TW201436370A - Antenna assemblies with tapered loop antenna elements - Google Patents

Abstract

According to various aspects, exemplary embodiments are provided of antenna assemblies. In an exemplary embodiment, an antenna assembly generally includes one or more tapered loop antenna elements.

Description

Antenna assembly with tapered loop antenna element [Reciprocal Reference of Related Applications]

This application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13/759,750, filed on Feb. 5, 2013.

The present disclosure generally relates to an antenna assembly that is configured to receive a television signal such as a high definition television (HDTV) signal.

The statements in this paragraph merely provide background information regarding the disclosure and may not constitute prior art.

Many people love watching TV. Recently, the experience of watching TV has been greatly improved due to high definition television (HDTV). Most people pay for HDTV through their existing cable or satellite TV service providers. In fact, what many people don't know is that HDTV signals are usually transmitted through free public airwaves. This means that the HDTV signal can be received for free with the appropriate antenna.

According to various viewpoints, an exemplary embodiment of an antenna assembly is proposed. In an exemplary embodiment, an antenna assembly generally includes one or more tapered loop antenna elements.

Further aspects and features of the present disclosure will become apparent from the detailed description provided hereinafter. In addition, any one or more of the aspects of the disclosure may be implemented individually or in Implemented in any combination with any one or more of the other aspects of the disclosure. It is to be understood that the particular embodiments of the present disclosure are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure.

100‧‧‧Antenna components

104‧‧‧ Tapered loop antenna element

108‧‧‧ reflector elements

112‧‧‧Balance-Unbalance Converter

116‧‧‧Shell

120‧‧‧End or end section

124‧‧‧Coaxial cable

126‧‧‧Top part (middle part)

128‧‧‧End part

132, 136‧‧‧ fastener holes

140‧‧‧outer or surrounding parts

144‧‧‧ Inner or surrounding parts

148‧‧‧ openings

150, 152‧‧‧ curved part

160‧‧‧ surface

164‧‧‧ sidewall section

168‧‧‧ openings

172, 174‧‧‧ fastener holes

176‧‧‧Threaded socket

180‧‧‧ middle part

184‧‧‧Upright part

186‧‧‧ horizontal part

200‧‧‧Antenna components

204A, 204B‧‧‧ tapered loop antenna elements

208‧‧‧ reflector

212‧‧‧Printed Circuit Board Balancing-Unbalance Converter

300‧‧‧Antenna components

304‧‧‧ Tapered loop antenna element

312‧‧‧Printed circuit board balun

388‧‧‧ bracket

390‧‧‧ horizontal surface

400‧‧‧Antenna components

404‧‧‧ Tapered loop antenna element

488‧‧‧ bracket

490‧‧‧Vertical surface

500‧‧‧Antenna components

504‧‧‧ Tapered loop antenna element

508‧‧‧ reflector

512‧‧‧Printed Circuit Board Balun - Unbalance Converter

560‧‧‧Grid or mesh surface

564‧‧‧around flange

588‧‧‧ bracket

592‧‧‧ Vertical rod or column

600‧‧‧Antenna components

604A, 604B‧‧‧ tapered loop antenna elements

608‧‧‧ reflector

660‧‧‧Grid or mesh surface

664‧‧‧around flange

688‧‧‧ bracket

692‧‧‧ Vertical rod or column

700‧‧‧Antenna components

704‧‧‧Antenna components

708‧‧‧ reflector

728‧‧‧End part

740‧‧‧outer or surrounding parts

744‧‧‧near or surrounding parts

748, 749‧‧‧ openings

760‧‧‧Grid or mesh surface

764‧‧‧around flange

793‧‧‧ adjustment rod

794‧‧‧ side parts

795‧‧‧Top parts

796‧‧‧Bottom parts

797‧‧‧ parts

800‧‧‧Antenna components

804‧‧‧ Tapered loop antenna element

888‧‧‧ bracket

889‧‧‧Threaded shank

890‧‧‧ first stop

891, 892 ‧ ‧ openings

893‧‧‧second stop

894‧‧‧Threaded opening

897‧‧‧Connector

898‧‧‧ openings

899‧‧‧ fastener holes

900‧‧‧Antenna components

904‧‧‧ Tapered loop antenna element

908‧‧‧ reflector

909‧‧‧ trough or ditch

960‧‧‧Grid or mesh surface

964‧‧‧around flange or side wall

988‧‧‧ bracket

989‧‧ Threaded shank

991‧‧‧ openings

993‧‧‧

997‧‧‧Connector

998, 999‧‧‧ fastener holes

1000‧‧‧Antenna components

1004‧‧‧ Tapered loop antenna element

1006‧‧‧ Bipolar

1007‧‧‧Dipole antenna elements

1008‧‧‧ reflector

1060‧‧‧ mesh surface

1064‧‧‧around flange or side wall

1088‧‧‧ bracket

1092‧‧‧Installation column

The drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure.

