Wearable electronic device comprising antenna and electrode

Disclosed is a wearable electronic device including: a housing including a first surface forming a front surface of the wearable electronic device, a second surface facing away from the first surface, and a side surface surrounding an internal space between the first surface and the second surface, a first electrode area positioned in a part of the first surface and the side surface and including a plurality of electrodes, an antenna positioned in a part of the first surface and the side surface and defined by the first electrode area and a segment area, a display visible through at least part of the first surface, a second electrode area positioned on the second surface, a processor, and a memory operatively connected to the processor and including instructions. When a touch input to at least part of the first electrode area is detected, the wearable electronic device obtains a biometric signal through the first electrode area, the second electrode area, or a combination of the first electrode area and the second electrode area and performs wireless communication through the antenna.

BACKGROUND

The disclosure relates to an electronic device including an antenna and an electrode.

2. Description of Related Art

Nowadays, in addition to a hand held-type electronic device such as a smart phone and a tablet personal computer, a wearable-type electronic device, which a user is capable of wearing on the user's body, such as smart watches, smart glasses, and earbuds is also being actively developed.

The wearable electronic device may obtain user body information. For example, the wearable electronic device may obtain a user's biometric information through electrodes positioned in a part of an area in contact with the user's body. For example, the wearable electronic device may identify the biometric information using bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA).

The wearable electronic device may exchange various signals with external devices. For example, the wearable electronic device may transmit and/or receive a signal to and/or from the outside through an antenna positioned in a part of a frame.

A wearable electronic device may include an antenna formed by utilizing at least part of housing that forms an appearance. Moreover, the wearable electronic device may include at least one electrode in some of the remaining areas except for an area where an antenna of the housing is formed.

Because the wearable electronic device has limited arrangement space and housing size, there may be constraints that have restrictions in terms of aesthetics when the above-mentioned components are arranged.

Aspects of the disclosure address at least the above-mentioned problems and/or disadvantages and to provide at least the advantages described below.

SUMMARY

Embodiments of the disclosure provide a wearable electronic device that adaptively performs a communication function and a biometric information acquisition function may be provided by efficiently arranging an antenna and electrodes in the housing.

In accordance with an example embodiment of the disclosure, a wearable electronic device may include: a housing including a first surface forming a front surface of the wearable electronic device, a second surface facing away from the first surface, and a side surface surrounding an internal space between the first surface and the second surface, a first electrode area positioned in a part of the first surface and the side surface and including a plurality of electrodes, an antenna positioned in a part of the first surface and the side surface and divided through the first electrode area and a segment area, a display viewable through at least part of the first surface, a second electrode area positioned on the second surface, a processor, and a memory operatively connected to the processor and including instructions. For example, when executed by the processor, the instructions may cause the wearable electronic device to: obtain a biometric signal through the first electrode area, the second electrode area, or a combination of the first electrode area and the second electrode area based on a touch input to at least part of the first electrode area being detected, and perform wireless communication through the antenna.

In accordance with an example embodiment of the disclosure, a method in which a wearable electronic device obtains a biometric signal may include: identifying an electrical loop positioned on a first electrode, a second electrode, and a rear surface of the wearable electronic device and which is formed through a third electrode and a fourth electrode in contact with a part of a body of a user, or a combination of the third electrode and the fourth electrode based on a touch input to at least part of a first electrode and a second electrode positioned in a part of a front surface and a side surface of the wearable electronic device being detected, identifying biometric information based on a biometric signal obtained based on the electrical loop, and performing wireless communication through an antenna divided through the first electrode, the second electrode, and a segment area. For example, the first electrode and the second electrode may be spaced from each other through a first segment.

With regard to description of drawings, the same or similar components will be marked by the same or similar reference signs.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Hereinafter, various example embodiments of the disclosure will be described with reference to accompanying drawings. However, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that various modifications, equivalents, and/or alternatives of various example embodiments described herein may be variously made without departing from the scope and spirit of the disclosure.

FIG.1is a front perspective view of an electronic device, according to various embodiments.

FIG.2is a rear perspective view of an electronic device, according to various embodiments.

Referring toFIGS.1and2, an electronic device101according to an embodiment may include housing110including a first surface (or a front surface)110A, a second surface (or a rear surface)110B, and a side surface110C surrounding a space between the first surface110A and the second surface110B, and binding members150and160connected to at least part of the housing110and configured to detachably bind the electronic device101to a body part (e.g., a wrist or an ankle) of a user. In an embodiment (not illustrated), the housing110may be referred to as a “structure” that forms a portion of the first surface110A ofFIG.1, the second surface110B ofFIG.2, and the side surface110C ofFIG.2.

According to an embodiment, the first surface110A may be implemented with a front plate121(e.g., a glass plate including various coating layers, or a polymer plate), at least a portion of which is substantially transparent. The second surface110B may be formed by a rear plate107that is substantially opaque. For example, the rear plate107may be formed of a coated or colored glass, a ceramic, a polymer, a metal (e.g., aluminum, stainless steel (STS), or magnesium), or the combination of at least two of the materials. The side surface111C may be coupled to the front plate121or the rear plate107and may be implemented with a side bezel structure (or a “side member”)106including metal and/or polymer. In an embodiment, the rear plate107and the side bezel structure106may be integrally formed and may include the same material (e.g., a metal material such as aluminum).

The binding members (e.g., straps)150and160may be formed in various materials and shapes. The binding members150and160may be formed such that the integral type and a plurality of unit links are capable of being moved with each other by woven fabric, leather, rubber, urethane, metal, ceramic, or the combination of at least two of the materials.

According to an embodiment, the electronic device101may include at least one or more of a display120, audio modules105and108, a sensor module111, key input devices102,103, and104, and a connector hole109. In an embodiment, the electronic device101may not include at least one (e.g., the key input device102,103, or104, the connector hole109, or the sensor module111) of the components or may further include any other component.

