KR102518642B1 - Antenna apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

An antenna device according to the present invention, comprising: a plurality of antennas each receiving a plurality of broadcast signals; a first signal processor for processing a plurality of broadcast signals received by a plurality of antennas; at least one output port provided to be connectable to the broadcast receiving device and outputting the broadcast signal processed by the first signal processing unit to the broadcast receiving device; A plurality of antennas are provided to correspond to the plurality of antennas and include an antenna support portion arranged in multiple stages in at least one direction to support the plurality of antennas. Accordingly, with a simple structure supporting a plurality of antennas and including a signal processing module, reception performance of a plurality of broadcast signals received by a plurality of antennas can be improved.

Description

Antenna device {ANTENNA APPARATUS}

The present invention relates to an antenna device, and more particularly, to an antenna device for processing broadcast signals received by a plurality of antennas.

When a public or outdoor antenna is used to watch terrestrial TV, reception of a broadcast signal is easy, but the size of the antenna is large and the installation location is high, so installation is cumbersome.

On the other hand, in the case of an indoor antenna, the installation process is simple and it is easy to manage by placing it near a window or next to a TV, but the channel environment and electronic field strength are poor compared to outdoor reception due to the characteristics of indoor reception. In order to overcome this, an active antenna with a built-in amplifier is sometimes used, but it does not exert a great effect due to increased noise.

In addition, when an indoor antenna is used, reception performance is degraded, and the structure is complicated to be used as an accessory for a TV, which impairs aesthetics.

Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide an antenna device capable of improving reception performance in receiving a broadcast signal by providing an indoor antenna.

In addition, another object of the present invention is to provide an antenna device having a simpler structure in receiving a broadcast signal by providing an indoor antenna.

In addition, another object of the present invention is to provide an antenna device capable of improving aesthetics when receiving a broadcast signal by providing an indoor antenna.

The above object is, according to the present invention, an antenna device comprising: a plurality of antennas for receiving a plurality of broadcast signals, respectively; a first signal processor for processing a plurality of broadcast signals received by a plurality of antennas; at least one output port provided to be connectable to the broadcast receiving device and outputting the broadcast signal processed by the first signal processing unit to the broadcast receiving device; This can be achieved by an antenna device comprising a plurality of antenna supports provided in correspondence with the plurality of antennas and arranged in multiple stages in at least one direction to support the plurality of antennas.

According to such an embodiment of the present invention, when receiving a broadcast signal by providing an indoor antenna, reception performance can be improved. In addition, it is possible to provide an antenna device having a simpler structure and improved aesthetics.

At least a portion of the antenna support portion may be a plate shape having a polygonal or circular shape. Accordingly, it may have various types of structures to support a plurality of antennas.

The antenna support part may include a non-metallic material. Accordingly, conduction between a plurality of antennas made of metal can be prevented.

The antenna support unit may allow the plurality of antennas to be spaced apart from each other at least a minimum interval at which a correlation between the received broadcast signals becomes a predetermined threshold value. Accordingly, mutual interference between received broadcast signals can be prevented from occurring by supporting the plurality of antennas to be spaced apart from each other.

The antenna support unit may further include a casing having an accommodation space accommodating the first signal processing unit and supporting the output port. Accordingly, the structure can be simplified by accommodating a plurality of antennas and a module for signal processing in the casing.

The casing may have at least one inner surface forming the accommodating space, and the antenna support part may include a fixing part fixed to the inner surface and a support part supporting the antenna. Accordingly, it is possible to form a structure for supporting a plurality of antennas by being fixed to the inner surface of the casing.

The casing may have a detachable portion allowing the fixing portion of the antenna support portion to be detachable from the inner surface, and the fixing portion of the antenna support portion may have a shape corresponding to that of the detachable portion of the casing. Accordingly, it is possible to form a structure that is detachably formed on the inner surface of the casing to support a plurality of antennas.

The casing may have a polyhedral or cylindrical shape. Accordingly, the casing can be implemented in various forms in consideration of the support form of the plurality of antennas and the size of the antennas.

The casing may include a non-metallic material. Accordingly, in accommodating a plurality of antennas made of metal, conduction between the plurality of antennas can be prevented.

The first signal processing unit processes the plurality of broadcast signals to output a plurality of first broadcast signals, receives the plurality of first broadcast signals output by the first signal processing unit, and outputs a plurality of first broadcast signals to the output port. It may further include a second signal processing unit that outputs two broadcast signals. Accordingly, the structure can be simplified by first processing a plurality of broadcast signals received by a plurality of antennas through a plurality of RFICs and ADCs, and secondly processing them through an adaptive filter and outputting them through a single port.

The first signal processing unit may include at least one sub-signal processing unit grouping broadcast signals received from the two or more antennas and outputting one of the first broadcast signals. Accordingly, it is possible to reduce the number of ports required to process a plurality of broadcast signals received by a plurality of antennas using a multi-channel RFIC and ADC.

The first signal processing unit may include a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC). Accordingly, by converting a plurality of broadcast signals received by a plurality of antennas from a high frequency band to an intermediate frequency band, the degree of correlation between noise components included in the broadcast signal is lowered, thereby facilitating subsequent filtering.

The second signal processing unit removes noise components included in each of the plurality of first broadcast signals output by the first signal processing unit, synthesizes the respective first broadcast signals, and outputs the second broadcast signal. can The second signal processing unit may include an adaptive filter. Accordingly, it is possible to improve reception performance by lowering correlation between a plurality of first broadcast signals processed through a plurality of RFICs and ADCs using an adaptive filter.

The second signal processor may output the second broadcast signal as an analog or digital signal. Accordingly, a plurality of broadcast signals passing through the adaptive filter can be output in digital format or passed through the DAC module to be output in analog format.

