EP3504750B1 - Retaining and/or fastening frame which is formed on or in a mobile-communications antenna and/or on or in an electronic and/or filter module, or which can be fastened thereon, and an associated mobile-communications antenna - Google Patents

Description

The invention relates to a holding and/or fastening frame which is formed on or in a mobile radio antenna and/or on or in an electronic and/or filter module or can be fastened thereto and a mobile radio antenna on which at least one or preferably at least two such Retaining and / or mounting frame are mounted.

An active mobile radio antenna can, for example, consist of an antenna and one or more remote radio heads (RRH), which can be mounted on the antenna (semi-active antenna) or integrated into the antenna or permanently connected (active antenna). The outdoor-suitable, all-weather-proof installation of the power supply, transmission and reception assembly (transceiver), power amplifier and duplex filter on the antenna mast is referred to as a remote radio head. Communication with a base station usually takes place via a digital interface, such as a fiber optic connection. The mobile radio antenna, which in combination with the remote radio heads can also be referred to as a (semi-)active antenna, includes several radiators or pairs of radiators that are equipped with a radio unit (amplifier unit) or are supplied by such. With mobile radio antennas you have the low efficiency of the amplifier and the very complex signal processing process in the digital part, significant power losses. The efficiency that can be achieved with such mobile radio antennas is around 20% to 30%. This means that 70% - 80% of the electrical power supplied must be dissipated again as heat. This leads to a high cooling effort having to be operated, which increases the weight and the costs. To make matters worse, the ambient temperatures at which the mobile phone antennas are used can range from -40°C to +55°C. Accordingly, components (eg FPGAs) for digital signal processing and power amplifiers (chips) must be dimensioned for these temperature ranges. Nowadays, active mobile radio antennas are built very compactly and all functional units such as power amplifiers (PA), processor units (TRX board), filters, A/D or D/A converters are therefore arranged in a very small space.

If one of these components fails, all functional units or the entire mobile radio antenna must be replaced. Such an exchange presupposes that the mobile radio antenna must be completely switched off. In addition, continued operation is often not possible with functional units that are still functioning.

The functional units are also arranged on or in the mobile radio antenna in such a way that the latter has to be detached in its entirety and the functional units are preferably exchanged on the ground. The mobile radio antenna is then hung up again. Since the mobile radio antennas are very heavy, corresponding crane devices are often necessary for this purpose, which are difficult to use in particular in inaccessible areas.

It is therefore desirable that the components at risk of failure can be replaced as easily as possible. The mobile phone antenna should remain on the mast as before. This means that a fitter at a great height has to swap out the active components. These are therefore preferably arranged outside of the antenna housing so that it does not have to be opened. The active components to be exchanged should therefore be able to be easily removed if possible, with the new components being able to be plugged on as easily as possible.

The fact that the active components have several connections that are offset from one another proves to be problematic. Due to the fact that the position and orientation of these connections is subject to tolerances and that the fitter must also carry out the replacement at a great height, it is desirable that the new active components be connected as simply as possible with their connections to the connection counterparts provided on the mobile radio antenna in can be connected.

Such a simple connection has not previously been provided for mobile radio antennas. Only in the area of printed circuit boards have rudimentary considerations been made as to how a connector in the form of a plug can be electrically connected to a connector in the form of a socket if certain tolerances with regard to production or alignment have to be observed. The writes about this EP 0 722 202 A2 that a coaxial connector with an inner conductor and an outer conductor should be arranged in a stationary housing that the inner conductor with its outer conductor can be tilted relative to this housing, whereby the production of a plug connection can be made easier.

Disadvantage of EP 0 722 202 A2 is that the structure of the coaxial contacting device is complicated and is only suitable for coaxial cables that have only one inner conductor. It would not be possible to use this coaxial contacting device in antennas, some of which are several hundred meters above the ground and have to withstand wind and weather.

From the U.S. 2014/315408 A1 an antenna arrangement is known which includes a mobile radio antenna and a remote radio head (RRH). The remote radio head and the mobile radio antenna include corresponding plugs, which are used to connect them to one another. These plugs are movably arranged and can be tilted about a longitudinal axis. In a special embodiment of the U.S. 2014/315408 A1 a frame carrier is also provided, which also has corresponding plug connections. The frame support is arranged between the mobile radio antenna and the remote radio head. A connector on the frame support is used to connect to the mobile radio antenna and another connector on the frame support is used to connect to the remote radio head. About the connectors of the frame carrier, the remote radio head is then connected to the mobile radio antenna.

It is therefore the object of the present invention to create a holding and/or fastening frame which can be mounted on a mobile radio antenna and an associated mobile radio antenna which has at least one or more of these holding and/or fastening frames. The holding and/or fastening frame is intended to provide means with which components of a mobile radio antenna that are at risk of failure can be exchanged very easily and safely.

The object is achieved by the holding and/or fastening frame according to the invention for mounting on mobile radio antennas according to independent claim 1 . The object is achieved by claim 12 with regard to the mobile radio antenna, which comprises at least one or more holding and/or fastening frames. Claims 2 to 11 specify further developments of the holding and/or fastening frame according to the invention. Claims 13 to 15 specify further developments of the mobile radio antenna according to the invention.

The holding and/or fastening frame according to the invention is formed on a mobile radio antenna and/or on an electronics and/or filter module or can be fastened to it. It includes a frame support that is attached or attachable, for example, at least indirectly to a mobile radio antenna. Such attachment preferably takes place via a screw connection. In the case of indirect attachment, the frame support would be attached to the mobile radio antenna via another component. With a direct connection, the frame support is attached directly to the mobile radio antenna. Furthermore, at least one movable connector receiving sleeve is also provided, which comprises a housing wall that runs at least in sections around a longitudinal axis of the movable connector receiving sleeve and has two opposite end faces, the first end face forming the sleeve insertion opening and the opposite second end face forming the sleeve bottom side. The circumferential housing wall surrounds a receiving space in which an antenna-side plug connector is arranged or can be arranged. The sleeve insertion opening serves to accommodate a connection port of an electronic and/or filter module. In this connection port or a further plug connector on the module side is preferably arranged at this connection port. A plug connection can be established via both plug connectors. The movable connector receiving sleeve is movably mounted on the frame support and is or can be connected directly or indirectly to the frame support by means of a play compensation device, allowing for play, as a result of which the movable connector receiving sleeve can be moved in at least one direction transverse to the longitudinal axis relative to the frame support. This means that the play compensation device is arranged and/or designed or constructed in such a way that the provided play allows a relative movement of the movable connector receiving sleeve to the frame carrier. The connector receiving sleeve can be moved with a movement vector in relation to the frame carrier. This movement vector can run in any direction transverse to the (starting) longitudinal axis of the movable connector receiving sleeve. As a result, slight circular movements are also possible, with which the connector receiving sleeve can be moved around the (initial) longitudinal axis, ie generally around a central position, ie the initial position.

It is important that the (immovable) connector receiving sleeve can, on the one hand, contain the connector on the antenna side in order to accommodate the connection port and/or the connector on the module side. In this case, the holding and/or fastening frame is arranged together with the (im)movable connector receiving sleeve on or in the mobile radio antenna or the antenna housing.

On the other hand, the holding and/or fastening frame can also be designed together with the (im)movable connector receiving sleeve in such a way that it is arranged or designed on or in the electronic and/or filter module. In this case, the (im)movable connector receiving sleeve contains the connection port and/or the module-side connector and can accommodate the antenna-side connector.

In the following, in the preferred exemplary embodiments, for the sake of clarity, only the case is described in which the holding and/or fastening frame is formed or connected to a mobile radio antenna. can be fastened or is fastened to it. In this case, the movable connector receiving sleeve contains the antenna-side connector, with the module-side connector being able to be inserted into it.

As a result, manufacturing tolerances can be compensated. This applies in particular when the electronic and/or filter module includes a number of connection ports. These connection ports do not always have to be arranged in exactly the same place with the same orientation on the electronic and/or filter module. For example, the connection port can be a cast part that is an integral part of the housing of the electronic and/or filter module. In this case, depending on the casting process, there are corresponding manufacturing tolerances. So that a fitter can safely replace the electronics and/or filter module at a great height, the play compensation device ensures that the connector receiving sleeve can move into the correct position so that the corresponding connection port of the electronics and/or filter module can be inserted into it .