1 is an antenna assembly including a tapered loop antenna element, a reflector, a housing (the end pieces are separated for clarity), and an antenna assembly of a PCB balun, according to an exemplary embodiment. 2 is an exploded perspective view; FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the antenna assembly shown in FIG. 1 after the components are assembled and enclosed in the housing; FIG. 3 is a view showing the tapered loop antenna element, the reflector, and the 4 is a side view of the component shown in FIG. 3; FIG. 5 is a front view of the tapered loop antenna element shown in FIG. 1; FIG. 6 is in FIG. Rear view of the tapered loop antenna element shown in FIG. 1; FIG. 7 is a bottom plan view of the tapered loop antenna element shown in FIG. 1; FIG. 8 is a top plan view of the tapered loop antenna element shown in FIG. Figure 1 is a left side view of the tapered loop antenna element shown in Figure 1; Figure 11 is a view of the antenna assembly shown in Figure 2; A perspective view of an exemplary use in which the antenna assembly is supported Top view and a coaxial cable to the antenna assembly is connected to the species Television, whereby the antenna assembly is operable to receive signals and transmit the signals to the television via a coaxial cable; and FIG. 12 is a computer showing an exemplary embodiment of an antenna assembly having an unbalanced coaxial feed with 75 ohms Analog line diagram of analog gain/directivity versus S11 versus frequency (million Hz); Figure 13 is another antenna assembly with two tapered loop antenna elements, one reflector, and one PCB balun a view of an exemplary embodiment; FIG. 14 is a view of another exemplary embodiment of an antenna assembly having a tapered loop antenna element and a bracket, and also showing that the antenna assembly is supported on a desk or table surface; Figure 15 is a perspective view of the antenna assembly shown in Figure 14; Figure 16 is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of an antenna assembly having a tapered loop antenna element and an indoor wall mount/bracket, and also showing the species The antenna assembly is mounted to a wall; Figure 17 is another exemplary embodiment of an antenna assembly having a tapered loop antenna element and a bracket a perspective view showing that the antenna assembly is mounted to a vertical pole or column outdoors; FIG. 18 is another perspective view of the antenna assembly shown in FIG. 17; FIG. 19 is a perspective cable antenna having two tapered loop antenna elements and a bracket. A perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of an antenna assembly, and showing that the antenna assembly is mounted to a vertical pole or post outdoors; FIG. 20 is a computer simulation showing the antenna assembly shown in FIG. 13 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. Demonstration line diagram of directivity and S11 versus frequency (million Hz); Figure 21 is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of an antenna assembly equipped with a VHF signal; Figure 22 is a front view of the antenna assembly shown in Figure 21; and Figure 23 is a top view of the antenna assembly shown in Figure 21. 24 is a side view of the antenna assembly shown in FIG. 21; and FIG. 25 is a view showing a computer simulated directivity and voltage standing wave ratio (VSWR) pair for the antenna assembly shown in FIGS. 21 to 24 according to an exemplary embodiment. Exemplary line diagram of frequency (million Hz); FIG. 26 is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of an antenna assembly having a tapered loop antenna element and a bracket for rotatable conversion in use for the antenna The assembly supports a first configuration on a horizontal surface (shown in Figure 26) and a second configuration (shown in Figure 27) for supporting the antenna assembly from a vertical surface; Figure 27 is A perspective view of the antenna assembly shown in Figure 26, but after the rotatable cast bracket has been rotated to a second configuration for supporting the antenna assembly from a vertical surface; Figure 28 is shown in Figures 26 and 27. An exploded perspective view of the antenna assembly, and said For retaining the rotatable shifting bracket in the first or second configuration of the threaded shank portion and the stop; FIG. 29 is another exploded perspective view of the antenna assembly shown in FIGS. 26 and 27; FIG. 30 is in FIG. A right side view of the illustrated antenna assembly, and the rotatable shifting bracket is shown in a first configuration for supporting the antenna assembly on a horizontal surface; FIG. 31 is a left side view of the antenna assembly shown in FIG. 32 is a front view of the antenna assembly shown in FIG. 26; FIG. 33 is a rear view of the antenna assembly shown in FIG. 26; and FIG. 34 is a rear rear perspective view of the antenna assembly shown in FIG. Figure 35 is a plan view of the antenna assembly shown in Figure 26; Figure 36 is a bottom view of the antenna assembly shown in Figure 26; Figure 37 is a right side view of the antenna assembly shown in Figure 27, and the rotatably-converted bracket Shown in a second configuration for supporting the antenna assembly from a vertical surface; FIG. 38 is a left side view of the antenna assembly shown in FIG. 27; and FIG. 39 is a front view of the antenna assembly shown in FIG. Figure 40 is a rear elevational view of the antenna assembly shown in Figure 27; Figure 41 is a plan view of the antenna assembly shown in Figure 27; Figure 42 is a bottom plan view of the antenna assembly shown in Figure 27; A perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of an antenna assembly of a loop-shaped antenna element and a bracket, the bracket being rotatably convertible in a first configuration for supporting the antenna assembly on a horizontal surface and for A vertical surface supports between the second configuration of the antenna assembly, the rotatable conversion bracket is shown in the first configuration and a reflector is mounted in a slot or groove of the rotatable conversion bracket; Is the antenna assembly shown in Figure 43 Figure 45 is a front perspective view of the antenna assembly shown in Figure 43 with the tapered loop antenna element removed from the bracket and the illustrated reflector mounted in the slot of the bracket; Figure 46 is in Figure 43 The top view of the bracket of the illustrated antenna assembly, the threaded shank portion has been removed; FIG. 47 is a bottom view of the bracket of the antenna assembly shown in FIG. 43; and FIG. 48 is a perspective cable having two tapered loop antenna elements and a reflector. A perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of an antenna assembly, wherein the antenna assembly further includes a VHF bipolar and an integrated UHF balun duplexer inside the UHF antenna; Figure 49 is a rear perspective view of the antenna assembly shown in Figure 48; Figure 50 is a perspective view of the antenna assembly shown in Figure 48, shown mounted to a pole for independent indoor use in accordance with an exemplary embodiment Rod base; FIG. 51 is an exemplary line showing the azimuth of the computer simulation gain (decibel (dBi) with respect to the isotropic gain) for the VHF components of the antenna assembly shown in FIG. 48 at various frequencies (million (MHz)). Figure 52 is an exemplary line diagram showing UHF computer analog gain (dBi) versus azimuth for various frequencies (MHz) of the antenna assembly shown in Figure 48; Figure 53 is a view showing the antenna assembly shown in Figure 48; An exemplary line graph of UHF positive angle gain (dBi) vs. frequency (MHz); FIG. 54 is an exemplary line showing the UHF computer analog voltage standing wave ratio (VSWR) versus frequency (MHz) for the antenna assembly shown in FIG. Figure 55 is an exemplary line diagram showing the simulated gain (dBi) versus azimuth for a VHF component of the antenna assembly shown in Figure 48 at various frequencies (MHz); Figure 56 is shown for the antenna shown in Figure 48; Demonstration line of the computer simulation gain (dBi) to the elevation angle of the VHF component of the component at various frequencies (MHz) Figure 57 is an exemplary line diagram showing the positive angular gain (dBi) versus frequency (MHz) for the VHF component of the antenna assembly shown in Figure 48.

The following description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the disclosure, application, or use.

1 through 4 illustrate an exemplary antenna assembly 100 that implements one or more aspects of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 1, the antenna assembly 100 generally includes a tapered loop antenna. Element 104 (also shown in Figures 5 through 10), a reflector element 108, a balun 112, and a housing 116 having a movable end piece or end portion 120.

As shown in FIG. 11, antenna assembly 100 can be used to receive digital television signals (a subset of high definition television (HDTV) signals) and to communicate the received signals to an external device, such as a television. In the illustrated embodiment, a coaxial cable 124 (Figs. 2 and 11) is used to transmit the signals received by antenna assembly 100 to the television (Fig. 11). The antenna assembly 100 can also be positioned on other generally horizontal surfaces such as a dining table, a coffee table table top, a desk surface, a shelf, and the like. Alternative embodiments may include an antenna assembly that is positioned elsewhere and/or otherwise supported.

In one example, antenna assembly 100 can include a 75 ohm RG6 coaxial cable 124 that is suitable for an F-type connector (although other suitable communication links can also be utilized). Alternate embodiments may include other coaxial cables or other suitable communication links.

As shown in Figures 3, 5, and 6, the tapered loop antenna element 104 has a generally annular shape defined by an outer perimeter or peripheral portion 140 that cooperates with an inner perimeter or perimeter portion 144. The outer perimeter or surrounding portion 140 is generally circular. The inner perimeter or perimeter portion 144 is also generally circular in shape such that the tapered loop antenna element 104 has a generally circular opening 148.

In some embodiments, the tapered loop antenna element has an outer diameter of approximately 220 millimeters and an inner diameter of approximately 80 millimeters. Some embodiments include an inner diameter that is offset from the outer diameter such that the center of the circle (the midpoint of the inner diameter) substantially defined by the inner peripheral portion 144 is at the center of the outer diameter (outer diameter) substantially defined by the outer peripheral portion 140 Below the point) is approximately 20 mm. In other words, the inner diameter can be offset from the outer diameter such that the midpoint of the inner diameter is about 20 millimeters below the midpoint of the outer diameter. Such The offset of the diameter thus provides a taper for the tapered loop antenna element 104 such that it has at least one portion (one tip portion 126 shown in Figures 3, 5, and 6) than the other portion (in Figure 3, 5. The end portion 128) shown as 6 is wide. The tapering of the tapered loop antenna element 104 has been known to improve performance and aesthetics. As shown in Figures 1, 3, 5, and 6, the tapered loop antenna element 104 includes first and second halves or curved portions 150, 152 that are substantially symmetrical such that the first half or curved Portion 150 is a mirror image of the second half or curved portion 152. Each curved portion 150, 152 extends generally between a corresponding end portion 128 and then tapers or gradually increases in width until the intermediate or top end portion 126 of the tapered loop antenna element 104. The tapered loop antenna element 104 can be positioned in the housing 116 in an orientation such that the wider portion 126 of the tapered loop antenna element 104 is at the top and the narrower end portion 128 is at the bottom.

With continued reference to Figures 3, 5, and 6, the tapered loop antenna element 104 includes spaced end portions 128. In one particular example, the end portions 128 of the tapered loop antenna elements 104 are separated by a distance of approximately 2.5 millimeters. Alternative embodiments may include an antenna element having end portions spaced greater than or less than 2.5 millimeters. For example, some embodiments include an antenna element having an end portion that is spaced apart by a distance of between about 2 mm and about 5 mm. The spaced end portions may define an open slot therebetween that may be used to provide a gap feed for balancing the transmission line.