The first signal processing unit and the second signal processing unit may be implemented as a system on chip (SOC). Accordingly, by implementing a plurality of signal processing modules in one chip, the size can be reduced and costs can be reduced compared to individual components.

The antenna support unit may further include a casing having an accommodation space accommodating the first signal processing unit and the second signal processing unit and supporting the output port. Accordingly, in an antenna device having a casing, a plurality of broadcast signals can be output through one port by accommodating both a configuration for supporting a plurality of antennas and a signal processing module.

The antenna support portion may further include a support that extends in a multi-stage arrangement direction and maintains a mutually spaced state between the plurality of antenna support portions. Accordingly, in an open type antenna device without a casing, reception performance can be improved by maintaining a spaced state between a plurality of antennas.

The second signal processing unit may be provided on the support. Accordingly, in an open type antenna device, a signal processing module may be provided at a connecting portion of elements supporting a plurality of antennas, so that a plurality of broadcast signals may be output through one port.

The above object is, according to the present invention, an antenna device comprising: a plurality of antennas for receiving a plurality of broadcast signals, respectively; a first signal processor for processing a plurality of broadcast signals received by a plurality of antennas; at least one output port provided to output a broadcast signal processed by the first signal processing unit and connect to a broadcast receiving device; an antenna function unit for allowing each of the plurality of antennas to be included in at least one area, and to allow the plurality of antennas to be spaced apart from each other by a minimum interval at which a correlation between broadcast signals received is a predetermined threshold value; An antenna function unit including a plurality of antennas and a casing having an accommodation space accommodating the first signal processing unit and supporting the output port may be included.

According to such an embodiment of the present invention, reception performance can be improved in receiving a broadcast signal by providing a patch-type antenna indoors. In addition, it is possible to provide an antenna device having a simpler structure and improved aesthetics.

As described above, according to the present invention, there is an effect of improving reception performance in receiving a broadcast signal by providing an indoor antenna.

In addition, there is an effect of providing an antenna device having a simpler structure in receiving a broadcast signal by providing an indoor antenna.

In addition, there is an effect of providing an antenna device capable of improving aesthetics in receiving a broadcast signal by providing an indoor antenna.

1 is a simplified diagram illustrating an example in which an antenna device according to an embodiment of the present invention is installed indoors and connected to a TV.
2 is an example in which an antenna support unit for supporting a plurality of antennas is installed in multiple stages on an inner surface of a casing according to an embodiment of the present invention.
3 is an example in which an antenna support unit for supporting a plurality of antennas is detachably installed in multiple stages on an inner surface of a casing according to an embodiment of the present invention.
4 is an example in which a plurality of patch-type antennas are attached in multiple stages to the inner surface of a casing according to an embodiment of the present invention.
5 is an example of an antenna support unit for supporting a plurality of antennas according to an embodiment of the present invention open to the outside and installed in multiple stages.
6 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an antenna device according to an embodiment of the present invention.
7 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an antenna device according to an embodiment of the present invention.
8 is an example of the configuration of an antenna device including a multi-channel RFIC and ADC and an adaptive filter according to an embodiment of the present invention.
9 is an example of the configuration of an antenna device including a multi-channel RFIC and an adaptive filter according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Hereinafter, with reference to the accompanying drawings, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail so that those skilled in the art can easily carry out the present invention. This invention may be embodied in many different forms and is not limited to the embodiments set forth herein. In order to clearly describe the present invention, the same reference numerals are assigned to the same or similar components throughout the specification.

Hereinafter, the installation form and structure of the antenna device according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 1 to 5 first. 1 is a simplified diagram illustrating an example in which an antenna device according to an embodiment of the present invention is installed indoors and connected to a TV. As shown in FIG. 1, the antenna device 10 is provided indoors, receives a plurality of broadcast signals transmitted from the broadcast transmission equipment 1, and outputs them to the connected broadcast reception device 100. The antenna device 10 includes a plurality of antennas 11 (refer to the configuration of FIG. 2) for receiving a plurality of broadcast signals. The antenna device 10 includes a signal processing module that processes a plurality of broadcast signals received by a plurality of antennas 11 . The antenna device 10 is provided to be connectable to the broadcast receiving device 100, and includes at least one output port 13 (refer to the configuration of FIG. 2) for outputting a broadcast signal processed by the signal processing module to the broadcast receiving device 100. ). The antenna device 10 includes a plurality of antenna support units 12 (refer to the configuration of FIG. 2 ) provided to correspond to a plurality of antennas. The antenna support part 12 is arranged in multiple stages in at least one direction to support a plurality of antennas 11 .

The plurality of antennas 11 are implemented as dipole antennas. A dipole antenna is an antenna that acts like a dipole by supplying electricity from the center of a wire whose length is 1/2 wavelength, and the potential distribution and polarity on the vertical or horizontal lines are always symmetrical with respect to the center of the antenna. The dipole antenna is used as a standard antenna that specifies the gain or directivity of the antenna.

As one embodiment, the plurality of antennas 11 may be implemented as patch antennas. A patch antenna is a type of microstrip antenna in which the width of a strip-shaped conductor is widened and the patch-shaped conductor is used as an antenna. The patch antenna has advantages of being easy to manufacture and thin.

In the present invention, in order to increase the antenna diversity effect, the antenna support unit 12 allows the plurality of antennas 11 to be spaced apart from each other at least a minimum interval at which a correlation between received broadcast signals becomes a predetermined threshold value. Antenna diversity corresponds to space diversity. Spatial diversity improves reception performance by installing two or more antennas apart so that correlation between them is minimized and selecting and receiving signals. For example, the antenna support unit 12 may be arranged so that the plurality of antennas 11 are spaced apart from each other by 5 cm or more in order to enhance the antenna diversity effect. In this way, the antenna support unit 12 supports the plurality of antennas 11 to be spaced apart from each other, thereby lowering the correlation between received broadcasting signals and improving reception performance.