For example, the display120may be visible through a substantial portion of the front plate121. The shape of the display120may be a shape corresponding to the shape of the front plate121, and may have various shapes such as a circle, an ellipse, or a polygon. The display120may be coupled to a touch sensing circuit, a pressure sensor capable of measuring the intensity (or pressure) of a touch, and/or a fingerprint sensor or may be disposed adjacent thereto.

The audio modules105and108may include the microphone hole105and the speaker hole108. A microphone for obtaining external sound may be positioned within the microphone hole105. In an embodiment, a plurality of microphones may be positioned to detect a direction of sound. The speaker hole108may be used as an external speaker and a call receiver. In an embodiment, the speaker hole108and the microphone hole105may be implemented with one hole, or a speaker (e.g., a piezoelectric speaker) may be included without the speaker hole108.

The sensor module111may generate an electrical signal or a data value that corresponds to an internal operation state of the electronic device101or an external environment state. The sensor module111may include, for example, the sensor module111(e.g., a heart rate monitor (HRM) sensor) positioned on the second surface110B of the housing110. The electronic device101may further include a sensor module not illustrated, for example, at least one of a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a color sensor, an infrared (IR) sensor, a biometric sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or an illumination sensor.

The key input devices102,103, and104may include the wheel key102positioned on the first surface110A of the housing110and rotatable in at least one direction and/or side key buttons103and104positioned on the side surface110C of the housing110. The wheel key102may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the front plate121. In an embodiment, the electronic device101may not include all or a part of the key input devices102,103, and104mentioned above, and the key input devices102,103, and104not included may be implemented on the display120in a form such as a soft key. For example, the wheel key102may be implemented in a form that is operated based on a touch signal input to the display120(e.g., a wheel key area302ofFIG.3).

The connector hole109may include another connector hole (not illustrated) capable of accommodating a connector (e.g., a USB connector) for transmitting/receiving power and/or data to/from an external electronic device and accommodating a connector for transmitting/receiving an audio signal to/from the external electronic device. For example, the electronic device101may further include a connector cover (not illustrated) that covers at least part of the connector hole109and blocks the inflow of external foreign substances to the connector hole.

The binding members150and160may be detachably bound to at least a partial area of the housing110, using locking members151and161. The binding members150and160may include one or more of a fixing member152, a fixing member fastening hole153, a band guide member154, and a band fixing ring155.

The fixing member152may be configured to fix the housing110and the binding members150and160to the user's body part (e.g., a wrist or an ankle). The fixing member fastening hole153may fix the housing110and the binding members150and160to the user's body part in compliance with the fixing member152. The band guide member154may be configured to limit the motion range of the fixing member152when the fixing member152is fastened with the fixing member fastening hole153, and thus may allow the binding members150and160to be bound to the user's body part while being in close contact. In a state where the fixing member152is fastened to the fixing member fastening hole153, the band fixing ring155may limit the motion range of the binding members150and160.

FIG.3is an exploded perspective view of an electronic device according to various embodiments. Referring toFIG.3, an electronic device301(e.g., the electronic device101ofFIG.1) may include a display320, a frame310, an antenna350, a support member360(e.g., a bracket), a battery370, a printed circuit board380, a back cover330, and a biometric sensor module (e.g., including various sensor circuitry)300. At least one of the components of the electronic device301may be identical or similar to at least one of the components of the electronic device101ofFIG.1or2, and thus, additional description may not be provided to avoid redundancy. According to an embodiment, the electronic device301may include at least part of components of the electronic device101ofFIGS.1and2. For example, the electronic device301according to an embodiment may include binding members150and160that are not shown.

In an embodiment, the display320(e.g., the display120ofFIG.1) may be at least partially accommodated in the frame310. The display320may include the wheel key area302formed at an edge of the display320. The wheel key area302may be configured to receive a user's touch input. The electronic device301according to an embodiment may perform a function substantially the same as a function performed through the wheel key102ofFIG.1based on a touch input received through the wheel key area302. In this case, the wheel key102thus physically implemented may be omitted.

In an embodiment, the frame310(e.g., the side surface bezel structure106ofFIG.1) may form the exterior (e.g., the side surface110C ofFIG.1) of the electronic device301. In an embodiment, the frame310may provide a space in which various components of the electronic device301are arranged or accommodated. For example, the display320may be disposed on one side of the frame310, and the back cover330may be coupled to the other side of the frame310. The antenna350, the support member360, the battery370, the printed circuit board380, and the biometric sensor module300may be positioned in the space defined by the frame310, the display320, and the back cover330. In an embodiment, at least part of the display320(or the front plate121inFIG.1), the frame310, and/or the back cover330may be referred to as “housing” (e.g., the housing110inFIG.1) of the electronic device301in that the at least part forms the exterior of the electronic device301and provides a space for accommodating various components of the electronic device301.

In an embodiment, the support member360may be positioned inside the electronic device301to be connected to the frame310or may be integrally formed with the frame310. For example, the support member360may be formed of a metal material and/or a nonmetal material (e.g., polymer). The display320may be coupled to one surface of the support member360, and the printed circuit board380may be coupled to the other surface of the support member360.

In an embodiment, a processor, a memory, and/or an interface may be mounted on the printed circuit board380. The processor may include, for example, one or more of a central processing unit, an application processor, a graphic processing device, a sensor processor, or a communication processor. The memory may include, for example, a volatile memory or a nonvolatile memory. The interface may include, for example, a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB) interface, a secure digital (SD) card interface, and/or an audio interface. The interface may electrically or physically connect, for example, the electronic device301with an external electronic device and may include a USB connector, an SD card/MMC connector, or an audio connector.

In an embodiment, the battery370that is a device for supplying power to at least one component of the electronic device301may include, for example, a rechargeable (secondary) battery. The battery370may be integrally disposed within the electronic device301or may be disposed to be removable from the electronic device301.

