing the power supply function by an active power supply. From the point of view of the production and distribution of such products, it is advantageous to separate the component containing the radiofrequency radiation function of the component housing the power supply function in order to reduce the number of parts referenced because a component housing the Radiofrequency radiation function can have several uses depending on the component housing the power supply function associated with it.

Cette disposition améliore aussi directement l'intégration visuelle du système d'antennes en simplifiant la conception du composant abritant la fonction de rayonnement radiofréquence, en réduisant le nombre de pièces et de matériaux à intégrer dans ce composant abritant la fonction de rayonnement radiofréquence. Le nombre des câbles coaxiaux 44 utilisés dépendent du nombre d'éléments rayonnants 42. La section des torons composant les câbles de pontage 45, et donc l'impact visuel résultant, en seront affectés. Afin de limiter ces effets, on peut réduire le diamètre des câbles coaxiaux et/ou de ne plus alimenter les éléments rayonnants 42 de manière individuelle mais par paire ou groupe de plusieurs éléments rayonnants en y associant des diviseurs de puissance. Un tel système d'antennes est particulièrement adapté à une utilisation en centre-ville pour laquelle le bilan impact visuel/accessibilité/performances est positif.This arrangement also directly improves the visual integration of the antenna system by simplifying the design of the component housing the radiofrequency radiation function, by reducing the number of parts and materials to be integrated in this component housing the radiofrequency radiation function. The number of coaxial cables 44 used depends on the number of radiating elements 42. The section of the strands composing the bridging cables 45, and therefore the resulting visual impact, will be affected. In order to limit these effects, it is possible to reduce the diameter of the coaxial cables and / or to no longer supply the radiating elements 42 individually but in pairs or groups of several radiating elements by associating therewith power dividers. Such an antenna system is particularly suitable for use in the city center for which the visual impact / accessibility / performance budget is positive.

La figure 5 illustre schématiquement en coupe transversale un câble de pontage 50 qui possède une configuration multibrin. Le câble de pontage 50 comporte plusieurs brins 51 qui peuvent correspondre aux prolongements des lignes d'alimentation individuelle des éléments rayonnants. Les brins 51 sont nécessaires pour relier les éléments rayonnants au composant abritant la fonction d'alimentation électrique placé à distance, par exemple à proximité de la station de base BTS. A titre d'exemple, dans le cas d'un câble coaxial de référence RG402 selon la norme NF C 93-550, chaque brin 51 de structure coaxiale comporte un conducteur central ayant un diamètre d d'environ 3,9 mm. Le câble de pontage 50 alimentant huit éléments rayonnants (ou groupes d'éléments rayonnants) a ici un diamètre extérieur D d'environ 12,89 mm. Cette valeur est du même ordre de grandeur que le diamètre d'un câble coaxial standard (e.g. type 1 /2"de diamètre - 13,8 mm) habituellement utilisé pour l'alimentation électrique des antennes-panneaux.The figure 5 illustrates schematically in cross section a bridging cable 50 which has a multi-stranded configuration. The bridging cable 50 has several strands 51 which may correspond to the extensions of the individual supply lines of the radiating elements. The strands 51 are necessary to connect the radiating elements to the component housing the remote power supply function, for example near the BTS base station. By way of example, in the case of a coaxial cable of reference RG402 according to the standard NF C 93-550, each strand 51 of coaxial structure comprises a central conductor having a diameter d of approximately 3.9 mm. The bridging cable 50 supplying eight radiating elements (or groups of radiating elements) here has an outside diameter D of approximately 12.89 mm. This value is of the same order of magnitude as the diameter of a standard coaxial cable (eg type 1/2 "diameter - 13.8 mm) normally used for the power supply of panels antennas.

Le système d'antennes qui vient d'être décrit permet donc de

  • simplifier la conception et l'assemblage en réduisant le nombre de pièces et de matériau utilisé,
  • réduire le coût de réalisation du système d'antennes par l'utilisation de pièces plus petites et moins chères,
  • réduire le poids et le volume total du composant abritant la fonction de rayonnement radiofréquence.
The antenna system that has just been described thus makes it possible to
  • simplify design and assembly by reducing the number of parts and material used,
  • reduce the cost of implementing the antenna system by using smaller and cheaper parts,
  • reduce the weight and the total volume of the component housing the radiofrequency radiation function.