At least a portion of the antenna support 12 may be implemented in a plate shape having a polygonal or circular shape. As such, the antenna support unit 12 may have various types of structures for supporting the plurality of antennas 11, and the implemented types are not limited by the embodiments of the present invention. In addition, the antenna support 12 may include a non-metallic material such as acryl. Accordingly, conduction between the plurality of antennas 11 made of metal is prevented.

The antenna device 10 has an antenna support unit 12 supporting a plurality of antennas 11 and an accommodation space for accommodating a signal processing module, and an output port for outputting signal-processed broadcast signals to the broadcast receiving device 100. It may further include a casing 14 (refer to the configuration of FIG. 2) for supporting. The casing 14 may be implemented in a polyhedral or cylindrical shape, and may be made of a non-metallic material such as acrylic to prevent mutual conduction between the plurality of antennas 11 accommodated.

The casing 14 has at least one inner surface forming an accommodation space, and the antenna support part 12 includes a fixing part 121 fixed to the inner surface of the casing 1 and a support part 122 supporting the antenna 11. can include Here, the casing 14 has a detachable part (not shown) that allows the fixing part 121 of the antenna support part 12 to be detachable from the inner surface, and the fixing part 121 of the antenna support part 12 is a casing ( 14) may have a shape corresponding to the detachable part.

The antenna device 10 may be implemented as an open type antenna device without a casing. In this case, a support 16 (refer to the configuration of FIG. 5 ) may be further included to maintain a mutually spaced state between the plurality of antenna support parts 12 .

The antenna device 10 is a signal processing module that processes a plurality of broadcast signals received by the plurality of antennas 11 and outputs a plurality of first broadcast signals, and includes a plurality of RFIC (radio frequency integrated circuit) modules and ADC (Analog -Digital Converter) module 213 (refer to the configuration of FIG. 8).

An RFIC module generally refers to an integrated circuit (IC) designed for wireless communication. The frequency range of RF is approximately between 300 MHz and 30 GHz.

The RFIC module converts a plurality of broadcast signals received by a plurality of antennas from a high frequency band to an intermediate frequency band. The RFIC module may further include an oscillator (not shown) for frequency conversion.

An ADC module is an electronic circuit that converts an analog electrical signal into a digital electrical signal. The ADC module converts a plurality of analog format broadcast signals converted into an intermediate frequency band through the RFIC module into a digital format.

As an example, the RFIC module and the ADC module 213 may output one first broadcast signal by grouping a plurality of broadcast signals. For example, the RFIC module and the ADC module 213 may process broadcast signals of two to four channels among a plurality of broadcast signals received by the plurality of antennas 11 and output them as one first broadcast signal. .

The antenna device 10 is a signal processing module that receives a plurality of first broadcast signals output by the plurality of RFIC modules and the ADC module 213 and outputs one second broadcast signal to an output port. Filter) 221 (refer to the configuration of FIG. 8).

The adaptive filter 221 is a linear filter having a transmission function controlled by variable parameters and is a means for adjusting the corresponding parameters according to an optimization algorithm. Because of the complexity of the optimization algorithm, most adaptive filters are implemented as digital filters.

The adaptive filter 221 synthesizes a plurality of first broadcast signals output from the plurality of RFIC modules and the ADC module 213 and outputs one second broadcast signal. In the synthesis process, the adaptive filter 221 assigns a weight to each broadcast signal and then adds them. Through this process, the adaptive filter 221 removes noise components included in each of the plurality of first broadcast signals, thereby lowering the correlation between the first broadcast signals and improving reception performance.

The adaptive filter 221 may output the second broadcast signal as a digital signal or may further include a DAC module to output the second broadcast signal as an analog signal.

The plurality of RFIC modules and the ADC module 213 and the adaptive filter 221 are implemented as System On Chip (SOC). As a result, a plurality of signal processing modules included in the antenna device 10 are implemented as a single chip to reduce size and cost compared to individual components.

As an example, when the antenna device 10 is of an open type, the plurality of RFIC modules and ADC modules 213 and the adaptive filter 221 may be provided on the support 16 .

As another embodiment, when the antenna device 10 has the casing 14, instead of the antenna support unit 12 supporting the plurality of antennas, the antenna function unit 15 including each of the plurality of antennas in at least one area ( Refer to the configuration of FIG. 4) may be included. Here, the antenna function unit 15 causes the plurality of antennas 11 to be spaced apart from each other at least a minimum interval at which the correlation between received broadcast signals becomes a predetermined threshold value. For example, a plurality of patch-type antennas implemented in the form of patches including antennas may be attached to the inner surface of the casing 14 in multiple stages at predetermined intervals.

As described above, the antenna device 10 according to the embodiment of the present invention has an effect of improving reception performance in receiving a broadcast signal by providing an indoor antenna. In addition, there is an effect of providing an antenna device having a simpler structure and improving aesthetics.

2 is an example in which an antenna support unit for supporting a plurality of antennas is installed in multiple stages on an inner surface of a casing according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 2, the antenna device 10 of the present invention includes a plurality of antennas 11 in a casing 14 having a rectangular parallelepiped shape, an antenna support 12 supporting the plurality of antennas 11, and a signal processing module. (not shown). In addition, the antenna device 10 supports an output port 13 connectable to a broadcast receiving device.

The plurality of antennas 11 are implemented as dipole antennas, for example. In a dipole antenna, electric power is supplied from the center of a wire whose length is half a wavelength, and the potential distribution and polarity on the top, bottom, left and right lines are always symmetrical with respect to the center of the antenna, acting like a dipole.