In an embodiment, the antenna350may be positioned between the display320and the support member360. The antenna350may include, for example, a near field communication (NFC) antenna, an antenna for wireless charging, and/or a magnetic secure transmission (MST) antenna. For example, the antenna350may perform short-range communication with an external device or may wirelessly transmit/receive power necessary for charging, and may transmit a short-range communication signal or a magnetic-based signal including payment data.

In an embodiment, the housing of the electronic device301may at least partially form an antenna for wireless communication. For example, an antenna may be formed by a part of the frame310and/or the support member360or a combination thereof. For another example, at least part of the antenna may be formed by a part of the frame310and/or the back cover330or a combination thereof. For example, at least part of the housing may be formed of a conductive member (e.g., metal). The housing may include at least one segment, of which at least part is formed of a non-conductive member, and may include at least one conductive area electrically segmented through at least one segment. In this case, the at least one conductive area may be used as an antenna (e.g., a radiator) that is electrically connected to a wireless communication circuit (e.g., a communication module1990ofFIG.19) included in the electronic device301and operates in at least one specified frequency band. In an embodiment, the electronic device301may perform, for example, cellular communication, short-range wireless communication such as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, or may receive a global positioning system (GPS) signal through the antenna.

In an embodiment, the biometric sensor module300may be positioned between the printed circuit board380and the back cover330. In an embodiment, the biometric sensor module300may at least partially face the back cover330. For example, while a user wears the electronic device301, the biometric sensor module300may be positioned to face the back cover330at least partially in contact with the user's wrist. In an embodiment, the biometric sensor module300may include at least one sensor configured to obtain biometric information (e.g., a heart rate, blood oxygen saturation, or a body temperature) of the user.

FIG.4is a diagram illustrating an example frame structure of an electronic device401, according to various embodiments.

The electronic device401illustrated inFIG.4may be a smart phone, but embodiments of the disclosure are not limited thereto. For example, the electronic device according to various embodiments of the disclosure may be a wearable electronic device. A frame structure of a wearable electronic device according to an embodiment may be described in greater detail below with reference toFIGS.5to7.FIG.4illustrates a frame structure of the electronic device401, according to various embodiments. For example, segments411,412,413,414,415, and416shown inFIG.4are conceptually shown. It may be understood that the segments411,412,413,414,415and416formed by physically separating housing450are present in at least part of the displayed portion. For another example, a plurality of electrodes461,462,463, and464shown inFIG.4is a configuration thus conceptually illustrated. It may be understood that the electrodes are present in at least part of the displayed portion.

In an embodiment, the electronic device401may include an antenna formed in at least one area of the housing450. For example, the electronic device401may include a plurality of antennas410,420,430, and440divided through a segment area formed in a portion of a frame included in the housing450. For example, the segment area may be defined as one area of the housing450including the segments411,412,413,414,415and416.

For example, the electronic device401may include the first antenna410formed in an area, which is divided through the first segment411and the sixth segment416, from among areas of the frame.

For example, the electronic device401may include the second antenna420formed in an area, which is divided through the first segment411and the second segment412, from among areas of the frame.

For example, the electronic device401may include the third antenna430formed in an area, which is divided through the third segment413and the fourth segment414, from among areas of the frame.

For example, the electronic device401may include the fourth antenna440formed in an area, which is divided through the fourth segment414and the fifth segment415, from among areas of the frame.

In an embodiment, the electronic device401may include a plurality of electrode structures461,462,463, and464positioned in at least one area of the housing450. For example, the electronic device401may include the plurality of electrode structures positioned based on the segment areas formed in a part of a frame included in the housing450.

For example, the electronic device401may include the first electrode461positioned in one area of the frame adjacent to the sixth segment416.

For example, the electronic device401may include the second electrode462positioned in one area of the frame adjacent to the second segment412.

For example, the electronic device401may include the third electrode463positioned in one area of the frame adjacent to the third segment413.

For example, the electronic device401may include the fourth electrode464positioned in one area of the frame adjacent to the fifth segment415.

In an embodiment, the electronic device401may identify user biometric information using the plurality of electrodes461,462,463, and464. For example, when at least part of the user's body is in contact with the plurality of electrodes461,462,463, and464, the electronic device401may obtain a biometric signal through the plurality of electrodes461,462,463, and464and may identify the user biometric information based on the obtained biometric signal.

The housing and frame structure of the electronic device401described above are examples, and embodiments of the disclosure are not limited thereto. For example, the electronic device401may further include a configuration (e.g., a segment or a non-conductive member) that is positioned between the first electrode461and the fourth electrode464and is used to electrically isolate the first electrode461and the fourth electrode464. For example, the electronic device401may further include a configuration that is positioned between the second electrode462and the third electrode463and is used to electrically isolate the second electrode462and the third electrode463. For another example, the electronic device401may further include at least one antenna and/or electrode, or may not include at least one of the plurality of antennas and/or electrodes described above.

FIG.5is a diagram illustrating an example frame structure of an electronic device501, according to various embodiments.

According to an embodiment, an electronic device501illustrated inFIG.5may be a wearable electronic device capable being worn on a user's wrist. Moreover, the arrangement structure shown inFIG.5is a conceptual diagram schematically illustrating a configuration of the electronic device501, and a more detailed embodiment is shown inFIGS.6and7.FIG.5conceptually illustrates a frame structure of the electronic device501, according to an embodiment of the disclosure. For example, segments511,512,513,514,531,532, and533shown inFIG.5are conceptually shown. It may be understood that the segments511,512,513,514,531,532and533formed by physically separating housing are present in at least part of the displayed portion. For another example, a plurality of electrodes561,562, and563shown inFIG.5is a configuration thus conceptually illustrated. It may be understood that the electrodes are present in at least part of the displayed portion.

