ES2868348T3 - Signal isolation covers and reflectors for antenna - Google Patents

Abstract

An antenna apparatus comprising: an antenna reflector (6) comprising a central aperture; an inductor cover apparatus (5) comprising: a cylindrical wall (1301) surrounding a central axis (15), the cylindrical wall forming a distal end and a proximal end of the inductor cover apparatus (5), wherein The distal and proximal ends are configured to allow RF electromagnetic radiation to pass through, while the cylindrical wall (1301) is configured to attenuate, reflect, or to attenuate and reflect RF electromagnetic radiation, the proximal end being configured to mount to a forward open end of the antenna reflector (6) to modify electromagnetic radiation to and from the antenna reflector (6); a radome (89, 1306) closing the distal end; and an inductor boundary zone on a perimeter of the cylindrical wall (1301), the inductor boundary zone comprising a plurality of ridges and channels extending along a direction parallel to the central axis from the cylindrical wall (1301 ) at the distal end, where the ridges are concentrically spaced from each other, the spacing between the ridges being different, and where, furthermore, the inductor boundary zone is configured to attenuate RF electromagnetic radiation to or from the reflector antenna (6) when the inductor cover apparatus is mounted on the antenna reflector; a security ring (1505) configured to be tightened to lock the cylindrical wall over the open mouth of the antenna reflector (6) by fixing a screw (1504); an integrated feeder and radio transceiver (1901) configured to pass through the center aperture of the antenna reflector and extend into the antenna reflector and inductor cover apparatus; and a bracket (1807) mounted in the central aperture of the antenna reflector and enclosing at least a portion of the radio transceiver and integrated feeder (1901), the bracket being configured to prevent transmission of RF energy outside the central aperture and from the rear of the radio transceiver and integrated feeder, and the radio transceiver and integrated feeder (1901) being configured to be encoded within an interior area (1877) of the bracket to maintain an orientation of the radio transceiver and integrated feeder ( 1901) with respect to the antenna reflector.

Description

DESCRIPTION

Signal isolation covers and reflectors for antenna

Countryside

The present disclosure relates generally to wireless communication apparatus. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to systems that include RF antennas (e.g., microwaves) for high-speed, long-range wireless communication, and in particular to devices that include components for selectively attenuating electromagnetic signals from the devices. wireless communication systems to improve signal quality. The present disclosure also relates to devices for protecting a wireless communication system from damage.

Background

The rapid development of optical fibers, which allow transmission over long distances and at high bandwidths, has revolutionized the telecommunications industry and played an important role in the advent of the information age. However, there are limitations to the application of optical fibers. Because laying fiber optics in the field can require a large initial investment of time and material, it is not profitable to extend the reach of fiber optics to sparsely populated areas, such as rural areas or other remote areas that are difficult to access. Additionally, in many scenarios where a company may want to establish point-to-point links between multiple locations, it may not be economically feasible to lay new fibers.

On the other hand, wireless radio communication devices and systems provide high-speed data transmission over an air interface, making it an attractive technology for providing network connections to areas they have not yet reached. fibers or cables. Wireless communications are transmitted rapidly through air and space using electromagnetic signals, generally from one antenna to another antenna. However, currently available wireless technologies for long-range point-to-point (or point-to-multipoint) connections of electromagnetic signals encounter many problems, such as limited range and poor signal quality.

An antenna is responsible for transmitting or receiving signals that carry information, specifically electromagnetic signals, such as microwave, radio, or satellite signals, through air and space from one place to another. An antenna is generally used with other components as part of an antenna system to perform their tasks. An antenna works by changing the shape of signals, making them accessible for human use. Electromagnetic signals in the form of electromagnetic waves are transmitted (delivered or sent) from one antenna and received (picked up) by another antenna. Electromagnetic waves are complex and have both an electrical component and a magnetic component. An antenna transmits signals by converting an electrical current into electromagnetic waves (such as radio waves) that leave the antenna into air and space. Some of the electromagnetic waves (such as radio waves) are received by another antenna that converts them back to electrical current. There are many types of electromagnetic waves and a specific antenna system is designed to work with a specific type of waves. Radio frequency (RF) and microwave antennas represent a class of electronic antennas designed to operate with wireless electromagnetic signals in specific ranges, the frequency ranges from megahertz to gigahertz. Conventionally, these frequency ranges are used by most broadcast, television, and other wireless communication systems (mobile phones, Wi-Fi, etc.) with higher frequencies often employing specialized antennas, called satellite dishes. (Although certain wavelengths of electromagnetic radiation are called "radio waves," they carry, in addition to signals for AM or FM radio, signals for mobile phones, televisions, etc.). The suitability of a specific antenna system for a given purpose is determined by the frequency, gain and beamwidth of the antenna. In some cases, one antenna can transmit and / or receive signals such as microwave, radio, or satellite signals from a second antenna. Although any given antenna is, in general, capable of delivering and receiving a specific type of electromagnetic signals, in some cases an antenna system can be configured such that one antenna is only responsible for delivering or receiving electromagnetic signals, but it does not do both. stuff.

An antenna system can use a reflector to direct electromagnetic radiation from air or space at an antenna. One type of familiar reflector is a parabolic reflector. A parabolic antenna is an antenna that uses a parabolic reflector, which is a curved surface in the cross-sectional shape of a parabola, to direct electromagnetic signals (for example, radio waves) in a specific direction so that they can be better captured by the antenna. A parabola is a symmetrical curve and a parabolic reflector is a surface that curves through a 360 ° rotation, a shape called a paraboloid. Conventionally, a satellite dish has a dish shaped part and is therefore often referred to as a "dish antenna" or simply "dish". A parabolic reflector is very effective in directing waves into a narrow beam. In particular, and as indicated above, a parabolic reflector is very effective in reflecting waves in a plane wave beam collimated along the axis of the reflector. Satellite dish systems are generally used for long-distance communications between buildings or over large geographic areas.

Satellite dishes provide high directivity of the radio signal because they have a very high gain in only one direction. In other words, the signal can be sent in a desired direction, such as radiating outward toward other antennas, rather than upward into space where there are no antennas. Beamwidth is a measure of the area over which the antenna receives the signal and is important in determining how well an antenna performs. To achieve narrow beamwidths, a parabolic reflector typically must be much larger than the wavelength of the radio waves used, which is why satellite dishes are commonly used in the high-frequency part of the radio spectrum, at frequencies ultra high (UHF) and super high (SHF; for example microwave), where the wavelengths are small enough to allow for manageable antenna sizes. Satellite dishes can be used in point-to-point communications, such as microwave relay links, WAN / LAN links, and spacecraft communication antennas.

The operating principle of a parabolic antenna is that a point source of radio waves at the focal point in front of a parabolic reflector of conductive material will be reflected in a plane wave beam collimated along the axis of the reflector. In contrast, an incoming plane wave parallel to the axis will focus to a point at the focal point.

Conventional radio devices, including radio devices that have parabolic reflectors, suffer from a variety of limitations and problems. For example, although a wireless signal of interest has to be received by an antenna to be useful, an antenna not only receives a specific signal of interest, it receives whatever signal comes its way (as long as the signal meets certain criteria with with respect to wavelength, etc.). Other difficulties and limitations include aligning with a suitable receiver, monitoring and switching transmission and reception functions, avoiding interference (including reflections and spillovers from adjacent radios / antennas), signal loss, mechanical damage, expense, and meeting requirements. regulatory without adversely influencing function. Described herein are devices, methods, and systems that can enhance wireless communication devices and address problems such as those identified above. In particular, apparatus that can provide isolation of an emitted beam by selectively attenuating a portion of the emitted signal are described herein.

Document EP 2 416 449 A1 discloses an antenna having a skirt mounted on a parabolic reflector that works in conjunction with an emission unit, i.e. a waveguide, which emits incident radiation, i.e. an incident radio frequency signal, towards the reflector. A distribution current reduction unit is arranged on a front or side outer surface of a peripheral edge of the antenna, and reduces the distribution current appearing at the edge of the antenna. The reduction unit comprises quarter-wave traps that are in the form of conductive shallow throats, where the throats are made of moralized metal or plastic.

Document US 2013/002515 A1 discloses a band clamp for coupling a radome to a distal end of a reflector plate to improve the front-to-rear relationship of a reflector antenna, provided with an inwardly inserted proximal lip and a lip distal that is introduced inwards. The distal lip is dimensioned with an inside diameter equal to or less than a reflector aperture of the reflector plate. The proximal lip may be provided with an inward offset dimensioned to engage the reflector plate in an interference fit and / or a return zone sized to engage an outer surface of a signal area of the reflector plate in an interference fit. A variety of different projecting portion configurations may be applied extending from the band clamp to further improve electrical performance.

JP S54 95157 A discloses an effective area antenna which is constituted by a primary radiator and a reflection mirror, one or more shielding plates against diffracted waves 6 provided in the position that can be seen from the primary radiator 5, around of the reflection mirror aperture or electromagnetic wave shielding plate provided around the aperture. The propagation of a diffracted wave, which is obtained by a diffraction incident wave along the edge of the reflection mirror towards the rear direction and the lateral direction, is reduced by shielding plates. The shielding plates are arranged so that the line connecting the edge of the reflection mirror and the phase center of the primary radiator can be convex to the forward direction of the electromagnetic wave reflected by the reflection mirror and a metal plate or Mesh-shaped or linear metal is used as the material of the plates.

US-A1-2014 / 0218255 discloses an antenna device with an isolation inductor boundary extending between a pair of parabolic reflectors. The isolation inductor boundary may have peaks that extend between the reflectors to a height that can be tuned to the band.

Disclosure summary

The present invention relates to devices, methods and systems that can improve wireless communication devices.

In accordance with the present invention, antenna apparatus are provided as defined in the appended claims. In general, such apparatuses include a cover body, which has a cylindrical shape that engages with and extends the distal opening of an antenna reflector (eg, a parabolic reflector) and an inductor boundary zone extending from the cover body. The inductor boundary layer generally includes a plurality of ridges that are concentrically spaced from one another and run parallel to the side wall of the cover. The inductor boundary is positioned on an outer edge / flange of the cover (eg, near the opening of the cover extending from its junction to the parabolic reflector of the antenna), although it may be recessed relative to the distal end. The inductor boundary layer may surround the distal opening of the cover, or it can only partially surround the cover.

An inducer cover apparatus in accordance with the present invention includes: a cylindrical side wall surrounding a central axis extending from distal to proximal, the side wall forming a distal end opening and a proximal end opening, wherein the The distal and proximal ends are configured to allow radio frequency (RF) electromagnetic radiation to pass through while the side wall is configured to attenuate, reflect, or attenuate and reflect RF electromagnetic radiation, the proximal end being adapted to be mounted on a front open end of an antenna reflector for modifying electromagnetic radiation to and from the antenna reflector; and an inductor boundary zone mounted to the perimeter of the side wall and extending from the central axis, the inductor boundary zone comprising a plurality of ridges and channels extending parallel to the side wall and configured to attenuate the RF electromagnetic radiation to or from the antenna reflector when the apparatus is mounted on the antenna reflector.

Any of these devices further comprises a radome that covers the distal end opening. For example, the apparatus comprises a radome that covers the distal end opening and at least a portion of the inductor boundary zone.

The inducer boundary extends from the side wall at the distal end opening. In some variations, the inductor boundary zone overlaps the side wall (for example, it extends into the distal opening formed by the side wall of the cover portion). In some variations, the inducer boundary zone does not impinge on the distal end opening.

As mentioned, the inducer boundary zone may completely or only partially surround the distal end opening. For example, the inductor boundary zone may surround less than 180 degrees of the distal end opening.

The inductor boundary zone may have any suitable height relative to the distal end opening of the side wall of the cover portion. For example, a distal end of the inducer boundary zone may extend distally beyond a distal edge of the side wall. The distal end of the inducer boundary zone is adjacent to a distal edge of the side wall. The distal end of the inducer boundary zone is recessed proximally with respect to a distal edge of the side wall.

A proximal end of the side wall is configured to join a flange of the antenna reflector at the forward open end of the reflector. The channels of the inductor boundary zone extend proximally to a plurality of different depths. The ridges of the inductor boundary zone extend distally at a plurality of different heights. The channels between the adjacent ridges are between 18.8 mm and 9.4 mm deep.

In general, the inductor boundary zone provides isolation. The inductor boundary zone is configured to provide greater than 10 dB isolation from an antenna without the inductor boundary zone. The inductor boundary zone is configured to prevent the propagation of radio waves having a frequency between 9 GHz and 41 GHz.

In general, any of the apparatus described herein may include a fixation device configured to fix the apparatus to the antenna reflector.

Also described herein are antenna reflectors that include an integrated cover. These integrated covers can include inductor boundary zones. In some variations, the integrated reflector and cover can be specifically configured for use with an integrated radio and antenna feed (eg, as described in US Patent No. 8493279 B2). For example, the cover and integrated reflector may have an outward facing mouth forming a plane that is not perpendicular to the elongated axis of the feeder (eg, the integrated radio and antenna feeder). Additionally, the antenna reflector may include a receiver or bracket to support the integrated radio and antenna feed and fix it in position behind the parabolic reflector (closed end) of the integrated cover. This receiver / support can be coated with a layer of material (eg, metal) such as chromium, which reflects or otherwise prevents the propagation of RF energy away from the receiver / support. The receiver / bracket can also be adapted to lock between or in a clamping mount to secure the apparatus to a surface, post, or mount.

In any of the covers or parabolic reflectors and integrated covers described herein, the apparatus may include a radome (eg, a cover). In particular, the mouth of the cover o of the parabolic reflector and integrated cover can be adapted to removably fix the radome on the apparatus. For example, the mouth of a cover and / or a reflector and integrated cover may include flattened side areas and one or more flange edges or channels to engage the radome in a specific orientation so that the radome slides over and through. mouth. Alternatively, in some variations, the mouth is adapted to allow the radome to screw on.

Any of the integrated reflectors and covers described herein may include a mount, which can be a recessed mount that can first be attached to a surface, and then the antenna apparatus can be recessed into the mount and the Angle to the horizon can be adjusted and locked in position.

Also described herein are RF antenna devices that include reflectors with integrated covers. These integrated parabolic reflectors with covers may include an inductor cap or may not include an inductor cap.

These apparatuses, which can be systems or devices, can, in particular, be adapted for use with a radio transceiver and integrated power supply, such as those described, for example, in documents US 8493279 B2, US 10297922 B2 and US 10312599 B2. Alternatively, in some variations, the apparatus can be configured for use with a traditional antenna feeder that is connected to the RF transceiver circuitry via cable or line. An integrated radio frequency (RF) transceiver and feeder typically includes a unitary housing that encloses an RF transceiver (eg, stand-alone) and feeder, which can be inserted into the RF antenna reflectors described herein, such that the feeder portion of the antenna assembly includes the RF transceiver circuitry, rather than a traditional antenna feeder. As will be described in greater detail below, an integrated RF transceiver and feeder may have a housing that encloses one or more sub-reflectors, the transceiver circuitry directly connected to one or more feeder pins, and, in some variations, one or more pins. director (passive radiators or parasitic elements); all of these elements can be arranged on one or more sides of a substrate (eg a printed circuit board), and can be arranged in line).