A plurality of antenna support units 12 are provided to correspond to the plurality of antennas 11 . For example, the plurality of antenna support portions 12 are vertically arranged in multiple stages on one of the inner surfaces of the casing 14, and two antennas 11 are fixed to each antenna support portion 12. The number of antennas 11 supported by the antenna support unit 12 is not limited thereto, and the antenna 11 and the antenna support unit 12 can be implemented in a one-to-one or many-to-one relationship. there is.

Here, the antenna 11 may be fixed on the antenna support 12 using an adhesive material such as tape or bond. A method of fixing the plurality of antennas 11 to the antenna support 12 is not limited thereto, and may be fixed using various materials.

The antenna support 12 is implemented in a plate shape having a rectangular shape, for example. The antenna support part 12 and the casing 14 contain a non-metallic material, thereby preventing conduction between a plurality of antennas made of metal.

The antenna support part 12 includes a fixing part 121 fixed to the inner surface of the casing 14 and a support part 122 supporting the antenna 11 . Here, the fixing part 121 is implemented to be fixed to the inner surface of the casing 14, but is not limited thereto and may be implemented to be detachable.

The antenna support unit 12 allows the plurality of antennas 11 to be spaced apart from each other at least a minimum interval at which a correlation between received broadcast signals becomes a predetermined threshold value. For example, the antenna support part 12 may be arranged such that the plurality of antennas 11 are separated from each other by 5 cm or more. In this way, the antenna support unit 12 supports the plurality of antennas 11 to be spaced apart from each other, thereby lowering the correlation between received broadcasting signals and improving reception performance.

The signal processing module includes a first signal processing unit 21 and a second signal processing unit 22 .

The first signal processor 21 processes a plurality of broadcast signals received by the plurality of antennas 11 and outputs a plurality of first broadcast signals. The first signal processing unit 21 may include a plurality of RFIC modules and ADC modules 213 .

The RFIC module converts a plurality of broadcast signals received by a plurality of antennas from a high frequency band to an intermediate frequency band. The ADC module converts a plurality of analog format broadcast signals converted into an intermediate frequency band through the RFIC module into a digital format.

The first signal processor 21 includes at least one sub-signal processor 211 that groups broadcast signals received from the plurality of antennas 11 and outputs one first broadcast signal. As an embodiment, the RFIC module and the ADC module 213 may process broadcast signals of 2 to 4 channels among a plurality of broadcast signals received from the plurality of antennas 11 and output them as one first broadcast signal. there is. For example, for broadcast signals received by ten antennas 11, the number of output ports can be reduced by using five RFIC modules and ADC modules 213 capable of processing broadcast signals of two channels.

The second signal processor 22 receives a plurality of first broadcast signals output by the first signal processor 21 and outputs one second broadcast signal through the output port 13 . The second signal processing unit 22 may include an adaptive filter.

The adaptive filter 221 synthesizes a plurality of first broadcast signals output from the plurality of RFIC modules and the ADC module 213 and outputs one second broadcast signal. At this time, the adaptive filter 221 removes noise components included in each of the plurality of first broadcast signals, thereby lowering the correlation between the first broadcast signals and improving reception performance.

The adaptive filter 221 may output the output second broadcast signal as a digital signal or may further include a DAC module 222 to output the second broadcast signal as an analog signal.

The plurality of RFIC modules and the ADC module 213 and the adaptive filter 221 are implemented as System On Chip (SOC). As a result, a plurality of signal processing modules included in the antenna device 10 are implemented as a single chip to reduce size and cost compared to individual components.

Here, the SOC is mounted on a circuit board (PCB) and is arranged to be spaced apart from the plurality of antennas 11 at a predetermined interval on the lower or side surface of the casing 14. Accordingly, when the signal processing module processes a plurality of broadcast signals received through a plurality of antennas, it is possible to prevent mutual interference between broadcast signals.

The antenna device 10 according to one embodiment as described above has an effect of improving reception performance when receiving a broadcast signal by providing an indoor antenna. In addition, there is an effect of providing an antenna device having a simpler structure and improving aesthetics.

(Additional Embodiment) FIG. 3 is an example in which an antenna support unit for supporting a plurality of antennas is detachably installed in multiple stages on an inner surface of a casing according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 3, the antenna device 10 of the present invention includes a plurality of antennas 11 in a casing 14 having a rectangular parallelepiped shape, an antenna support 12 supporting the plurality of antennas 11, and a signal processing module. (not shown). In addition, the antenna device 10 supports an output port 13 connectable to a broadcast receiving device. Here, since the configurations of the plurality of antennas 11, the antenna support unit 12, the signal processing module (not shown), and the output port 13 are the same as those of FIG. 2, only differences will be described.

A plurality of antenna support units 12 are provided to correspond to the plurality of antennas 11 . For example, the plurality of antenna support parts 12 are disposed on the rear, left and right surfaces of the inner surface of the casing 14 . At this time, the plurality of antenna support parts 12 may be arranged in multiple stages in the vertical direction on at least one surface. Two antennas 11 are fixed to each of the antenna support parts 12. The number of antennas 11 supported by the antenna support unit 12 is not limited thereto, and the antenna 11 and the antenna support unit 12 can be implemented in a one-to-one or many-to-one relationship. there is.

The antenna support part 12 includes a fixing part 121 fixed to the inner surface of the casing 14 and a support part 122 supporting the antenna 11 . Here, the casing 14 has a detachable portion allowing the fixing portion 121 of the antenna support portion 12 to be detached from the inner surface. At this time, the fixing part 121 of the antenna support part 12 has a shape corresponding to the detachable part of the casing 14.