The end portion 128 includes a fastener aperture 132 that is shaped as a fastener aperture 136 that corresponds to the PCB balun 112. Thus, mechanical fasteners (eg, screws, etc.) can be inserted through the fastener apertures 132, 136 after the fastener apertures 132, 136 are aligned for attaching the PCB balun 112 To the tapered loop antenna element 104. Alternative embodiments may have different configurations of fastener holes (eg, more or fewer, different shapes, different sizes, different positions, etc.). Still other embodiments may include other attachment methods (eg, welding, etc.).

As shown in Figures 4 and 7-10, the illustrated tapered loop antenna element 104 has a substantially fixed or the same thickness and is substantially flat. In an exemplary embodiment, the tapered loop antenna element 104 has a thickness of approximately 3 millimeters. Other embodiments may include thicker or thinner antenna elements. For example, some embodiments may include an antenna element having a thickness of approximately 35 microns (eg, 1 ounce of copper, etc.), wherein the antenna elements are mounted, supported, or mounted on a printed circuit board. Further embodiments may include an independent, self-supporting antenna element made of aluminum, electroplated aluminum, copper, etc., having a thickness of between about 0.5 mm and about 5 mm. In another exemplary embodiment, the antenna element includes a relatively thin aluminum foil that is packaged in a support plastic cover that has been used to reduce the cost of materials associated with aluminum.

An alternate embodiment may include an antenna element that is assembled other than the illustrated tapered loop antenna element 104. For example, other embodiments may include a non-reducing loop antenna element having a centered (not offset) opening. Further embodiments may include a loop antenna element that defines a substantially substantially circular ring or hoop that does not have spaced apart free end portions 128. A still further embodiment includes an antenna element having an outer perimeter/surrounding portion, an inner perimeter/surrounding portion, and/or an opening of a different size or shape, such as having a non-circular shape (eg, oval, triangular , rectangle...etc.). Antenna element 104 (or any portion thereof) may also be provided, at least in part, in a variety of configurations (eg, shape, size, etc.) depending on the intended end use and the signals to be received by the antenna assembly.

A wide range of materials can be used for the antenna element 104. By way of example only, tapered loop antenna element 104 may be formed from a metallic electrical conductor such as aluminum (eg, electroplated aluminum, etc.), copper, stainless steel, or other alloys, and the like. In another embodiment, the tapered annular day The wire member 104 may be stamped from sheet metal or may be formed by selective etching of a copper layer on the substrate of the printed circuit board.

1, 3, and 4 illustrate an exemplary reflector 108 that can be used with antenna assembly 100. As shown in Figure 3, the reflector 108 includes a generally flat or planar surface 160. The reflector 108 also includes a baffle, lip, or sidewall portion 164 that extends outwardly relative to the surface 160. The reflector 108 can be substantially operable to reflect electromagnetic waves substantially toward the tapered loop antenna element 104.

Regarding the size of the reflector and the spacing for the antenna elements, the inventors have pointed out the following. The size of the reflector and the spacing of the antenna elements strongly influence the performance. Placing the antenna element too close to the reflector provides an antenna with good gain and narrow impedance bandwidth versus poor voltage standing wave ratio (VSWR). Despite the reduced size, this type of design is not suitable for the intended broadband application. If the antenna element is placed too far away from the reflector, the gain is reduced due to improper phasing, when the antenna element size and scale, reflector size, baffle size, and spacing between the antenna element and the reflector When properly selected, there is an optimum configuration that utilizes a near-area coupling with an electrically small reflector element to produce an enhanced impedance bandwidth that mitigates the effects of phase cancellation. The net result is an exemplary balance between impedance bandwidth, directivity or gain, emission efficiency, and actual size.

In this illustrated embodiment, the reflector 108 is generally square in shape with four peripheral sidewall portions 164. Alternative embodiments may include a reflector that has a different configuration (eg, different shapes, sizes, fewer sidewall portions, etc.). The side walls can even be reversed so as to be directed opposite the antenna element. The function of the side walls is to slightly increase the effective electrical size of the reflector and to improve the impedance bandwidth.

In scale, the reflector 108 of an exemplary embodiment has a generally square surface 160 having a length and width of about 228 millimeters. Continuing with this example, the reflector 108 can also have a peripheral sidewall portion 164 that each has a height of approximately 25.4 millimeters relative to the surface 160. The dimensions provided in this paragraph (as all dimensions set forth herein) are merely examples, provided for illustrative purposes only, as any of the antenna components disclosed herein may be assembled with different dimensions, for example, Depending on the particular application and/or the signal to be received or transmitted by such antenna assembly. For example, another embodiment may include a reflector 108 having a baffle, lip, or sidewall portion 164 having a height of about 10 mm. Another embodiment may include a reflector 108 having a baffle, lip in a direction relative to the antenna element. In such an embodiment, it is also possible to add a top cover to the open box, which acts as a shielded enclosure for the receiver board or other electronic device.

With further reference to FIG. 3, a cutout, opening, or notch 168 can be disposed in the surrounding sidewall portion 164 of the reflector to facilitate attachment of the reflector 108 within the housing 116 and/or attachment of the housing end piece 120. In an exemplary embodiment, the reflector 108 can be slidably positioned within the outer casing 116 (Fig. 1). The fastener aperture 172 of the outer casing end piece 120 can be aligned with the opening 168 of the reflector such that the fastener can be inserted through the aligned openings 168, 172. Alternative embodiments may have reflectors that do not have such openings, cutouts, or notches.

1, 3, and 4 illustrate an exemplary balun 112 that can be used with antenna assembly 100 for converting a balanced line to an unbalanced line. In the illustrated embodiment, antenna assembly 100 includes a printed circuit board having a balun 112. A printed circuit board having balun 112 can be coupled to tapered loop antenna element 104 via fastener and fastener apertures 132 and 136 (Fig. 3). Alternative embodiments may include for balancing - no The balance converter 112 is connected to different ways of tapered loop antenna elements and/or different types of transformers other than the printed circuit board balun 112.

As shown in FIG. 1, the outer casing 116 includes an end piece 120 and an intermediate portion 180. In this particular example, the end piece 120 is movably attached to the intermediate portion 180 by mechanical fasteners, fastener holes 172, 174, and threaded sockets 176. Alternative embodiments may include a housing having an integrally formed fixed end piece. Other embodiments may include a housing having one or more movable end pieces that are snap-fit, friction fit, or interference fit with the intermediate portion of the housing without the need for a mechanical fastener .

As shown in FIG. 2, the outer casing 116 is generally U-shaped having two spaced apart upstanding portions or members 184 joined by a generally horizontal member or portion 186. The components 184, 186 cooperate to define a generally U-shaped profile thereof for the outer casing 116 in this embodiment.

As shown by FIG. 1, the tapered loop antenna element 104 can be positioned in an upright member 184 that is different from the upright member 184 in which the reflector 108 is positioned. In one particular example, the outer casing 116 is assembled (eg, shape, size, etc.) such that when the tapered loop antenna element 104 and the reflector 108 are positioned on individual different sides of the outer casing 116, the tapered loop antenna Element 104 is spaced from reflector 108 by approximately 114.4 millimeters. Additionally, the outer casing 116 can be assembled such that the outer casing side portion 184 is generally square and has a length and width of approximately 25.4 millimeters. Therefore, the antenna assembly 100 can thus be provided with a relatively small overall footprint. Such shapes and dimensions are provided for illustrative purposes only, as the particular configuration of the housing (eg, shape, size, etc.) may vary depending on, for example, a particular application.

The outer casing 116 can be made from a variety of materials. In some embodiments, the housing 116 It is formed by plastic. In embodiments where the antenna assembly is intended to be used as an outdoor antenna, the outer casing may be formed from a weather resistant material (eg, waterproof and/or UV resistant materials, etc.). In addition, the outer casing 116 (or its bottom end portion) may also be formed of a material to provide a relatively high coefficient of friction for the bottom surface of the outer casing 116. This will in turn help the antenna assembly 100 resist sliding relative to the surface on which it supports the assembly 100 (e.g., the television tip surface shown in Figure 11 etc.).