Thus, a satellite dish reflector apparatus may include an RF radio transceiver and integrated feeder, or it may be configured for use with an integrated feeder and radio transceiver. For example, a parabolic antenna reflector apparatus, the apparatus including: a parabolic reflector section having a central axis of symmetry and a circular aperture perpendicular to the central axis of symmetry; a cover part extending distally from the circular opening, the cover part having a distal opening (which may, in any of the variations described herein, optionally form a plane, for example, at an angle of between 0 , 5 degrees and 15 degrees with respect to a plane perpendicular to the central axis of symmetry); a radome covering the distal opening; a central opening through the parabolic reflector section having a diameter configured to receive a radio transceiver and integrated feeder (eg, greater than 3 cm); and a bracket mounted on a proximal side of the central opening so that the central opening is continuous with an interior chamber within the bracket. The inner chamber may comprise a coating of a radio frequency (RF) shielding material (for example, reflective and / or absorbent), wherein, furthermore, the inner chamber is configured to secure an integrated radio transceiver and power supply so that the radio transceiver and integrated power supply is aligned with the central axis of symmetry.

As mentioned, the apparatus may also generally include a radio transceiver and integrated power supply (for example, an RF transceiver and integrated power supply), which can include an elongated housing that encloses a substrate, a transceiver circuitry in the substrate, an antenna radiator extending from the substrate. The antenna radiator may include an antenna feed plug that extends from the substrate and, in some variations, a director plug that extends from the substrate. Furthermore, in some variations, the antenna radiator may also include a sub-reflector; In some variations, the sub-reflector can be considered separate from the antenna radiator connected to the substrate. The radio transceiver and integrated power supply is usually held within the bracket of the apparatus so that the sub-reflector is positioned along the central axis of symmetry.

The apparatus may also include a flange around the distal opening (of the cover) having an outer edge comprising two parallel straight zones on opposite sides of the distal opening; wherein the radome is configured to cover the distal opening by sliding over the distal opening and engaging the two parallel straight zones. The radome may have channels, clips or surfaces to engage with the flange, and in particular to engage with these opposite, parallel and straight sides. This variation of the apparatus has a distinct "top" over which the radome slides down first, to engage with the parallel sides. The upper part can be marked, for example, with an alphanumeric character, a symbol, or the like. For example, a notch or arrow may be formed on the top of the apparatus (for example, on the flange), indicating the location to first apply the radome so that it can slide into position (matching the part top of the unit with the bottom of the radome).

In some variations, the apparatus includes a rim around the distal opening, wherein the rim comprises a scalloped outer rim. In this variant, the radome can include channels, clips or surfaces that engage with the edges scalloped so that the radome can rotate until it engages.

As mentioned above, any of these devices can include an inductor boundary zone around the distal opening. For example, the inductor boundary zone may include a plurality of parallel ridges and channels that extend at least partially around the distal opening and configured to attenuate RF electromagnetic radiation to or from the antenna reflector. When there is a flange to engage the radome, the inductor boundary may be radially within the flange (for example, so that the inductor boundary is below the radome), or it may be radially outside the flange (for example, so that the inductor boundary is outside the radome), or the inductor boundary may be part of the flange that engages the radome.

In general, the surface of the distal aperture (and when the radome is flat, the plane formed by the radome) through the cover portion of the apparatus is at an angle with respect to the axis of symmetry of the parabolic reflector portion of the apparatus. For example, the plane formed by the distal opening of the cover portion may be at an angle between 0.5 degrees and 15 degrees, for example, between 1 degree and 10 degrees (for example, between a lower value of 0, 5, 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 3.5, 4, 4.5, 5 degrees and a higher value of 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12 , 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 30 degrees, where the lower value is always less than the upper value). For example, the angle of the plane formed by setting an edge of the rim of the distal opening of approximately 1; 2 of a wavelength offset above the plane perpendicular to the axis of symmetry with respect to an opposite side of the rim, where the length of offset wave is a mean, median, or central wavelength of the device's operating range. In general, the distal opening of the cover portion is between about 200mm and 700mm (eg 300mm, 400mm, 500mm, etc.).

Any of these apparatus may also include a mounting bracket (which may be referred to as a first mounting bracket) having a mounting bracket opening, wherein the mounting bracket is attached to the proximal side of the central opening between the parabolic reflector section. and the bracket, such that a proximal end of an integrated radio transceiver and feeder can pass through the central opening and the clamping opening and into the bracket. The mounting bracket can be configured to connect with a second mounting bracket that can be attached to a pole, pole, wall, or other surface or support. The mounting bracket (either the first or the second mounting bracket) may include an indicator such as a level or tilt indicator to show the orientation (e.g., angle) of the antenna apparatus relative to the level (ground) or between the first mounting bracket and the second mounting bracket.

In general, the cover portion may comprise an annular wall extending between the circular opening of the parabolic reflector section and the distal opening. The diameter of the annular wall at the top of the apparatus can be between 1.1 and 3 times the diameter of the annular wall at the bottom of the apparatus. The change in annular wall diameters as it moves around the cover portion determines the angle of the plane of the distal opening described above. Thus, the maximum wall diameter in an area around the circumference of the cover can be approximately A of an offset wavelength greater than the wall diameter on the opposite side of the distal opening (the minimum wall diameter). .

In general, the bracket that is mounted on the rear (proximal side) of the reflector (parabolic reflector part) is configured to securely hold the RF (radio) transceiver and integrated power supply so that it passes through the aperture. central in the parabolic reflector part and extends on the axis of symmetry within the parabolic reflector and the cover. The bracket typically includes an internal cavity or housing that prevents the passage of RF energy through the bracket, which can be especially useful when using a built-in power and radio transceiver. For example, the support can be shielded to avoid a substantial amount of r F energy (eg, within the operating range of the apparatus). For example, the RF shielding material may comprise a copper nickel plating.

For example, herein described parabolic antenna reflector apparatus comprising: a parabolic reflector section having a central axis of symmetry and a circular aperture perpendicular to the central axis of symmetry; a cover part extending distally from the circular opening, the cover part having a distal opening which forms a plane at an angle of between 0.5 degrees and 15 degrees with respect to a plane perpendicular to the central axis of symmetry; a radome covering the distal opening; a central opening through the parabolic reflector section; a bracket mounted on a proximal side of the central opening so that the central opening is continuous with an inner chamber within the bracket, wherein the inner chamber comprises a coating of a radio frequency (RF) shielding material; and an integrated feeder and radio transceiver comprising an elongated housing enclosing a substrate, transceiver circuitry in the substrate, an antenna feeder plug extending from the substrate, and a director plug extending from the substrate. , and a sub-reflector, wherein the integrated power and radio transceiver is clamped within the bracket, such that the sub-reflector extends from the bracket, through the central opening and into the parabolic reflector section along the central axis symmetry.

A parabolic antenna reflector apparatus may include: a parabolic reflector section having a central axis of symmetry and a circular aperture perpendicular to the central axis of symmetry; a cover part that extends distally from the circular opening, the cover portion having a distal opening that forms a plane at an angle of between 0.5 degrees and 15 degrees with respect to a plane perpendicular to the central axis of symmetry, wherein the parabolic reflector section and the cover section are continuous areas of a single piece of material; a rim around the distal opening having an outer edge comprising two parallel straight zones on opposite sides of the distal opening; a radome covering the distal opening, the radome being configured to slide over the distal opening and engage the two parallel straight zones; a central opening through the parabolic reflector section having a diameter greater than 3 cm; and a bracket mounted on a proximal side of the central opening so that the central opening is continuous with an inner chamber within the bracket, wherein the inner chamber comprises a coating of a radio frequency (RF) shielding material, wherein the Inner chamber is configured to fix a radio transceiver and integrated power supply so that the radio transceiver and integrated power supply is aligned with the central axis of symmetry.

As described herein, a parabolic antenna reflector apparatus may include: a parabolic reflector section having a central axis of symmetry and a circular aperture perpendicular to the central axis of symmetry; a cover part extending distally from the circular opening, the cover part having a distal opening which forms a plane at an angle of between 0.5 degrees and 15 degrees; a radome covering the distal opening; a central opening through the parabolic reflector section having a diameter greater than 3 cm.

In some variations, the parabolic antenna reflector apparatus includes: a parabolic reflector section having a central axis of symmetry and a circular aperture perpendicular to the central axis of symmetry; a cover part extending distally from the circular opening, the cover part having a distal opening which forms a plane at an angle of between 0.5 degrees and 15 degrees with respect to a plane perpendicular to the central axis of symmetry; a radome covering the distal opening; a central opening through the parabolic reflector section; and a bracket mounted on a proximal side of the central opening that opens to an inner chamber within the bracket, wherein the inner chamber comprises a coating of a radio frequency (RF) shielding material, wherein, in addition, the inner chamber It is configured to fix a radio transceiver and integrated power supply so that the radio transceiver and integrated power supply is aligned with the central axis of symmetry.

A parabolic antenna reflector apparatus may include: a parabolic reflector section having a central axis of symmetry and a circular aperture perpendicular to the central axis of symmetry; a cover part extending distally from the circular opening, the cover part having a distal opening which forms a plane at an angle of between 0.5 degrees and 15 degrees with respect to a plane perpendicular to the central axis of symmetry; a radome covering the distal opening; a central opening through the parabolic reflector section; a bracket mounted on a proximal side of the central opening so that the central opening is continuous with an inner chamber within the bracket, wherein the inner chamber comprises a coating of a radio frequency (RF) shielding material; and an integrated feeder and radio transceiver comprising an elongated housing enclosing a substrate, transceiver circuitry in the substrate, an antenna feeder plug extending from the substrate, and a director plug extending from the substrate. , and a sub-reflector, wherein the integrated power and radio transceiver is clamped within the bracket, such that the sub-reflector extends from the bracket, through the central opening and into the parabolic reflector section along the central axis symmetry.

In some variations, a parabolic antenna reflector apparatus includes: a parabolic reflector section having a central axis of symmetry and a circular aperture perpendicular to the central axis of symmetry; a cover part extending distally from the circular opening, the cover part having a distal opening which forms a plane at an angle of between 0.5 degrees and 15 degrees with respect to a plane perpendicular to the central axis of symmetry, in wherein the parabolic reflector section and the cover section are continuous areas of a single piece of material; a rim around the distal opening having an outer edge comprising two parallel straight zones on opposite sides of the distal opening; a radome covering the distal opening, the radome being configured to slide over the distal opening and engage the two parallel straight zones; a central opening through the parabolic reflector section having a diameter greater than 3 cm; a bracket mounted on a proximal side of the central opening so that the central opening is a bracket mounted on a proximal side of the central opening so that the central opening is continuous with an inner chamber within the bracket, wherein the inner chamber comprises a coating of a radio frequency (RF) shielding material; and an integrated feeder and radio transceiver comprising an elongated housing enclosing a substrate, transceiver circuitry in the substrate, an antenna feeder plug extending from the substrate, and a director plug extending from the substrate. , and a sub-reflector, wherein the integrated power and radio transceiver is clamped within the bracket, such that the sub-reflector extends from the bracket, through the central opening and into the parabolic reflector section along the central axis symmetry.

Also described herein are methods of using or operating any of the apparatus described herein, including methods of assembling such apparatus. For example, herein described methods for operating an apparatus for transmitting and receiving RF signals by transmitting from a radio transceiver and integrated feeder, for example, generating a signal from the transceiver within the parabolic reflector section of the apparatus, transmit from one or more feeder pins on the same substrate as the transceiver, passively radiate from the one or more director pins on the same substrate as the transceiver, and reflect the signal off the sub-reflector into the parabolic reflector section of the apparatus, and , then reflect the signal out of the sides of the cover area and out of the distal opening, through the radome that is at an angle to the axis of symmetry, where the integrated radio transceiver and power supply is aligned along the axis of symmetry.

One method of operating a satellite dish reflector apparatus having an integrated radio transceiver and feeder may include: emitting a first radio frequency (RF) energy from a transceiver placed within a feeder on a substrate, wherein the first RF energy emitted by an antenna feed pin extending from the substrate, and passively absorbed and re-irradiated by a director pin extending from the substrate; reflecting the first RF energy from a sub-reflector into a housing that also encloses the substrate, wherein the housing extends from an opening through a parabolic reflector section of the parabolic reflector apparatus, the parabolic reflector section having a central axis of symmetry and a circular opening perpendicular to the central axis of symmetry; absorbing or reflecting a third RF energy from a bracket mounted on a proximal side of the parabolic reflector opening, wherein the third RF energy is emitted from a housing part that extends proximally behind the parabolic reflector part; passing the first RF energy out of a cover portion extending distally from the circular opening; receiving a second RF energy in the cover part while rejecting RF noise from outside the cover part; and receiving the second RF energy at the transceiver.

Any of these methods may further include absorbing or reflecting a third RF energy from a bracket mounted on a proximal side of the parabolic reflector aperture, wherein the third RF energy is emitted from a portion of the housing extending proximally behind. of the parabolic reflector part.

Receiving a second RF energy at the cover portion may include rejecting RF noise from an inductor boundary zone located around a distal opening of the cover.

As described above, either of these methods can be used with a cover having a distal opening that is angled with respect to a plane perpendicular to the central axis of symmetry. The angled distal opening may be oriented downward (for example, when the apparatus is oriented toward the horizon), so that, for example, passing the first RF energy out of a cover portion comprises passing the first RF energy RF outside the cover part, wherein the cover part has a first wall length that is longer in an upper part of the cover part than a second wall length in a lower part of the cover part.

As mentioned, methods for installing a satellite dish reflector apparatus are also described herein. In general, the parabolic antenna reflector apparatus may comprise a parabolic reflector section having a central axis of symmetry and a circular aperture perpendicular to the central axis of symmetry, and a cover portion extending distally from the circular aperture. One method of installing the satellite dish reflector apparatus may include: mounting the satellite dish reflector on a pole, mast, tower or wall so that a longer side of the roof portion is on top of the reflector of the dish. parabolic antenna and a shorter side of the cover portion is at the bottom of the parabolic antenna reflector apparatus, closer to the ground surface; and sliding a radome from the top of the distal opening of the cover portion of the parabolic antenna reflector apparatus so that a channel of the radome engages two parallel straight zones on opposite sides of a flange around the distal opening to cover the distal opening.

In general, these devices can be installed so that the long side of the canopy is up (towards the sky) and the short side is down (towards the bottom). Although this is somewhat counterintuitive, as most of the noise and potential interference would come from the ground (eg reflections, interference sources) rather than above, this orientation is effective.