Referring to reference number500-1, the electronic device501may include housing (e.g., at least part of the frame310, the display320, and/or the back cover330ofFIG.3) forming the exterior of the electronic device501. For example, the electronic device501may include a binding member590(e.g., the binding members150and160inFIG.1) that is bound to an area of the housing.

In an embodiment, the electronic device501may include a plurality of antennas510and520and the plurality of electrodes561and562formed or disposed in a portion of the housing. For example, the plurality of antennas510and520and the plurality of electrodes561,562, and563may be divided through segment areas formed in one area of the housing. For example, the segment area may be defined as one area of the housing including the segments511,512,513, and514.

For example, the first antenna510may be formed in one area of the housing divided through the first segment511and the fourth segment514.

For example, the second antenna520may be formed in one area of the housing divided through the second segment512and the third segment513.

For example, the first electrode561may be positioned in one area of the housing divided through the first segment511and the second segment512.

For example, the second electrode562may be disposed in one area of the housing divided through the third segment513and the fourth segment514.

Referring to reference number500-2, the electronic device501may include housing forming the exterior of the electronic device501. For example, the electronic device501may include the binding member590and a key input device570(e.g., the side key button103ofFIG.1) that are coupled to one area of the housing.

In an embodiment, the electronic device501may include a plurality of antennas530and540and at least one electrode, which are formed or positioned in a part of the housing. For example, the plurality of antennas510and520and the at least one electrode563may be divided through a segment area formed in one area of the housing. For example, the segment area may be defined as one area of the housing including the segments531,532, and533.

For example, the third antenna530may be formed in one area of the housing divided through the fifth segment531and the seventh segment533.

For example, the fourth antenna540may be formed in one area of the housing divided through the fifth segment531and the sixth segment532.

For example, the third electrode563may be positioned in one area of the housing divided through the sixth segment532and the seventh segment533.

In an embodiment, the electronic device501may identify user biometric information using the plurality of electrodes561,562, and563. For example, when at least part of the user's body is in contact with the plurality of electrodes561,562, and563, the electronic device501may obtain (or receive) a biometric signal through the plurality of electrodes561,562, and563and may identify the user biometric information based on the obtained (or received) biometric signal.

In an embodiment, the electronic device501may perform wireless communication with the outside using the plurality of antennas510,520,530, and540.

The housing and frame structure of the electronic device501described above are examples, and various embodiments of the disclosure are not limited thereto. For example, the electronic device501may further include at least one antenna and/or electrode, or may not include at least one of the plurality of antennas and/or electrodes described above.

FIG.6is a diagram illustrating a front surface of an electronic device601including an antenna610and at least one electrode661,662,665, and/or666, according to various embodiments.

FIG.7is a diagram illustrating a rear surface of an electronic device601including an antenna610and at least one electrode663,664, according to various embodiments.

Hereinafter, components included in an electronic device601(e.g., the electronic device101ofFIG.1) according to an embodiment illustrated inFIGS.6and7will be described based on a front plate621and a rear plate607included in housing605. Moreover, a configuration indicating a processor (e.g., including processing circuitry)620and a sensor module676among components of the electronic device shown inFIG.6may be obtained by conceptually diagramming components positioned inside the housing605. A configuration showing a third electrode663and a fourth electrode664among components of the electronic device shown inFIG.6may be obtained by conceptually diagramming components positioned on the rear plate607.

According to an embodiment, the electronic device601may include the housing605forming the exterior of the electronic device601. For example, the electronic device601may include a binding member650bound to an area of the housing605.

In an embodiment, the electronic device601may include an antenna610and a plurality of electrodes661,662,663,664,665, and666that are formed or positioned on a part of the housing605. For example, the electronic device601may include a first electrode area that is disposed on a portion of the front plate621and a side surface (e.g., the side surface110ofFIGS.1and2) and includes a plurality of electrodes. The first electrode area may include the first electrode661, the second electrode662, the fifth electrode665, and the sixth electrode666. The antenna610, the fifth electrode665, and the sixth electrode666may be separated from one another through segment area (e.g., segments614and615) formed in one area of the housing605. For another example, the electronic device601may include a second electrode area disposed on the rear plate607. The second electrode area may include the third electrode663and the fourth electrode664.

For example, the plurality of electrodes661,662,663,664,665, and666may be electrically connected to some (e.g., the sensor module676) of components included in the electronic device601through at least one connection member (not shown) (e.g., a wire or conductive member).

For example, the electronic device601may include the first electrode661divided through a first segment611and a second segment612on the front plate621of the housing605.

For example, the electronic device601may include the second electrode662divided through the first segment611and the third segment613on the front plate621of the housing605.

For example, the electronic device601may include the fifth electrode665divided through the second segment612and the fourth segment614on the front plate621of the housing605.

For example, the electronic device601may include the sixth electrode666divided through a third segment613and the fifth segment615on the front plate621of the housing605.

For example, the electronic device601may include the antenna610divided through the fourth segment614and the fifth segment615on the front plate621of the housing605. For example, the antenna610may be arranged spaced from the fifth electrode665through the fourth segment614. For another example, the antenna610may be arranged spaced from the sixth electrode666through the fifth segment615.

For example, the electronic device601may include the third electrode663and the fourth electrode664positioned on the rear plate607of the housing605. For example, the third electrode663and the fourth electrode664may be physically spaced from each other through a segment area.