In some embodiments, the antenna assembly can also include a digital tuner/converter (ATSC receiver) built into or within the housing. In these exemplary embodiments, the digital tuner/converter can be operative to convert the digital signal received by the antenna assembly to an analog signal. In one exemplary embodiment, a reflector having an inverted baffle and cover can function as a shielded enclosure for an ATSC receiver. The shielded enclosure reduces the effects of the transmitted or received interference on the tuner circuit. Placing the tuner in this enclosure saves space and eliminates (or reduces) the potential for coupling between the antenna element and the tuner, which may otherwise negatively impact the antenna impedance bandwidth and directivity.

In various embodiments, antenna assembly 100 is tuned (and optimized in some embodiments) to receive a high quality television associated with it having a frequency range of approximately 470 megahertz to approximately 690 megahertz (HDTV) frequency signal. In such embodiments, narrow tuning of antenna assembly 100 to receive such HDTV signals allows antenna element 104 to be made smaller and still function properly. Due to its small discrete physical size, the antenna assembly 100 can be shrunk to provide a reduced footprint for the antenna assembly 100, which can be used, for example, when the antenna assembly 100 is used indoors and placed on top of the television (eg, Figure 11. .. etc.) is advantageous.

Exemplary operational parameters of antenna assembly 100 are provided for illustrative purposes only. Such operational parameters may depend, for example, on the particular application and the signal that the antenna assembly will receive. Changes are made to other embodiments.

In some embodiments, antenna assembly 100 can be assembled to have operational parameters substantially as shown in FIG. 12, and FIG. 12 illustrates a computer simulation of an exemplary embodiment of antenna assembly 100 having an unbalanced coaxial feed with 75 ohms. Gain/Directivity vs. S11 vs. Frequency (Millionhertz). In other embodiments, a 300 ohm balanced dual lead can be used.

Figure 12 generally shows that the antenna assembly 100 has a fairly flat gain curve from about 470 MHz to about 698 MHz. In addition, FIG. 12 also shows that the antenna assembly 100 has an output of a maximum gain of approximately 8 dBi (decibels in equal gain) and an impedance of approximately 75 ohms.

In addition, FIG. 12 also shows that S11 is below -6 dB across a frequency band from about 470 MHz to about 698 MHz. An S11 value below this value ensures that the antenna is properly matched and operates at high frequencies.

In addition, an antenna assembly can also be assembled to have a relatively tolerant aiming. In such an exemplary embodiment of this type, the antenna assembly will therefore not have to be re-targeted or reoriented each time the television channel changes.

FIG. 13 illustrates another embodiment of an antenna assembly 200 that implements one or more aspects of the present disclosure. In the illustrated embodiment, antenna assembly 200 includes two substantially side-by-side tapered loop antenna elements 204A and 204B in a configuration generally numeral 8 (as shown in FIG. 13). In the exemplary embodiment, the two loops 204A and 204B are configured to oppose each other such that a gap is maintained between each pair of relatively spaced end portions of the respective loops 204A, 204B. A gap or open slot can be used to provide a gap feed for balancing the transmission line. In operation, this gap feed configuration allows the vertically traveling current components to effectively cancel each other, resulting in an antenna assembly 200 has a fairly pure H polarization at the passband frequency and exhibits an extremely low level of laterally polarized signals.

Antenna assembly 200 also includes a reflector 208 and a printed circuit board balun 212. Antenna assembly 200 can be equipped with a housing that is similar or different than housing 116. Rather than having two tapered loop antenna elements 204A and 204B (and improved antenna ranges that may be achieved thereby), antenna assembly 200 may be operable and assembled similar to antenna assembly 100 in at least some embodiments thereof. 20 is an exemplary line diagram showing computer simulated directivity versus S11 versus frequency (million GHz) for antenna assembly 200 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

Figures 14 through 19 and Figures 26 through 42 show additional exemplary embodiments of an antenna assembly that implements one or more aspects of the present disclosure. For example, Figures 14 and 15 show an antenna assembly 300 having a tapered loop antenna element 304 and a bracket 388. In this exemplary embodiment, antenna assembly 300 is supported on a horizontal surface 390 such as a top surface of a desk, a dining table, a television, etc. Antenna assembly 300 can also include a printed circuit board balun 312. In some embodiments, an antenna assembly can include a tapered loop antenna element (eg, 304, 404, 504, etc.) having an intermediate portion along the antenna element and/or first and second curved portions Openings (eg, holes, indentations, recesses, voids, dimples, etc.), wherein the openings can be used, for example, to assist in aligning and/or retaining the antenna elements to a support. For example, a relatively thin metal antenna element having such an opening may be supported by a plastic support structure having a protuberance, a small piece, or a protrusion, the protuberances, nubs, or protrusions being associated with the antenna element The opening is aligned and frictionally received within the opening of the antenna element whereby frictional engagement or snapping helps retain the antenna element in the plastic stent structure.

As another example, FIG. 16 shows an antenna assembly 400 having a tapered loop antenna element 404 and an indoor wall mount/bracket 488. In this example, the The antenna assembly is mounted to a vertical surface 490 such as a wall...etc. Antenna assembly 400 can also include a printed circuit board balun. However, the printed circuit board balun is not shown in Figure 16 because it is obscured by the bracket 488.

26 through 42 illustrate another exemplary antenna assembly 800 having a tapered loop antenna element 804 and a rotatable cast bracket, mount, or gantry 888. In this example, the tapered loop antenna element 804 can be covered by or disposed within a cover material (eg, plastic, other dielectric material, etc.), which can be the bracket 888 Made of the same material.

In an embodiment of this example of antenna assembly 800, rotatable shifting bracket 888 enables antenna assembly 800 to be supported on a horizontal surface from a vertical surface, depending on whether the bracket 888 is in the first or second configuration. For example, Figure 26 illustrates a bracket or gantry 888 in a first configuration in which the bracket 888 enables the antenna assembly 800 to be supported on the horizontal surface after being placed on a horizontal surface. The horizontal surface on which the antenna assembly 800 can be placed can include virtually any horizontal surface such as a desk surface, a dining table, a television, etc. In some embodiments, the antenna assembly 800 can be fixedly attached by using mechanical fasteners (eg, wood screws, etc.) inserted through fastener holes 899 (FIG. 36) on the bottom of the bracket 888. Or fasten to a level surface. However, antenna assembly 800 can be attached to a horizontal surface using other means such as double-sided tape. Alternatively, antenna assembly 800 does not have to be attached to a horizontal surface at all.

Figure 27 illustrates the bracket 888 in a second configuration that enables the antenna assembly 800 to be mounted to a vertical surface such as a wall or the like. In some embodiments, the antenna assembly 800 can be suspended from a nail or screw on the wall by an opening 898 (Fig. 40) on the bottom of the bracket 888.

For example, the user can rotate the bracket 888 to transform the bracket 888 from the first configuration (FIG. 26) to the second configuration (FIG. 27), or vice versa. As shown in Figures 28 and 29, the rotatable cast bracket 888 includes a threaded shank portion 889 and a threaded opening 894. In this example, the threaded shank portion 889 extends upwardly from the base of the bracket 888 and the threaded opening 894 is defined by the upper end portion of the bracket 888. In other embodiments, this can be reversed such that the base includes a threaded opening and the threaded shank portion extends downward from the upper end portion of the mount.