In the antenna device 10 according to one embodiment as described above, the antenna support part 12 for supporting a plurality of antennas 11 is spaced apart from each other on the inner surface of the casing 14, installed in multiple stages, and implemented to be detachable. Accordingly, it is possible to improve reception performance and facilitate installation of a plurality of antennas 11 in various locations.

4 is an example in which a plurality of patch-type antennas are attached in multiple stages to the inner surface of a casing according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 4, the antenna device 10 of the present invention includes a plurality of antennas 11 and an antenna function unit in which each of the plurality of antennas 11 is included in at least one area in a casing 14 having a rectangular parallelepiped shape ( 15) and a signal processing module (not shown). In addition, the antenna device 10 supports an output port 13 connectable to a broadcast receiving device. Here, since the configuration of the plurality of antennas 11, the signal processing module (not shown), and the output port 13 is the same as that of FIG. 2, only differences will be described.

In the antenna function unit 15, each of the plurality of antennas 11 is included in at least one area. For example, the antenna function unit 15 may be implemented as a patch antenna. A patch antenna is a type of microstrip antenna and is manufactured in a patch shape by widening the width of a strip-shaped conductor. The patch antenna has advantages of being easy to manufacture and thin. The antenna function unit 15 may include materials other than the antenna 11 in some areas. For example, in the case of a patch antenna, in addition to the antenna 11, materials necessary for fabrication in the form of a patch may be further included.

The antenna function unit 15 allows the plurality of antennas 11 to be spaced apart from each other at least a minimum interval at which a correlation between received broadcast signals becomes a predetermined threshold value. For example, a plurality of patch antennas implemented in the form of patches including antennas are attached to at least one of the inner surfaces of the casing 14 in multiple stages at predetermined intervals. Accordingly, the correlation between a plurality of broadcast signals received by the plurality of patch antennas is lowered, thereby improving reception performance.

The antenna device 10 according to one embodiment as described above is provided by attaching the antenna functional unit 15 including a plurality of antennas 11 in at least one area to the inner surface of the casing 14 in multiple stages while spaced apart from each other. , it is possible to improve reception performance and facilitate installation of a plurality of antennas 11.

5 is an example of an antenna support unit for supporting a plurality of antennas according to an embodiment of the present invention open to the outside and installed in multiple stages. As shown in (a) and (b) of FIG. 5, the antenna device 10 of the present invention has an open structure without a casing, and a plurality of antennas 11 and an antenna support unit supporting the plurality of antennas 11. (12) and a signal processing module (not shown). In addition, the antenna device 10 supports an output port 13 connectable to a broadcast receiving device. Here, since the configurations of the plurality of antennas 11, the antenna support unit 12, the signal processing module (not shown), and the output port 13 are the same as those of FIG. 2, only differences will be described.

In (a) and (b), the antenna support 12 is implemented in a plate shape having a semicircular shape. A plurality of antenna support units 12 are provided to correspond to the plurality of antennas 11 and are arranged in multiple stages in the vertical direction to support the plurality of antennas 11 . Each of the plurality of antennas 11 is fixed to the upper surface of the antenna support part 12 . At this time, in fixing each of the plurality of antennas 11 to the upper surface of the antenna support part 12, it may be fixed using a predetermined number of bolts or using an adhesive material.

As one embodiment, the antenna support part 12 may be implemented in a form having a predetermined space inside rather than a plate shape. In this case, the plurality of antennas 11 may be accommodated and fixed in a predetermined space inside the antenna support part 12 .

In (a) and (b), the antenna device 10 includes a support 16 that extends in a direction in which the antenna support 12 is arranged in multiple stages and maintains a mutually spaced state between the plurality of antenna support 12. . Accordingly, even in an open structure without a casing, the antenna device 10 maintains a spaced state between the plurality of antennas 11 using the support 16, thereby increasing reception performance due to the antenna diversity effect.

The support 16 includes a signal processing module. That is, the support 16 includes a first signal processor 21 that processes a plurality of broadcast signals received by the plurality of antennas 11 and outputs a plurality of first broadcast signals. The first signal processing unit 21 may include a plurality of RFIC modules and ADC modules 213 .

In addition, the support 16 includes a second signal processing unit 22 that receives a plurality of first broadcast signals output by the first signal processing unit 21 and outputs one second broadcast signal to the output port 13. include The second signal processing unit 22 may include an adaptive adaptive filter 221 .

As an embodiment, the first signal processing unit 21 and the second signal processing unit 22 can be implemented as a system on chip (SOC), and a circuit board (PCB) on which the SOC is mounted can be provided in the support 16. . As another embodiment, the circuit board on which the SOC is mounted may be arranged so that the support 16 supports it.

In the case of (a), the semicircular antenna support portion 12 supporting the plurality of antennas 11 is connected to each other at the center of the straight portion. At this time, the support 16 may be provided corresponding to a position connected in the vertical direction with respect to the center of the linear portion of the interconnected antenna support 12.

In the case of (b), the semicircular antenna support 12 supporting the plurality of antennas 11 is interconnected at least two positions inside the semicircle. At this time, a plurality of supports 16 may be provided corresponding to positions where the antenna support 12 is connected in the vertical direction. For example, the support 16 may be implemented in the form of three pillars so that the antenna support 12 are connected to each other. In this case, any one of the three supports 16 implemented in the form of a pillar may include a signal processing module, and the other two may have only a function of connecting the antenna support 12.

The antenna device 10 according to one embodiment as described above can improve reception performance by maintaining a spaced state between a plurality of antennas even in an open structure without a casing. In addition, a signal processing module may be provided at a connecting portion of elements supporting a plurality of antennas, so that a plurality of broadcast signals may be output through one port.