For example, the electronic device601may include an optical sensor670positioned on the rear plate607of the housing605. For example, the optical sensor670may be included in the sensor module676and may further include an optical signal processing module (not shown) electrically connected to a light source and a plurality of photo detectors. The optical signal processing module may obtain and process a current signal generated based on the amount of light detected by a plurality of photo detectors. For example, the optical sensor670may include a photoplethysmogram (PPG) sensor. The optical signal processing module may detect a user's biometric information or may detect whether the user is wearing a wearable electronic device, using an electrical signal (e.g., a PPG signal) obtained through the plurality of photo detectors. The plurality of photo detectors may detect light and may sense the intensity of the detected light. For example, the plurality of photo detectors may output a current signal having a level corresponding to the detected amount of light. The plurality of photo detectors may be arranged to surround the light source.FIG.6illustrates that the electronic device601includes eight photo detectors. However, the number and/or locations of the photo detectors according to embodiments of the disclosure are not limited thereto. The light source may include at least one light emitting element (e.g., a light emitting diode (LED)) for irradiating light having a wavelength in a specified range. For example, each light emitting element may be configured to emit light of different wavelengths. For another example, at least part of the light emitting elements may be configured to emit light of the same wavelength. For another example, each light emitting element may emit light at the same time point or may emit light based on a specified pattern.

In an embodiment, when a touch input to at least part of a plurality of electrodes is detected while the electronic device601is worn on a part of the user's body (e.g., a wrist), the electronic device601may obtain a biometric signal through electrodes, at each of which the touch input is detected. For example, when the touch input to at least part of the first electrode area is detected, the electronic device601may obtain a biometric signal through the first electrode area, the second electrode area, or a combination thereof. For example, when a touch input to at least part of the first electrode661and the second electrode662in the first electrode area is detected, the electronic device601may identify an electrical loop formed through the first electrode661, the second electrode662, the third electrode663, the fourth electrode664, or a combination thereof, and may identify biometric information associated with the user based on the biometric signal that is obtained based on the electrical loop.

For example, when a touch input to at least part of a plurality of electrodes is detected, the electronic device601may provide haptic feedback to an electrode area in which the touch input is detected. For example, the electronic device601may include at least one haptic module positioned at a location corresponding to each electrode area. When a touch input is detected, the electronic device601may provide haptic feedback using a haptic module positioned at a location corresponding to an electrode area in which the touch input is detected.

For example, when a first touch input to the first electrode661is detected, the electronic device601may identify a first electrical loop formed through the first electrode661, the third electrode663, and the fourth electrode664and may identify electrocardiogram (ECG) information of the user wearing the electronic device601based on an ECG signal obtained based on the first electrical loop.

For example, when a second touch input to an area including the first electrode661, the second electrode662, and the first segment611is detected, the electronic device601may obtain an ECG signal using the first electrode661having low contact impedance among the first electrode661and the second electrode662. While obtaining the ECG signal using the first electrode661, the electronic device601may turn off the operation of the second electrode662.

For example, when a third touch input to an area including the first electrode661and the second electrode662is detected, the electronic device601may identify a second electrical loop formed through the first electrode661, the second electrode662, the third electrode663, and the fourth electrode664and may identify the user's body information based on a BIA signal obtained based on the second electrical loop. For example, when it is identified that only the touch input to the first electrode661is detected while the electronic device601obtains the BIA signal, the electronic device601may display guide information associated with the operation state of the second electrode662on a display (e.g., the display120inFIG.1) viewable through at least part of the front plate621.

For example, when a fourth touch input to an area including the first electrode661, the second electrode662, the first segment611, the third segment613, and the sixth electrode666is detected, the electronic device601may obtain the BIA signal using the first electrode661and the second electrode662, which has low contact impedance, from among the second electrode662and the sixth electrode666. While the electronic device601obtains the BIA signal using the first electrode661and the second electrode662, the electronic device601may turn off operations of the fifth electrode665and the sixth electrode666. For example, the electronic device601may further include a switch (not shown) (e.g., the switch910ofFIG.9) electrically connected to a plurality of electrodes. The electronic device601may turn off an operation of at least part of the plurality of electrodes by cutting off an electrical connection between the at least part of the plurality of electrodes and a circuit (e.g., a BIA circuit (e.g., a BIA circuit920) or an ECG circuit (e.g., an ECG circuit930) inFIG.9) for biometric information identification, or may identify biometric information of the user wearing the electronic device601by activating the electrical connection. For example, while obtaining the BIA signal using the first electrode661and the second electrode662, the electronic device601may turn off operations of the fifth electrode665and the sixth electrode666by cutting off electrical connections with the fifth electrode665and the sixth electrode666through a switch.

For example, the electronic device601may display a user interface related to operation states of a plurality of electrodes on a display. For example, while obtaining the BIA signal using the first electrode661and the second electrode662, the electronic device601may display a user interface indicating that the first electrode661and the second electrode662are turned on, on the display. When a specified input to the user interface is detected, the electronic device601may change at least one operation state among the first electrode661, the second electrode662, the fifth electrode665, or the sixth electrode666. For example, the specified input may refer to a touch input for turning off the first electrode661and the second electrode662and turning on the fifth electrode665and the sixth electrode666. In this case, the electronic device601may turn off the first electrode661and the second electrode662and may turn on the fifth electrode665and the sixth electrode666. For example, the electronic device601may turn off the first electrode661and the second electrode662by cutting off electrical connections with the first electrode661and the second electrode662through a switch. Furthermore, the electronic device601may turn on the fifth electrode665and the sixth electrode666by activating electrical connections with the fifth electrode665and the sixth electrode666.

The above-described operation of the electronic device601ofFIGS.6and7may refer to an operation performed by the processor620positioned in the electronic device601. For example, the processor620may control a signal processing operation through a plurality of electrodes using the sensor module676.

FIG.8is a diagram illustrating an example arrangement structure of an electronic device, according to various embodiments.

Hereinafter, a description of the arrangement structure ofFIG.8will be described based on ‘x’ direction toward a rear plate (e.g., the rear plate607ofFIG.7) of an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device601ofFIGS.6and7), ‘z’ direction toward a front plate (e.g., the front plate621ofFIG.6) of the electronic device, ‘y’ direction toward an inside of housing (e.g., the housing605ofFIGS.6and7) of the electronic device, and ‘w’ direction toward an outside of the housing of the electronic device.