The lash adjuster can be implemented in a number of ways. In a simpler embodiment, the movable connector receiving sleeve can be connected to the frame support via an elastic connecting element. In an embodiment according to the invention, the play compensation device comprises a suspension device and a fastening device. The suspension device is connected to the frame support or formed on it. The frame support and the suspension device are preferably made in one piece (from a common workpiece). The fastening device, on the other hand, is arranged on the movable connector receiving sleeve, in particular on the circumferential housing wall of the movable connector receiving sleeve, or is formed on it. A one-piece design of the fastening device and the movable connector receiving sleeve would also be possible here. The suspension device comprises at least two holding sections which are spaced apart from one another, as a result of which a free space is formed between them, in which space the movable connector receiving sleeve is arranged. The fastening device comprises at least two fastening tabs, each fastening tab having an opening with a first diameter. In contrast, the holding sections of the suspension device each comprise a holding tab, the holding tabs also having an opening with a second have diameter. Both diameters are preferably of different sizes. A first connecting means, in particular in the form of a screw connection, passes through the opening of the first fastening strap and the opening of the first holding strap. A second connecting means, in particular in the form of a screw connection, passes through the opening of the second fastening strap and the opening of the second holding strap. A diameter of the connecting means, in particular a screw body of each screw connection, is smaller than the first diameter of the fastening lugs, as a result of which these are mounted or arranged with play on the respective holding lug. The connecting means, that is to say preferably the screw body, preferably has a diameter which corresponds to the second diameter of the opening of the retaining tabs. The body of the screw should preferably create a mechanical connection (e.g. frictional connection) with the retaining lugs. The use of such a play compensation device allows the movable connector receiving sleeve to be moved in relation to the frame support in such a way that the movement vector that occurs runs perpendicularly or with one component predominantly perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis. Due to this structure, the movable connector receiving sleeve is therefore preferably arranged without play in the longitudinal direction in relation to the frame carrier.

In a preferred embodiment, the fastening tabs are located closer to the first face of the movable connector-receiving sleeve than to the second face. This achieves a high degree of stability when the connection port is plugged into the movable connector receiving sleeve.

In order to facilitate the insertion of the connection port into the movable connector receiving sleeve, in a further preferred embodiment the latter has at least one section which extends in the direction of the longitudinal axis towards the first end face and in which the diameter of the movable connector receiving sleeve increases. Even if the diameter is mentioned here, the receiving space of the movable connector receiving sleeve does not have to be round in cross section. Although this is the preferred shape, the cross-section can also deviate from a round shape and can, for example, be oval-shaped or angular or generally n-polygonal be. The cross section can also change along the longitudinal axis.

In order to improve the guidance of the connection port and also the alignment of the connection port within the movable connector receiving sleeve, in a further preferred embodiment it comprises at least one or at least two or at least three receiving slots which extend over a partial length of the movable connector receiving sleeve and in parallel or with one component mainly run parallel to the longitudinal axis. The receiving slots are designed to guide the connection port and/or the module-side connector of the electronics and/or filter module, with projections on a peripheral wall of the connection port or of the module-side connector engaging or being able to engage in these receiving slots. These receiving slots can pass through the peripheral housing wall. In the area of the receiving slots, the surrounding housing wall can also only have a larger inner diameter or the wall thickness of the surrounding housing wall can be smaller in the area of the receiving slots, as a result of which these are formed. In this case, the surrounding housing wall would be completely closed.

Conversely, it would of course also be possible for the movable connector receiving sleeve to have at least one or at least two or at least three guide webs which extend over a partial length of the movable connector receiving sleeve on its inner peripheral wall in the direction of the receiving space and run parallel or with one component predominantly parallel to the longitudinal axis . In this case, the connection port or the module-side connector would have corresponding grooves. The guide bars would then engage in these grooves.

In a further preferred embodiment, the receiving slots extend as far as the first end face of the movable connector receiving sleeve and are accessible from the insertion opening and end at a distance from the second end face. However, the peripheral housing wall is preferably completely closed in the area of the first end face. In this case, only the inner diameter in the area of the receiving slots would change increase so that they are accessible from the front side, ie from the sleeve insertion opening.

The receiving slots preferably widen towards the first end face and thus act as a centering aid. This could just as well be the case with the guide bars. These could taper in terms of their width and/or their height (how far they protrude into the receiving space) in the direction of the first end face, so that they can be easily inserted into the grooves of the connection port or the module-side plug connector. The grooves on the connection ports or on the module-side plug connector can also widen accordingly at their end.

In a special embodiment of the invention, the holding and/or fastening frame comprises at least one longitudinal compensation means. The at least one length compensation means comprises a front face and a rear face, wherein the at least one length compensation means is arranged within the receiving space of the movable connector receiving sleeve. The longitudinal compensation means is arranged directly or closer to the second end face of the movable receiving sleeve than to the first end face of the movable connector receiving sleeve. It is designed so that the antenna-side plug connector that is or can be arranged within the receiving space can be moved along the longitudinal axis in the direction of the second end face or away from the second end face. The length compensation means is preferably designed to be elastic, for example in the form of a bellows. It preferably consists of or includes plastic or rubber. Other elastic fabrics can also be used. In principle, it could also consist of a (metal) spring. The diameter of the longitudinal compensation means preferably changes over its length. In this case, in the relaxed state, the longitudinal compensation means would rest at most partially along its peripheral surface on an inner wall of the movable connector receiving sleeve. In the event that the length compensation means is in the relaxed state, the antenna-side plug connector arranged within the receiving space would be arranged at the furthest distance from the second end face. If the connection port and thus the module-side connector are now inserted through the insertion opening into the receiving space of the movable connector receiving sleeve, this can which is already in the receiving space, continue to press in the direction of the second end face of the movable connector receiving sleeve. This can take place before the connector is made or after. As a result, tolerances that form along the longitudinal axis can be compensated. As soon as the plug connection is released again and the module-side plug connector is removed again, the length compensation means expands again and the antenna-side plug connector is pushed in the direction of the first end face of the movable plug connector receiving sleeve.

In a preferred embodiment, the length compensation means is completely penetrated by a recess. This recess preferably runs along or parallel to the longitudinal axis. The connector on the antenna side and/or a connection cable of the connector can be or has been introduced into this recess.

In a further preferred embodiment, the recess, which passes through the longitudinal compensation means, has a first coded shape at the exit from the front face, with the antenna-side plug connector having a corresponding shape over at least one insertion length. This ensures that the connector on the antenna side can only be inserted or used in a specific orientation or angular position in the recess of the length compensation means and when inserted does not move or only up to a specific angular position (e.g. less than 2°, less than 1°, less than 0.5°) relative to the length compensation device.

Such a coded form could also exist again. In another embodiment of the invention, the second face of the movable connector-receiving sleeve is only partially open, the opening having a second coded shape. The rear face of the longitudinal compensation means comprises a projection through which the recess emerges. This projection of the longitudinal compensating means has a shape that corresponds to the second coded shape of the opening, so that the length compensating means can only be inserted or inserted in a specific alignment or angular position in the opening of the second end face of the movable connector receiving sleeve. Preferably, the length compensation means is not or only by a certain very small angular position (less than 2°, less than 1°, less than 0.5°) can be rotated relative to the movable connector receiving sleeve. The same also applies to the connector, which is arranged in the receiving space of the movable connector receiving sleeve. This is preferably not rotatable or only rotatable by a very small angular range (less than 2°, less than 1°, less than 0.5°) relative to the length compensation means.

In another embodiment, tolerances in the length of the connection ports can be compensated in that at least one elastic compression means is attached between the first fastening tab and the first retaining tab and at least one second elastic compression means is attached between the second fastening tab and the second retaining tab. As a result, the movable connector receiving sleeve can be moved along the longitudinal axis. The elastic compression means is designed in such a way that it tends to increase the distance between the fastening tabs and the retaining tabs, whereby a force has to be applied in order to compress the elastic compression means. Such a force would be generated by inserting the connection port or the module-side connector into the movable connector receiving sleeve.

In a further embodiment of the holding and/or fastening frame, it comprises at least one further movable connector receiving sleeve. In a plan view of the insertion openings, the at least two movable connector receiving sleeves are arranged laterally offset from one another (X direction and/or Y direction) or laterally offset and one behind the other (Z direction, i.e. in the longitudinal direction) offset from one another. With the use of the movable connector receptacles, it is no problem to connect an electronic device with two connection ports and the respective corresponding module-side connectors with the antenna-side connectors inside the connector receptacles.

In principle, it would also be possible for the holding and/or fastening frame to preferably have exactly one immovable connector receiving sleeve. This immovable connector sleeve is firmly connected to the frame member with no play. The immovable connector receiving sleeve also includes two opposite end faces, one the first end face forms or represents the sleeve insertion opening and the opposite second end face forms or represents the sleeve bottom side of the immovable connector receiving sleeve. A peripheral housing wall of the immovable connector receiving sleeve surrounds a receiving space in which another antenna-side connector is arranged or can be arranged. The sleeve insertion opening of the immovable connector receiving sleeve is used again to accommodate a further connection port and/or a further module-side connector of the electronic and/or filter module. In a plan view of the insertion openings, the stationary connector receiving sleeve and the at least one movable connector receiving sleeve are either laterally offset from one another or laterally and one behind the other offset from one another.

Such an immovable connector receiving sleeve can be manufactured very cheaply. In conjunction with a movable connector receiving sleeve, the connection ports or the module-side connectors of the electronic and/or filter module can be securely inserted into this to produce a plug-in connection. It should be emphasized that if there are two or more connector receptacles, at least one of these receptacles must be movable. Preferably, only one of these sleeves is immovable, while all the other sleeves are movable.

In another preferred embodiment of the holding and/or fastening frame, a plug connector on the antenna side is arranged in the movable plug connector receiving sleeve. This antenna-side connector comprises a connection side and a cable side opposite thereto. The terminal side is directed toward the insertion opening of the movable connector accommodating sleeve. The connection side comprises at least one or at least two or at least three connection contacts (plugs or sockets) that can be connected to corresponding connection contacts (sockets or plugs) that are attached in the module-side connector in or on the connection port of the electronic and/or filter module are.