Sliding may include sliding the radome so that the radome forms a plane at an angle of 0.5 degrees to 20 degrees with respect to a plane perpendicular to the central axis of symmetry. The mounting comprises attaching a first mount piece to a convex rear side of the parabolic antenna reflector apparatus and attaching a bracket to the convex rear side of the parabolic antenna reflector apparatus so that the first mount piece is between the mount and the rear side. convex of the parabolic antenna reflector apparatus.

Any of these methods of installing these apparatuses may include joining a radio transceiver and integrated feeder, for example, joining a radio transceiver and integrated feeder at a central opening through a parabolic reflector section of the antenna reflector apparatus. parabolic dish and on a bracket on the rear side of the parabolic antenna reflector apparatus so that the radio transceiver and integrated feeder extends within the parabolic antenna reflector apparatus along the central axis of symmetry of the parabolic reflector section. The integrated feeder and radio transceiver may include an elongated housing that encloses a substrate, transceiver circuitry in the substrate, an antenna feeder plug that extends from the substrate, and a director plug that extends from the substrate, and a sub-reflector.

Mounting may include attaching a first frame piece to a convex rear side of the parabolic antenna reflector apparatus and attaching a second frame piece to the first frame piece to form a frame, wherein the second mount is attached or can be attached to the pole, mast, tower or wall.

For example, a method of installing a parabolic antenna reflector apparatus may include: attaching a first mounting piece to a convex rear side of the parabolic antenna reflector apparatus; fixing a bracket to the convex rear side of the parabolic antenna reflector apparatus so that the first mounting piece is between the bracket and the convex rear side of the parabolic antenna reflector apparatus; attaching a second mount piece to the first mount piece to form a mount, wherein the second mount is attached to or can be attached to a post, mast, tower, or wall; attaching a built-in radio transceiver and feeder to a central opening through a parabolic reflector section of the parabolic antenna reflector apparatus and into the bracket on the rear side of the parabolic antenna reflector apparatus, so that the radio transceiver and feeder integrated extends within the parabolic antenna reflector apparatus along a central axis of symmetry of the parabolic reflector section; sliding a radome from the top of a distal opening of a cover portion of the parabolic antenna reflector apparatus so that a channel of the radome engages two parallel straight zones on opposite sides of a flange around the distal opening to cover the distal aperture, wherein the parabolic antenna reflector apparatus is oriented so that a longer side of the cover part is on top of the parabolic antenna reflector apparatus and a shorter side of the cover part is on the upper part. bottom of the satellite dish reflector apparatus, closer to the ground surface.

Brief description of the drawings

Figure 1A shows a side view of an antenna having a parabolic reflector; Figure 1B shows the parabolic reflector of Figure 1A with an inductor cover attached thereto.

Figures 1C and 1D illustrate the application of an example of a signal isolation cover (inductor cover) to an antenna.

Figures 1E and 1F illustrate the application of another example of a signal isolation unit (having minimal or no cover component) to an antenna, as described herein. Figure 2A is a top view (showing the distal face) of a variation of an inductor cover mountable on an antenna reflector. Figures 2B-2D illustrate side sectional views of variations of an inductor cover having an inductor boundary zone that completely surrounds the cover portion of the inductor cover. Radome not shown (but could be included).

Figure 3A is a top view (showing the distal face) of another variation of an inductor cover mountable on an antenna reflector. Figures 3B-3D illustrate side sectional views of variations of the inductor cover of Figure 3A having an inductor boundary zone that only partially surrounds the cover portion of the inductor cover. Radome not shown (but could be included).

Figures 4A, 4B, and 4C illustrate a top view, a side sectional view, and a side perspective view, respectively, of a variation of an inductor cover including a radome covering the distal end, including the boundary zone. inductor.

Figures 5A-5C show a side view, a top perspective view and an end view, respectively, of a part of an inductor boundary zone mountable in a cover part. Figure 5D is a front perspective view of the inductor limit portion shown in Figures 5A-5C, and Figure 5E is a partial section through the view of Figure 5D.

Figure 6 is a partial section through an alternate variation of an inductor boundary zone of an inductor shell, having peaks of different heights and channels of different depths.

Figure 7 schematically illustrates the operation of an inductor cover within a radio device having a transmitting antenna and a receiving antenna.

Figure 8A is a section illustrating the application of another example of an inductor cover (and optional radome) to an antenna. Figure 8B is an illustration of another example of an inductor cover (also called an inductor or isolation unit), having minimal or no cover component, for an antenna.

Figure 9A is an example of another form factor for an antenna, illustrating a sector antenna, that can be used with an inductor (or simply inductor) cover apparatus as described herein.

Figures 9B and 9C illustrate variations of inductor covers that can be used with the sector antenna of Figure 9A.

Figure 10A illustrates an example of an inductor cover that has two parts that can be joined together to form a complete inductor cover, as shown in Figure 10A (or the parts can be used individually as partial inductors / inductor covers) .

Figure 10B is another example of an inductor cover that is a single piece that can be fitted over an antenna having two ends that can be joined together when the inductor cover is fixed on the antenna. Figure 11A schematically illustrates the use of inductor covers in a tower (eg, a cell tower) where a series of antennas could be placed close to each other and would be beneficial to improve the isolation between the antennas. In this example, the antennas may include a complete or partial inductor or inductor cover. For illustrative purposes, none of these antennas are shown with a radome coating, although such coatings could be included.

Figure 11B shows another example of an antenna apparatus including inductor covers in a tower, while Figure 11C is an enlarged view of the inductor area of the inductor cover, showing the ridges and channels that form the inductor boundary or deflector zone.

Figures 12A-12C show various front perspective views of an example of an inductor cover that can be attached to an apparatus such as a parabolic reflector and an antenna.

Figure 13A illustrates another variation of an inductor cover as described herein. In this example, the shroud (inductor shroud) may be attached by a tightening nut (or other constriction and / or retention mechanism) to the open mouth of an antenna reflector.

Figures 13B-13C show a front view and a rear view, respectively, of the inductor cover (including a cone-shaped radome covering the front surface) of Figure 13A. Figures 13D and 13E show side views (eg, a right side view and a bottom view, respectively). Figure 13F shows a section through the cover of Figures 13A-13E, while Figure 13G shows a close-up of a part of the cover (including the radome). In this example, the cover of Figures 13A-13G includes an inductor limit, as can be seen in Figure 13G.

Figure 14A shows a power profile for signals emanating from a parabolic reflector without a cover, and Figure 14B shows a power profile for signals from the same parabolic reflector with a cover such as that illustrated in Figures 13A-13G, which shows an improvement in energy (signal) directed in the z direction out of the apparatus.

Figures 15A-15F illustrate a method of attaching an inductor cover as described herein onto a parabolic dish.

Figure 16A illustrates a variation of an integrated cover and antenna reflector apparatus (which may be referred to herein as a parabolic barrel reflector), covered with a radome. Figure 16B shows the apparatus of Figure 16A with the radome removed, showing the integrated radio / power supply mounted within the reflector. This example has a 300mm mouth opening diameter.

Figures 16C-16E illustrate a bottom view, a top view, and a side view, respectively, of the integrated canopy and parabolic antenna reflector apparatus shown in Figures 16A-16B, including a mount and an attached integrated feeder / radio. .

Figure 17 shows the mounting portion of the apparatus of Figures 16A-16E, which can be used to mount the apparatus to a surface, pole, tower, or the like.

Figure 18 is an exploded view of the apparatus of Figures 16A-16E, showing the component parts, including the parabolic barrel reflector, two mounting parts, an integrated feeder / radio, and an integrated feeder / radio holder.

Figure 19A shows the parabolic barrel reflector of Figure 18.

Figures 19B and 19C show the clamping frame of Figure 18.

Figure 19D shows an example integrated radio / feed, as described herein, and Figure 19E shows the integrated radio / feed of Figure 19D with the cover removed (exposing the circuitry and feeder body).

Figure 19F shows the bracket for an integrated feeder / spoke such as that shown in Figure 19D, coded to maintain the orientation of the feeder / spoke in the parabolic barrel reflector.

Figure 19g shows an alternative variation of the parabolic barrel reflector of Figures 18 and 19A, including an outer inductor boundary zone around the outer edge of the cover. Figure 19H is an enlarged view of the inductor boundary area of the integrated cover.

Figure 20A shows an example of a parabolic barrel reflector for an antenna apparatus, similar to that shown in Figures 16A-19A. Figure 20B is an example of a radome (coating) that can be attached to the mouth of the parabolic barrel reflector. Figure 20C illustrates the attachment of the radome of Figure 20B to the mouth of the parabolic barrel reflector of Figure 20A. Figure 21A illustrates a variation of an integrated cover and antenna reflector apparatus (which may be referred to herein as a parabolic barrel reflector), covered with a radome. Figure 21B shows the apparatus of Figure 21A with the radome removed, showing the integrated radio / feeder mounted within the reflector. This example has a mouth opening diameter of 400mm.

Figures 21C-21E illustrate a bottom view, a top view, and a side view, respectively, of the integrated canopy and parabolic antenna reflector apparatus shown in Figures 21A-21B, including a mount and an integrated feeder / radio. United.

Figure 22 shows a mounting portion of the apparatus of Figures 16A-16E, which can be used to mount the apparatus to a surface, pole, tower, or the like.

Figure 23A illustrates a variation of an integrated cover and antenna reflector apparatus (which may be referred to herein as a parabolic barrel reflector), covered with a radome. Figure 23B shows the apparatus of Figure 23A with the radome removed, showing the integrated radio / feed mounted within the reflector. This example has a mouth opening diameter of 500mm.

Figures 23C-23E illustrate a bottom view, a top view, and a side view, respectively, of the integrated canopy and parabolic antenna reflector apparatus shown in Figures 23A-23B, including a mount and an attached integrated feeder / radio. . Angle (a) shown in Fig. 23E illustrates the angle between the plane formed by the mouth (opening) of the parabolic barrel reflector and the long axis of the integrated feed / spoke clamped within the parabolic barrel reflector. In general, this angle can be between 89.5 degrees and 60 degrees, for example between 60 degrees and 85 degrees, etc.).

Figure 24 shows a mounting portion of the apparatus of Figures 16A-16E, which can be used to mount the apparatus to a surface, pole, tower, or the like.

Figure 25 is an exploded view of the apparatus of Figures 23A-23E, showing the component parts, including the parabolic barrel reflector, two mounting parts, an integrated feed / radio, and a bracket for the integrated feeder / radio.

Figure 26A shows the parabolic barrel reflector of Figure 25.

Figures 26B and 26C show the clamping frame of Figure 25.

Figure 26D shows an example integrated radio / feed, as described herein, and Figure 26E shows the integrated feed / radio of Figure 26D with the cover removed (exposing the circuitry and feeder body).

Figure 26F shows the bracket (eg, a housing) for an integrated feeder / spoke such as that shown in Figure 26D, coded to maintain the orientation of the feeder / spoke in the parabolic barrel reflector.

Figure 27A shows a parabolic barrel reflector for an antenna apparatus, similar to that shown in Figures 23A-26A. This variation is adapted so that the radome can slide over the mouth of the parabolic barrel reflector. Two of the sides show parallel straight areas 2705, 2705 "over which a radome coating can slide. These two parallel straight areas can be formed in the outer lip area of the mouth (opening). Figure 27B is an example of a radome (shroud) adapted to slide and bond over the mouth of the parabolic barrel reflector, such as that shown in Figure 27A. Figure 27C is an enlarged perspective view of the radome of Figure 27B, showing the rim area which is adapted to slide over the mouth of the parabolic barrel reflector.

Figures 28A and 28B illustrate the attachment of the radome of Figures 27B-27C onto the mouth of the parabolic barrel reflector of Figure 27A by sliding the coating from the top, down the flattened sliders (perpendicular to the top , which is marked, for example, with a cut-out area) and on the mouth of the combined parabolic reflector and cover.

Figure 29A shows an example of an apparatus including an integrated feeder / radio device that is attached to the parabolic barrel reflector using a rear housing (bracket or receiver) which is shown in greater detail in Figure 29B; The receiver is metal-plated inside the housing to prevent RF energy (eg microwave energy) from the rear of the set when the built-in radio / power supply is attached.

Figure 30A shows an energy profile through a radio set having a parabolic reflector, using an integrated radio / feeder device. Figure 30B shows the same radio / feeder device integrated within a parabolic barrel reflector similar to those described herein, which act as RF isolators, showing increased energy near the midline of the apparatus, exiting the mouth of the apparatus, compared to a parabolic reflector without an integrated cover area. The thermal plot shows a range of field energies from 2e-2 (behind the apparatus) to a maximum of 2e + 2. Figure 31 illustrates an example of a radio apparatus that includes a radio / feeder integrated within a parabolic barrel reflector and mounted to a mast via the mounts. Figure 32 illustrates an exemplary integrated radio (RF) transceiver and power supply.

Figure 33 illustrates an exemplary radio transceiver and feeder integrated into a housing with an antenna tube.

Detailed description

Described herein are apparatus (including devices and systems) that include inductor covers and methods for enhancing and protecting radio devices and systems, such as those used for high-speed, long-range wireless communication, using inductor covers. In general, these apparatuses may include a cover component that extends an aperture of an antenna reflector (for example, a parabolic reflector) and an inductor boundary portion that extends from a distal end of the cover component (where the inductor is oriented perpendicular to the central axis of the roof portion). The inductor boundary part can be mounted on the cover part so that the inductor boundary and the cover are kept in a fixed relationship with each other. The cover can be adapted to connect with an open end of a reflector (such as a parabolic reflector) and maintain the inductor boundary zone relative to the reflector to attenuate RF electromagnetic signals to and / or from an antenna when coupled. with reflector. In some variations, the apparatus can also include one or more connectors configured to mount the inductor cover to an antenna reflector. In some variations, the apparatus may also include a radome configured to cover at least part of an opening in a cover or an antenna reflector to protect the interior of the reflector and antenna from harmful elements such as dirt, water, wind, etc.

The apparatus and systems can be used with any reflector or antenna system, such as those known in the art. For example, Figure 1A illustrates a schematic representation of an example of an RF antenna that includes a parabolic reflector 2 to which is coupled a feeder for an RF transceiver (transmitter and / or receiver) 14. During operation, an antenna Normal RF signals, such as that shown in Figure 1A, can, however, transmit and receive a substantial amount of interference between this antenna and one or more close neighbors, including reflectors that are operating on the same networks.

Figure 1B shows a sectional side view of the antenna system of Figure 1A, including parabolic reflector 2, with an inductor cover 5 that includes a cover component 8 that is integrated with an inductor boundary 10 (shown in different cross sections) mounted on an antenna reflector 6. The cover portion 8 includes a first (proximal) end 9 and a second (distal) end 11 with a side wall 13 between them.