In an embodiment, a plurality of electrodes (e.g., the first electrode661, the second electrode662, the third electrode663, the fourth electrode664, the fifth electrode665, and/or the sixth electrode666ofFIG.6) included in the electronic device may include a coating layer810and a body layer820.

For example, the coating layer810may be formed of indium tin oxide (ITO), CrSiCN, or a combination thereof.

For example, the body layer820may be formed of ceramic, gorilla glass, or a combination thereof.

In an embodiment, each of the plurality of electrodes may be electrically connected to a PCB840positioned inside the housing through a connector830in contact with a part of the coating layer810.

FIG.9is a block diagram illustrating various components included in an electronic device, according to various embodiments.

InFIG.9, a description of a component having the same name as that ofFIGS.6and7may be replaced with a description of a component included in the electronic device601(e.g., the electronic device101ofFIG.1) ofFIGS.6and7.

According to an embodiment, an electronic device may include a plurality of electrodes961,962,963,964,965, and966. For example, the plurality of electrodes may include a first electrode961, a second electrode962, a fifth electrode965, and a sixth electrode966that are included in the first electrode area. The first electrode area may be positioned on a part of a front surface of the electronic device and a side surface surrounding an internal space between the front surface and a rear surface of the electronic device. For example, a plurality of electrodes may further include a third electrode963and a fourth electrode964included in the second electrode area. The second electrode area may be disposed on the rear surface of the electronic device.

According to an embodiment, the electronic device may include a switch910, a BIA circuit920, an ECG circuit930, an analog digital converter (ADC)940, a memory950(e.g., the memory1930inFIG.19), and a communication interface (e.g., including communication circuitry)960(e.g., the communication module1990ofFIG.19). The components shown inFIG.9are examples, and the electronic device may further include components not shown inFIG.9. For example, the electronic device may further include a processor (e.g., the processor1920ofFIG.19) electrically connected to the communication interface960. For another example, the electronic device may further include an antenna (e.g., the antenna610ofFIG.6). For example, the antenna may be arranged spaced from the plurality of electrodes961,962,963,964,965and966so as to be electrically isolated from the plurality of electrodes961,962,963,964,965and966.

In an embodiment, the plurality of electrodes961,962,963,964,965, and966may obtain a biometric signal. For example, the plurality of electrodes961,962,963,964,965, and966may measure a BIA and/or an ECG of a user who wears the electronic device. For example, when a part (e.g., a finger) of the user's body is in contact with at least part of the plurality of electrodes961,962,963,964,965, and966, the electronic device may obtain a biometric signal using the contacted electrode. For example, the electronic device may obtain a biometric signal through a closed circuit formed through the first electrode961and the second electrode962, which are in contact with a part of the user's body, and the third electrode963and the fourth electrode964, which are in contact with the user's wrist.

In an embodiment, the electronic device may generate current using the BIA circuit920and may transmit the generated current to at least part of the plurality of electrodes961,962,963,964,965and966. At least one electrode receiving the current and the user's body may form one closed circuit.

In an embodiment, the plurality of electrodes961,962,963,964,965, and966may transmit the obtained biometric signal to the switch910. For example, the biometric signal may include a voltage measured through the closed circuit.

In an embodiment, the switch910may selectively transmit the biometric signal received from the plurality of electrodes961,962,963,964,965, and966to the outside. For example, the switch910may selectively transmit the biometric signal received from the plurality of electrodes961,962,963,964,965, and966to the BIA circuit920or the ECG circuit930under the control of a processor (not shown).

In an embodiment, the BIA circuit920and the ECG circuit930may process the received biometric signal. For example, the BIA circuit920and the ECG circuit930may include a filter and/or an amplifier. For example, the BIA circuit920and the ECG circuit930may remove high-frequency noise included in the received biometric signal. For another example, the BIA circuit920and the ECG circuit930may amplify the received biometric signal. For example, the BIA circuit920may measure body impedance based on the received biometric signal. For example, the BIA circuit920and the ECG circuit930may transmit the processed biometric signal to the ADC940.

In an embodiment, the ADC940may receive the processed biometric signal from the BIA circuit920and the ECG circuit930. The ADC940may convert the received biometric signal into digital format data. For example, when the received biometric signal is a waveform obtained by measuring the user's BIA, the ADC940may convert the biometric signal into BIA measurement data. For example, when the received biometric signal is a waveform obtained by measuring the user's ECG, the ADC940may convert the biometric signal into ECG measurement data. For example, the ADC940may transmit data converted to a digital format to the memory950.

In an embodiment, the memory950may store at least part of the data transmitted from the ADC940. For example, the memory950may be a first-in first-out (FIFO) memory. For example, the memory950may transmit the at least part of data transmitted from the ADC940to the communication interface960.

In an embodiment, the communication interface960may include various communication circuitry and transmit and/or receive electrical signals to and from the processor (not shown) based on an inter integrated circuit (I2C) communication or a serial peripheral interface (SPI) communication. For example, the communication interface960may transmit at least part of data received from the memory950to the processor.

FIG.10is a diagram illustrating an example operation of an electronic device, according to various embodiments.

Reference numeral1000aand reference numeral1000billustrate example arrangement structures of an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device601ofFIG.6) in which electrodes are positioned at different locations, respectively.

Referring to reference numeral1000aand reference numeral1000b, according to an embodiment, the electronic device may include a plurality of electrodes1061,1062,1065, and1066and an antenna1010positioned on at least part of housing (e.g., the housing605ofFIG.6).

Referring to reference numeral1000a, in an embodiment, the first electrode1061and the second electrode1062may be positioned on a right side based on a direction in which a display1020(e.g., the display120ofFIG.1) of the electronic device is viewed.