La réduction du poids total du composant abritant la fonction de rayonnement radiofréquence permet d'envisager la possibilité d'aller jusqu'à supprimer les renforts périphériques, par exemple en réalisant d'une seule pièce, ayant une surface conductrice transparente (film d'ITO ou toile conductrice), le radôme et le réflecteur.The reduction of the total weight of the component housing the radiofrequency radiation function makes it possible to envisage the possibility of going so far as to eliminate the peripheral reinforcements, for example by producing a single piece, having a transparent conductive surface (ITO film or conductive fabric), the radome and the reflector.

Un moindre poids du composant abritant la fonction de rayonnement radiofréquence autorise aussi l'installation du système d'antennes dans des emplacements où la configuration actuellement connue ne le permettrait pas : le poids du système d'antennes par rapport à la force du vent peut être un facteur limitant pour l'installation sur certains mâts, pylônes ou tours. Dans une telle situation, il n'est pas possible d'envisager l'échange d'un système d'antennes installé par un système d'antennes plus volumineux ou plus lourd. La séparation physique et l'éloignement entre le composant abritant la fonction de rayonnement radiofréquence et le composant abritant la fonction d'alimentation électrique introduit une amélioration de l'ensemble des aspects du système d'antenne.A lower weight of the component housing the radiofrequency radiation function also allows the installation of the antenna system in locations where the currently known configuration would not allow: the weight of the antenna system relative to the wind force can be a limiting factor for installation on certain masts, pylons or towers. In such a situation, it is not possible to envisage the exchange of an antenna system installed by a larger or heavier antenna system. The physical separation and the distance between the component housing the radiofrequency radiation function and the component housing the power supply function introduces an improvement in all aspects of the antenna system.

Bien entendu, la présente invention n'est pas limitée aux modes de réalisation décrits, mais elle est susceptible de nombreuses variantes accessibles à l'homme de l'art sans que l'on s'écarte de l'esprit de l'invention. Cette solution a été décrite pour un système d'antenne comprenant une antenne-panneau monobande à inclinaison électrique variable VET comportant des éléments rayonnants à double polarisation croisée +45°/-45°. Néanmoins il est clair pour l'homme du métier que cette solution est applicable à un système d'antennes comportant tout autre type d'antenne, notamment une antenne multibande, une antenne à éléments rayonnants de type « patch », une antenne intégrant des systèmes passifs et actifs, etc...Of course, the present invention is not limited to the described embodiments, but it is capable of many variants accessible to those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit of the invention. This solution has been described for an antenna system comprising a VET variable-inclination one-band panel antenna having + 45 ° / -45 ° cross-polarized radiating elements. Nevertheless, it is clear to those skilled in the art that this solution is applicable to an antenna system comprising any other type of antenna, in particular a multiband antenna, an antenna with "patch" type radiating elements, an antenna integrating liabilities and assets, etc.

Claims (6)

Système d'antennes comportant au moins un composant abritant la fonction de rayonnement radiofréquence comprenant des éléments rayonnants en réseau alimentés électriquement par au moins une ligne d'alimentation, et au moins un composant abritant la fonction d'alimentation électrique des éléments rayonnants, dans lequel le composant abritant la fonction de rayonnement radiofréquence et le composant abritant la fonction d'alimentation électrique sont reliés électriquement et ils sont physiquement séparés et distants.Antenna system comprising at least one component housing the radiofrequency radiation function comprising network radiating elements electrically powered by at least one supply line, and at least one component housing the electrical supply function of the radiating elements, wherein the component housing the radiofrequency radiation function and the component housing the electrical supply function are electrically connected and they are physically separate and remote. Système selon la revendication 1, dans lequel le composant abritant la fonction d'alimentation électrique est relié au composant abritant la fonction de rayonnement radiofréquence par un câble multibrins, chaque brin étant relié à une ligne d'alimentation pour au moins un élément rayonnant du composant abritant la fonction de rayonnement radiofréquence.System according to claim 1, wherein the component housing the electrical supply function is connected to the component housing the radiofrequency radiation function by a multi-strand cable, each strand being connected to a supply line for at least one radiating element of the component sheltering the radiofrequency radiation function. Système selon la revendication 2, dans lequel la ligne d'alimentation et le brin sont des câbles coaxiaux.The system of claim 2, wherein the feed line and the strand are coaxial cables. Système selon l'une des revendications 1 à 3, dans lequel le composant abritant la fonction de rayonnement radiofréquence est de type dit « optiquement quasi-transparent ».System according to one of Claims 1 to 3, in which the component housing the radiofrequency radiation function is of the so-called "optically quasi-transparent" type. Système selon l'une des revendications précédentes, dans lequel le composant abritant la fonction de rayonnement radiofréquence est disposé sur une face d'un support et le composant abritant la fonction d'alimentation électrique est disposé sur la face opposée du support.System according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the component housing the radiofrequency radiation function is disposed on one side of a support and the component housing the power supply function is disposed on the opposite side of the support. Système selon l'une des revendications précédentes, dans lequel le composant abritant la fonction d'alimentation électrique est placé au voisinage d'une station de base.System according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the component housing the power supply function is placed in the vicinity of a base station.
EP14306461.6A 2014-09-23 2014-09-23 Optically quasi-transparent antenna system Active EP3001499B1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP14306461.6A EP3001499B1 (en) 2014-09-23 2014-09-23 Optically quasi-transparent antenna system