In a further exemplary embodiment, the connection side preferably comprises a centering pin or a centering opening. This centering pin extends further from the connection side of the antenna-side connector towards the insertion opening. The centering pin or the centering opening are preferably formed in the center of the connection side. At its end, the centering pin preferably has a tapering, in particular conical shape. At its end, which preferably coincides with the end face of the connection side, the centering opening has a larger diameter than in its remaining extent within the (module-side or antenna-side) plug connector. If a plug connection is made by two plug connectors, one of these plug connectors preferably has the centering pin and the other plug connector preferably has the centering opening.

In another embodiment, one of the connectors includes a receptacle that protrudes beyond the terminal face and covers the terminals. In an inner wall of this socket, a projection (also called a tongue) is arranged, which preferably extends radially inwards over a certain distance. The corresponding plug connector has a groove on its peripheral wall, into which the projection, ie the spring, engages.

The connectors are preferably radially asymmetrical. In principle, they could also be radially symmetrical.

The mobile radio antenna according to the invention is used for fastening to a mast or wall-shaped carrier and comprises at least one or at least two or at least three holding and/or fastening frames. The mobile radio antenna comprises an antenna housing with a housing front, a housing rear and a first and an opposite second lateral housing side, which together form a peripheral housing wall, with the antenna housing extending along a longitudinal axis. In the antenna housing, several radiators or pairs of radiators are arranged at a distance from at least one reflector. At least one or more of the holding and/or fastening frames are mounted on the antenna housing. An antenna-side connector is arranged in the receiving space of the at least one movable connector receiving sleeve of the respective holding and/or fastening frame. A connecting cable from the antenna-side connector leads into the interior of the antenna housing. It is particularly advantageous that an electronic and/or filter module is characterized can be mounted very easily on the outside of the antenna housing.

Preferably, the holding and/or fastening frame also includes an immovable connector receiving sleeve, in which an antenna-side connector is also arranged.

In a further exemplary embodiment, the mobile radio antenna comprises at least one or at least two or at least three electronic and/or filter modules which are accommodated in separate housings. The at least one or the at least two electronic and/or filter modules comprise at least one first connection port, with a first module-side plug connector, which is arranged within the first connection port or on the first connection port or forms it. There is also an option for a second connection port with a second connector on the module side. The at least one electronics and/or filter module or the at least two electronics and/or filter modules are arranged on the at least one or on the at least two holding and/or fastening frames and above them on the rear of the housing and/or on the first or second side Housing side outside of the antenna housing attached or mounted on this. Precisely one holding and/or fastening frame is preferably used to accommodate precisely one electronic and/or filter module. It would also be possible for two or more than two electronics and/or filter modules to be fastened to a holding and/or fastening frame. The at least one first connection port and/or the first module-side connector dip into the receiving space of the movable connector receiving sleeve. This also applies if the electronic and/or filter module has more than one connection port. In this case, each connection port with the corresponding module-side plug connector would preferably dip into a corresponding receiving space of a movable or immovable plug connector receiving sleeve. In this case, a first plug-in connection is formed in that the first module-side plug connector in or at the first connection port makes contact with the antenna-side plug connector in the receiving space of the movable plug-in connector receiving sleeve. In the event that several connection ports are used, further plug connections can be formed, with a plug connection between a module-side plug connector in or on a further connection port and an antenna-side one Connector is formed in the immovable connector receiving sleeve.

As a result, a reproducible electrical or optical connection can be produced in a very simple manner via appropriate plug connectors on the module and antenna side between the electronic and/or filter module and the mobile radio antenna.

The electronic and/or filter module is preferably an amplifier module. However, it could also be a signal processing module or a control unit or a voltage supply unit. Different electronics and/or filter modules can be attached to the mobile radio antenna at the same time.

Figur 1:

eine räumliche Darstellung einer erfindungsgemäße Mobilfunkantenne mit mehreren Halte- und/oder Befestigungsrahmen an denen Elektronik- und/oder Filtermodule angeordnet sind;

Figuren 2A, 2B:

Eine räumliche Darstellung eines Elektronik- und/oder Filtermoduls mit je zwei Anschlussports, welches mit der Mobilfunkantenne über den Halte- und/oder Befestigungsrahmen verbindbar ist;

Figuren 3A bis 3C:

verschiedene räumliche Ansichten des erfindungsgemäßen Halte- und/oder Befestigungsrahmens;

Figur 4:

eine Rückansicht eines Ausführungsbeispiels des erfindungsgemäßen Halte- und/oder Befestigungsrahmens;

Figur 5:

einen Längsschnitt durch den erfindungsgemäßen Halte- und/oder Befestigungsrahmen;

Figuren 6A bis 6C:

verschiedenen Darstellungen einer beweglichen Steckverbinderaufnahmehülse;

Figuren 7A, 7B:

verschiedene räumliche Darstellungen eines Längsausgleichsmittels;

Figuren 8A, 8B:

verschiedene Darstellungen einer anderen Ausführungsform der beweglichen Steckverbinderaufnahmehülse;

Figur 9:

eine räumliche Darstellung des erfindungsgemäßen Halte- und/oder Befestigungsrahmens, wobei das Längsausgleichsmittel außerhalb der beweglichen Steckverbinderaufnahmehülse angeordnet ist;

Figuren 10A, 10B:

verschiedene Ausführungsbeispiele des erfindungsgemäßen Halte- und/oder Befestigungsrahmens, die erläutern, wie die Spielausgleichseinrichtung aufgebaut sein kann;

Figuren 11A; 11B:

eine räumliche Darstellung in Explosivansicht, die erläutert, wie die Steckverbinder und das Längsausgleichselement mit dem erfindungsgemäßen Halte- und/oder Befestigungsrahmen und dem Elektronik- und/oder Filtermodul zusammenwirken;

Figuren 12A, 12B:

verschiedene räumliche Darstellungen des erfindungsgemäßen Halte- und/oder Befestigungsrahmens, wobei das Elektronik- und/oder Filtermodul aufgenommen worden ist; und

Figur 13:

eine vereinfachte Darstellung eines Längsschnitts durch das Elektronik- und/oder Filtermodul und den Halte- und/oder Befestigungsrahmen, wobei das Elektronik- und/oder Filtermodul in dem Halte- und/oder Befestigungsrahmen angeordnet ist.

Various exemplary embodiments of the invention are described below by way of example with reference to the drawings. Identical items have the same reference numbers. The corresponding figures of the drawings show in detail:

Figure 1:

a spatial representation of a mobile radio antenna according to the invention with a plurality of holding and/or fastening frames on which electronic and/or filter modules are arranged;

Figures 2A, 2B:

A spatial representation of an electronics and/or filter module, each with two connection ports, which can be connected to the mobile radio antenna via the holding and/or fastening frame;

Figures 3A to 3C:

various spatial views of the holding and / or fastening frame according to the invention;

Figure 4:

a rear view of an embodiment of the holding and / or fastening frame according to the invention;

Figure 5:

a longitudinal section through the holding and / or mounting frame according to the invention;

Figures 6A to 6C:

various representations of a movable connector receiving sleeve;

Figures 7A, 7B:

different spatial representations of a longitudinal compensation means;

Figures 8A, 8B:

various illustrations of another embodiment of the movable connector receiving sleeve;

Figure 9:

a spatial representation of the holding and / or fastening frame according to the invention, wherein the longitudinal compensation means is arranged outside of the movable connector receiving sleeve;

Figures 10A, 10B:

various exemplary embodiments of the holding and/or fastening frame according to the invention, which explain how the play compensation device can be constructed;

Figures 11A; 11B:

a spatial representation in an exploded view that explains how the connector and the longitudinal compensation element interact with the holding and / or mounting frame according to the invention and the electronics and / or filter module;

Figures 12A, 12B:

various spatial representations of the holding and/or fastening frame according to the invention, in which the electronics and/or filter module has been included; and

Figure 13:

a simplified representation of a longitudinal section through the electronic and/or filter module and the holding and/or fastening frame, the electronic and/or filter module being arranged in the holding and/or fastening frame.

figure 1 shows a spatial representation of the mobile radio antenna 1 according to the invention. The mobile radio antenna 1 according to the invention can be attached to a mast or wall-shaped support. It is used to provide different communication standards for mobile devices. The mobile radio antenna 1 comprises at least one antenna housing 2, which has a housing front 2a, a housing rear 2b and a first and an opposite second lateral housing side 2c, 2d, which together form a peripheral housing wall. The antenna housing 2 runs along a housing longitudinal axis 3.

In the antenna housing 2, several radiators or pairs of radiators are arranged at a distance from at least one reflector. These emitters or pairs of emitters belong to a preferably dipole-shaped emitter arrangement. In this case, the dipole-shaped radiator arrangement can comprise two pairs of radiator halves which are arranged rotated through 90° with respect to one another in such a way that the dipole-shaped radiator arrangement transmits and/or receives in two mutually perpendicular planes of polarization. The radiator halves, that is to say the two pairs of radiators, are aligned in a radiator plane which preferably extends parallel to the reflector. The radiators or pairs of radiators also comprise a symmetry and/or support arrangement which has a first end and a second end, the second end being opposite the first end. The radiators or pairs of radiators are arranged at the first end of the symmetry and/or carrier arrangement. The second end of the symmetry and/or beam assembly is attached to the reflector. The antenna element arrangement in the form of a dipole is preferably designed in the form of a vector dipole, a crossed dipole or a square dipole.