6 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an antenna device according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 6, the antenna device 10 of the present invention includes a plurality of antennas 11, a first signal processing unit 21, at least one output port 13, and an antenna support unit (not shown). . Here, the antenna support part supports a plurality of antennas (11). The antenna device 10 is connected to the broadcast receiving device 100 through the second signal processing unit 22 . The antenna device 10 of the present invention is provided indoors and receives a broadcast signal transmitted from a terrestrial broadcasting station. The broadcast receiving device 100 may be implemented as, for example, a TV, a set-top box, or the like. When the broadcast receiving device 100 is implemented as a TV, the second signal processing unit 22 may be provided in a set-top box. At this time, the second signal processor 22 may process the broadcast signal output from the antenna device 100 .

The plurality of antennas 11 respectively receive a plurality of broadcast signals from broadcast transmission equipment (not shown). The plurality of antennas 11 are implemented as indoor antennas. Indoor antennas receive interference from structures such as walls and windows when receiving broadcast signals received from broadcasting transmission equipment. In addition, the length of the indoor antenna is about 15 to 25 cm, which is smaller than that of the outdoor antenna, so the reception rate of the broadcast signal is low. However, by using a plurality of indoor antennas, the antenna device 10 of the present invention can reach a reception rate equivalent to that of a single outdoor antenna.

The plurality of antennas 11 are implemented as dipole antennas or patch antennas. In a dipole antenna, electric power is supplied from the center of a wire whose length is half a wavelength, and the potential distribution and polarity on the top, bottom, left and right lines are always symmetrical with respect to the center of the antenna, acting like a dipole. A patch antenna is a type of microstrip antenna and is manufactured in a patch shape by widening the width of a strip-shaped conductor.

A plurality of antenna support units 12 are provided to correspond to the plurality of antennas 11 and are arranged in multiple stages in at least one direction to support the plurality of antennas 11 . The antenna support unit 12 allows the plurality of antennas 11 to be spaced apart from each other at least a minimum interval at which a correlation between received broadcast signals becomes a predetermined threshold value. For example, the antenna support part 12 may be arranged such that the plurality of antennas 11 are separated from each other by 5 cm or more. In this way, the antenna support unit 12 supports the plurality of antennas 11 to be spaced apart from each other, thereby lowering the correlation between received broadcasting signals and improving reception performance.

At least a portion of the antenna support 12 may be implemented in a plate shape having a polygonal or circular shape. As such, the antenna support unit 12 may have various types of structures for supporting a plurality of antennas, and the implemented types are not limited by the embodiments of the present invention. In addition, the antenna support 12 may include a non-metallic material such as acryl. Accordingly, conduction between a plurality of antennas made of metal is prevented.

The first signal processing unit 21 processes a plurality of broadcast signals received by the plurality of antennas 11 . The first signal processor 21 includes at least one sub-signal processor 211 that groups a plurality of broadcast signals received from the plurality of antennas 11 and outputs one first broadcast signal. The sub-signal processing unit 211 groups broadcast signals of 2 to 4 channels among a plurality of broadcast signals received from the plurality of antennas 11 and outputs one first broadcast signal for each group.

The sub-signal processing unit 211 may be implemented as, for example, a multi-channel RFIC and ADC module 213. The multi-channel RFIC and ADC module 213 includes an RFIC module and an ADC module for processing multi-channel broadcast signals, respectively.

The RFIC module groups broadcast signals of 2 to 4 channels among a plurality of broadcast signals received by the plurality of antennas 11, and converts the grouped broadcast signals from a high frequency band to an intermediate frequency band. The ADC module converts the analog format broadcast signal converted into the intermediate frequency band through the RFIC module into a digital format.

With the configuration of the sub-signal processing unit 211 as described above, the number of ports required to process a plurality of broadcast signals received by the plurality of antennas 11 can be reduced.

The output port 13 is provided to be connected to the broadcast receiving device 100 through the second signal processing unit 22 provided outside the antenna device 10 . The output port 13 receives at least one first broadcast signal processed by at least one sub signal processing unit 211 and outputs it to the second signal processing unit 22 .

As an embodiment, the output port 13 may be directly connected to the broadcast receiving device 100, and in this case, the second signal processing unit 22 may be provided in the broadcast receiving device 100.

The second signal processor 22 receives at least one first broadcast signal output through at least one output port 13 and outputs one second broadcast signal to the broadcast receiving device 100 . The second signal processor 22 removes noise components included in each of the at least one first broadcast signal output through the at least one output port 13, and synthesizes each of the first broadcast signals to obtain one second broadcast signal. outputs a broadcast signal.

The second signal processing unit 22 may include, for example, an adaptive filter 221 . The adaptive filter may output the second broadcast signal as a digital signal. The second signal processor 22 may further include a digital-analog converter (DAC) module in addition to the adaptive filter 221, and in this case, the second broadcast signal may be output as an analog signal.

With this configuration of the second signal processing unit 22, there is an effect of improving reception performance by lowering the degree of correlation between broadcast signals received from the plurality of antennas 11.

As an embodiment, the antenna device 10 further includes a casing 14 having an accommodation space for accommodating the antenna support unit 12 and the first signal processing unit 21 and supporting at least one output port 13. can do. Here, the casing 14 has at least one inner surface forming an accommodation space, and the antenna support part 12 includes a fixing part 121 fixed to the inner surface and a support part 122 supporting each of the plurality of antennas 11. can include

As described above, the antenna device 10 according to the embodiment of the present invention has an effect of improving reception performance in receiving a broadcast signal by providing an indoor antenna. In addition, there is an effect of providing an antenna device having a simpler structure and improving aesthetics.