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP14306461.6A EP3001499B1 (en) 2014-09-23 2014-09-23 Optically quasi-transparent antenna system

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP3001499A1 true EP3001499A1 (en) 2016-03-30
EP3001499B1 EP3001499B1 (en) 2021-04-28

Family

ID=51690985

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP14306461.6A Active EP3001499B1 (en) 2014-09-23 2014-09-23 Optically quasi-transparent antenna system

Country Status (1)

Country Link
EP (1) EP3001499B1 (en)

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CN115360519A (en) * 2022-07-29 2022-11-18 西安电子科技大学 High-transmittance reflective array antenna based on micro metal line structure

Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JPH11122023A (en) * 1997-10-16 1999-04-30 Ntt Kansai Personal Tsushinmo Kk Window glass antenna
US20030142018A1 (en) * 2002-01-29 2003-07-31 California Amplifier, Inc. High-efficiency transparent microwave antennas
FR2984613A1 (en) * 2011-12-20 2013-06-21 Bouygues Telecom Sa OPTICALLY TRANSPARENT PRINTED ANTENNA AND OPTICALLY TRANSPARENT ANTENNA NETWORK
WO2014006177A1 (en) * 2012-07-06 2014-01-09 Bouygues Telecom Optically transparent antenna system having an interchangeable radiating structure

Patent Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JPH11122023A (en) * 1997-10-16 1999-04-30 Ntt Kansai Personal Tsushinmo Kk Window glass antenna
US20030142018A1 (en) * 2002-01-29 2003-07-31 California Amplifier, Inc. High-efficiency transparent microwave antennas
FR2984613A1 (en) * 2011-12-20 2013-06-21 Bouygues Telecom Sa OPTICALLY TRANSPARENT PRINTED ANTENNA AND OPTICALLY TRANSPARENT ANTENNA NETWORK
WO2014006177A1 (en) * 2012-07-06 2014-01-09 Bouygues Telecom Optically transparent antenna system having an interchangeable radiating structure

Cited By (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CN115360519A (en) * 2022-07-29 2022-11-18 西安电子科技大学 High-transmittance reflective array antenna based on micro metal line structure
CN115360519B (en) * 2022-07-29 2024-02-06 西安电子科技大学 High-light-transmittance reflective array antenna based on micro-metal wire structure

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
EP3001499B1 (en) 2021-04-28