The emitters or pairs of emitters are arranged within the antenna housing 2 in such a way that they emit their mobile radio signals through the front side of the housing 2a and, if necessary, at least partially through the first or second lateral side of the housing 2c, 2d.

The first and second lateral housing sides 2c, 2d are preferably stepped and each comprise m side segments with m≧2 or m≧3. The first side segment of the first and second lateral housing side 2c, 2d adjoins the housing front side 2a. In contrast to this, the m-th side segment of the first and the second lateral side of the housing 2c, 2d adjoins the rear side of the housing 2b. “Connecting” means a one-part or multi-part connection, for example including a mechanical frictional connection, such as a screw connection.

A distance between the respective side segments of the first and the second lateral housing side 2c preferably decreases successively from the first side segment towards the m-th side segment. The individual side segments are connected to one another via connecting segments. These connecting segments preferably run parallel to the reflector, or preferably parallel or with one component predominantly parallel to the housing front side 2a or housing rear side 2b of the antenna housing 2. In principle, these connecting segments or the lateral housing sides 2c could also be inclined overall, i.e. in a non-right-angled orientation to the reflector, e.g. at an angle of 45°.

Because the antenna housing 2 has stepped or zigzag-shaped or sloping lateral housing sides 2c, 2d in a plan view of its cross section, accommodation spaces for further modules, in particular for electronic and/or filter modules 4, are thereby created. These further electronics and/or filter modules 4 or functional units can be connected to components within the antenna housing 2 and attached to the antenna housing 2 via corresponding connection openings. For this purpose, the first and/or second lateral housing side 2c, 2d has at least two connection openings on preferably two different side segments, to which a plug connector 5a, 5b is assigned.

As already mentioned, the antenna housing 2 could in principle also taper quite generally from the front side 2a of the housing to the rear side 2b of the housing. In a plan view of a cross section through the antenna housing 2, the first and/or the second lateral housing side 2c, 2d run in at least a partial area from the front side 2a of the housing to the rear side of the housing 2b with a component in the direction of the opposite lateral housing side 2c, 2d. As a result, the rear side of the housing 2b preferably has a smaller width than the housing.

The contour of the first or second lateral housing side 2c, 2d, which runs obliquely or in steps, can extend over the entire length of the antenna housing 2 or over a comparatively smaller partial length. In this case, this contour is preferably provided in the middle area of the antenna housing 2 .

The connectors 9a (see Figure 11A ) which are arranged on the antenna housing 2, are used to connect the radiators or radiator pairs via an amplifier to the at least one signal processing and/or control unit, which is also part of the mobile radio antenna 1. Such an amplifier connected between the emitters or pairs of emitters and the signal conditioning and/or control unit is arranged or integrated in at least one of these electronic and/or filter modules 4 in particular. At least two amplifier modules and thus electronics and/or filter modules 4 are preferably used. More preferably, at least two amplifier modules, ie electronics and/or filter modules 4, are used per band, with signal transmission on a band still being ensured even if one electronics and/or filter module 4 fails. The at least one electronics and/or filter module 4 can be fastened or is fastened to the outside of the antenna housing 2 . The at least one electronics and/or filter module 4 preferably forms a transmission amplifier that amplifies mobile radio signals that are transmitted via the radiators or pairs of radiators. In principle, the electronics and/or filter module 4 could also contain a receiving amplifier.

The at least one electronics and/or filter module 4 or the electronics and/or filter modules 4 can be plugged onto the antenna housing 2 with a view of the first and/or the second lateral housing side 2c, 2d. The at least one electronics and/or filter module 4 can preferably be attached or removed without tools. This means that no screw connections may have to be loosened using tools. Especially the tool-free plugging or unplugging of the at least one electronics and/or Filter module 4 from the antenna housing 2 is an invaluable advantage for a fitter at high altitude.

Preferably, the at least one electronic and/or filter module 4 has a motion vector that runs exclusively perpendicularly or with one component predominantly perpendicularly to the first or second lateral housing side 2c, 2d and/or that runs parallel or with a component predominantly parallel to the reflector plane of the reflector runs, can be plugged onto the antenna housing 2 or removed from it. In a plan view of the housing front side 2a of the antenna housing 2, the at least one electronic and/or filter module 4 is preferably completely covered by the housing front side 2a in the assembled state.

In figure 1 it is shown that the mobile radio antenna 1 comprises a plurality of electronics and/or filter modules 4 . The electronic and/or filter modules 4 are spaced apart from one another along the longitudinal axis 3 of the housing and are attached to the first lateral housing side 2c and to the second lateral housing side 2d. The electronic and/or filter modules 4, which are attached to the first lateral housing side 2c, are preferably not in any mechanical contact (ie are contact-free) to the electronic and/or filter modules 4, which are attached to the second lateral housing side 2d.

The electronic and/or filter module 4 can, for example, comprise an amplifier (in particular a transmission amplifier but also alternatively a reception amplifier) with an output stage and a driver stage. If necessary, a circulator can also be provided for decoupling. These components are housed in an amplifier case 4a. In this regard, reference is made to FIGS. 2A and 2B. In addition to this, the at least one electronics and/or filter module 4 preferably also has a filter housing 4b. A high-frequency filter, in particular such a high-frequency filter in a cavity design, is arranged in the filter housing 4b. Each of the filter case 4b and the booster case 4a includes a case body formed of side members and a bottom member. This housing body is closed off with appropriate housing covers. A first housing cover is used to close off the amplifier housing 4a, whereas a second housing cover is used to close off the filter housing 4b.

The filter housing 4b and the amplifier housing 4a are connected or coupled to one another for signal transmission via a signal line (not shown). In particular, the output of the power amplifier in the amplifier housing 4a can be coupled via the signal line to a first resonator, and within this to a first resonator inner conductor in particular within the filter housing 4b. Such a coupling preferably takes place capacitively. However, it could also take place inductively or galvanically. Further resonators are formed in the filter housing 10b, which are coupled to one another to a greater or lesser extent, as a result of which the desired filter curve is established.

The amplifier housing 4a and the filter housing 4b of the at least one electronic and/or filter module 4 consist of and include metal or a metal alloy. The booster housing 4a and the filter housing 4b can be produced from a common milled and/or cast part, so that they cannot be separated from one another without being destroyed. The booster housing 4a and the filter housing 4b are preferably formed from separately formed milled and/or cast parts which are firmly connected to one another via a mechanical connection, in particular a screw connection.

The housing shape of the at least one electronic and/or filter module 4 is based on the shape of the stepped first or second lateral housing side 2c, 2d of the antenna housing 2, for example an L shape. This shape is realized in particular by the fact that the longer side of the amplifier housing 4a is preferably aligned perpendicularly or with one component predominantly perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis 3 of the housing, whereas the filter housing 4b is preferably aligned with its longer side parallel or with one component predominantly parallel to the longitudinal axis 3 of the housing . The filter housing 4b and the amplifier housing 4a are preferably perpendicular to one another. In this state, the amplifier housing 4a and the filter housing 4b are screwed together and pushed into the antenna housing 2.

For contacting, the electronic and/or filter module 4 comprises a first connection port 6a and a second connection port 6b. The first connection port 6a and the second connection port 6b of the at least one electronics and/or filter module 4 are aligned parallel to one another ( Figures 2A and 2B ).

The two connection ports 6a, 6b are offset from one another in a plan view of the connection ports 6a, 6b. They are preferably offset from one another both laterally and one behind the other. The two connection ports 6a, 6b are preferably made of metal and are more preferably made in one piece with the housing 4a, 4b of the electronics and/or filter module 4 or are formed on it. A plug connector 7a, 7b on the module side can be arranged inside or on the connection ports 6a, 6b or plugged onto the connection ports 6a, 6b. The plug-in connectors 7a, 7b on the module side preferably engage only partially in the connection ports 6a, 6b. This is the case with the connectors 7a, 7b, as shown in Figure 2B are shown. It could also be that the connection ports 6a, 6b represent the module-side connectors 7a, 7b at the same time. In this case, the plug connectors 7a, 7b could preferably be screwed to the housing of the electronic and/or filter module 4 via a thread.

Figure 2A shows a three-dimensional view of the electronics and/or filter module 4, with the first module-side connector 7a not being shown.

The module-side plug connectors 7a, 7b are preferably at least essentially rotationally asymmetrical. The electronics and/or filter modules 4 can be attached directly or indirectly to the antenna housing 2 via an additional attachment device 8 . This additional fastening device 8 is preferably formed in one piece on the housing of the electronics and/or filter module 4 or is molded onto it. The fastening device 8 preferably comprises a screw connection.

The precise functioning of the first and second module-side plug connectors 7a, 7b of the electronics and/or filter module 4 will be discussed in more detail below.

In order for a fitter to be able to replace the electronic and/or filter modules 4 even at great heights, a reliable plug connection between the module-side plug connectors 7a, 7b of the electronic and/or filter module 4 and the counterparts on the antenna housing 2 must be established as simply and safely as possible be able.