The wall 13 is a curved side wall surrounding the central axis 15 of the cover portion 8. In this example, the apparatus includes a central axis 15 that is usually (or can be made to be) continuous with the central axis of the sheet feeder. antenna 14 and with the reflector central axis and extends from distal (upward in Figure 1B) to proximal (downward in Figure 1B). In other examples, the cover center axis may not be parallel (eg, it may be oblique) with respect to the antenna center axis. In Figures 1A-1B, antenna feed 14 extends distally away from the base of reflector 6. In this example, antenna reflector 6 is a parabolic-shaped reflector configured to reflect and direct electromagnetic radiation to or from the antenna 14. The reflector can be, for example, plastic or metal, and can be coated to provide a reflective surface. The side wall 13 of the cover zone is connected to the inductor boundary 10 (shown in partial sections) that is adjacent to the cover zone 8 (for example, it extends laterally away from the second or distal end 11 of the cover zone 8 and extends laterally away from the central axis 15). The ridges of the inductor boundary portion 10 can be offset and distal from the cover portion 8 (eg, the ridges may extend laterally and distally from the central axis of the cover 8). Part, some, or all of an inductor boundary zone may be adjacent to the cover zone, offset relative to the cover zone, lateral to the cover zone, or distal to the cover zone. In some variations, the inductor boundary may be offset from the cover and may not overlap the cover area.

Figure 2A shows a top view of the inductor cover apparatus 5 which is adapted to be mounted on an antenna reflector. The inductor cover apparatus 4 includes a cover portion 8 having a side wall 13 and at an inductor boundary 10 (shown in cross-sections of the alternative variations of Figures 2B, 2C and 2D). The inductor boundary zone can be shown cropped in this view, which shows the first and second portions of the inductor boundary zone. The cover side wall 13 is configured to mount to an antenna reflector, such as the reflector shown in Figures 1A-1B. The cover side wall 13 may be a support structure, such as a support for an inductor boundary zone and / or a radome. For example, an inductor boundary zone can be mounted in a cover zone in a fixed relationship and can protrude from the cover. The cover 8 may extend forward (distally) from the end of the reflector when in place on the reflector. The reflector and the cover portion can create a continuous surface (proximal to distal) when the cover area is in place on the reflector.

A cover area can be hollow and have a curved side wall surrounding a central axis and can have first and second ends. The first and second ends can be opposite each other and the wall can be between, or adjacent to, the first and second ends. A cover can have a surface that extends partially or continuously around (encloses) a central axis and can have elements or parts of the surface that are circular, conical, ellipsoid, ovoid, rectangular, etc. A cover end can be circular, conical, ellipsoid, ovoid, rectangular, etc. A cover as described herein can, in general, be a cylinder or cylindrical in shape and have one or more circular, ellipsoid or oval ends. A central axis of a cover can be configured to be continuous with a central axis of a reflector when the cover is in place on the reflector or it can be configured to be offset with respect to the central axis of the reflector.

In some variations, a first end (for example, the proximal end or the end closest to a reflector) or a second end (for example, the distal end or the end furthest from the reflector) of a cover may not be perpendicular to a central axis of the cover, reflector and / or antenna, although, in general, it will have a first end and a second end perpendicular to one or more of these central axes. A tire can have the same cross-sectional profile (for example, the same diameter), shape, and size at its first and second ends (as well as between the ends), but in some variations, the cross-sectional profile (for example, the diameter ), the shape and size at a first end of a tire may be different from the cross-sectional profile at the second end. A cover can have a generally cylindrical shape. For example, a roof may be a right circular cylinder (and have a circular cross section), but may instead have a cross section that is an ellipse, hyperbola, oval, parabola, etc., along along its length or ends and can be an ellipsoid cylinder, a hyperbolic cylinder, an ovoid cylinder, a paraboloid cylinder, etc. A roof can be generally cylindrical in shape and have a cross section that is one or more of a circle, an ellipse, a hyperbola, an oval, a parabola, etc.), but it can have some part that has a shape different or irregular. All or only a part of a cover can be cylindrical. In some specific examples, a first end of the cover may have the same (or nearly the same) diameter, shape, and / or size as the leading open end (or rim) of a reflector. A cover can be attached (or configured to attach) to the flange of a reflector. Attaching a cover to the front open end of a reflector can create a more or less continuous surface between the cover and the reflector (eg, continuously longitudinal or in the direction of the central axis of the cover or reflector). A space between a reflector and a cover can be made continuous (as with an adhesive, a band, a filler, a gasket, an O-ring, etc.) to completely fill the space, or one end of the cover can be contacted with one end of the reflector (with a line between the ends) to essentially create a continuous surface. One end (eg, a first end) of a cover can be slightly larger or slightly smaller than the front end of a reflector and can be adjusted in or out of the reflector to form a tight fit. A part of the cover and the reflector may overlap. A first end of a cover can be mounted on (or adapted to be mounted on) a front open end of an antenna reflector, and the front open end of the reflector can be configured to transmit or receive radiation to or from the antenna. A cover can be configured such that it extends away from the open end of the reflector when mounted on the reflector (for example, when the first end of the cover is attached to the front opening of the reflector).

A cover can have a closed shape or it can have an open shape. An open cover can have one or more open ends (for example, one end can be open; two ends can be open) and it can also have a closed end (for example, closed by a relatively RF transparent material, such as a radome. ). A closed cover part may have one or more closed ends. An open end of a cover is generally transparent to electromagnetic radiation, and electromagnetic radiation can pass through an open end of the cover. A closed end of a cover can be transparent to (at least some types of) electromagnetic radiation to allow electromagnetic radiation of interest (such as radio or microwave) to pass through a closed end of the cover. A closed end can function, for example, to prevent materials such as air, animals, debris, insects, rain, snow, wind, etc., from entering a cover (for example, the inside of a cover) or entering the interior of a reflector (eg, an interior defined by the reflector, such as the area delimited by the reflector and in a plane through its aperture) when the cover is in place on a reflector. A closed end can prevent some material from entering, but can allow other material to enter. A closed end can be a continuous structure or a discontinuous structure (as made of bars, shafts, etc.). For example, a closed end may prevent strong winds from passing through, but may allow some air or wind to pass through.

A body (wall) of a cover portion of these apparatuses can be substantially a single continuous piece of material or it can be made of two, three, four or more panels that are joined to create a continuous material. In some variations, a cover may not be substantially reflective and will not direct electromagnetic radiation. A cover can provide support or be a support structure without reflecting or directing electromagnetic radiation.

In some variations, a cover can have a reflective inner surface or a reflective outer surface and can reflect (or be configured to reflect) electromagnetic radiation. For example, a cover can be metal or plastic and can be coated or painted to provide a reflective surface configured to reflect electromagnetic radiation, such as radio frequency radiation. A shroud can act or be configured to direct electromagnetic radiation, such as RF radiation. A cover can reduce unwanted radiation, such as lateral (eg far side lobes) or rear radiation to or from an antenna (or between two or more antennas, such as in an antenna system). However, a cover is not a reflector of an antenna system. A reflector reflects electromagnetic radiation to a focal point (from an antenna) and a cover does not reflect electromagnetic radiation to a focal point (from an antenna). A cover can direct electromagnetic radiation without radiating it towards a reflector. In some variations, a cover can include or be coated or treated to include electromagnetic absorbing material and can be configured to absorb electromagnetic radiation. The structure or composition of a cover can enhance a signal to or from one antenna by reducing unwanted radiation signals, such as from the surroundings, or to or from another antenna.

As stated above, an inductor boundary portion can be mounted on the cover, and the cover can be useful for attaching the inductor boundary to the reflector (through the cover) and for positioning the inductor boundary relative to the reflector (and also in relation to a central axis of the antenna). Figures 2B, 2C and 2D show parts of an inductor zone 10 (including the ridges shown). The inductor zone has been attached to at least a part of an inductor wall. In this example, the inductor ridges and the inductor walls, in the example of an inductor boundary shown in Figures 2A-2C, form concentric rings around the central axis and around the side wall of the cover portion. For example, Figure 2B shows the inductor boundary extending away from the cover side wall 8. The inductor wall extends transversely from the central (longitudinal) axis of the cover side wall 8, and the boundary of inductor that includes the inductor wall and the inductor ridges overlaps the cover side wall 8. An inductor wall can extend in any direction (eg, obliquely or parallel) with respect to the central (longitudinal) axis of the cover 8, but in some variations it will extend approximately transverse to the central (longitudinal) axis of cover side wall 8. An inductor cover can be attached (or configured to be attached) to one end of a reflector, such as using one or more connectors. A connector can be, for example, an adhesive, a band of material, a bolt, a glue, a hinge, a pin, a screw, etc. A connector can be metallic or non-metallic, polymeric, synthetic, etc. An inductor cover can fit over or into a part of a reflector. An inductor zone of an inductor cover can be placed on or within a part of a reflector and can be held in place by one or more connectors, such as those described above, or by a tight fit (for example, a interference), etc.

An isolation inductor boundary zone can refer to a structure or part mounted in the cover zone, or formed integrally with the cover wall, and configured to attenuate or reduce electromagnetic spillover from an antenna (for example, an antenna transmitting antenna, a receiving antenna, a transmitting / receiving antenna) thereby decreasing the unwanted signal to the antenna. An isolation inductor boundary portion can attenuate or reduce electromagnetic radiation to or from an antenna when it is mounted (eg, through the cover portion) to the reflector and the antenna transmits or receives electromagnetic radiation signals. Thus, in some variations, an inductor apparatus is provided for an antenna system, including a cover comprising a curved side wall surrounding a central axis, the adjacent wall to the opposite first and second cover ends where the first and second ends allow electromagnetic radiation to pass, the first cover end being adapted to mount to a front open end of an antenna reflector to focus electromagnetic radiation to an antenna , the front open end being configured to receive electromagnetic radiation and the cover being configured to extend away from the open end of the reflector when mounted; and an inductor boundary mounted on the cover and external to the wall, the boundary configured to attenuate electromagnetic wave radiation to or from the antenna when the cover is mounted on the reflector and the antenna transmits or receives electromagnetic radiation.

An isolation inductor boundary zone may be referred to herein as an isolation barrier, an isolation limit, an inductor, an inductor limit, an isolation inductor, an inductor barrier, and so on. An inductor (eg, the isolation inductor boundary zone) can provide a structure (including a corrugated structure) that has multiple barriers, such as ridges, that reduce crosstalk between the transmitting and receiving satellite dishes. The height / depth and spacing of the ridges can be tailored to isolate the specific frequency range (eg bands) used by the device. For example, the barrier structures that form the isolation inducer boundary may have a depth or a range of depths centered on the wavelength A of the bands being used, as described in greater detail herein. Functionally, an isolation inductor limit can be configured to provide a higher than minimum isolation level (eg, 10 dB isolation) when positioned between adjacent parabolic transmitter and receiver dishes, as described.

An isolation inductor boundary (which may also be referred to as an inductor, inductor boundary, or isolation inductor) generally acts as a barrier or buffer between two (or more) antennas. For example, an isolation inductor boundary can act as a barrier between a transmitting antenna and a receiving antenna. The inductor limit can be configured to prevent the propagation of radio waves that have a frequency greater than or equal to 9 GHz and less than or equal to 4 l GHz. The variations of the radio devices described in this document can be configured to operate around of the 5 GHz band, and the inductor may include a plurality (for example,> 3, more than 5, more than 6, more than 7, more than 8, more than 9, more than 10, more than 11, more 12, more than 13, more than 14, more than 15, more than 16, more than 20, more than 25, etc.) ridges that are separated. Said ridges can run parallel to the outer rim of the cover. Said ridges can run parallel to one or more of a parabolic reflector to which the inductor is attached. In general, an isolation inductor boundary includes ridges that extend in height perpendicular to the plane of the ends (one or more openings) of the roof (and to the satellite dish (s) when they are in place on the roof and the roof (s)). satellite dishes). The ridges may at least partially extend (and may fully extend) around the perimeter of the cover or the second or distal end of the cover. The ridges may extend at least partially around the tire flange (s) or the second distal tire end so that the ridges are directed perpendicular to the plane of the tire end. Height, spacing between adjacent ridges, number of ridges, shape of ridges, and length of ridges can be optimized based on the specific electromagnetic bands (eg, radio bands) used. For example, an inductor can be optimized to operate around the 5 GHz band, such that the device has isolation greater than about 70 dB between the transmit and receive antennas. The inductor component shown can add approximately 10 dB of isolation (eg, approximately 12 dB of isolation, etc.).

In some variations, the insulation inductor boundary zone is made up of layers of metal (strips, foils, etc.) or other suitable material, which are placed adjacent to each other (combined with each other) with some of the layers shifted to form the ridges and channels at the edge of the combined layers. For example, an inductor boundary layer can be formed in part by layering strips, ribbons, or the like, together, and bending the combined structure into the desired curve (e.g., to mount on the edge of the satellite dish and / or the cover). The layers of material can be fixed together in any suitable manner, including gluing (eg, by resin or epoxy) and / or screwing, anchoring, fixing, riveting, or the like.

In use, when a second antenna (eg, parabolic) is close to a first parabolic antenna, and the first parabolic antenna is coupled to an inductor cover, as described herein, when the second antenna is adjacent to or is close to the first antenna with the inductor cover, the first antenna can be more effectively isolated from the second antenna. In general, the isolation inductor boundary zone can be placed between the first antenna reflector and the aperture of a second parabolic reflector. Although described in detail for use with parabolic reflectors, non-parabolic reflectors can also be used (instead).

For example, a radio system for transmitting wireless signals described herein may include: a first reflector; radio circuitry configured to transmit radio frequency signals from the first reflector; a cover coupled to the first reflector; and an isolation inductor limit coupled to the cover. A radio system can also include a second reflector, and an isolation inductor boundary as described herein can be configured to improve the overall isolation between the two parabolic reflectors (between two parabolic antennas). For example, the overall isolation of radio frequency signals between the first and second parabolic reflectors, including the isolation provided by the inductor boundary of isolation, can be more than about 10 dB, 20 dB, 30 dB, 40 dB, 50 dB, 60 dB (for example, more than about 65 dB, more than about 70 dB, more than about 75 dB, more than about 80 dB, etc.). For example, the overall isolation of radio frequency signals between the first and second parabolic reflectors, including the isolation provided by the isolation inductor limit, can be greater than about 70 dB.

As mentioned, the isolation inductor limit can include peaks. The ridges may run along the isolation inductor boundary (eg, in the direction of the outer rim of the reflector (s)). The ridges can be the same height or different heights. In some variations, the ridges alternate in height. For example, adjacent insulation inductor boundary peaks at the insulation inductor boundary may be separated by a channel; In some variations, the depth of each channel may be greater than the width (the distance) between adjacent ridges. The depth between the channels can be uniform or it can be different; In some variations, the depth within a channel can vary.

For example, an isolation inductor boundary may be configured to extend along the curved boundaries of two adjacent parabolic shells or reflectors and may include a plurality of ridges running adjacent to one another; the ridges can be arranged to follow the perimeter of both apertures of the parabolic reflectors. The inductor boundary may be configured so that the plurality of peaks are arranged along a sinusoidal curve, for example, so that the tops or bottoms of adjacent ridges form a sinusoidal curve across a diameter of the isolation inductor limit. Thus, in some variations, the peaks of the isolation inductor boundary are arranged along a sinusoidal curve. Any of the described isolation inductor limits can have a variable cross-sectional profile in a cross-section through the inductor. Alternatively, in some variations, the inductor has a non-symmetrical rib height profile and therefore symmetry is not a requirement.