Referring to reference numeral1000b, in an embodiment, the first electrode1061and the second electrode1062may be positioned on a left side based on the direction in which the display1020(e.g., the display120ofFIG.1) of the electronic device is viewed.

In an embodiment, while the electronic device is worn on at least part of a user's body, the electronic device may detect that a first portion1004and a second portion1005of the user's body are in contact with the first electrode1061and the second electrode1062, respectively. The electronic device may identify the user's biometric information through an electrical loop formed through the first electrode1061, the second electrode1062, and a third electrode (e.g., the third electrode663ofFIG.7) and a fourth electrode (e.g., the fourth electrode664ofFIG.7) that are positioned on a rear plate (e.g., the rear plate607ofFIG.7).

InFIG.10, in the case where the user applies a touch input to the first electrode1061and the second electrode1062using a part of a right hand, the user may receive biometric information more conveniently than the reference numeral1000bbecause the user does not cover the display1020when the user employs the electronic device according to the arrangement structure of reference numeral1000a. Although not shown inFIG.10, in the case where the user applies a touch input to the first electrode1061and the second electrode1062using a part of a left hand, the user may receive biometric information while the user does not cover the display1020when the user employs the electronic device according to the arrangement structure of reference numeral1000b. Accordingly, according to an embodiment of the disclosure, the electronic device may selectively turn on (or activate) a part of the plurality of electrodes according to the user's wearing type and/or touch input type or may display guide information for measuring biometric information, thereby providing intuitive and convenient usability.

FIG.11is a diagram illustrating a front surface of an electronic device including an antenna and at least one electrode, according to various embodiments.

InFIG.11, a description of a component having the same name as that ofFIGS.6and7may be replaced with a description of a component included in the electronic device601ofFIGS.6and7. For example, descriptions of housing1105, an antenna1110, a first segment1111, a second segment1112, a third segment1113, a fourth segment1114, a fifth segment1115, a processor1120, a front plate1121, a binding member1150, a first electrode1161, a second electrode1162, a fifth electrode1165, a sixth electrode1166, and a sensor module1176of an electronic device1101may be replaced with descriptions of components included in the electronic device601ofFIGS.6and7. Hereinafter, the arrangement structure of the electronic device1101will be described below focusing on differences fromFIGS.6and7.

In an embodiment, the electronic device1101may further include a first key button1171and a second key button1172, which are positioned on a side surface (e.g., the side surface110C ofFIG.1) and include a structure extending toward the internal space of the housing1105.

In an embodiment, the electronic device1101may obtain a biometric signal through the first electrode1161, the second electrode1162, the fifth electrode1165, the sixth electrode1166, the first key button1171, the second key button1172, or a combination thereof. For example, an electrical path between the sensor module1176and the first electrode1161, and an electrical path between the sensor module1176and the second electrode1162may be referred to as “reference numeral1191”. For another example, an electrical path between the sensor module1176and the first key button1171, and an electrical path between the sensor module1176and the second key button1172may be referred to as “reference numeral1192”.

In an embodiment, the electronic device1101may further include a ground shielding area1160for electrically isolating an electrode and a key button. For example, the electronic device1101may include the ground shielding area1160for electrically isolating a signal line through an electrode and a signal line through a key button from each other. For example, a description of a structure of the ground shielding area1160may be referenced in more detail in the circuit diagram ofFIG.12to be described in greater detail below.

FIG.12is a diagram illustrating an area of a circuit structure positioned in an electronic device, according to various embodiments.

In an embodiment, the electronic device1101may include a PCB1250positioned inside the housing1105.

In an embodiment, a first signal line1210(e.g., a BIA signal transmission/reception line) and a second signal line1220(e.g., an ECG signal transmission/reception line) may be positioned on the PCB1250.

For example, each of the first signal line1210and the second signal line1220may have a thickness of about 0.1 mm, but this is an example. Embodiments of the disclosure are not limited thereto.

In an embodiment, a ground shielding area1230may be positioned between the first signal line1210and the second signal line1220.

For example, the thickness of the ground shielding area1230may be about 0.04 mm, but this is an example. Embodiments of the disclosure are not limited thereto.

For example, a separation distance between the first signal line1210and the ground shielding area1230may be about 0.1 mm. For another example, a separation distance between the second signal line1220and the ground shielding area1230may be about 0.1 mm. The above-described numerical values are examples and embodiments of the disclosure are not limited thereto.

FIG.12illustrates that the ground shielding area1230is positioned between the first signal line1210and the second signal line1220, but embodiments of the disclosure are not limited thereto. For example, the ground shielding area may be additionally positioned on the PCB1250in at least part of an area adjacent to the first signal line1210and/or the second signal line1220.

FIG.13is a diagram illustrating an example operation of an electronic device1301, according to various embodiments.

FIG.13may show an operation of the electronic device1301identifying a user's ECG information using one electrode among a plurality of electrodes (e.g., the first electrode661, the second electrode662, the fifth electrode665, and the sixth electrode666ofFIG.6) in a first electrode area positioned on a part of a front plate (e.g., the front plate621ofFIG.6) and a side surface (e.g., the side surface110C ofFIG.1).

According to an embodiment, when a touch input to one of a plurality of electrodes included in the first electrode area is detected in a state where the electronic device1301is worn by the user, the electronic device1301may identify user biometric information through an electrode where the touch input is detected, while the touch input continues.

Referring to reference numeral1300a, in an embodiment, when a touch input to a first electrode1361(e.g., the first electrode661ofFIG.6) among a plurality of electrodes is detected, the electronic device1301may obtain a biometric signal through the first electrode1361.

For example, the electronic device1301may identify an electrical loop formed through the first electrode1361, a third electrode (e.g., the third electrode663ofFIG.7) and a fourth electrode (e.g., the fourth electrode664ofFIG.7) which are positioned within the second electrode area positioned on a rear plate (e.g., the rear plate607ofFIG.7), and may identify the user's ECG information based on the ECG signal obtained based on the electrical loop.