In order to achieve this, the mobile radio antenna 1 comprises at least one holding and/or fastening frame 10. A three-dimensional view of such a holding and/or fastening frame 10 is shown, for example, in FIGS Figures 3A to 3C shown. The holding and/or fastening frame 10 comprises a frame support 11 which is fastened or can be fastened at least indirectly to the mobile radio antenna 1 or to the antenna housing 2 . Such a fastening can take place, for example, via screw connections. The frame support 11 is attached when the mobile radio antenna 1 is installed. The electronics and/or filter module 4 can only be attached to the frame support 11 (eg screw connection), which is then used to indirectly attach it to the mobile radio antenna 1 . It could also be attached directly, ie directly to the mobile radio antenna 1 .

The holding and fastening frame 10 also includes at least one movable connector receiving sleeve 12, which includes a housing wall 14 running around a longitudinal axis 13 of the movable connector receiving sleeve 12 and has two opposite end faces 12a, 12b. The first end face 12a represents a sleeve insertion opening, whereas the opposite second end face 12b is referred to as the sleeve bottom side. The peripheral housing wall 14 surrounds or delimits a receiving space 15 in which an antenna-side connector 9a is arranged or can be arranged. The sleeve insertion opening serves to accommodate the connection port 6a, 6b and/or the module-side connector 7a, 7b of the electronic and/or filter module 4.

The movable connector receiving sleeve 12 is attached to the frame support 11 by means of a play compensation device 16 in such a way that play between the frame support 11 and the movable connector receiving sleeve 12 is possible. The play compensation device 16 is arranged and/or designed in such a way that the provided play allows a relative movement of the movable connector receiving sleeve 12 to the frame support 10, wherein the movement vector of the relative movement made possible by the play runs transversely to an (initial) longitudinal axis 13 or centering axis of the movable connector receiving sleeve 12, in which the longitudinal or central axis of the connector receiving sleeve 12 penetrating the connector receiving sleeve 12 is usually in its initial position. This movement vector preferably runs transversely to the reflector plane. A movement in different directions is therefore also possible in the circumferential direction around a central position.

This makes it possible for the movable connector receiving sleeve 12 to be able to be moved with regard to its position in relation to the frame support 11 . Tolerances in the manufacture of the electronics and/or filter module 4 (in particular with regard to the connection ports 6a, 6b) do not result in a fitter having difficulties at great heights in exchanging a defective electronics and/or filter module 4 for a new electronics and/or or replace filter module 4. He can easily create a plug-in connection between the new electronics and/or filter module 4 and the corresponding connections in the mobile radio antenna 1 .

The game allows the movable connector receiving sleeve 12 to be displaced relative to the frame support 11, with the movement vector of the relative movement preferably only running perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 13, with the displacement taking place over a length that is less than 2 cm or 1.5 cm or 1 cm or 0 .8cm or 0.6cm or 0.4cm or 0.2cm or 0.1cm but is larger than 0.05cm or 0.1cm or 0.2cm 0.3cm or 0.5cm or 0.7cm. The displacement preferably takes place in a plane that runs perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis 13 .

In principle, it is also possible that the play allows the movable connector receiving sleeve 12 to be tilted relative to the frame support 11 or the movable connector receiving sleeve 12 to be rotated relative to the frame support 11, with the movable connector receiving sleeve 12 being rotated by less than 10° or 8° or 6° or 4° or 2° or 1° but by more than 0.1° or 0.2° or 0.3° or 0.5° or 1.5° or 3° or 5° or by more than 7° the frame beam 11 is rotatable.

Finally, it may also be possible that the play allows the connector receiving sleeve 12 to be moved and changed in position on circular paths relative to the frame support 11, in particular about the (initial) longitudinal or centering axis 13 (longitudinal axis), i.e. the axis that the connector receiving sleeve 12 in its usually undisguised starting position. In other words, an adjustment of the connector receiving sleeve 12 is preferably possible on one or more movement paths that lie in a plane that is preferably aligned perpendicular to the (initial) longitudinal or centering axis 13 or deviates from it only at an angle, which is preferably smaller than 20° or less than 10°, 8°, 6°, 4°, 2°, or less than 1°.

An antenna-side connector 9a is preferably arranged within the receiving space 15 of the movable connector receiving sleeve 12 . This antenna-side plug connector 9a is preferably movably mounted or displaceable within the receiving space 15 along the longitudinal axis 13 . This antenna-side connector 9a is preferably spring-mounted.

In contrast to the movable connector receiving sleeve 12 show the Figures 3A to 3C still an immovable connector receiving sleeve 20. The immovable connector receiving sleeve 20 is fixed and thus free of play with the frame support 11 connected. The immovable connector receiving sleeve 20 also comprises two opposite end faces 20a, 20b, the first end face 20a being the sleeve insertion opening and the opposite second end face 20b being the sleeve bottom side of the immovable connector receiving sleeve 20. A peripheral housing wall 21 of the immovable connector receiving sleeve 20 surrounds a receiving space 22 in which another antenna-side connector 9b is arranged or can be arranged. The sleeve insertion opening of the immovable connector receiving sleeve 20 serves to accommodate the additional connection port 6b and/or the additional module-side connector 7b of the electronic and/or filter module 4.

The immovable connector receiving sleeve 20 and the at least one movable connector receiving sleeve 12 are either laterally offset from one another or arranged laterally in a plan view of the insertion openings and arranged one behind the other in a staggered manner. Their position corresponds to the position of the connection ports 6a, 6b of the electronic and/or filter module 4 to be used.

What is not shown is that the holding and/or fastening frame 10 also has at least one further movable connector receiving sleeve 12 . In principle, all connector receiving sleeves 12 can be movable. Preferably, only one connector receiving sleeve 20 is immovable. In this case, the movable connector receiving sleeves 12 would be arranged offset from one another laterally and one behind the other in a plan view of the insertion openings.

figure 4 shows a rear view of the holding and/or fastening frame 10 according to the invention. The second end face 12b, i.e. the sleeve bottom side of the movable connector receiving sleeve 12, and the second end face 20b, i.e. the sleeve bottom side of the immovable connector receiving sleeve 20, can be seen figure 4 also shows the lateral offset of the movable connector receiving sleeve 12 and the immovable connector receiving sleeve 20.

figure 5 shows a longitudinal section along the longitudinal axis 13 through the holding and/or fastening frame 10 according to the invention. The movable connector receiving sleeve 12 has at least one section 25 which runs in the direction of the longitudinal axis 13 towards the first end face 12a and in which the diameter of the movable connector receiving sleeve 12 enlarged. In this case, the inner diameter in particular increases. As a result, the corresponding connection port 6a, 6b and/or the module-side connector 7a, 7b of the electronic and/or filter module 4 can be inserted more easily into the receiving space 15.

The holding and/or fastening frame 10 according to the invention comprises at least one length compensation means 30 which comprises a front face 30a and a rear face 30b. The at least one length compensation means 30 is preferably arranged predominantly inside the receiving space 15 of the movable connector receiving sleeve 12 . It is arranged closer to the second end face 12b of the movable connector receiving sleeve 12 than to the first end face 12a. Preferably the second end face 12b of the movable connector receiving sleeve is not open over the entire inner diameter of the peripheral housing wall 14, so that a support shoulder 31 is formed, on which the at least one length compensation means 30 can rest. The at least one length compensation means 30 can also include a snap mechanism on its rear face 30b, which snaps into the support shoulder 31. The length compensation means 30 would then be arranged in the receiving space 15 in an axially immovable manner. Such a snap mechanism is, for example, in Figure 10A shown.

The at least one length compensation means 30 is basically designed so that the antenna-side connector 9a that is or can be arranged within the receiving space 15 can be moved along the longitudinal axis 13 in the direction of the second end face 12b or away from the second end face 12d in the direction of the first end face 12a.

The at least one length compensation means 30 is preferably designed to be elastic and/or resilient. In the relaxed state, the length compensation means 30 rests at most partially along its peripheral surface on the inner wall 14a of the movable connector receiving sleeve 12 . The length compensation means 30 can have the form of a bellows, for example, and consists of or preferably comprises plastic or rubber or a rubber-like mass. In the relaxed state, it has the greatest extent along the longitudinal axis 13 . However, it can be compressed so that its extension along the longitudinal axis 13 is reduced. This happens when the antenna-side plug connector 9a is pressed further in the direction of the second end face 12b. This is the case when the connection ports 6a, 6b and/or the module-side connector 7a, 7b of the electronic and/or filter module 4 are inserted. This means that the antenna-side connector 9a is movable relative to the frame support 11 both in a plane that runs perpendicularly or with one component predominantly perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 13, and along the longitudinal axis 13. The antenna-side connector 9a is therefore equipped with three translatory Degrees of freedom (X, Y and Z direction) relative to the frame support 11 movable.