Thus, as mentioned, at least some of the isolation inductor boundary peaks comprise different heights; the adjacent ridges of the isolation inductor boundary comprise different heights and are separated by channels having different depths. The channels between the adjacent peaks of the isolation inductor boundary may be separated from each other by some fraction of the wavelengths. The channels between the adjacent ridges of the isolation inductor boundary may have a depth of approximately% of the center frequency used by the apparatus. For example, for an apparatus adapted to transmit between about 5.4 and about 6.2 GHz, the channel depth (s) at the isolation inductor boundary may be between about 13.89 mm and about 12.1 mm; For apparatus adapted to operate between approximately 4 GHz and approximately 8 GHz, the channel depth (s) at the isolation inductor boundary may be between approximately 18.8 mm and 9.4 mm deep.

In any of these examples, the inductor covers described herein may include an inductor part that extends only partially around the perimeter of the side wall of the cover part, as shown in the top view of the figure. 3A. Figure 3A shows another inductor portion 34 that can be mounted to an antenna reflector as part of the inductor cover. Also in this example, as in other examples, the inductor boundary zones 34. The inductor boundary zones may have any shape or orientation, including those described herein (for example, relative to other boundary positions of inductor). For example, inductor boundary zones can include peaks and channels. The ridges and channels may be relatively uniform in height and depth or may vary, etc. One part of an inductor boundary can overlap a (side) part of a cover and another part of an inductor boundary can be distal to the cover (as shown in Figure 2B).

Figures 4A-4C illustrate a variation of an inductor cover that includes a radome. The inductor cover apparatus is mounted on an antenna reflector with an inductor boundary surrounding or partially surrounding the cover. Figure 4A shows an inductor cover 4 with a cylindrical shaped cover area (side wall 8) that can be attached to a reflector at a proximal end. The central axis 15 of the inductor cover is shown in Figure 4B. The apparatus includes a radome 60. In Figure 4A-4C, the radome covers the entire outer distal surface, including the distal end opening through the inductor cover, and the inductor boundary zone 55. The boundary zone Inductor 55 is mounted in and surrounds the cover area (eg, cover side wall 8). Although shown as a straight cylinder, the cover area may not be a straight cylinder as well. As mentioned, the isolation inductor boundary portion may only partially extend around the opening of a cover or parabolic reflectors. For example, the isolation inductor boundary may partially extend around an opening in the inductor (or reflector).

The isolation inductor boundary zone may extend along the edge (s) of the cover part (for example, around the cover or around the end of the cover) or around the reflector mouth less than 180 degrees, between about 30 and about 180 degrees around the cover, cover end, or reflector mouth (for example, at least about 40 degrees, at least about 50 degrees, at least about 51 degrees, at least about 52 degrees, at least about minus about 53 degrees, at least about 54 degrees, at least about 55 degrees, etc.). In any of In these variations, the insulation inductor boundary may protrude from an outer edge of the cover portion or the parabolic reflector wall. For example, a cover can be relatively narrow and the inductor boundary can protrude from the reflector and cover.

Figures 5A-5C show examples of a zone of an inductor boundary portion. In this example, an optically absorbent material (not shown) can be placed on the cover wall near the inductor boundary, but could also be located, in its place or additionally, elsewhere. For example, the optically absorbent material could be lateral or distal to the inducer boundary zone, in part or throughout the cover zone. The optically absorbent materials could be on or within a jacket or could be in part of an inductor, such as an inductor wall. The optically absorbent material can serve to reduce stray or unwanted radiation to or from an antenna to which the inductor cover is attached.

In Figures 5A-5C, the inductor boundary zone is shown to have a plurality (e.g., more than 3, more than 4, more than 5, more than 6, more than 7, more than 8, more than 10 , etc.) of ridges; the maximum number of ridges is limited by space considerations (eg, how large the diameter of the inductor jacket can be). In general, the inductor cover should have between about 3 and about 40 peaks, for example, 540 peaks, 10-40 peaks, 10-30 peaks, etc. Figure 5D shows a side view of a portion of an inductor boundary zone that can be assembled (or integrally formed with) a cover zone. In Figure 5D, all the ridges are approximately the same height and width, and are arranged concentrically adjacent to each other. Figure 5E is a cross section through the part shown in Figure 5D.

Figure 6 shows another inductor boundary zone formed by a plurality (eg 7) of ridges that are arranged to extend distally (with respect to the central axis of the inductor cover) in different lengths. Thus, the ridges are of different sizes, or roughly the same sizes, but arranged on a curved (eg sinusoidal) surface, as shown in Figure 6.

During operation, the inductor cover acts to attenuate RF signals to / from the parabolic reflector that are off-axis (eg, lateral). For example, Figure 7 shows a side view through a cross section of an antenna with an attached inductor cover apparatus. The inductor boundary zone is cut into this section and is shown as the first inductor boundary section 90a and the second inductor boundary section 90b. The radome 89 can be mounted over the distal opening in the cover. A radome can be helpful in providing protection for the antenna system. The radome can allow electromagnetic radiation (eg radio waves) to pass through, but it provides a barrier against other materials. For example, a radome can provide a mechanical barrier preventing materials such as air (wind), animals, debris, dirt, etc., from entering the antenna system (for example, the inductor cover and / or the reflector or an internal space defined by the reflector). A radome can work by preventing damage to the antenna system. A radome can be mounted (or configured to mount) to a canopy in a fixed relationship. A radome can be mounted or can be configured to mount to a canopy at any location. For example, a radome can be mounted to a first (proximal) end of an inductor cover (e.g., a cover end configured to mount to a reflector), but more commonly it can be mounted to a second (distal) end of a cover. (eg, the end of the cover that is not configured to mount on a reflector 74). As noted above, a cover can be mounted (or configured to mount) to a reflector in a fixed relationship and a radome can be mounted (eg, through a cover) in a fixed relationship to the reflector. A radome can cover part or all of the opening of an antenna reflector or cover. An O-ring can be used to secure the radome to the rear of the lip of a reflector or cover. An extension of an O-ring can seal the radome to the back of the isolation inductor. In some variations of an inductor cover apparatus, the first cover zone end is open and the second end comprises a radome mounted on the inductor cover and configured to prevent material from entering an internal space defined by the reflector when the inductor cover and radome are mounted on the reflector. A radome can cover substantially the entire second end of an inductor cover. The antenna components within the reflector (eg, feeder 77) can also be covered by the inductor cover. In some variation, the inductor cover extends the reflector's distal targeting opening allowing the radome to lay flat on the feeder.

As mentioned above, in general, the dimensions of the inductor zone, such as the number, height, width, spacing, etc., of the peaks (and channels) can be selected and / or optimized for the attenuation of a frequency. (range) specific to an antenna system. For example, the depth between the ridges can be approximately wavelength% of the wavelengths used by the apparatus. In variations where the apparatus is configured to transmit and receive between 4 GHz and 8 GHz, the depths between adjacent peaks may be between approximately 18.8 mm and 9.4 mm (eg, centered approximately 13 mm); In variations where the apparatus is configured to transmit / receive in the 5.4 GHz to 6.2 GHz range, the depth can be between approximately 13.9 and 12.1 mm. The ridges can be arranged to minimize edge diffraction and reduce the energy communicated between adjacent transmit and receive antenna dishes. As described in more detail below, an isolation inductor boundary zone can be configured so that the range of isolated frequencies can be adjusted. For example, an isolation inductor limit zone can be adjusted to adjust the peak height (s).

An inductor boundary zone may be mounted on (or at least partially on) the outer edges of a cover zone. In this variant, the inductor boundary zone can protrude from the distal opening of the cover zone. The inductor boundary zone can have, for example, more than 12 peaks. The ridges can have a pitch of less than about 8.89 mm (0.35 inches). The ridges can be arranged to follow the curvature of the mouth of a reflector. The ridges may be separated by channels. Ridge spacing (eg, channel width and / or depth) can be constant or variable. In some variations, the height of the ridges can vary. For example, adjacent ridges may have different heights (going from highest to lowest, or alternating high / low, etc.) extending "up", out of the plane of the reflector mouth.

The arrangement of the ridges and channels can also be seen in many of the examples described above. In general, an inductor boundary zone can be configured as a low Q structure and can integrate as many peaks as possible without substantially compromising the power of the antenna to which it is coupled.

As mentioned above in connection with Figure 6, the ridges of an inductor boundary zone are arranged so that the ridges are not in a single plane, but the adjacent ridges are arranged in a curved pattern (e.g., sinusoidal) or stepped. For example, in the perspective view of Figure 6, the upper surface of the inductor boundary zone, formed by the ridges extending laterally along the surface, is irregular. The apparent heights of adjacent ridges are irregular, with some extending more above the principal plane of the inductor boundary (the "top" of the inductor boundary) than others. This is even more apparent in the side views shown in Figure 7. A section through the middle of the inductor is shown, illustrating the arrangement of the ridges in a curved (eg sinusoidal) pattern. The apparent heights of the adjacent ridges are different. In some variations, the spacing between the ridges is also different, and / or the depths (eg, between about 9mm and 19mm).

As mentioned above, the surfaces of the inductor boundary zone and the cover zone may be covered by a radome. In some variations of the inductor shroud apparatus, the inductor zone may be positioned over the lip of the shroud zone and in front of (extending beyond) the sub-reflectors of each reflector in the system, as shown in Figure 7. In In this example, the inductor boundary zone has a low-frequency wave profile on top of the high-frequency notch (striated) profile. As described, this can provide an increase in the isolation of antenna reflectors (antennas) when they are in an adjacent location or close to another antenna.

In some variations, the isolation inductor boundary zone and / or the inductor zone may include an absorbent material (eg, a microwave absorbent) as part of the structure. The material can act to absorb energy, including energy within a frequency range relevant to the operation of the apparatus. For example, a strip or zone of absorbent such as a microwave absorbent can extend between the two antenna dishes when the inductor is positioned between the two dishes. An example of a microwave material includes a polymeric material filled with magnetic particles; particles can have both high permeability (magnetic loss properties) and high permittivity (dielectric loss properties). The absorbent can be a solid absorbent (eg magnetic) and / or a foam absorbent. For example, a foam absorbent can be an open cell form that is impregnated with a material that has losses at the appropriate frequencies (eg, a carbon coating). An absorber can be attached to the inductor (for example, extending along a long axis of the inductor that would be positioned between the two reflector plates). The absorbent can be of any suitable thickness, width and length, such as between about 0.5mm and about 5cm in thickness and / or width, etc. The absorber may be shaped (eg, it may include protrusions, ridges, etc.) and / or may form one or more of the ridges of the inductor boundary zone.

Also described herein are isolation limit zones (isolation inductor limit) that can be adjusted automatically or manually to adjust the isolation frequency. For example, the isolation inductor limit can be adjusted by adjusting the height (s) of the ridges extending between the reflectors. Peak heights can be adjusted from a specific height or height range / distribution based on the desired transmit / receive frequency band. In general, the height of the peaks can be a fraction (for example,% of the wavelength as a function of the band, and can be set or centered on the center frequency of the band. For example, a frequency bandwidth operating frequency of 5470-5950 MHz, having a center frequency of 5710 may have an inductor zone peak height of (or centered at approximately) 13.25 mm. Similarly, an operating frequency bandwidth of 5725-6200 MHz, with a center frequency of 5962.5 MHz, can have a peak height for the inductor zone of (or centered at approximately) 12.6 mm. However, if an adjustable inductor zone is used, Peak heights can be adjusted from about 13.25 to about 12.6 by changing the desired operating band.

Ridge heights can be adjusted by mechanically adjusting the ridges so that they extend or retract at the base of the inductor. In some variations, the ridges extend in and out of the base and can be mechanically (and / or electrically) adjusted to various heights. The heights can be adjusted manually, for example, using a knob or other control, including controls that have preset heights that can correspond to the desired operating bands. Any of these devices can also automatically adjusted, for example, so that the radio controlling circuitry can also control and / or adjust the height of the isolation barrier ridges; If the device switches operation from one band (eg 5470-5950 MHz) to another (eg 5725-6200 MHz), then it can automatically tune, or adjust, the height of the inductor peaks. For example, the heights of the ridges can be adjusted between about 4mm and about 20mm (eg, 8mm to 20mm, 10mm to 18mm, etc.). In some variations, the spacing between the ridges can also be adjusted.

In general, the plurality of ridges of an isolation inductor boundary zone may extend beyond an outer edge of the cover zone and / or the parabolic reflector. An inductor boundary ("inductor") can include any suitable number of peaks. For example, an inductor zone can include at least 10 peaks or any other number, as described above. As mentioned, an inductor boundary zone can include peaks. In some variations, a first subset of the insulation inductor boundary peaks may follow a curvature (in the main plane of the insulation inductor boundary) of an outer edge of the first cover and a second subset of the insulation inductor boundary peaks. Insulation inductor follows a curvature of the outer edge of the second cover.

Any of the described isolation inductor boundary zones may have a varying cross-sectional profile in a cross section through the inductor zone, but may generally be symmetric with respect to the long axis plane. Alternatively, in some variations, the inductor zone has an asymmetric rib height profile and therefore symmetry is not a requirement.

A radio device for transmitting broadband wireless signals described herein may include: a parabolic reflector; a radio circuitry configured to transmit broadband radio frequency signals between about 4 and about 8 GHz from the parabolic reflector and configured to receive broadband radio frequency signals between about 4 and about 8 GHz by the parabolic reflector; an inductor cover coupled or attachable to the reflector including an isolation inductor boundary zone and a cover zone. The isolation inductor boundary zone may include a plurality of ridges that extend perpendicular to the central axis of the inductor cover. The isolation inductor limit zone can be configured to provide greater than 10 dB isolation from the parabolic reflector.

In some variations, the radio circuitry of the apparatus is configured for the transmission and / or reception of broadband radio frequency signals between about 5 and about 7 GHz from the parabolic reflector.

Although the devices described herein are especially useful for use with radio devices for the transmission of broadband wireless signals for the transmission or reception of broadband radio frequency signals between about 4 and about 8 GHz, many of the Features and methods of operation described herein can be used as part of other radio devices and therefore can enhance such devices, including radio devices that are configured to operate in different radio frequency ranges. Although there may be advantages to applying the features and enhancements described herein in this range ("5 GHz"), other ranges may be used. For example, the features and improvements described herein can be used in radio antennas that have non-parabolic antenna dishes, or that have fewer or more than the number of antennas described. Any of the features, elements, and methods as described herein, including (but not limited to) the isolation inductor limit, RAD, and mounting system (eg, a quick-release pole mount, etc. ), it can be used as part of any other antenna system.