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
EP2654126B1 (en) Directive mobile antenna with polarisation switching by moving radiant panels
EP2795726B1 (en) Optically transparent antenna and array of optically transparent antennas
CA2629809C (en) Repeater system with transparent antenna integrated into a window
EP2532046B1 (en) Flat-plate scanning antenna for land mobile application, vehicle comprising such an antenna, and satellite telecommunication system comprising such a vehicle
EP0497249B1 (en) Array antenna, particularly for space application
EP2656438B1 (en) Radio cell with two phase states for transmit array
CN106711576B (en) Solar battery and the integrated device of slot antenna
FR2779022A1 (en) Internal wall/ceiling mounted mobile phone repeater station
US20100261445A1 (en) Display arrangement
WO2019002752A1 (en) Collinear antenna structure with independent accesses
FR2719948A1 (en) Multi-beam antenna for receiving microwaves from several satellites.
FR3035546A1 (en) STRUCTURAL ANTENNA MODULE INTEGRATING ELEMENTARY RADIANT SOURCES WITH INDIVIDUAL ORIENTATION, RADIANT PANEL, RADIANT ARRAY AND MULTI-STAGE ANTENNA COMPRISING AT LEAST ONE SUCH MODULE
EP3001499B1 (en) Optically quasi-transparent antenna system
EP2887454A1 (en) Panel aerial system with reduced visual impact
WO2014006177A1 (en) Optically transparent antenna system having an interchangeable radiating structure
EP4194344B1 (en) Ttc antenna arrangement for flat satellite
EP2009735A1 (en) Antenna with diversity of polarisation for transmitting and/or receiving audio and/or video signals
CA2808511C (en) Flat antenna for a terminal operating in dual circular polarisation, airborne terminal and satellite telecommunication system featuring at least one antenna
EP2432072B1 (en) Wideband balun on a multilayer circuit for a network antenna
FR2678438A1 (en) LINEAR NETWORK ANTENNA.
FR2992103A1 (en) INTEGRATED THREE-DIMENSIONAL STRUCTURE COMPRISING AN ANTENNA
BE1025517B1 (en) POST OF FLOOR LAMP WITH FUNCTIONAL MODULES
FR3102311A1 (en) NETWORK ANTENNA
BE1025513B1 (en) POST OF FLOOR LAMP WITH FUNCTIONAL MODULES
EP3227955A1 (en) Compact electronic scanning antenna

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
PUAI Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: A1

Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR

AX Request for extension of the european patent

Extension state: BA ME

17P Request for examination filed

Effective date: 20160930

RBV Designated contracting states (corrected)

Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: EXAMINATION IS IN PROGRESS

17Q First examination report despatched

Effective date: 20190712

GRAP Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR1

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: GRANT OF PATENT IS INTENDED

INTG Intention to grant announced

Effective date: 20201207

RAP1 Party data changed (applicant data changed or rights of an application transferred)

Owner name: NOKIA SHANGHAI BELL CO., LTD.

GRAS Grant fee paid

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR3

GRAA (expected) grant

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009210

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: THE PATENT HAS BEEN GRANTED

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: B1

Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: GB

Ref legal event code: FG4D

Free format text: NOT ENGLISH

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: EP

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: AT

Ref legal event code: REF

Ref document number: 1388158

Country of ref document: AT

Kind code of ref document: T

Effective date: 20210515

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R096

Ref document number: 602014076954

Country of ref document: DE

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: IE

Ref legal event code: FG4D

Free format text: LANGUAGE OF EP DOCUMENT: FRENCH

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: LT

Ref legal event code: MG9D

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: AT

Ref legal event code: MK05

Ref document number: 1388158

Country of ref document: AT

Kind code of ref document: T

Effective date: 20210428

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: HR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210428

Ref country code: LT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210428

Ref country code: NL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210428

Ref country code: FI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210428

Ref country code: BG

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210728

Ref country code: AT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210428

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: GR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210729

Ref country code: LV

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210428

Ref country code: IS

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210828

Ref country code: PT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210830

Ref country code: PL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210428

Ref country code: NO

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210728

Ref country code: ES

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210428

Ref country code: RS

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210428

Ref country code: SE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210428

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: NL

Ref legal event code: MP

Effective date: 20210428

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: CZ

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210428

Ref country code: EE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210428

Ref country code: DK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210428

Ref country code: SK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210428

Ref country code: SM

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210428

Ref country code: RO

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210428

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R097

Ref document number: 602014076954

Country of ref document: DE

PLBE No opposition filed within time limit

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009261

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: NO OPPOSITION FILED WITHIN TIME LIMIT

26N No opposition filed

Effective date: 20220131

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: PL

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: BE

Ref legal event code: MM

Effective date: 20210930

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: IS

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210828

Ref country code: MC

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210428

Ref country code: AL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210428

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: LU

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20210923

Ref country code: IT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210428

Ref country code: IE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20210923

Ref country code: BE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20210930

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: LI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20210930

Ref country code: CH

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20210930

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: HU

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT; INVALID AB INITIO

Effective date: 20140923

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: CY

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210428

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: MK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210428

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: TR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210428

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: MT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210428

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: DE

Payment date: 20240927

Year of fee payment: 11

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: GB

Payment date: 20240927

Year of fee payment: 11

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: FR

Payment date: 20240925

Year of fee payment: 11