The length compensation means 30 is preferably completely penetrated by a recess 32 , this recess 32 running along the longitudinal axis 13 or predominantly parallel to the longitudinal axis 13 . The connector 9a on the antenna side and/or a connection cable of the connector 9a on the antenna side can be introduced or has been introduced into this recess 32 . Preferably, the recess 32 includes a changing cross-sectional shape along its extent. It can, for example, be designed in the shape of a funnel in order to be able to more easily accommodate the connector 9a on the antenna side.

the Figures 6A to 6C show a spatial representation of a further exemplary embodiment of the movable connector receiving sleeve 12. The movable connector receiving sleeve 12 comprises at least one or at least two or at least three receiving slots 35, which extend over part of the length or over the entire length of the movable connector receiving sleeve 12 and in parallel or with one component predominantly parallel to the longitudinal axis 13. The receiving slots 35 are designed to lead the connection port 6a, 6b of the electronic and / or filter module 4 or the module-side connector 7a, 7b of the electronic and / or filter module 4, with projections on the connection ports 6a, 6b or the module-side connectors 7a, 7b of the electronics and / or filter module 4 are provided. These projections then engage in the receiving slots 35 .

The peripheral housing wall 14 of the movable connector receiving sleeve 12 preferably has an opening through the receiving slots 35, which extends at least over a partial length along the longitudinal axis 13 of the peripheral housing wall 14 and is accessible from outside the movable connector receiving sleeve 12.

The circumferential housing wall 14 is preferably closed in the area of the first end face 12a of the movable connector receiving sleeve 12 . In the area of the second end face 12b, in particular in the bottom area of the second end face 12b of the movable connector receiving sleeve 12, the latter is preferably also predominantly closed.

These receiving slots 35 are offset from one another in the circumferential direction of the circumferential housing wall 14 . In particular, they are offset from one another by the same distance.

The receiving slots 35 extend as far as the first end face 12a of the movable connector receiving sleeve 12 and are accessible from the insertion opening (but not necessarily from the outside via the peripheral housing wall 14) and end at a distance from the second end face 2b or run up to the second end face 2b. The receiving slots 35 preferably widen towards the first end face 12a and thereby act as a centering aid or insertion funnel.

In the Figures 8A and 8B Another exemplary embodiment of the movable connector receiving sleeve 12 is shown. Instead of receiving slots 35, the movable connector receiving sleeve 12 includes guide webs 36, which are arranged on the inner wall 14a of the peripheral housing wall 14 and preferably protrude radially into the receiving space 15. There is preferably at least one or at least two or at least three guide webs 36, which extend at least over part of the length or over the entire length of the movable connector receiving sleeve 12 and run parallel or with one component predominantly parallel to the longitudinal axis 13. The guide webs 36 are also designed to guide the connection port 6a, 6b of the electronics and/or filter module 4 or the module-side connector 7a, 7b of the electronics and/or filter module 4, with grooves on a peripheral wall of the connection ports 6a, 6b or are formed on a peripheral wall of the module-side connector 7a, 7b of the electronic and/or filter module 4, in which these guide webs 36 engage.

The guide webs 36 preferably extend up to the first end face 12a of the movable connector receiving sleeve 12 and are accessible from the insertion opening and end at a distance from the second end face 12b or run up to the second end face 12b. The guide webs 36 can be interrupted at one or more points. The guide webs 36 preferably taper in the direction of the first end face 12a. With regard to the height at which they protrude into the receiving space 15, they can also decrease towards the first end face 12a. The guide webs 36 can be equally spaced from each other. In this case there would be a symmetrical arrangement. However, they could also be spaced at different distances from one another, so that the module-side connector 7a, 7b or the connection port 6a, 6b of the electronic and/or filter module 4 can only be inserted into the receiving space 15 in a specific rotational or angular position.

the Figures 7A and 7B show a spatial representation of an embodiment of the length compensation element 30. The length compensation element 30 has an alternating diameter along its length. Figure 7A shows a view of the rear face 30b, whereas Figure 7B shows a view of the front face 30A. The recess 32, through which the length compensation means 30 passes, comprises a first encoded shape 40 at the exit from the front face 30a, the antenna-side plug connector 9a having at least one insertion length over which it can be inserted into the recess 32 having a corresponding shape has, so that the antenna-side connector 9a can only be inserted or inserted into the recess 32 of the length compensation means 30 in a specific orientation or angular position.

The second end face 12b of the movable connector receiving sleeve 12 is only partially open, the opening having a second coded shape, the rear end face 30b of the length compensation means 30 preferably having a projection 41 which comprises a shape which corresponds to the second coded shape of the opening. As a result, the length compensation means 30 can only be inserted into the opening of the second end face 12b of the movable connector receiving sleeve 12 in a specific orientation or angular position. This state of affairs is facing Figure 6A shown.

The first encoded form 40 and the second encoded form may be the same or different. The second form is preferably selected in such a way that the length compensation means 30 can only be inserted in exactly one angular position or alignment. The same also applies to the antenna-side plug connector 9a, which can preferably only be inserted into the recess 32 of the length compensation means 30 in precisely one single angular position or orientation over an insertion length.

Basically, the length compensation means 30 could also have a groove 46 along the longitudinal axis, the groove 46 having such dimensions that the guide bar 36 of the movable connector receiving sleeve 12 according to the Figures 8A and 8B intervene in this. This could then ensure that the length compensation means can only be used in a specific orientation or angular position in the receptacle 15. A coded form can then be dispensed with. One such example is in the Figures 11A and 11B shown.

In this case, it would also be advantageous if the antenna-side connector 9a would also include a groove 47 along the longitudinal axis. This would ensure that this, too, can only be introduced into the receiving space 15 in a specific alignment or angular position.

A gap is preferably also formed between the antenna-side plug connector 9a and an inner wall 14a of the peripheral housing wall 14 . The connection port 6a, 6b of the electronic and/or filter module 4 can engage in this gap, for example. A socket 50 could also engage in this gap, which protrudes laterally on the connector 7a, 9a designed as a plug (on its peripheral wall) and delimits a contacting space 51. Such a receptacle 50 is, for example, in Figure 11B shown.

In terms of Figures 3B , 3C , 9 , 10A and 10B the lash adjuster 16 is described. The play compensation device 16 comprises a suspension device 60 and a fastening device 61. The suspension device 60 is preferably connected in one piece to the frame support 11 or formed on it. The fastening device 61 is arranged or formed on the peripheral housing wall 14 of the movable connector receiving sleeve 12 . The fastening device 61 is preferably designed in one piece with the movable connector receiving sleeve 12 .

The suspension device 60 comprises at least two holding sections 60a, 60b, which are spaced apart, as a result of which a free space 62 is formed between them. In this space 62, the movable connector receiving sleeve 12 is arranged. The fastening device 61 comprises at least two fastening tabs 61a, 61b, each fastening tab 61a, 61b having an opening of a first diameter. The holding sections 60a, 60b each comprise a holding tab 63a, 63b, the holding tabs 63a, 63b likewise having an opening with a second diameter. A first connecting means, in particular in the form of a first screw connection 64a, passes through the opening of the first fastening strap 61a and the opening of the first retaining strap 63a, and a second connecting means 64b, in particular in the form of a second screw connection 64b, passes through the opening of the second fastening strap 61b and the opening the second retaining tab 63b. A diameter of the respective connecting means 64a, 64b, in particular in the form of a screw body, is smaller than the first diameter of the fastening straps 61a, 61, as a result of which a gap 68 is formed and whereby the fastening straps 61a, 61b are mounted with play on the respective holding strap 63a, 63b are. The connecting means 64a, 64b is preferably non-positively connected to the respective retaining tab 63a, 63b.

In the event that the center of the opening of the first or second fastening tab 61a, 61b is arranged congruently over or to the center of the opening of the first or second retaining tab 63a, 63b, the movable connector receiving sleeve 12 is in the initial position. From this starting position, the movable connector receiving sleeve 12 can be moved or shifted relative to the frame support 11 . The movement takes place in a plane (X-Y plane), the plane running or being arranged transversely, in particular perpendicularly or with a component predominantly perpendicularly to the reflector plane.

The screw head preferably has a larger diameter than the first diameter of the fastening straps 61, 61b, so that it rests on the fastening straps 61a, 61b. The movable connector receiving sleeve 12 is movably held on the suspension device 60 of the frame support 11 via its fastening device 61 by means of a nut which bears against the holding lugs 63, 63b and is penetrated by the screw body. Play is preferably only possible in a plane which is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 13 . In principle, the connecting means 64 could also be a riveted connection.

The fastening device 61 preferably comprises n-fastening lugs 61a, 61b, which are further preferably arranged offset with one another at an angle α. The angle α preferably corresponds to 360°/n. The fastening straps 61a, 61b, which are also very good in Figure 3A can be seen are arranged closer to the first end face 12a of the movable connector receiving sleeve 12 than to the second end face 12b. However, they could also be arranged closer to the second end face 12b than to the first end face 12a. They could also be located generally midway between the first and second faces 12a, 12b.

Figure 3B shows a three-dimensional rear view of the holding and/or fastening frame 10 according to the invention.

the Figure 10B shows a section through the holding and/or fastening frame 10 according to the invention, the section going in particular through the play compensation device 16. The gap 68 between the screw connection 64b and the corresponding fastening lug 61b is well illustrated. The respective retaining tab 63b is directly adjacent to the fastening tab 61b, the rear end face of which is in turn covered by a nut. If a screw connection 64b is used, the screw head could also bear against the respective holding lug 63b, whereas the nut bears against the respective fastening lug 61b.