In any of the variations described herein, more than two reflectors (eg parabolic reflectors) may be used, eg 3, 4, 5, 6 or more. Each reflector can be connected or connected to an inductor cover.

As mentioned, any of the apparatus described herein can also include a coating (eg, a radome coating) over all or part of the device (eg, the inductor cover). In general, this device can be adapted for outdoor use and can withstand temperature, humidity, wind and / or other environmental forces.

As mentioned, systems / devices can be configured to avoid interference between adjacent antennas (radios). For example, a parabolic reflector can be retrofitted with an inductor cover to improve isolation from a nearby second radio device.

Any of the apparatus described herein may include a canopy component of any height, or may not include a significant canopy component. For example, Figures 1C and 1D illustrate a perspective view of an inductor cover attached to an antenna. In this example, the inductor cover has a cover component that extends the inductor zone above the outer perimeter of the antenna reflector. The inner wall of the covering area can be reflective or absorbent (e.g. absorbent, such as a radio / energy absorbing coating). Figures 1E and 1F illustrate another variation in which the apparatus includes only a minimal or no coverage area. Instead, the inductor is applied to the outer perimeter of the antenna reflector without substantially extending the antenna through a cover. Figure 8A illustrates a sectional view of the application of an inductor cover 803 onto an antenna 801; An optional radome 805 (or integrated on the inductor cover 803) can also be applied. Similarly, Figure 8B shows a sectional view of the application of an inductor 813 with minimal (or no) cover on an antenna 801, including an optional radome 810.

Although most of the antennas described herein are dish and / or parabolic reflector type antennas, any suitable type of antenna can be used, including, for example, an elongated (eg sector) antenna, as shown in Fig. Figure 9. In this example, an inductor and / or an inductor cover can be attached to the sides (eg, elongated sides) of the sector antenna to provide the advantages described above. For example, Figure 9B illustrates a pair of inductor cover components that can be attached to an antenna such as that shown in Figure 9A. In general, any of the inductors / inductor covers described herein can be in separate pieces or components that can be attached to the antennas. Figure 9C shows another example of an inductor cover having a single member that fits into an elongated rectangular antenna such as the sector antenna of Figure 9A. Any of these examples can be modified so that the cover portion is minimal or absent (eg, by attaching only a separate inductor element to the outer perimeter of the reflector).

Figure 10A illustrates an example of an inductor cover made up of multiple pieces that are assembled on the outer perimeter of the antenna to form the complete inductor cover (such as any of those illustrated above in Figures 1C-1D, 2A-2D and 4A-4C. In this example, two rigid or semi-rigid pieces are joined around the perimeter of the antenna reflector to form the inductor cover. In some variations (as described above with reference to Figures 3A-3D), you can An inductor cover can be configured to extend only partially around the outer perimeter of the antenna reflector. For example, any of the parts shown in Figure 10A can be used by itself as an inductor cover (partial inductor cover). Partial inductor can be attached (or otherwise attached) to an antenna reflector to provide noise reduction only in a specific direction, for example when there is an antenna immediately adjacent in the direction that the partial inductor cover joins.

Figure 10 shows another example, in which the inductor cover is a single piece that is open and can be closed around the antenna reflector. In this example, the inductor cover can be partially flexible, which can help to attach it to the perimeter of an antenna reflector as illustrated above. The aperture 1004 can be reduced (or expanded) when the apparatus is applied over the antenna. Once over the antenna, it can be locked or otherwise fixed in place (for example, using a strap, screw, clamp, or other item that holds the separate sides together.

The apparatus described herein may find specific use in locations where a series of antennas are positioned close to one another, as shown in Figure 11A. Figure 11A schematically illustrates a tower with multiple antennas positioned close to each other, yet oriented in different directions. This example shows a tower with multiple antennas, some of which include full or partial 1105, 1105 ', 1105 "inductor covers to provide improved noise cancellation / isolation. Inductor covers can prevent nearby antenna signals from interfering with transmission to / from the antenna having the inductor cover, and can also minimize the signals from that antenna incident on adjacent antennas. Figures 11B and 11C illustrate another example of an inductor cover attached to an antenna apparatus. having a parabolic reflector and attached to a tower (Figure 11B) Figure 11C shows an enlarged view of the inductor outer edge area (mouth) of the cover attached to the antenna shown in Figure 11B.

Another variation of an inductor cover is shown in Figures 12A-12C. These figures show perspective views of an inductor cover that can be attached to an apparatus such as a parabolic reflector of an antenna. Figures 13A-13G illustrate another variation of an inductor cover 1301 as described herein. In this example, the shroud (inductor shroud) may be secured by a tightening nut 1304 (or other constriction and / or retention mechanism) to the open mouth of an antenna reflector. In this example, the inductor shroud includes a radome (shroud) that is largely RF transparent, or allows RF energy to pass through relatively attenuated; however, the radome 1306 can be shaped to improve the performance of the isolation inductor cover. For example, in Figure 13B, as shown in the profile of Figure 13F, the radome is concave inward and / or cone-shaped (towards the parabolic reflector). The body of the cover can also taper into any of the covers described herein, as shown in Figures 13D-13E, with side walls slightly angled from the midline of the apparatus, and not parallel as in other examples. The angle away from parallel can be small (eg, between about 0.5 degrees and 20 degrees, between about 0.5 degrees and 15 degrees, between about 0.5 degrees and 10 degrees, etc.).

The performance of an antenna / radio set that includes any of the inductor covers described herein may generally be better than the performance without the cover, in particular by isolating the beam energy from the device. Figure 14A shows a power profile for signals emanating from a parabolic reflector without a cover, and Figure 14B shows a power profile for signals from the same parabolic reflector with a cover 1404, showing an improvement in energy (signal) directed in the z-direction outside the apparatus. The midline area 1401 with the cover has a higher signal energy while the areas outside the midline have a lower energy.

Figures 15A-15F illustrate the attachment of a cover to a parabolic reflector, as described above. The cover is a circular / tubular structure with a slit on one side, allowing it to expand and position around the open mouth of parabolic reflectors 1501 as shown in Figure 15A. Once in place, a locking ring 1505 is placed over the attachment site, as shown in Figures 15C-15E, and the ring is tightened and locked in place by fixing a screw 1504.

Reflectors with integrated covers

Also described herein are parabolic reflectors integrated with a cover (which can be an inductor cover or a cover without an inductor). Any of these isolation reflectors may be referred to herein as integrated reflectors and covers, reflectors with integrated isolation covers, or parabolic barrel reflectors. In general, these apparatuses include a parabolic reflector zone that has a first curvature function that is parabolic, which transitions to a second zone distal to the first parabolic zone that has parallel walls or has almost walls (for example, within / - 10 degrees) parallel, giving them an approximately barrel-like extension from the parabolic zone.

In particular, parabolic antenna reflector apparatuses including a reflector or body part that is integrally formed by a parabolic reflector section (or parabolic reflector part) and a cover part (or cover section) are described herein. which can be formed to be different zones of the same component (body). This integrated body can be formed from a single piece of material, such as by deep drawing a metal sheet. Deep drawing can refer to a manufacturing method in which a sheet metal blank is radially drawn into a forming die by the mechanical action of a punch. The process is considered "deep" drawing when the depth of the drawn part exceeds its diameter. This can be achieved by re-drawing the part through a series of dies.

The parabolic reflector section usually has a central axis of symmetry (eg, in the direction of the distal mouth of the reflector section. This distal mouth area may be a circular opening perpendicular to the central axis of symmetry. The axis of symmetry. 1605 of a parabolic reflector section 1603 is illustrated in Figure 16B, which shows an example of a parabolic antenna reflector apparatus having a (unitary body) integrated with a parabolic reflector section 1602 that is continuous with a cover portion 1607 .

In general, a cover portion may extend distally from the circular opening of the parabolic reflector section. The distal opening of the cover portion is at an angle to the axis of rotation. This means that the wall of the cover part is higher on one side of the cover part than on the opposite side, and the distal opening of the cover part usually forms a plane that is at an angle to the central axis ( the axis of symmetry). For example, the cover portion may have a distal opening that forms a plane that is at an angle of between 0.5 degrees and 20 degrees (for example, between about 0.5 and 15 degrees, 0.5 and 10 degrees, 1 and 15 degrees, 1 and 10 degrees, etc.) with respect to a plane that is perpendicular to the axis of symmetry. In some variations, the radome can be non-flat (eg, tapered, have a non-uniform thickness, etc.). The radome is usually a protective coating that is relatively transparent to the RF energy transmitted / received by the apparatus. Thus, a radome can be constructed of a material that minimally attenuates the electromagnetic signal transmitted or received by the antenna. As mentioned, any of the apparatus described herein may include a radome. For example, in the parabolic antenna reflector apparatuses described herein, the radome can be flat and can cover the distal opening of the cover part, covering the inside of the cover part at the angle.

The parabolic antenna reflector apparatus described herein can generally be adapted for use with an integrated radio transceiver and power supply. For example, the parabolic reflector portion of the body may include a central opening that is greater than 3 cm in diameter (eg, large enough to allow passage and / or hold the housing of the integrated radio transceiver and power supply as described. in more detail below. The parabolic antenna reflector apparatus may also include a bracket or housing mounted on a proximal side of this central opening so that the central opening is continuous with an inner chamber within the bracket, wherein the inner chamber comprises a coating of a radio frequency (RF) shielding material. The inner chamber is generally configured to hold and / or fix the integrated radio transceiver and feeder so that it extends into the main body of the reflector (e.g. in the parabolic reflector area and the cover part) .The interior chamber of the support may include one or more tracks or channels (for example, extending extending along the inner length in the direction of the axis of symmetry when mounted on the rear / proximal side of the parabolic reflector part. These channels can be sized and shaped to secure the housing of a radio transceiver and integrated feeder. In general, the inner chamber of the bracket can be configured to secure an integrated power and radio transceiver so that the integrated power and radio transceiver is aligned with the central axis of symmetry.

The bracket is generally configured to prevent transmission of RF energy outside the center opening, or

from the rear of the radio transceiver and integrated power supply. In this way, the support can be coated,

plated or formed with an RF attenuating or absorbing (or reflective) material that prevents the transmission of energy

Rf out of the bracket. For example, the bracket can be plated with copper and nickel.

As mentioned above, any of these parabolic barrel reflectors can be adapted

specifically for use with an integrated radio / power supply, as described, for example, in the document

US 8,493,279, and is described below. Thus, the apparatus described herein include

a rear bracket (which may also be referred to as a receiver or bracket) for the rear (proximal) of the

Integrated radio / power supply. The rear bracket can be fixed, for example, by means of a locking mechanism

slotted, screws, or the like, even supporting it between the base of the parabolic zone of the reflector and a mount

attached to it, to the rear of the parabolic barrel reflector, so that an integrated radio / feed that

passes through the rear of the reflector can be securely attached (and in a fixed orientation) within the

reflector. The interior, exterior, or both, of the rear bracket are made of or lined with a material that reflects

and / or attenuates RF energy, to prevent transmission from behind the reflector. The reflector itself has a large

central opening through which the integrated antenna / feeder passes and one or more attachment areas. The support

It may also include a door or lock to pass a cord or cable (for example, connect to the circuitry of

transceiver) for the signal (s) transmitted using the device.

On any of the covers, including, in particular, parabolic reflectors integrated with covers

integrated (parabolic barrel reflectors) described herein, the mouth or distal opening of the

The deck may form a plane that is off-axis with respect to the midline of the apparatus. This is illustrated, by

For example, in FIG. 23E, described in greater detail below. Therefore, the feeder (radio transceiver

and integrated feeder) can be clamped inside the reflector at an angle that is not perpendicular to the mouth (and

any radome that covers the mouth). Although the transmission direction usually follows the symmetry of the

feeder (built-in feeder / radio), the front appears to be pointing in a different direction due to the

angled mouth. Thus, instead of a 90 degree angle, the angle of the feeder with respect to the mouth

(and any coating, for example the radome) can be between 45 degrees and 89.9 degrees (for example, between a

first value of 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61,62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68 , 69, 70, 71,

56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81,72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, or 89 degrees, and a second value of 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55,

56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81,

82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89, 89.5, or 89.9 degrees, where the second value is higher than the lowest value).

For example, Figure 16A illustrates a variation of an integrated cover and antenna reflector apparatus (which in the

This document may be called a parabolic barrel reflector), covered with a radome. Figure 16B shows

the apparatus of Figure 16A with the radome removed, showing the integrated power / radio mounted within the

reflector. In this example, the radio transceiver and integrated power supply is shown with the cover / housing

removed, showing 1648 feeder plug, 1650 sub-reflector, and circuitry mounted on a common substrate

1647. The antenna assembly shown in this example has a mouth opening diameter of 300mm. The figures

16C-16E illustrate a bottom view, a top view and a side view, respectively, of the

built-in cover and parabolic antenna reflector shown in Figures 16A-16B, including a mount and a

attached integrated radio / feeder. As shown in figure 16C (view from below) compared to figure

16D (top view), the width (diameter, d1) 1610 of the cover part 1607 at the top is much

greater than the width (diameter, d2) 1609 at the bottom, for example about 1.5 times in this

example. The angle between a plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the parabolic zone 1603 and the distal opening of the

cover part (a) is usually between about 0.1 and 20 degrees; In Figure 16E, this angle (a) is

about 10 degrees.

Also shown in Figure 16E is the mounting apparatus, illustrating a bolt mount that is capable of joining

to a number of different surfaces, including radio towers (e.g. masts), walls, etc.

The frame shown, as will be described in more detail below, has two parts; an inner part (between the

support for radio transceiver and integrated power supply) and an outer part, shown on the inside and

partially covering the support. Figure 17 shows a slightly enlarged view of the mounting portion of the

apparatus of Figures 16A-16E, which can be used to mount the apparatus to a surface, pole, tower, or the like.

Inner mount 1633 may be bolted to outer mount 1644, which may itself include one or more

mounting bolts 1654 to secure the apparatus to a pole, pole, or the like.

Figure 18 is an exploded view of the apparatus of Figures 16A-16E, showing the component parts,

including the 1801 parabolic barrel reflector (shown as an integrated part having a first zone of

proximal parabolic reflector, and a second distal cover part), a first mount part 1803 (mount

interior) and a second mount piece 1805 (exterior mount), a bracket 1807 for a feeder / radio

integrated radio transceiver and power supply 1809. All of these components are shown aligned to

along the axis of rotational symmetry 1855, 1855 'of the parabolic reflector part. The parabolic reflector part

includes a central aperture or hole 1866. Bracket 1807 can be aligned so that the inner chamber or area

1877 of bracket 1807 is aligned with an opening through the first mounting piece 1803 and the center opening 1866 through the parabolic reflector portion of the integrated reflector housing / cover 1801.

Figure 19A shows the parabolic barrel reflector (main body 1801) of the apparatus shown in Figure 18. This main body includes the inner parabolic reflector part 1823, and the outer cover area 1824, where the cover part 1824 has a Smaller width along one side (at the bottom, near the 1883 drain holes) than on the opposite (top) side.