7 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an antenna device according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 7, the antenna device 10 of the present invention includes a plurality of antennas 11, a first signal processing unit 21, a second signal processing unit 22, an output port 13, and an antenna support unit (not shown). city), including Here, the antenna support part supports a plurality of antennas (11). The first signal processing unit 21 includes at least one sub signal processing unit 211 . The antenna device 10 is connected to the broadcast receiving device 100 through an output port 13. The antenna device 10 of the present invention is provided indoors and receives a broadcast signal transmitted from a terrestrial broadcasting station. The broadcast receiving device 100 may be implemented as, for example, a TV, a set-top box, or the like. The configuration included in the antenna device 10 of the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and may be implemented by including additional other configurations.

The plurality of antennas 11 respectively receive a plurality of broadcast signals from broadcast transmission equipment (not shown). The plurality of antennas 11 are implemented as indoor antennas.

A plurality of antenna support units (not shown) are provided to correspond to the plurality of antennas 11 and are arranged in multiple stages in at least one direction to support the plurality of antennas 11 . The antenna support unit allows the plurality of antennas 11 to be spaced apart from each other at least a minimum interval at which a correlation between received broadcast signals becomes a predetermined threshold value. For example, the antenna support unit may be disposed so that the plurality of antennas 11 are separated from each other by 5 cm or more.

The first signal processing unit 21 processes a plurality of broadcast signals received by the plurality of antennas 11 . The first signal processor 21 includes at least one sub-signal processor 211 that groups a plurality of broadcast signals received from the plurality of antennas 11 and outputs one first broadcast signal.

The sub-signal processing unit 211 may be implemented as, for example, a multi-channel RFIC and ADC module 213. The multi-channel RFIC and ADC module 213 includes an RFIC module and an ADC module for processing multi-channel broadcast signals, respectively.

The RFIC module groups broadcast signals of 2 to 4 channels among a plurality of broadcast signals received by the plurality of antennas 11, and converts the grouped broadcast signals from a high frequency band to an intermediate frequency band. The ADC module converts the analog format broadcast signal converted into the intermediate frequency band through the RFIC module into a digital format.

The second signal processor 22 receives a plurality of first broadcast signals output by the first signal processor 21 and outputs one second broadcast signal through the output port 13 . The second signal processing unit 22 removes noise components included in each of the plurality of first broadcast signals output by the first signal processing unit 21 and synthesizes the respective first broadcast signals to obtain one second broadcast signal. outputs

The second signal processing unit 22 may include, for example, an adaptive filter 221 . The adaptive filter may output the second broadcast signal as a digital signal. The second signal processor 22 may further include a DAC module 222 in addition to the adaptive filter 221, and in this case, the second broadcast signal may be output as an analog signal.

The output port 13 is prepared to be connected to the broadcast receiving device 100 . The output port 13 outputs one second broadcast signal output from the second signal processing unit 22 to the broadcast receiving device 100 .

As an embodiment, the antenna device 10 has an accommodation space in which the antenna support unit 12, the first signal processing unit 21 and the second signal processing unit 22 are accommodated, and one output port 13 is supported. A casing 14 may be further included. Here, the first signal processing unit 21 and the second signal processing unit 22 may be implemented as an SOC.

As an embodiment, when the antenna device 10 does not include a casing, it may further include a support 16 for maintaining a mutually spaced state between the plurality of antenna supports. The support 16 may be provided extending in a direction in which the antenna support 12 is arranged in multiple stages. At this time, the first signal processing unit 21 and the second signal processing unit 22 may be provided on the support 16 .

8 is an example of the configuration of an antenna device including a multi-channel RFIC and ADC and an adaptive filter according to an embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 8 , the configuration for signal processing among the configurations of the antenna device 10 of FIG. 7 will be mainly described. As shown in FIG. 8, the antenna device 10 of the present invention includes a plurality of antennas 11, a plurality of RFIC and ADC modules 213, an adaptive filter 221, and an output port 13. The antenna device 10 may further include a DAC module 222 between the adaptive filter 221 and the output port 13 . The plurality of RFIC and ADC modules 211 correspond to the first signal processing unit 21 in the configuration of FIG. 7 . The adaptive filter 221 and the DAC 222 correspond to the second signal processing unit 22 in the configuration of FIG. 7 .

The plurality of antennas 11 respectively receive a plurality of broadcast signals from broadcast transmission equipment. The plurality of antennas 11 are implemented as indoor antennas. Indoor antennas receive interference from structures such as walls and windows when receiving broadcast signals received from broadcasting transmission equipment. In addition, the length of the indoor antenna is about 15 to 25 cm, which is smaller than that of the outdoor antenna, so the reception rate of the broadcast signal is low. However, by using a plurality of indoor antennas, the antenna device 10 of the present invention can reach a reception rate equivalent to that of a single outdoor antenna.

The plurality of antennas 11 are implemented as dipole antennas or patch antennas. In a dipole antenna, electric power is supplied from the center of a wire whose length is half a wavelength, and the potential distribution and polarity on the top, bottom, left and right lines are always symmetrical with respect to the center of the antenna, acting like a dipole. A patch antenna is a type of microstrip antenna and is manufactured in a patch shape by widening the width of a strip-shaped conductor.

The RFIC and ADC module 213 processes broadcast signals of 2 to 4 channels among a plurality of broadcast signals received from the plurality of antennas 11 and outputs them as one first broadcast signal. The RFIC and ADC module 213 includes an RFIC module and an ADC module. The RFIC module synthesizes broadcast signals of 2 to 4 channels among a plurality of broadcast signals received by a plurality of antennas 11, and converts the synthesized broadcast signals from a high frequency band to an intermediate frequency band. The ADC module converts an analog format broadcast signal converted into an intermediate frequency band into a digital format. Accordingly, the first signal processor 21 can reduce the number of ports for outputting received broadcast signals using the plurality of RFIC and ADC modules 213 .