With continued reference to Figures 28 and 29, the bracket 888 also includes a stop for retaining the rotatable shifting bracket 888 in the first or second configuration. In the embodiment of this example shown in FIG. 28, the bracket 888 includes a first stop 890 (eg, a projection, a small piece, a protrusion, a protrusion) that is assembled to be received within an opening 891. . etc.) for retaining the bracket 888 in the first configuration. Figures 30, 31 and 34 illustrate the engagement of the first stop 890 within the opening 891 which inhibits the relative rotation of the upper and lower end portions of the bracket 888, thereby helping to retain the bracket 888 in the first configuration to a level The surface supports the antenna assembly 800. In this example, the first stop 890 is disposed at the upper end portion of the bracket 888 and the opening 891 is at the lower end portion or the base of the bracket 888. In other embodiments, this can be reversed such that the base includes a first stop and the opening is at the upper end portion of the bracket.

The bracket 888 also includes a second stop 893 (Fig. 29) (e.g., a projection, a small piece, a protrusion, a protuberance, etc.) that is assembled to be received within an opening 892 for use with the bracket 888 Retained in the second configuration. The engagement of the second stop 893 within the opening 892 inhibits relative rotation of the upper and lower end portions of the bracket 888, thereby facilitating retention of the bracket 888 in the second configuration to support the antenna assembly 800 from a vertical surface. In this example, the second stop 893 is disposed at the upper end portion of the bracket 888 and the opening 892 is at the lower end portion or the base of the bracket 888. In other embodiments, this can be reversed such that the base includes a second stop and the opening is at the upper end portion of the bracket.

In addition to helping to retain the bracket 888 in the first or second configuration, the stop can also help provide a tactile and/or audible indication to the user to stop tilting the upper or lower end portion of the bracket 888 relative to the other. One part to rotate. For example, when the user reassembles or transforms the bracket 888 from the first or second configuration to another configuration, the corresponding first or second stop 890, 893 is joined to the corresponding opening 891, 892. The user can feel or hear an audible click.

As shown in Figures 29 and 33, the antenna assembly 800 includes a connector 897 for connecting a coaxial cable to the antenna assembly 800. Alternative embodiments may include different types of connectors.

Antenna assembly 300 (Figs. 14 and 15), 400 (Fig. 16), and 800 (Figs. 26 through 42) do not include any reflectors. In some embodiments, the antenna assemblies 300, 400, 800 are assembled to provide a good voltage standing wave ratio (VSWR) without a reflector. However, in other embodiments, the antenna assembly 300, 400, 800 can include a reflector such as the same or similar to the reflectors disclosed herein (eg, 108 (FIG. 1), 208 (FIG. 13), 508 ( Figure 17), 608 (Figure 19), 708 (Figure 21), 908 (Figure 43), 1008 (Figure 48)) or other suitable reflectors for assembly.

Antenna assemblies 300, 400, 800 may be operable and assembled similar to antenna assemblies 100 and 200 in at least some embodiments thereof. The circular shape of the illustration of the brackets 388, 488, 888 is merely an exemplary embodiment. The brackets 388, 488, 888 can have many shapes (eg, square, hexagonal, etc.). Removing the reflector can result in an antenna with a smaller gain and a wider bidirectional pattern that can be advantageous for situations where the signal strength level is high and from a variety of directions.

Other exemplary embodiments for an antenna assembly mounted outdoors are illustrated in Figures 17-19. 17 and 18 show an antenna assembly 500 having a tapered loop antenna element 504, a printed circuit board balun 512, and a bracket 588, wherein the antenna assembly 500 is mounted outdoors to a vertical Rod or post 592. Figure 19 shows an antenna assembly 600 having two tapered loop antenna elements 604A and 604B and a bracket 688 that is mounted outdoors to a vertical pole or post 692. In various embodiments, the brackets 588 and/or 688 can be rotatable in a manner that is not transformable or substantially similar to the bracket 888.

Antenna assemblies 500 and 600 include reflectors 508 and 608. Unlike the substantially solid flat surfaces of reflectors 108 and 208, reflectors 508 and 608 have a grid or grid surface 560 and 660. The reflector 508 also includes two peripheral flanges 564. Reflector 608 includes two peripheral flanges 664. A mesh format reflector is generally preferred for outdoor applications to reduce wind loads. For outdoor use, the size is usually less important, so that the mesh reflector can be made larger than the equivalent indoor model to compensate for the grid inefficiency. The increased size of the mesh reflector also removes or reduces the need for baffles, which are typically more important to the interior model, and the indoor modeler tends to be about the limit of the size versus performance curve.

Any of the various embodiments disclosed herein (eg, FIGS. 14-19, FIGS. 26-42, FIGS. 43-47, FIGS. 48-50, etc.) may include one of the components similar to antenna assembly 100 or Multiple components (eg, balun, reflector, etc.). Moreover, any of the various disclosures disclosed herein may be operable and assembled similar to antenna assembly 100 in at least some embodiments thereof.

According to some embodiments, for a very high frequency (VHF) range An antenna element of a signal (e.g., 170 megahertz to 216 megahertz, etc.) may be less rounded and still be based on the basic electrical geometry of the antenna elements disclosed herein. For example, a VHF antenna element can be assembled to provide an electrical path that exceeds a length along the inner and outer perimeters of the antenna element. The proper combination of such an element with an electrically small reflector can thus result in a superior balance of directivity, efficiency, bandwidth, and actual size, as can be achieved in other example antenna assemblies disclosed herein.

For example, Figures 21 through 24 illustrate an exemplary embodiment of an antenna assembly 700 that can be used for VHF signals (e.g., signals within a frequency bandwidth of 170 megahertz to 216 megahertz, etc.). receive. As shown, the antenna assembly 700 includes an antenna element 704 and a reflector 708.

Antenna element 704 has an outer perimeter or peripheral portion 740 and an inner perimeter or surrounding portion 744. The outer perimeter or surrounding portion 740 is generally rectangular. The inner perimeter or surrounding portion 744 is also generally rectangular. In addition, antenna element 704 also includes an adjustment rod 793 that is generally disposed or extends between the two side members 794 of antenna element 704. The adjustment rod 793 is generally parallel to the top end member 795 and the bottom end member 796 of the antenna element 704. The adjustment rod 793 extends across the antenna element 704 such that the antenna element 704 includes a lower generally rectangular opening 748 and an upper generally rectangular opening 749. Antenna element 704 further includes spaced end portions 728.

Using the adjustment rod 793, the antenna element 704 includes first and second electrical paths of different lengths, with the shorter electrical path including the adjustment rod 793 and the longer electrical path not including the adjustment rod 793. The longer electrical path is defined by the outer loop of antenna element 704, which includes spaced apart end portions 728, bottom end members 796, side members 794, and top end members of the antenna elements 795. The shorter electrical path is defined by the inner loop of the antenna element 704, which includes the spaced end portion 728 of the antenna element, the bottom end member 796, and a portion of the side member 794 (at the adjustment rod 793 and the bottom end member 796). Between the parts), with the adjustment rod 793. With a composite coupling theory, the electrical path defined by the inner and outer loops of antenna element 704 takes into account the VHF bandwidth in the range of about 170 megahertz to about 216 megahertz in some embodiments. Efficient operation. Due to the greater efficiency, the size of the antenna assembly can thus be reduced (eg, 75% size reduction, etc.) and still provide satisfactory operational characteristics.

The adjustment rod 793 can be assembled (eg, sized, shaped, positioned, etc.) to provide impedance matching for the antenna element 704. In some example embodiments, the adjustment rod 793 can provide the antenna element 704 with a closer match impedance for a 300 ohm transformer.