Figures 19B and 19C show clamp mount 1803 and clamp mount 1805, respectively, of the apparatus shown in Figure 18. Figure 19D shows an integrated feeder / radio, as described herein, and Figure 19E shows the integrated radio / feeder 1901 of Figure 19D with the coating removed (exposing circuitry 1905, common substrate 1903, a feeder plug 1913, and a sub-reflector 1909).

Figure 19F shows a bracket 1807 for an integrated feeder / spoke 1901 as shown in Figure 19D, encoded within the interior zone 1877 to maintain the orientation of the feeder / spoke in the parabolic barrel reflector.

As mentioned above, any of the apparatus described herein, including any of the parabolic barrel reflector apparatus described herein, includes an inductor boundary zone that acts as a filter around the outer mouth / opening. of the device. For example, Figure 19G shows a variation of a parabolic barrel reflector similar to that shown in Figure 19A (and Figure 18), including only one inductor boundary zone 1977 formed as a plurality of peaks 1979. As mentioned above, these peaks may include a depth that is approximately% of the wavelength of the bands being used, as described herein. Figure 19H shows an enlarged view of this inductor zone. In Fig. 19H, the inductor area is shown radially inward from the 1981 radome or lip junction area so that the radome can cover the inductor area when covered; alternatively, the inductor boundary may be outside the radome (and / or radially outward from the radome junction zone). In general, the inductor zone can be referred to as an integrated notch filter and located along the outer edge of the apparatus.

Figure 20A shows an example of the parabolic barrel reflector part (body) 2001 for an antenna apparatus, similar to that shown in Figures 16A-19A. In this example, the outer edge of the cover portion of the body has a lip or rim 2005 that is flanged outward and has areas of different width, forming a scalloped edge. Figure 20B is an example of a radome (shroud) 2007 that can be adapted to engage this outer lip or rim area 2005 and bond over the mouth of the parabolic barrel reflector. In Fig. 20B, the radome outer edge area has edge areas 2011 that are complementary to the scalloped edges 2005 of the flange. Figure 20C illustrates the attachment of the radome of Figure 20b to the mouth of the parabolic barrel reflector of Figure 20A. For example, the radome liner can be positioned against the opening 2012, then aligned so that the scalloped edges fit between the outer edge areas 2011; To hook the radome to the body of the apparatus, as shown in Figure 20C, the radome (or theoretically the body) can be rotated 2013 to hook the radome cover.

Figure 21A illustrates a variation of an integrated antenna reflector similar to that shown in Figure 16A, and an integrated parabolic cover / reflector apparatus (parabolic barrel reflector), covered with a radome. Similarly, Figure 21B shows the apparatus of Figure 21A with the radome removed, showing the integrated radio / feeder 2108 mounted within the reflector. The housing over the 2108 radio transceiver and integrated power supply is shown attached and on the radio transceiver and integrated power supply. This example has a mouth opening diameter of 400mm. Figures 21C-21E illustrate a bottom view, a top view, and a side view, respectively, of the integrated canopy and parabolic antenna reflector apparatus shown in Figures 21A-21B, including a mount (inner mount member 2105 and outer mounting piece 2107) and an attached integrated radio / feeder (not visible).

Figure 22 shows a mounting portion of the apparatus of Figures 16A-16E, which can be used to mount the apparatus to a surface, pole, tower, or the like.

Similarly, Figure 23A illustrates another variation of an integrated cover and antenna reflector apparatus (which may be referred to herein as a parabolic barrel reflector) 2301, covered with a 2308 radome. Figure 23B shows the apparatus of Figure 23A with the radome removed, showing the integrated radio / power supply mounted inside the reflector. This example has a mouth opening diameter of 500mm.

Figures 23C-23E illustrate a bottom view, a top view, and a side view, respectively, of the integrated canopy and parabolic antenna reflector apparatus shown in Figures 23A-23B, including a mount and an attached integrated feeder / radio. .

Figure 23E illustrates the angle (a) of the distal opening of the cover portion, which is the angle of the plane formed by the distal opening with respect to a plane that is perpendicular to the midline, the axis of symmetry 2309 of the parabolic reflector zone. The angle p (which is 90-a) is the angle of this distal opening with respect to the axis of symmetry itself. As discussed above, this angle can be determined, for example, by holding an edge diameter at a relative fixed level (e.g., di) in the direction of the central axis of symmetry, and by setting the height (diameter) of the opposite edge approximately at the middle of a wavelength distally shifted in the direction of the central axis of symmetry (eg, d2). The offset wavelength can be a mid, median, or central wavelength of the apparatus's operational RF range (eg, 5 GHz mean / median, d2 can be about 5 cm higher than di). Thus, during operation, the more uniform the energy, the resulting angle of the radome can provide a more approximate cancellation of the energy reflected back to the reflector by the radome.

A cover configuration that has a distal mouth opening that forms an angle with respect to the axis of symmetry of the parabolic reflector part of the apparatus is contradictory, since this modification of the cover is not optimal and could allow a greater amount of noise. , due to the asymmetry of the distal opening of the cover. This is especially true when the apparatus is oriented with the shorter side of the cover facing the ground, a direction that has a greater number of possible sources of reflection and interference. Despite these potential disadvantages, this orientation can be beneficial in tilting the radome down, for example, towards the ground (preventing rain, snow and ice from accumulating on the roof) and at an angle to a plane perpendicular to the axis of symmetry of the parabolic reflector part. For example, this design can avoid or reduce the front-to-rear ratio of the apparatus. In the absence of the angled distal opening, when there is a high degree of rotational symmetry in the operation of the apparatus, edge signals that would otherwise wrap around the edge of the distal opening of the cover portion can be combined in phase and aim behind the antenna. Having an angled distal opening, in which the cover has a greater lateral length on one side, for example the top, compared to the opposite side of the cover, for example the bottom, can disrupt this constructive interference. in backward-directed phase and thus can improve the front-to-back ratio.

Figure 23E illustrates an example of an apparatus, and shows an angle 2305 (p) between the plane formed by the mouth (opening) of the parabolic barrel reflector and the long axis 2309 of the integrated radio / feeder held within the parabolic barrel reflector. . In general, this angle can be between 89.5 degrees and 60 degrees, for example between 60 degrees and 85 degrees, etc.). Alternatively, the angle of the distal opening (and therefore the angle of any flat radome covering the opening) can be expressed with respect to a plane that is perpendicular to the axis of symmetry, shown as in Figure 23E.

Figure 24 shows an enlarged view of a variation of a mounting portion of an apparatus such as that shown in Figures 16A-16E, which can be used to mount the apparatus to a pole, tower, or the like. This variation of a mount has two parts; a first frame part that attaches to the rear of (or through) the parabolic reflector area of the parabolic antenna reflector apparatus, and a second part (second frame part) that can be coupled with the first frame part can also attach attachments (for example, bolt or bolt attachments) to a mast, pedestal, tower, or other surface.

Figure 25 is an exploded view of the apparatus of Figures 23A-23E, showing the component parts, including the parabolic barrel reflector, two mounting parts, an integrated feeder / radio, and a holder for the integrated feeder / radio. This exploded view can also provide information on how the apparatus can be assembled for operation. For example, the apparatus can be initially assembled by joining a radio transceiver and integrated power supply through the wall (for example, the central area) of the apparatus so that it is fixed in the bracket and extends into the cavity formed by the concave side. device, which is also shielded to prevent RF signal leakage / retransmission from the receiver. The bracket can support the radio transceiver and integrated feeder aligned with (for example, pointing in the same direction as) the central axis of symmetry of the parabolic dish portion. Figures 26A-2F show the same elements (albeit in different embodiments) shown in the exploded view of Figure 25. Figure 26A shows a parabolic barrel reflector of Figure 25, including the central aperture and attachment sites for the mount and / or bracket described herein. Figures 26B and 26C show a front view and a rear view, respectively, of the clamping frame of Figure 25.

In general, the bracket mounted to the rear of the apparatus may include shielding to prevent or lessen the transmission of RF energy from the radio transceiver and built-in power supply outside the rear of the apparatus. For example, as described with reference to Figures 18, 19F (eg bracket 1807), 26F and 30A, a bracket can be mounted behind the apparatus and can be used to hold, align and partially shield a radio transceiver and power supply. integrated. The integrated power and radio transceiver can be placed through a reflector (for example, a parabolic reflector) and secured with the transceiver and / or any sub-reflector within the housing partially through a hole in the reflector, and fixed by means of a bracket so that the radio transceiver and integrated power supply is aligned with respect to the axis of the reflector. The support can be shielded as described herein, to absorb and / or reflect RF energy; for example, the backing (inside and / or outside) can be coated with an RF absorbing and / or reflective material, such as a copper nickel plating to prevent, limit or weaken RF energy directed backward.

Any of the antenna apparatus described herein includes a bracket for holding / fixing / aligning a radio transceiver and integrated power supply. In the present document, antenna reflector apparatuses (eg parabolic antenna reflector apparatuses) are described comprising: a reflector section (eg parabolic) having a central axis of symmetry and a circular aperture perpendicular to the central axis of symmetry; an integrated feeder and radio transceiver comprising an elongated housing enclosing a substrate, transceiver circuitry on the substrate, and an antenna radiator extending from the substrate; a central opening through the parabolic reflector section through which the radio transceiver and integrated feeder passes (which may be, for example, greater than 3 cm in diameter); and a bracket mounted on a proximal side of the central aperture so that the central aperture is continuous with an inner chamber within the bracket, wherein the inner chamber secures the integrated radio and power transceiver (for example, so that the transceiver radius and integrated feeder is aligned with the central axis of symmetry). Thus, also described herein are dish antennas with an integrated feeder / transceiver where the proximal end of the feeder is located past the center of the dish (protruding from the rear side of the dish) and the proximal end of the feeder is shielded. at least partially to avoid RF interference. The dish antenna is not limited to one with a cover (for example, the dish antenna can be a traditional parabolic dish without a cover, or a grid antenna dish).

As will be described in greater detail herein, any of the antenna apparatus described herein includes an integrated feeder and radio transceiver comprising an elongated housing enclosing a substrate, a transceiver circuitry in the substrate, a radiator antenna extending from the substrate. The antenna radiator may include an antenna feed (such as, but not limited to, a feed plug, a feed plate, etc.) and in some variations a director (for example, such as a director plug, a director's badge, etc.). In some variations, the antenna radiator includes a sub-reflector that is also in communication with the substrate.

The mounting bracket (s) shown in Figures 26A-B and 26C are adapted to allow the antenna apparatus to be properly mounted (eg, hung on a wall, pole, mount, etc.). For example, in Figure 26B, the plate may include multiple notches 2609 in the mount plate shown in Figure 26B that allow the installer to "hang" a plate (which is attached to plate 2617 at 26B) onto the mounting bracket. Figure 26C (which may already be attached to a mast); The two notches in the plate of FIG. 26B may correspond to (and engage with) the projections 2615 in the inner service of the U-shaped clamp of FIG. 26C. An installer can then tilt the disk to the desired angle relative to the fixture shown in Figure 26C and secure the antenna in place (and orientation), for example, using screws or other security features to secure and lock the fixture. antenna in place. The mount formed by the plate shown at 26B and the clamp at 26C is an improvement over other configurations where an installer had to clamp the platter, along with the mount, while trying to align the screw holes in the plate ( shown in figure 26B) and the bracket (shown in figure 26C), and then install the screws to fix the plate to the bracket.

Figure 26D shows an example integrated radio / feed, as described herein, and Figure 26E shows the integrated feed / radio of Figure 26D with the cover removed (exposing the circuitry and feeder body). Figure 26F shows the bracket (eg, a housing) for an integrated feeder / spoke such as that shown in Figure 26D, coded to maintain the orientation of the feeder / spoke in the parabolic barrel reflector.

In some variations, assembly of the apparatus described herein can be accomplished by first mounting the apparatus to a pole, mast, tower, or other surface (wall, etc.). For example, the frame can be a two-part frame; the first part, a second mounting apparatus (of 4). First, it can be attached (lightly) to the mast, pole, tower or other surface, and the first mounting part can be attached to the body of the apparatus. After this, the first and second frame pieces can be joined to form a single frame. The first and second mounting pieces can be welded together and / or held together by screws, bolts, etc. In some variations, once the main body of the apparatus is connected and attached to a mount, a radome coating can be applied. In the variation shown in Figures 27A-28C, the radome includes a channel or other edge pattern that can engage an outer edge of the distal opening (mouth) of the cover portion. Figure 27A shows the rear side of a radome as described herein. The edge of the radome may include a rim or lip that flattens over an area on each side so that the flattened areas can be clamped within the track, channel, or the like, of the radome. Figure 27B shows a front view of the radome of Figure 27A, and Figure 27C shows an enlarged rear perspective view, including the integrated radio transceiver and feeder channels that are along an outer side area to engage with the flange of the appliance. Figure 27A shows a parabolic barrel reflector for an antenna apparatus, similar to that shown in Figures 23A-26A. This variation is adapted so that the radome can slide over the mouth of the parabolic barrel reflector. Figure 27B is an example of a radome (shroud) adapted to slide and bond over the mouth of the parabolic barrel reflector, such as that shown in Figure 27A. Figure 27C is an enlarged perspective view of the radome of Figure 27B, showing the rim area that is adapted to slide over the mouth of the parabolic barrel reflector.

Figures 28A and 28B illustrate the attachment of the radome of Figures 27B-27C on the mouth of the parabolic barrel reflector 27A by sliding 2803 the coating from the top, down the flattened sliders (perpendicular to the top, which is marked, for example, with a cutout 2805) and over the mouth of the parabolic reflector and the deck combined.

Figure 29A shows an example of an apparatus including an integrated feeder / radio device that is attached to the parabolic barrel reflector using a rear housing (bracket or receiver) which is shown in greater detail in Figure 29B; The receiver is metal-plated inside the housing to prevent RF energy (eg microwave energy) from the rear of the set when the built-in radio / power supply is attached. For example, the back case can include a copper nickel plating to prevent, limit, or weaken RF energy directed to the rear.

During operation, the apparatus described herein can direct substantially more signals of higher power in a predetermined desired direction (eg, in parallel with the axis of symmetry). Figure 30A shows an energy profile through a radio set having a parabolic reflector, using an integrated radio / feeder device. Figure 30B shows the same radio / feeder device integrated within a parabolic barrel reflector similar to those described herein, which act as RF isolators, showing increased energy near the midline of the apparatus, exiting the mouth of the apparatus, compared to a parabolic reflector without an integrated cover area. The thermal plot shows a range of field energies from 2e-2 (behind the apparatus) to a maximum of 2e + 2.

Figure 31 illustrates an example of a radio apparatus that includes a radio / feeder integrated within a parabolic barrel reflector and mounted to a mast via the mounts. As discussed above, the apparatus can be addressed for use in point-to-point or point-to-multipoint transmission. In Figure 31, the apparatus is intended for transmission to the horizon, parallel to the ground area below the apparatus, while appearing to be directed downward based on the direction of the radome coating.