The adaptive filter 221 synthesizes a plurality of first broadcast signals output by a plurality of RFIC and ADC modules 213 and outputs one second broadcast signal. At this time, the adaptive filter 221 lowers the correlation between the first broadcast signals by removing noise components included in each of the plurality of first broadcast signals. Accordingly, the adaptive filter 221 improves reception performance by increasing the antenna diversity effect.

The adaptive filter 221 outputs one outputted second broadcasting signal to the output port 13 in a digital signal format. As another example, the second broadcast signal output from the adaptive filter 221 may be output in an analog signal format through the DAC module 222.

The plurality of RFIC modules and ADC modules 213 and the adaptive filter 221 are implemented as System On Chip (SOC) and mounted on a circuit board (PCB). At this time, an appropriate connector is attached to the circuit board according to the final output format output from the output port 13 . The connector protrudes from the outside of the antenna device 10 and is connected to the broadcast receiving device.

The connector may be provided as an OCM connector compatible with, for example, VX1 in the case of analog signal output, and may be provided as a Serdes connector or HDMI connector in case of digital signal output.

9 is an example of the configuration of an antenna device including a multi-channel RFIC and an adaptive filter according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 9, the antenna device 10 of the present invention includes a plurality of antennas 11, a plurality of RFIC modules 212, an adaptive filter 221, and an output port 13. The antenna device 10 may further include a DAC module 222 between the adaptive filter 221 and the output port 13 . The plurality of RFIC modules 212 correspond to the first signal processing unit 21 in the configuration of FIG. 7 . The adaptive filter 221 and the DAC 222 correspond to the second signal processing unit 22 in the configuration of FIG. 7 . Since the plurality of antennas 11, the adaptive filter 221, and the output port 13 are the same as the respective configurations of FIG. 8, a detailed description thereof will be omitted and a different configuration will be described.

The RFIC module 212 processes broadcast signals of 2 to 4 channels among a plurality of broadcast signals received from the plurality of antennas 11 and outputs them as one first broadcast signal. The RFIC module 212 synthesizes broadcast signals of 2 to 4 channels among a plurality of broadcast signals received by the plurality of antennas 11, and converts the synthesized broadcast signals from a high frequency band to an intermediate frequency band. let it The RFIC module 212 outputs the first broadcast signal in digital format by performing digital signal processor (DSP) processing on the converted broadcast signal. Accordingly, the RFIC module 212 can output the first broadcast signal in a digital signal format without applying an additional ADC module.

The adaptive filter 221 synthesizes a plurality of first broadcast signals output by a plurality of RFIC modules 212 and outputs one second broadcast signal. At this time, the adaptive filter 221 lowers the correlation between the first broadcast signals by removing noise components included in each of the plurality of first broadcast signals. Accordingly, the adaptive filter 221 improves reception performance by increasing the antenna diversity effect.

The adaptive filter 221 outputs one outputted second broadcasting signal to the output port 13 in a digital signal format. As another example, the second broadcast signal output from the adaptive filter 221 may be converted into an analog signal format through the DAC module 222 and then output.

Above, the present invention has been described in detail through preferred embodiments, but the present invention is not limited thereto and may be variously practiced within the scope of the claims.

1: Broadcasting transmission equipment
10: antenna device
100: broadcast receiving device
11: antenna
12: antenna support
121: fixing part
122: support
13: output port
14: casing
15: antenna function unit
16: support
21: first signal processing unit
211: sub signal processing unit
213: RFIC and ADC module
212: RFIC module
22: second signal processing unit
221: adaptive filter
222 DAC

Claims (20)

In the antenna device,
a plurality of antennas each receiving a plurality of broadcast signals;
a first signal processor for processing a plurality of broadcast signals received by the plurality of antennas;
at least one output port provided to be connectable to a broadcast receiving device and outputting a broadcast signal processed by the first signal processing unit to the broadcast receiving device;
An antenna device comprising a plurality of antenna support units provided in correspondence with the plurality of antennas and arranged in multiple stages in at least one direction to support the plurality of antennas. delete According to claim 1,
The antenna device includes a non-metallic material. According to claim 1,
The antenna device of claim 1 , wherein the antenna support unit allows the plurality of antennas to be spaced apart from each other at least a minimum interval at which a correlation between the received broadcast signals becomes a predetermined threshold value. According to claim 1,
The antenna device further comprises a casing having an accommodation space for accommodating the antenna support unit and the first signal processing unit, and supporting the output port. delete delete delete According to claim 5,
The casing is an antenna device comprising a non-metallic material. According to claim 1,
The first signal processing unit processes the plurality of broadcast signals and outputs a plurality of first broadcast signals;
and a second signal processor configured to receive a plurality of first broadcast signals output by the first signal processor and output one second broadcast signal to the output port. delete delete delete delete delete delete According to claim 10,
The antenna device further includes a casing having an accommodation space accommodating the antenna support unit, the first signal processing unit, and the second signal processing unit, and supporting the output port. According to claim 10,
The antenna device further comprises a support that extends in a direction in which the antenna support is arranged in multiple stages and maintains a mutually spaced state between the plurality of antenna supports. According to claim 18,
The second signal processing unit is an antenna device provided on the support. In the antenna device,
a plurality of antennas each receiving a plurality of broadcast signals;
a first signal processor for processing a plurality of broadcast signals received by the plurality of antennas;
at least one output port provided to output a broadcast signal processed by the first signal processing unit and connect to a broadcast receiving device;
an antenna function unit configured to include each of the plurality of antennas in at least one area and to separate the plurality of antennas from each other at least a minimum interval at which a correlation between the received broadcast signals becomes a predetermined threshold value;
and a casing having an accommodation space accommodating the antenna function unit including the plurality of antennas and the first signal processing unit, and supporting the output port.

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