In one particular example, the end portions 728 of the antenna elements 704 are separated by a distance of approximately 2.5 millimeters. By way of further example, antenna element 704 is assembled to have a width of approximately 600 millimeters (left to right in FIG. 22), a height of approximately 400 millimeters (from top to bottom in FIG. 22), and Above the bottom end member 796 is an adjustment rod 793 spaced a distance of approximately 278 mm. A wide range of materials can be used for the antenna element 704. In an exemplary embodiment, antenna element 704 is fabricated from a hollow tube of aluminum having a square cross-section of 3/4 inch length by 3/4 inch. In this particular example, the various portions (728, 793, 794, 795, 796) of antenna element 704 are all formed from the same aluminum tube, although this is not necessary for all embodiments. Alternative embodiments may include one antenna element that is differently assembled, such as: different materials (eg, materials other than aluminum, antenna elements having portions made of different materials, etc.), non-rectangular shapes And/or different scales (for example: end portions separated by more than or less than 2.5 mm, etc.). For example, some embodiments include an antenna element that has a spacing of about 2 mm to The end portion of a distance between approximately 5 mm. The spaced end portions may define an open slot therebetween that may be used to provide a gap feed for balancing the transmission line.

With continued reference to Figures 21 through 24, reflector 708 includes a grid or grid surface 760. The reflector 708 also includes two peripheral flanges 764. The peripheral flange 764 can extend outwardly from the mesh surface 760. Additionally, component 797 can be disposed behind mesh surface 760 to provide reinforcement to mesh surface 760 and/or manner for supporting or coupling mesh surface 760 to a support structure. For example only, the reflector 708 can be assembled to have a width of approximately 642 millimeters (left to right in FIG. 22), a height of approximately 505 millimeters (from top to bottom in FIG. 22), And spaced apart from the antenna element 704 by a distance of about 200 millimeters, which separates the mesh surface 760 of the reflector from the back side of the antenna element 704. Moreover, by way of example only, the peripheral flange 764 can be approximately 23 millimeters long and extend outwardly from the mesh surface 760 at an angle of approximately 120 degrees. A wide range of materials can be used for the reflector 708. In an exemplary embodiment, reflector 708 comprises ethylene coated steel. Alternative embodiments may include differently assembled reflectors (eg, different materials, shapes, sizes, locations, etc.), no reflectors, or one reflector positioned closer to or further from the antenna element.

25 is an exemplary line graph showing computer simulated directivity versus voltage standing wave ratio (VSWR) versus frequency (million Hz) for antenna assembly 700 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

43 and 44 illustrate an exemplary embodiment of an antenna assembly 900 that implements one or more aspects of the present disclosure. As shown, the antenna assembly 900 includes a tapered loop antenna element 904 and a rotatable cast bracket, mount, or pedestal 988.

The bracket 988 is rotatably convertible in a first configuration for supporting the antenna assembly 900 on a horizontal surface (shown in Figures 43 and 44) and for supporting the antenna from a vertical surface Between the second configurations of component 900. In some embodiments, the antenna assembly 900 can be attached by using mechanical fasteners (eg, screws, etc.) inserted within the fastener holes 998 and 999 (FIG. 47) at the bottom of the bracket 988, Fasten, or couple to a surface. Antenna assembly 900 can be attached to a surface using other means such as double-sided tape. Alternatively, antenna assembly 800 does not have to be attached to a horizontal surface at all.

Bracket 988 can be structurally and operationally similar to bracket 888 of antenna assembly 800 described above. For example, bracket 988 includes a threaded shank portion 989 (Fig. 45) that extends upwardly from the base of bracket 988. The bracket 988 also includes a threaded opening defined by the upper end portion of the bracket 988. In other embodiments, this can be reversed such that the base includes a threaded opening and the threaded shank portion extends downwardly from the upper end portion of the mount.

The bracket 988 includes a stop for retaining the rotatable shifting bracket 988 in the first or second configuration, as described above for the bracket 888. In the embodiment of this example, the bracket 988 includes a first stop (eg, a projection, a small piece, a protrusion, a protrusion, etc.) that is assembled to be received within an opening 991 (FIG. 45). ) for retaining the bracket 988 in the first configuration (Fig. 44). The bracket 988 includes a second stop 993 (Fig. 44) (e.g., a projection, a small piece, a protrusion, a protuberance, etc.) that is assembled to be received within an opening for retaining the bracket 988 In the second configuration. In addition to helping to retain the bracket 988 in the first or second configuration, the stop can also help provide a tactile and/or audible indication to the user to stop the upper or lower end portion of the bracket 988 from being opposite to the other. One part to rotate.

The bracket 988 further includes a connector 997 for connecting a coaxial cable (e.g., a 75 ohm RG6 coaxial cable suitable for the F-type connector, etc.) to the antenna assembly 900. Alternative embodiments may include different types of connectors.

In the exemplary embodiment, the rotatable cast bracket 988 also includes a slot or groove 909 as shown in FIG. A slot or groove 909 is fitted to receive a lower end portion of a reflector 908 therein for mounting the reflector 908 to the bracket 988 without the need for any mechanical fasteners or other mounting mechanisms. As shown in Figures 43 and 44, when the bracket 988 is in the first configuration, the reflector 908 can be mounted in the slot 909 to support the antenna assembly 900 on a horizontal surface. When mounted in slot 909, reflector 908 is spaced from tapered loop antenna element 904, as shown in FIG.

Reflector 908 includes a grid or mesh surface 960 having two peripheral flanges or sidewalls 964 that extend outwardly from mesh surface 960 (e.g., at an oblique angle, etc.). In use, the reflector 908 is operable to reflect electromagnetic waves substantially toward the tapered loop antenna element 904 and substantially affect impedance bandwidth and directivity. In alternative embodiments, reflectors having other configurations may be used, such as a reflector having a solid planar surface (eg, reflectors 108, 208, etc.). In other exemplary embodiments, antenna assembly 900 may not include any reflector 908.

In addition to the reflector 908 and the base 988 having the slot 909, the antenna assembly 900 can include one or more components similar to those described above for the antenna assembly 800. Moreover, antenna assembly 900 can be operable and assembled similar to antenna assembly 100 in at least some embodiments thereof.

In an exemplary embodiment, antenna assembly 900 can be assembled to have, provide, and/or operate with one or more of the following features (but not necessarily any or all of them). For example, antenna assembly 900 can be assembled to operate in the range of 30+ miles with a peak gain (UHF) of 8.25 dBi and a consistent gain across the UHF DTV channel spectrum. The antenna assembly 900 provides maximum performance whether indoors, outdoors, or in the attic. Antenna assembly 900 can be small in size and have a length of 12 inches, a width of 12 inches, and a depth of 5 inches. The antenna assembly 900 can It has an efficient, compact design that provides superior gain and impedance matching across the entire post-2009 UHF DTV spectrum and has good directivity at all UHF DTV frequencies and a peak gain of 8.25 dBi.

48 and 49 illustrate an exemplary embodiment of an antenna assembly 1000 that implements one or more aspects of the present disclosure. As shown, the antenna assembly 1000 includes two tapered loop antenna elements 1004 (e.g., in the configuration of numeral 8, etc.) and a bracket 1088.

In the exemplary embodiment, the two loops 1004 are configured to oppose each other such that a gap is maintained between each pair of opposite spaced end portions of each loop 1004. A gap or open slot can be used to provide a gap feed for the balanced transmission line. In operation, this gap feed configuration allows the vertically traveling current components to effectively cancel each other such that the antenna assembly 1000 has a fairly pure H polarization at the passband frequency and exhibits an extremely low level of laterally polarized signals.

Antenna assembly 1000 also includes a reflector 1008 having a grid or mesh surface 1060. The two surrounding flanges or side walls 1064 extend outwardly from the mesh surface 1060 (e.g., at an oblique angle, etc.). In use, the reflector 1008 is operable to reflect electromagnetic waves substantially toward the tapered loop antenna element 1004 and substantially affect impedance bandwidth and directivity. In alternative embodiments, reflectors having other configurations may be used, such as a reflector having a solid planar surface (eg, reflectors 108, 208, etc.). In still other exemplary embodiments, antenna assembly 1000 may not include any reflectors 1008.