With regard figure 9 However, it is also shown that between the fastening straps 61, 61b and the holding straps 63a, 63b, a first or second compression means 65 is additionally or alternatively attached to the length compensation means 30. This first or second elastic compression means 65 can consist of the same materials as the length compensation means 30. In the simplest case, however, it could be a spring. This elastic compression means 65 can be compressed, as a result of which the movable connector receiving sleeve 12 can be moved along the longitudinal axis 13 .

the Figures 11A and 11B show an exploded view of the holding and/or fastening frame 10 and the electronic and/or filter module 4, which describes the interaction of these two components in more detail.

Like the connector 9a on the antenna side, the length compensation element 30 has a groove 46, 47 on the corresponding outer peripheral wall. The guide webs 36, which are arranged on an inner wall 14a of the peripheral housing wall 14 of the movable connector receiving sleeve 12, engage in these grooves 46, 47.

This protects the connector 9a on the antenna side and the length compensation element 30 from twisting in relation to the movable connector receiving sleeve 12. Twisting is thereby completely prevented or the twisting, i.e. the possibility of twisting, is less than 2° or less than 1° or less than 0.5°.

Particular attention is paid to the connectors 7a, 9a. In addition to the antenna-side connector 9a, as shown in Figure 11A is shown, there is also the module-side connector 7a of the electronic and/or filter module 4. In this case, the antenna-side connector 9a is designed in the form of a plug, with the module-side connector 7a of the electronic and/or filter module 4 being designed as a socket . However, this could also be the other way around. In this exemplary embodiment, the connectors 7a, 9a each have three connections 70a, 70b, 70c. However, there could also be fewer or more than three connections 70a, 70b, 70c. These connections 70a, 70b, 70c are preferably arranged symmetrically. However, they could also be arranged asymmetrically. It would also be possible that there is only one connection 70a, 70b, 70c.

At least one or more of the connections 70a, 70b, 70c can contain an electrical conductor via which electrical contact can be established between the two plug connectors 7a, 9a. The electrical conductor can be formed by an inner conductor, which is preferably also surrounded by an outer conductor. It would also be possible for at least one of the connections 70a, 70b, 70c of a connector 7a, 9a to be capacitively coupled to at least one connection 70a, 70b, 70c of another connector 7a, 9a. Forming an optical connection would also be conceivable. In this case, the corresponding connections 70a, 70b, 70c would function as optical interfaces.

In principle, connections 70a, 70b, 70c of the plug connectors 7a, 9a can all be of the same type or can include different types. For example, a first connection 70a of both connectors 7a, 9a can be a coaxial connection, whereas a second connection 70b of both connectors 7a, 9a comprises an optical interface, whereas a third connection 70c of both connectors 7a, 9a provides a capacitive coupling.

A centering device 80 is located in the center of the connector 7a, 9a. The centering device 80 comprises either a centering opening 80a or a centering pin 80b. As soon as a plug connection is to be made by the two plug connectors 7a, 9a, the centering opening 80a first comes into contact with the centering pin 80b. As a result, the two plug connectors 7a, 9a are precisely aligned with one another, so that the connections 70a, 70b, 70c are in direct contact with one another, ie are aligned coaxially with one another. Preferably, the centering pin 80b is tapered at the end which first engages the centering aperture 80a. In contrast, the diameter of the centering opening 80a preferably increases in the region of the insertion opening for the centering pin 80b.

In the exemplary embodiment Figure 11B the antenna-side connector 9a includes the centering pin 80b, whereas the module-side connector 7a of the electronic and/or filter module 4 includes the centering opening 80a. However, it could just as well be the other way around.

The connections 70a, 70b, 70c can be an electrical connection. However, it can also be an optical connection.

It is also shown that a socket 50 protrudes beyond the connections 70a, 70b, 70c or extends the same distance as the connections 70a, 70b, 70c. In particular, such a socket 50 is present in that connector 7a, 9a which is designed as a plug. This receptacle 50 delimits a contacting space 51 in which the connections 70a, 70b, 70c are designed in the form of plugs. The inner wall 50a of this Receptacle 50 includes a projection 52, which can also be referred to as a spring, which engages in a groove 53 formed on that connector 7a, 9a that represents the socket.

In the embodiment of Figures 11A and 11B the groove 53 is formed on the antenna-side connector 9a, whereas the projection 52, which is also referred to as a tongue, is formed on the module-side connector 7a of the electronic and/or filter module 4. The projection 52 preferably engages in the corresponding groove 53 before the plug connection is made via the terminals 70a, 70b, 70c of the two plug connectors 7a, 9a.

It is again emphasized that the holding and/or mounting frame 10 together with the (im) movable connector receiving sleeve 12, 20 can also be designed in such a way that the holding and/or mounting frame 10 is on or in the electronic and/or filter module 4 is arranged or formed. In this case, the (immovable) connector receiving sleeve 12, 20 contains the connection port 6a, 6b and/or the module-side connector 7a, 7b and can accommodate the antenna-side connector 9a, 9b.

The electronic and/or filter module 4 is generally an add-on module with active and/or passive components.

The movable connector-receiving sleeve 12, 20 is preferably arranged partially or completely outside of a further receiving space (e.g. another sleeve).

The movable connector receiving sleeve 12, 20 is preferably attached to the frame support 11 exclusively in the region of its first end face 12a of its peripheral housing wall 14. The fastening therefore takes place closer to the first end face 12a, on which the insertion opening is arranged, than to its second end face 12b (sleeve bottom side). In particular, the attachment takes place in the first half or in the first third or quarter or fifth of the length of the connector receiving sleeve 12, 20 starting from its first end face 12a. The second end face 12b is in particular free of a fastening device or a play compensation device 16.

A movement of the connector receiving sleeve 12, 20 simultaneously leads to a movement of the antenna-side connector 9a or the connection port 6a and/or the module-side connector 7a of the electronics and/or filter module 4, which are arranged inside the receiving space 15 of the connector receiving sleeve 12, 20.

The connector receiving sleeve 12, 20 has a preferably constant inner diameter along its longitudinal axis. The housing wall 14, which is circumferential at least in sections, preferably runs parallel to the longitudinal axis 13 through the connector receiving sleeve 12, 20 (without an incline) and preferably has a constant diameter.

Claims (15)

1. A retaining and/or fastening frame (10), which is formed on or in a mobile-communications antenna (1) and/or on an electronic and/or filter module (4) or can be fastened thereto, and having the following features:

   - having a frame carrier (11);

   - having at least one movable plug connector receiving sleeve (12), which comprises a housing wall (14) encircling a longitudinal axis (13) of the movable plug connector receiving sleeve (12) at least in part, and has two end faces (12a, 12b) located opposite one another, wherein the first end face (12a) is a sleeve insertion opening and the opposite second end face (12b) is the sleeve bottom side;

   - the encircling housing wall (14) surrounding an accommodating space (15) at least in part

   a) in which an antenna-side plug connector (9a) is or can be arranged, wherein the accommodating space (15) is used to accommodate a connection port (6a) and/or a module-side plug connector (7a) of an electronic and/or filter module (4); or

   b) in which a connection port (6a) and/or a module-side plug connector (7a) of an electronic and/or filter module (4) is or can be arranged, wherein the accommodating space (15) is used to accommodate an antenna-side plug connector (9a);

   - having a play compensation device (16), wherein the movable plug connector receiving sleeve (12) is connected directly or indirectly to the frame carrier (11) by means of the play compensation device (16) and permitting some play, wherein the movable plug connector receiving sleeve (12) is movable at least in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis (13) relative to the frame carrier (11);

   characterized by the following features:

   - the play compensation device (16) comprises a suspension device (60) and a fastening device (61) ;

   - the suspension device (60) is preferably connected to the frame carrier (11) in one piece or moulded to it;

   - the fastening device (61) is arranged on or moulded to the encircling housing wall (14) of the movable plug connector receiving sleeve (12);

   - the suspension device (60) comprises at least two retaining portions (60a, 60b) which are spaced apart from each other, thereby creating a space (62) ;

   - the movable plug connector receiving sleeve (12) is arranged in the space (62);

   - the retaining portions (60a, 60b) each comprise a retaining clip (63a, 63b); and

   - the fastening device (61) comprises at least two fastening clips (61a, 61b), wherein each fastening clip (61a, 61b) is mounted on a retaining clip (63a, 63b) and permits the play.
2. The retaining and/or fastening frame (10) according to Claim 1, characterized by the following feature:

   - the movable plug connector receiving sleeve (12) comprises at least one portion (25) that runs in the direction of the longitudinal axis (13) to the first end face (12a), in which the outer diameter and/or the inner diameter of the movable plug connector receiving sleeve (12) increases.
3. The retaining and/or fastening frame (10) according to any one of the previous claims, characterized by the following features:

   - the movable plug connector receiving sleeve (12) comprises at least one or at least two or at least three receiving slots (35), which extend at least across part of the length of the movable plug connector receiving sleeve (12) and run parallel or, with one component, predominantly parallel to the longitudinal axis (13);

   - the receiving slots (35) are formed to guide the connection port (6a) and/or the module-side plug connector (7a) of the electronic and/or filter module (4), wherein protrusions at a peripheral wall of the connection port (6a) and/or of the module-side plug connector (7a) of the electronic and/or filter module (4) engage or can engage in said receiving slots (35);

   and/or
   the receiving slots (35) are formed to guide the antenna-side plug connector (9a) and/or a length compensator (30), wherein protrusions at a peripheral wall of the antenna-side plug connector (9a) and/or of the length compensator (30) engage or can engage in said receiving slots (35).
4. The retaining and/or fastening frame (10) according to either of Claims 1 or 2, characterized by the following features:

   - the movable plug connector receiving sleeve (12) comprises at least one or at least two or at least three guiding ridges (36), which are arranged on an inner wall (14a) of the encircling housing wall (14) and preferably protrude radially into the accommodating space (15) and which extend at least across part of the length of the movable plug connector receiving sleeve (12) and run parallel or, with one component, predominantly parallel to the longitudinal axis (13);

   - the guiding ridges (36) are formed to guide the connection port (6a) and/or the module-side plug connector (7a) of the electronic and/or filter module (4), wherein the guiding ridges (36) engage or can engage in grooves (48) on a peripheral wall of the connection port (6a) and/or the module-side plug connector (7a) of the electronic and/or filter module (4);

   and/or
   the guiding ridges (36) are formed to guide the antenna-side plug connector (9a) and/or a length compensator (30), wherein the guiding ridges (36) engage or can engage in grooves (46, 47) on a peripheral wall of the antenna-side plug connector (9a) and/or of the length compensator (30).
5. The retaining and/or fastening frame (10) according to Claim 4, characterized by the following features:

   - the guiding ridges (36) extend to the first end face (12a) of the movable plug connector receiving sleeve (12) and are accessible from the insertion opening and end at a distance from the second end face (12b) or extend to the second end face (12b); and/or

   - the guiding ridges (36) taper toward the first end face (12a) and act as a centring aid.
6. The retaining and/or fastening frame (10) according to any one of the previous claims, characterized by the following feature:

   - having at least one length compensator (30) comprising a front end face (30a) and a rear end face (30b), wherein the at least one length compensator (30) is arranged in the accommodating space (15) of the movable plug connector receiving sleeve (12) at its second end face (12b) and is formed so that the antenna-side or module-side plug connector (9a, 7a) that is or can be arranged in the accommodating space (15) is movable along the longitudinal axis (13) in the direction of the second end face (12b) or away from the second end face (12b).
7. The retaining and/or fastening frame (10) according to any one of the previous claims, characterized by the following features:

   - having at least one further movable plug connector receiving sleeve;

   - the movable plug connector sleeves (12) are, when viewing the insertion openings from above:

   a) arranged so that they are laterally offset against each other; or

   b) arranged so that they are laterally and consecutively offset against each other.
8. The retaining and/or fastening frame (10) according to any one of the previous claims, characterized by the following features:

   - having an immovable plug connector receiving sleeve (20);

   - the immovable plug connector sleeve (20) being connected to the frame carrier (11) in a fixed manner without play;

   - the immovable plug connector receiving sleeve (20) comprising two opposite end faces (20a, 20b), wherein a first end face (20a) is the sleeve insertion opening and the opposite second end face (20b) is the sleeve bottom side of the immovable plug connector receiving sleeve (20);

   - a partially encircling housing wall (21) of the immovable plug connector receiving sleeve (20) surrounding an accommodating space (22), wherein in the accommodating space (22)

   a) a further antenna-side plug connector (9b) is or can be arranged and the accommodating space (22) is used to accommodate a further connection port (6b) and/or further module-side plug connector (7b) of the electronic and/or filter module (4); or

   b) a further connection port (6b) and/or a further module-side plug connector (7b) of the electronic and/or filter module (4) is or can be arranged and the accommodating space (22) is used to accommodate a further antenna-side plug connector (9b);

   - the sleeve insertion opening of the immovable plug connector receiving sleeve (20) is used to receive

   a) a further connection port (6b) and/or a further module-side plug connector (7b) of the electronic and/or filter module (4); or

   b) a further antenna-side plug connector (9b);

   - the immovable plug connector receiving sleeve (20) and the at least one movable plug connector receiving sleeve (12) are, when viewing the insertion openings from above:

   a) arranged so that they are laterally offset against each other; or

   b) arranged so that they are laterally and consecutively offset against each other.
9. The retaining and/or fastening frame (10) according to any one of the previous claims, characterized by the following features:

   - the antenna-side plug connector (9a) or the module-side plug connector (7a) are arranged in the accommodating space (15) of the movable plug connector receiving sleeve (12);

   - the antenna-side plug connector (9a) or the module-side plug connector (7a) comprises at least one or at least two or at least three connections (70a, 70b, 70c), wherein the at least one connection (70a, 70b, 70c) or the connections (70a, 70b, 70c) are formed as:

   a) coaxial connections (70a, 70b, 70c) having an inner conductor and an outer conductor; and/or

   b) pin contacts or tongue contacts or female connector contacts; and/or

   c) optical interfaces; and/or

   d) capacitive couplings;

   - the antenna-side plug connector (9a) or the module-side plug connector (7a) comprises the shape of a female connector or a plug;

   - the antenna-side plug connector (9a) or the module-side plug connector (7a) comprises a centring device (80) which is arranged in particular in the centre of the antenna-side plug connector (9a) or the module-side plug connector (7a) ;

   - the centring device (80) has the shape of a centring opening (80a) or a centring pin (80b) and is formed to engage in a corresponding centring device (80) in the module-side plug connector (7a) or in the antenna-side plug connector (9a) that has the corresponding shape of the centring pin (80b) or the centring opening (80a), wherein both centring devices (80) are already in or enter into engagement before the plug connection engages with the antenna-side plug connector (9a) and the module-side plug connector (7a).
10. The retaining and/or fastening frame (10) according to Claim 9, characterized by the following feature:

    - the antenna-side plug connector (9a) or the module-side plug connector (7a) comprises a protrusion (52) or a groove (53), wherein the protrusion or the groove can engage with a groove (53) or a protrusion (52) which are formed on the module-side plug connector (7a) or the antenna-side plug connector (9a).
11. The retaining and/or fastening frame (10) according to Claim 10, characterized by the following features:

    - the antenna-side plug connector (9a) or the module-side plug connector (7a) comprises a push-in sleeve (50) that protrudes beyond the connections (70a, 70b, 70c) in the longitudinal direction; and

    - the protrusion (52) is formed on an inner wall (50a) of this push-in sleeve (50).
12. A mobile-communications antenna (1) for fastening to a mast- or wall-shaped carrier having at least one or more retaining and/or fastening frames (10) designed according to any one of the previous claims, and having one or more electronic and/or filter modules (4), characterized by the following features:

    - at least one antenna housing (2) having a housing front side (2a), a housing rear side (2b), and a first and a second lateral housing side (2c, 2d) arranged opposite each other, which together form a surrounding housing wall, wherein the antenna housing (2) extends along a housing longitudinal axis (3);

    - a plurality of emitters or emitter pairs which are arranged in the antenna housing (2) a distance apart in front of at least one reflector;

    - at least one or more retaining and/or fastening frames (10) are mounted on the antenna housing (2) or on the one or more electronic and/or filter modules (4);

    - an antenna-side plug connector (9a) or a module-side plug connector (7a) is arranged in the accommodating space (15) of the at least one movable plug connector receiving sleeve (12).
13. The mobile-communications antenna (1) according to Claim 8 and Claim 12, characterized by the following feature:

    - a further antenna-side plug connector (9b) or a further module-side plug connector (7b) is arranged in the accommodating space (22) of the immovable plug connector receiving sleeve (20).
14. The mobile-communications antenna (1) according to Claim 12 or 13, characterized by the following features:

    - the at least one or the at least two electronic and/or filter modules (4) comprise:

    a) at least one first connection port (6a) having a module-side first plug connector (7a) arranged within and/or on the first connection port (6a); or

    b) at least one first and at least one second connection port (6a, 6b), wherein a module-side plug connector (7a, 7b) is arranged in and/or on at least both connection ports (6a, 6b) ;

    - the at least one electronic and/or filter module (4) or the at least two electronic and/or filter modules (4) are each fastened to or mounted on a common retaining and/or fastening frame (10) and accordingly on the housing rear side (2b) and/or on the first or second lateral housing side (2c, 2d) outside the antenna housing (2);

    - the at least one connection port (6a) and/or the module-side plug connector (7a) project into the accommodation space (15) of the movable plug connector receiving sleeve (12); or

    - the at least one connection port (6a) and/or the module-side plug connector (7a) project into the accommodating space (15) of the movable plug connector receiving sleeve (12), and the at least one further connection port (6b) and/or the further module-side plug connector (7b) project into the accommodating space (22) of the immovable plug connector receiving sleeve (20);

    - a first plug connection is formed by the module-side plug connector (7a) and the antenna-side plug connector (9a) in the accommodating space (15) of the movable plug connector receiving sleeve (12); or

    - a first plug connection is formed by the module-side plug connector (7a) and the antenna-side plug connector (9a) in the accommodating space (15) of the movable plug connector receiving sleeve (12), and a second plug connection is formed by the further module-side plug connector (7b) and the further antenna-side plug connector (9b) in the accommodating space (22) of the immovable plug connector sleeve (20).
15. The mobile-communications antenna (1) according to any one of claims 12 to 14, characterized by the following feature:

    - the plug connector receiving sleeve (12, 20) is arranged exclusively outside the antenna housing (2) .

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