Figures 32 and 33 illustrate exemplary integrated radio transceivers and feeders that may be used with any of the apparatus described herein. An integrated feeder and radio transceiver may generally include a radio transceiver, an antenna (subantenna), an antenna feeder mechanism, and the necessary RF connections (including cabling) to connect these items. An integrated feeder and radio transceiver may comprise the integrated radio transceiver with the antenna feeder mechanism and antenna leads. Many advantages result from this integration, including the elimination of RF cables and connectors. The antenna feed assembly may comprise connectivity for a digital signal interface; antenna feed pins, director pins and sub-reflectors. Typically, these elements can be located on a printed circuit board (PCB) and housed in a weather resistant housing. An integrated feed and radio transceiver may include one or more antenna feed pins, the one or more director plugs, and the one or more sub-reflectors. The integrated feeder and radio transceiver may include the antenna feeder system, its associated housing, and a parabolic sub-reflector, and may be used with any of the parabolic antenna reflector apparatus described herein. By mounting the antenna feed pins and director pins perpendicular to a printed circuit board inside the radio transceiver and integrated feeder, the performance of the antenna system can be significantly improved.

Any of these radio transceivers and integrated feeders may include a center-fed parabolic reflector (sub-reflector) and a radio transceiver, wherein the radio transceiver is physically integrated with a center-feeder parabolic reflector, and wherein the radio transceiver It is powered through a digital cable. Many advantages result from this integration, including the elimination of RF cables and connectors in the microwave system. In one embodiment, the antenna feed assembly may further comprise connectivity for a digital signal interface; antenna feed pins, director pins and sub-reflectors. These elements are typically located on a printed circuit board and housed in a weather resistant housing.

A radio transceiver may have a connector for an Ethernet cable that receives not only the digital signals, but also the power for the radio transceiver and the center power reflector. The Ethernet cable can be attached to a passive adapter, which, in turn, attaches to a client station, where the passive adapter is powered by a USB cable that is also attached to the client station. The passive adapter can inject power into the part of the Ethernet cable that connects to the radio transceiver. The length of the Ethernet cable can be selected such that there is enough power to support the radio transceiver and to support the transmission of the digital signal to the radio transceiver. This embodiment can support a radio transceiver incorporating a radio gateway with OSI layer 1-7 capabilities.

An integrated radio transceiver and power supply may have a connector for a USB cable that receives not only the digital signals, but also the power for the radio transceiver and the centrally powered parabolic reflector. The USB cable can be attached to a USB repeater, which, in turn, attaches to a client station. The length of the USB cables can be selected such that there is enough power to support the radio transceiver and to support the transmission of the digital signal to the radio transceiver. This embodiment can support a radio transceiver incorporating a USB client driver, for example supporting OSI layer 1-3. Although described in the context of an IEEE 802.11 WiFi microwave system, the systems disclosed herein can generally be applied to any wireless network.

A parabolic reflector (or sub-reflector) is, in general, a reflective device in the shape of a parabola, used to collect or distribute energy such as radio waves. The parabolic reflector usually works due to the geometric properties of the paraboloid shape: if the angle of incidence to the inner surface of the collector is equal to the angle of reflection, then any incoming ray that is parallel to the axis of the dish will be reflected at one point. central or "locus". Because many types of energy can be reflected in this way, parabolic reflectors can be used to collect and focus the energy entering the reflector at a specific angle. Similarly, energy radiating from the "focus" to the platter can be transmitted outward in a beam that is parallel to the axis of the platter. An antenna feed may include an assembly comprising the elements of an antenna feed mechanism, an antenna feed conductor, and an associated connector. An antenna feed system can include an antenna feed and a radio transceiver. A classical antenna system usually includes an antenna feeder and an antenna, such as a parabolic reflector. In a radio transceiver and integrated feeder, a radio transceiver is usually integrated with the antenna feeder, whereby the antenna system comprises an antenna feeder system and an antenna. A center feed parabolic reflector may include a parabolic reflector and an antenna feed, wherein the signal to the antenna feed is "fed" through the center of the satellite dish. A microwave system is usually a system comprising an antenna system, a radio transceiver, and one or more client station devices. The radio transceiver can be integrated with the antenna system.

FIG. 32 illustrates an exemplary integrated feeder and radio transceiver 200. As illustrated, the functions of the radio transceiver may be integrated with the functions of the antenna feeder driver and the functions of the conventional antenna feeder mechanism. The integrated feeder and radio transceiver 200 shown in FIG. 32 can be located in the same position relative to a reflective antenna as a conventional antenna feeder mechanism. The integrated power and radio transceiver 200 can be assembled on a common substrate, which can be a multilayer printed circuit board 208. The integrated power and radio transceiver 200 comprises a digital connector 201. This digital connector 201 can be an Ethernet connector or USB or other digital connector. A digital signal from a client station can be coupled to digital connector 201 on a digital cable. To power the radio transceiver on the integrated radio transceiver and power supply, the digital cable may include a power component. The power component can be provided on an Ethernet cable, USB cable, or other equivalent digital cable.

Figure 33 illustrates another example of an integrated power and radio transceiver 300 comprising a housing with an antenna tube 303. The housing may be a weather-resistant housing, such as a plastic housing 301 that encloses the elements of the transceiver. radio and integrated power supply. An integrated feeder and radio transceiver may include a digital connector 201, a printed circuit board 208, antenna feeder pins 205, director pins 206, and a sub-reflector 207. In Figure 33, the sub-reflector 207 reflects the waves. irradiated 302 back to a reflective antenna (such as the parabolic antenna reflector apparatus described above). Housing 301 can be adapted to the shape of sub-reflector 207. As an option, a plastic housing 301 may allow interchangeability of sub-reflector 207.

Tube 303 can be adjusted to various lengths to accommodate reflectors of different sizes. A digital cable, equivalent to digital cable 111, can be routed through tube 303 and connected to digital connector 201. Digital connector 201 can have a heated connector, such as a USB or heated Ethernet connector.

Returning to Figure 32, the digital connector 201 can be coupled to a radio transceiver 203 through a conductor 202. The conductor 202 can be implemented by a metal connector on a printed circuit board 208. A radio transceiver 203 can generate an RF signal that is coupled to an antenna feeder conductor 204, which, in turn, is coupled to antenna feeder pins 205. Antenna feeder pins 205 radiate the RF signal 103 to a reflector of antenna. However, the radiated signal can be modified and enhanced by director pins 206 and sub-reflectors 207.

As illustrated in FIG. 32, the antenna feed pins 205 comprise two pins that are located on opposite sides of the printed circuit board, and the pins are electrically connected to each other. The antenna feed plug can implement a half wavelength dipole. However, the inclusion of director pins 206 and sub-reflector 207 can be modified away from that of a half wavelength dipole. Director pins 206 are known in the industry as passive radiators or parasitic elements. These items do not have any wired input. Instead, they absorb radio waves that have radiated from another active antenna element in the vicinity and re-irradiate the radio waves in phase with the active element, so as to increase the total transmitted signal. An example of an antenna that uses passive radiators is the Yagi, which typically has a reflector behind the driven element, and one or more directors in front of the driven element, which act, respectively, like the reflector and lenses of a flashlight to create a "make". Therefore, parasitic elements can be used to alter the radiation parameters of nearby active elements.

Director pins 206 can be electrically isolated on the integrated power and radio transceiver 200. Alternatively, the director pins 206 may be grounded. For the exemplary embodiment, the director pins 206 comprise two pins that are inserted through the PCB 208 such that two pins remain on either side of the PCB 208, as illustrated in Figure 32. In In the exemplary embodiment, the director pins 206 and antenna feed pins 205 are mounted perpendicular to the printed circuit board 208. In addition, these pins may be implemented with surface mounted pins (SMT).

The perpendicular arrangement of the conductor pins 206 and the antenna feed pins 205 can allow the transmission of radio waves to be coplanar to the radio transceiver and integrated feeder 200. In this arrangement, the electric field is tangential to the metal of the antenna. PCB 208, such that, on the metal surface, the electric field is zero. Therefore, the radiation from the perpendicular pins has minimal impact on the remaining electronic circuitry of PCB 208. Therefore, radiation patterns are emitted in the approximately equal F and H planes that provide effective illumination of the antenna, thereby increasing the efficiency of the microwave system.

The radiation pattern and parameters are further modified by the sub-reflector antenna 207 which is located near the antenna feed pins 205. As illustrated in Figure 33, the sub-reflector "reflects" radiation back to a reflective antenna, such as a parabolic antenna reflector apparatus described above (not shown in FIG. 33). Both the director pins and the sub-reflector modify the antenna pattern and beamwidth, with the potential to improve the performance of the microwave system.

As for additional details relevant to the present invention, materials and fabrication techniques may be employed within the level of those skilled in the relevant art. The same may be true with respect to the method-based aspects of the invention in terms of additional acts customarily or logically employed. Furthermore, it is contemplated that any optional features of the inventive variations described may be set forth and claimed independently, or in combination with any one or more of the features described herein.

When a feature or element is herein said to be "in" another feature or element, it may be directly on the other feature or element or intermediate features and / or elements may also be present. In contrast, when a feature or element is said to be "directly in" another feature or element, there are no intermediate features or elements present. It will also be understood that when one feature or element is said to be "connected", "attached" or "coupled" to another feature or element, it may be directly connected, attached or coupled to the other feature or element, or features may be present. or intermediate elements. In contrast, when a feature or element is said to be "directly connected", "directly attached" or "directly coupled" to another feature or element, there are no intermediate features or elements present. Although described or shown with respect to one embodiment, the features and elements so described or shown may be applied to other embodiments. Those skilled in the art will also appreciate that references to a structure or feature that is arranged "adjacent" to another feature may have portions that overlap or underlie the adjacent feature.

The terminology used herein is only for the purpose of describing specific embodiments and is not intended to be a limitation of the invention. For example, as used herein, the singular forms "a / an" and "the" are intended to include plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms "comprises" and / or "comprising", when used in the present specification, specify the presence of expressed characteristics, steps, operations, elements and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more additional characteristics, stages, operations, elements, components and / or groups thereof. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items and may be abbreviated as "/".

Spatially relative terms, such as "below," "below," "lower," "above," "upper," and the like, may be used herein for ease of description to describe the relationship of one element or feature to another. or other elements and characteristics as illustrated in the figures. It will be understood that the terms spatially relative are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if a device in the figures is inverted, the elements described as "below" or "below" other elements or features would be oriented "on top" of the other elements or features. Thus, the exemplary term "down" can encompass both a top and bottom orientation. The device can be oriented in another way (rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein can be interpreted accordingly. Similarly, the terms "up", "down", "vertical", "horizontal" and the like are used herein for explanatory purposes only unless specifically stated otherwise.

Although the terms "first" and "second" may be used herein to describe various features / items (including steps), these features / items should not be limited by these terms, unless the context indicates otherwise. These terms can be used to distinguish a characteristic / element of another characteristic / element. Thus, a first feature / item discussed below could be referred to as a second feature / item and, similarly, a second feature / item discussed below could be referred to as a first feature / item without departing from the teachings of the present invention.

As used herein in the specification and claims, including as used in the examples and unless expressly specified otherwise, all numbers may be read as if they were preceded by the words "around" or " approximately ", even if the term does not appear expressly. The expression "about" or "about" can be used when describing the magnitude and / or position to indicate that the value and / or position described is within a reasonably expected range of values and / or positions. For example, a numeric value can have a value that is / - 0.1% of the set value (or range of values), / - 1% of the set value (or range of values), / - 2% of the set value (or range of values). or range of values), / - 5% of the set value (or range of values), / - 10% of the set value (or range of values), etc. Any numerical range mentioned herein is intended to include all subranges contained therein.

Although various illustrative examples and embodiments have been described above, any of a number of changes may be made to various examples and embodiments within the scope of the appended claims. For example, the order in which the various steps of the described method are performed can often be changed in alternative examples and embodiments, and in other alternative examples and embodiments one or more method steps can be omitted. Optional features of various examples and embodiments of devices and systems may be included in some examples and embodiments and not others. Therefore, the above description is provided primarily by way of example.

Claims (8)

1. An antenna apparatus comprising: an antenna reflector (6) comprising a central aperture; an inductor cover apparatus (5) comprising: a cylindrical wall (1301) surrounding a central axis (15), the cylindrical wall forming a distal end and a proximal end of the inducer cover apparatus (5), wherein the distal and proximal ends are configured to allow passage to through radio frequency electromagnetic radiation, RF, while the cylindrical wall (1301) is configured to attenuate, reflect or to attenuate and reflect RF electromagnetic radiation, the proximal end being configured to mount to a forward open end of the antenna reflector (6) to modify electromagnetic radiation to and from the antenna reflector (6); a radome (89, 1306) closing the distal end; and an inductor boundary zone on a perimeter of the cylindrical wall (1301), the inductor boundary zone comprising a plurality of ridges and channels extending along a direction parallel to the central axis from the cylindrical wall (1301) at the distal end, where the ridges are concentrically spaced from each other, the spacing between the ridges being different, and where, further, the inductor boundary zone is configured to attenuate RF electromagnetic radiation to or from the reflector of antenna (6) when the inductor cover apparatus is mounted on the antenna reflector; a locking ring (1505) configured to tighten to lock the cylindrical wall over the open mouth of the antenna reflector (6) by fixing a screw (1504); an integrated feeder and radio transceiver (1901) configured to pass through the center aperture of the antenna reflector and extend into the antenna reflector and inductor cover apparatus; and a bracket (1807) mounted in the central aperture of the antenna reflector and enclosing at least a portion of the radio transceiver and integrated feeder (1901), the bracket being configured to prevent transmission of RF energy outside the central aperture and from the rear of the radio transceiver and integrated feeder, and the radio transceiver and integrated feeder (1901) being configured to be encoded within an interior area (1877) of the bracket to maintain an orientation of the radio transceiver and integrated feeder ( 1901) with respect to the antenna reflector. The antenna apparatus of claim 1, wherein the inductor boundary zone overlaps the cylindrical wall (1301). The antenna apparatus of claim 1, wherein a proximal end of the cylindrical wall (1301) is configured to join a flange of the antenna reflector at the forward open end of the reflector. The antenna apparatus of claim 1, wherein the inductor boundary zone channels extend to a plurality of different depths. The antenna apparatus of claim 1, wherein the inductor boundary zone peaks extend to a plurality of different heights. The antenna apparatus of claim 1, wherein the channels between adjacent ridges are between 18.8mm and 9.4mm in depth. The antenna apparatus of claim 1, wherein the inductor boundary zone is configured to provide greater than 10 dB isolation from an antenna apparatus without the inductor boundary zone. The antenna apparatus of claim 1, wherein the inductor boundary zone is configured to prevent propagation of radio waves having a frequency between 9 GHz and 41 GHz.