In the exemplary embodiment, antenna assembly 1000 also includes a dipole 1006. The bipolar 1006 can be fed from the center and includes two wire or dipole antenna elements 1007 (eg, rods, etc.). The dipole antenna element 1007 extends outward relative to the tapered loop antenna element 1004. In the exemplary embodiment, dipole antenna element 1007 is from the left and right sides of antenna assembly 1000 It extends laterally outward. The bipolar 1006 is configured to operate the antenna assembly 1000 across a range of VHF frequencies from about 174 megahertz to about 216 megahertz. The dual tapered loop antenna element 1004 enables the antenna assembly 1000 to also operate over a UHF frequency range from about 470 megahertz to about 806 megahertz. That is, the antenna assembly 1000 is specifically assembled for reception of frequencies across the UHF/VHF DTV channel spectrum (eg, tuning and/or calibration, etc.). In addition to bipolar 1006, antenna assembly 1000 can include one or more components similar to those described above for dual tapered loop antenna assembly 600. Additionally, antenna assembly 1000 can include an output F connection having an impedance of 75 ohms.

In an exemplary embodiment, antenna assembly 1000 can be assembled to have, provide, and/or operate with one or more of the following features (but not necessarily any or all of them). For example, antenna assembly 1000 can be configured to operate within a VHF frequency range (channels 7-13) from 174 MHz to 216 MHz and a UHF frequency range (channels 14-69) from 470 MHz to 806 MHz. Antenna assembly 1000 can have a wide beam width of 70 degrees in a range of 50+ miles, a peak gain (UHF) of 10.4 dBi at 670 MHz, a peak gain (VHF) of 3.1 dBi at 216 MHz, and a VSWR 3.0 for UHF and VHF. Max, and consistent gain across the entire UHF/VHF DTV channel spectrum. The antenna assembly 1000 provides maximum performance whether indoors, outdoors, or in the attic. Antenna assembly 1000 can be small in size with a length of 20 inches, a width of 35.5 inches, and a depth of 6.5 inches. Antenna assembly 1000 can be assembled to operate as a wideband antenna for attenuated VHF stations with improved performance and without performance tradeoffs.

In an exemplary embodiment, antenna assembly 1000 includes an integrated duplexer that enables specific tuned HDTV components to be combined without performance degradation. The duplex in this example includes an integrated UHF balun duplexer internal to the UHF antenna (e.g., within the bracket 1088). Traditional multi-band antennas are inherently damaged Thus, up to 90% of television signals can be lost due to impedance mismatch and phase cancellation when signals from their heterogeneous components are combined. After recognizing this shortcoming of conventional multi-band antennas, the inventors of the present invention have developed and incorporated a unique network feed in their antenna assembly 1000 that is capable of UHF and VHF without the aforementioned losses. The signals are combined. For example, antenna assembly 1000 can deliver 98% of the signal reception to a digital tuner rather than being lost due to impedance mismatch and phase cancellation.

In FIG. 50, antenna assembly 1000 is shown mounted to a pole or mounting post 1092 for stand-alone indoor use, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. For example, the mounting post 1092 can be generally J-shaped and have a length of approximately 20 inches. The mounting post 1092 is shown secured to a mounting bracket via a bolt. In an alternate embodiment, antenna assembly 1000 can be mounted indoors, outdoors, or on the top floor, etc., in different ways.

Figures 51 through 57 illustrate technical information for the performance of the antenna assembly 1000 shown in Figure 48. The performance data of these computer simulations are based on the ideal electrical conductor (PEC), free space, without any balun, and 300 ohm line transmission line reference. The simulator comes to get. The materials and results shown in Figures 51 through 57 are provided for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to be limiting. Thus, an antenna assembly can be assembled to have operational parameters substantially as shown in any one or more of Figures 51 through 57, or can be assembled to have different operational parameters, for example, depending on the particular application and The signal to be received by the antenna assembly.

As shown by the test data, the antenna assembly 1000 has a peak gain (UHF) of 10.4 dBi at 670 MHz, a peak gain (VHF) of 3.1 dBi at 216 MHz, and a maximum VSWR of 3.0 for both UHF and VHF. Obviously, this kind of antenna assembly has throughout The UHF/VHF DTV channel spectrum has a consistent gain.

Thus, embodiments of the present disclosure include antenna assemblies that can be any number of antenna elements that can be extended to, for example, depending on the particular end use, will be received by the antenna assembly Or the transmitted signal, and/or the desired operating range for such an antenna assembly. By way of example only, another exemplary embodiment of an antenna assembly includes four tapered loop antenna elements that are collectively operable to improve the overall range of such antenna assemblies.

Other embodiments are directed to methods of making and/or using antenna assemblies. Various embodiments are directed to digital televisions that receive high quality television signals, such as in the frequency range of about 174 megahertz to about 216 megahertz and/or in the frequency range of about 470 megahertz to about 690 megahertz. The method of signal. In an example embodiment, a method generally includes connecting at least one communication link from an antenna assembly to a television to communicate signals received by the antenna assembly to a television. In this method embodiment, the antenna component (eg, 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000, etc.) may include at least one antenna element (eg, 104, 204) , 304, 504, 604, 704, 804, 904, etc.). Such an antenna assembly can include at least one reflector element (eg, 108, 208, 508, 608, 708, 908, 1008, ..., etc.). In some embodiments, there may be a stand-alone antenna element without any reflector elements, wherein the stand-alone antenna elements provide a good impedance frequency for a very tight solution in which they operate in high signal regions. Wide and low directivity. In another example, a method can include rotating a portion of a bracket (eg, brackets 888, 988, etc.) to a first or second configuration, wherein the first configured bracket enables an antenna assembly to A support that is supported on a horizontal surface and in a second configuration allows the antenna assembly to be supported on a vertical surface.

The antenna assembly can be operable to receive it having approximately 470 megahertz High-definition television signals to the frequency range of approximately 690 megahertz. The antenna assembly can have a substantially annular shape with an opening (e.g., 148...etc.). The antenna elements (along with reflector size, baffles, and spacing) can be tuned to at least one electrical resonant frequency for operation within a bandwidth ranging from about 470 megahertz to about 690 megahertz. The reflector element can be spaced apart from the antenna element for reflecting electromagnetic waves substantially toward the antenna element and substantially affecting impedance bandwidth and directivity. The antenna element may include spaced first and second end portions (eg, 128...etc.), an intermediate portion (eg, 126...etc.), first and second curved portions (eg, 150, 152) The first and second curved portions extend from the respective first and second end portions to the intermediate portion such that the annular shape and the opening of the antenna element are substantially circular. The first and second curved portions may gradually increase their width from the respective first and second end portions to the intermediate portion such that the intermediate portion is wider than the first and second end portions and such that the outer diameter of the antenna element is Deviating from the diameter of the substantially circular opening. The first curved portion may be a mirror image of the second curved portion. The center of the generally circular opening may be the center of the generally circular annular shape that is offset from the antenna element. The reflector element may include a baffle (e.g., 164... etc.) for deflecting electromagnetic waves. The baffle can be at least partially positioned along at least one peripheral edge portion of the reflector element. The reflector element can include a substantially planar surface (eg, 160...etc.) substantially parallel to the antenna element, and at least one sidewall portion (eg, 164...etc.) extending outwardly with respect to the substantially planar surface To be substantially toward the tapered loop antenna element. In some embodiments, the reflector element includes a sidewall portion along a peripheral edge portion of the reflector element that is substantially perpendicular to a substantially planar surface of the reflector element, whereby the sidewall portions are operable to cause electromagnetic waves A baffle with energy deflection.

Embodiments of an antenna assembly disclosed herein can be assembled to provide one or more of the following advantages. For example, the embodiments disclosed herein may provide that it is practical and Electrically smaller antenna assemblies, but still capable of operating and behaving like antenna assemblies that are physically larger and more electrically. The disclosed exemplary embodiment can provide a relatively small and interference-free antenna assembly that can be used indoors for receiving signals (eg, signals associated with digital televisions (a subset of high-definition television signals).. .Wait). By way of further example, the exemplary embodiments disclosed herein may be specifically configured for receiving (eg, tuning and/or aligning, etc.) for the spectrum of digital television (DTV) in 2009 (eg, : HDTV signals in the first frequency range from about 174 megahertz to about 216 megahertz, and signals in the second frequency range from about 470 megahertz to about 690 megahertz...etc. ). The exemplary embodiments disclosed herein may thus be of relatively high efficiency (about 90%, about 98%, etc. at 545 MHz) and have fairly good gain (eg, maximum gain of about 8 dBi, excellent impedance curve, flatness) The gain curve, the fairly equal gain across the DTV spectrum of the 2009 AD, the relatively high gain of the footprint of only about 25.4 cm wide and about 25.4 cm long...etc.). Due to such fairly good efficiency and gain, high quality television reception can be achieved without requiring or requiring amplification of the signals received by some exemplary antenna embodiments. Additionally or alternatively, the exemplary embodiments can also be assembled for receiving VHF and/or UHF signals.

Exemplary embodiments of antenna components (e.g., 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000, etc.) have been disclosed herein as receiving digital television signals such as HDTV signals. However, alternative embodiments may include antenna elements that are tuned for receiving non-television signals and/or signals having frequencies that are not associated with the HDTV. Other embodiments may be used to receive AM/FM radio signals, UHF signals, VHF signals, and the like. Thus, embodiments of the present disclosure should not be limited to receiving only television signals having a frequency associated with a digital television or HDTV or within a frequency range. The antenna assembly disclosed herein can be replaced by, for example, radio It is used in any of a wide range of electronic devices such as computers, computers, and the like. Therefore, the scope of the disclosure should not be limited to the use of only television and signals associated with television.

Numerical scales and specific materials disclosed herein are provided for illustrative purposes only. The particular dimensions and specific materials disclosed herein are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure, as other embodiments may be different in size, shape, and/or from different materials depending, for example, on the particular application and intended end use. And / or processing formed.

Certain terminology is used herein for informational purposes only and is not intended to be limiting. For example, terms such as "upper end," "lower end," "above," "below," "upward," "downward," "forward," and "backward" are used in the drawings. The direction of the reference. Terms such as "front", "back", "back", "bottom", and "side" are used to describe the orientation of the component parts within a consistent and arbitrary reference architecture, the reference architecture being such that reference is made to the discussion in the discussion. The text and associated schema of the components are clearly understood. Such specific terms may include the words specifically recited above, their derivatives, and the like. In the same terms, the terms "first", "second", and other such numerical terms are not intended to refer to the order or order unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

The articles "a" and "the" are intended to mean one or more of such elements or features. The terms "comprising," "comprising," and "having" are intended to include the meaning It is further understood that the method steps, processes, and operations described herein are not to be construed as necessarily requiring a particular It will also be appreciated that additional or alternative steps may be utilized.

For the value and range of values for specific parameters (such as: frequency range...etc.) The disclosure does not exclude other numerical and numerical ranges that may be used herein. It is contemplated that two or more specific exemplary values for a given parameter may define an endpoint for a range of values that can be claimed for the parameter. For example, if parameter X is exemplified herein as having a value of A and is also exemplified as having a value of Z, it is contemplated that parameter X can have a range of values from about A to about Z. In the same way, it is contemplated that the disclosure of two or more numerical ranges for one parameter (whether such ranges are mutually nested, partially overlapping or different) may be included in the numerical value of the endpoints of the disclosed disclosure. All possible combinations of ranges. For example, if the parameter X is exemplified herein as having a value in the range of 1-10, or 2-9, or 3-8, it is also contemplated that the parameter X may have a 1-9, 1 Other numerical ranges of -8, 1-3, 1-2, 2-10, 2-8, 2-3, 3-10, and 3-9.

The description of the disclosure is intended to be illustrative only, and is intended to be in the scope of the disclosure. Such changes should not be considered as a departure from the spirit and scope of this disclosure.

100‧‧‧Antenna components

104‧‧‧ Tapered loop antenna element

108‧‧‧ reflector elements

112‧‧‧Balance-Unbalance Converter

116‧‧‧Shell

120‧‧‧End or end section

168‧‧‧ openings

172, 174‧‧‧ fastener holes

176‧‧‧Threaded socket

180‧‧‧ middle part

Claims (12)

An antenna assembly operative to receive a high quality television signal, the antenna assembly comprising: at least one tapered loop antenna element; and a bracket including a base and an upper coupled to the tapered loop antenna element In part, the base has a slot that is configured to engage a portion of a reflector element to mount the reflector element to the base. The antenna assembly of claim 1, wherein the bracket is assembled such that the upper portion is rotatable relative to the base in a first configuration for supporting the tapered loop antenna element on a horizontal surface Between the second configuration for supporting the tapered loop antenna element from a vertical surface. The antenna assembly of claim 2, wherein the bracket is assembled such that rotation of the upper portion relative to the base in a first direction is to change the bracket from the first configuration to the second configuration And the rotation of the upper portion relative to the base in a second direction opposite the first direction is to transform the bracket from the second configuration to the first configuration. The antenna assembly of claim 2, wherein the bracket includes a threaded shank portion and a threaded opening for receiving the threaded shank portion; the threaded shank portion extends outwardly from the base; The threaded opening is defined by the upper portion. The antenna assembly of claim 2 or 3, further comprising: one or more stops for retaining the bracket in the first configuration and/or the second configuration. The antenna assembly of claim 5, wherein: the one or more stops are assembled to provide a tactile and/or audible indication to a user when the first and second stops are joined to the corresponding The first or second opening stops rotating the upper portion relative to the base; and/or the one or more stops include one or more of a protrusion, a small piece, a protrusion, and/or a protrusion. The antenna assembly of claim 2, wherein the antenna assembly includes first and second stops that are assembled to be respectively received within the first or second opening to retain the bracket Corresponding first or second configuration; engagement of the first stop within the first opening inhibits relative rotation of the upper portion and the base, thereby facilitating retention of the bracket in the first configuration; Engagement of the second stop within the second opening inhibits relative rotation of the upper portion from the base, thereby facilitating retention of the bracket in the second configuration. The antenna assembly of claim 1, 2 or 3, further comprising: at least one reflector element having a portion that is assembled to engage within the slot to mount the reflector element to the A base is spaced from the tapered loop antenna element, whereby the reflector element is operable to reflect electromagnetic waves substantially toward the tapered loop antenna element. The antenna assembly of claim 8 wherein the reflector element comprises a grid or mesh surface. The antenna assembly of claim 9 wherein the reflector element comprises at least one peripheral flange extending outwardly relative to the grid or mesh surface. An antenna assembly according to claim 8 wherein the reflector element is mountable to the base via the slot without the need for a mechanical fastener. An antenna assembly as claimed in claim 1, 2 or 3, wherein: the antenna assembly is assembled to operate across a spectrum of the entire UHF DTV channel, including UHF frequencies from 470 megahertz to 806 megahertz ( Channel 7-13); and the tapered loop antenna element includes: a generally annular shape having an opening; spaced apart first and second end portions defining at least partially extending at the spaced end portions An open slot therebetween, whereby the open slot can be used to provide a gap feed for balancing the transmission line; an intermediate portion; and first and second curved portions extending from the respective first and second end portions To the intermediate portion, the tapered loop antenna element has a substantially annular shape having a substantially circular opening; the first and second curved portions are from the individual first and second end portions to the The intermediate portion gradually increases its width such that the intermediate portion is wider than the first and second end portions, and such that the outer diameter of the tapered loop antenna element is offset from the diameter of the substantially circular opening; First bend The curved portion is a mirror image of the second curved portion.