Referring to reference numeral1300b, in an embodiment, when a touch input to a second electrode1362(e.g., the second electrode662ofFIG.6) among the plurality of electrodes is detected, the electronic device1301may obtain a biometric signal through the second electrode1362.

For example, the electronic device1301may identify an electrical loop formed through the second electrode1362, a third electrode positioned on the rear plate, a fourth electrode positioned on the rear plate, and the first electrode1361and may identify the user's ECG information based on the ECG signal obtained based on the electrical loop.

FIG.14is a diagram illustrating an example operation of an electronic device1401, according to various embodiments.

FIG.14illustrates an operation of the electronic device1401when a touch input is applied to an electrode area exceeding the number required for the electronic device1401to identify ECG information. For example, a touch input to one electrode may be required for the electronic device1401to identify the ECG information.

According to an embodiment, the electronic device1401(e.g., the electronic device601ofFIG.6) may include a first electrode1461(e.g., the first electrode661ofFIG.6), a second electrode1462(e.g., the second electrode662ofFIG.6), a fifth electrode1465(e.g., the fifth electrode665ofFIG.6), a sixth electrode1466(e.g., the sixth electrode666inFIG.6), and an antenna1410(e.g., the antenna610ofFIG.6) positioned on a front plate (e.g., the front plate621ofFIG.6) and a side surface (e.g., the side surface110C ofFIG.1). For example, the first electrode1461may be spaced from the fifth electrode1465through a second segment1412.

In an embodiment, when a touch input to an area including the first electrode1461, the fifth electrode1465, and the second segment1412is detected, the electronic device1401may select one electrode for obtaining an ECG signal from among the first electrode1461and the fifth electrode1465based on a specified criterion.

For example, the electronic device1401may obtain an ECG signal using the first electrode1461having low contact impedance among the first electrode1461and the second electrode1462. While obtaining the ECG signal using the first electrode1461, the electronic device1401may turn off the operation of the second electrode1462.

For example, the electronic device1401may display various user interfaces on a display (e.g., the display1020ofFIG.10). For example, while obtaining the ECG signal using the first electrode1461, the electronic device1401may display guide information (e.g., information indicating that the second electrode1462is turned off) associated with an operation state of the second electrode1462on a display. For example, while obtaining the ECG signal using the first electrode1461, the electronic device1401may display a GUI (e.g., an arrow) indicating that a touch input to the first electrode1461is being continuously detected, in an area adjacent to the first electrode1461of the display. For another example, when the touch input to the first electrode1461is not normally detected while the electronic device1401obtains the ECG signal using the first electrode1461, the electronic device1401may display guide information (not shown) for guiding the touch input to the first electrode1461on the display.

FIG.15is a diagram illustrating an example operation of an electronic device, according to various embodiments.

FIG.15may show an operation of an electronic device1501identifying a user's BIA information using two electrodes among a plurality of electrodes (e.g., the first electrode661, the second electrode662, the fifth electrode665, and the sixth electrode666ofFIG.6) in a first electrode area positioned on a part of a front plate (e.g., the front plate621ofFIG.6) and a side surface (e.g., the side surface110C ofFIG.1).

According to an embodiment, when a touch input to two of the plurality of electrodes included in the first electrode area is detected in a state where the electronic device1501is worn by the user, the electronic device1501may identify user biometric information through an electrode where the touch input is detected, while the touch input continues.

Referring to reference numeral1500a, in an embodiment, while the touch input continues, when a touch input to a first electrode1561(e.g., the first electrode661ofFIG.6) and a second electrode1562(e.g., the second electrode662ofFIG.6) among a plurality of electrodes is detected, the electronic device1501may obtain a biometric signal through the first electrode1561and the second electrode1562.

For example, the electronic device1501may identify an electrical loop formed through the first electrode1561, the second electrode1562, and a third electrode (e.g., the third electrode663ofFIG.7) and a fourth electrode (e.g., the fourth electrode664ofFIG.7) which are positioned within a second electrode area positioned on a rear plate (e.g., the rear plate607ofFIG.7), and may identify the user's BIA information based on the BIA signal obtained based on the electrical loop.

Referring to reference numeral1500b, in an embodiment, when a touch input to a fifth electrode1565(e.g., the fifth electrode665ofFIG.6) and a sixth electrode1566(e.g., the sixth electrode666inFIG.6) among a plurality of electrodes in a first electrode area is detected, the electronic device1501may obtain a biometric signal through the fifth electrode1565and the sixth electrode1566.

For example, the electronic device1501may identify an electrical loop formed through the fifth electrode1565, the sixth electrode1566, the third electrode positioned on the rear plate, and the fourth electrode positioned on the rear plate, and may identify the user's BIA information based on the BIA signal obtained based on the electrical loop.

FIG.16is a diagram illustrating an example operation of an electronic device, according to various embodiments.

FIG.16illustrates an operation of an electronic device1601when a touch input is applied to an electrode area exceeding the number required for the electronic device1601to identify BIA information. For example, a user's touch input to two electrodes may be required for the electronic device1601to identify the BIA information.

According to an embodiment, the electronic device1601(e.g., the electronic device601ofFIG.6) may include a first electrode1661(e.g., the first electrode661ofFIG.6), a second electrode1662(e.g., the second electrode662ofFIG.6), a fifth electrode1665(e.g., the fifth electrode665ofFIG.6), a sixth electrode1666(e.g., the sixth electrode666inFIG.6), and an antenna1610(e.g., the antenna610ofFIG.6) positioned on a front plate (e.g., the front plate621ofFIG.6) and a side surface (e.g., the side surface110C ofFIG.1). For example, the first electrode1661may be arranged spaced from the second electrode1662through a first segment1611(e.g., the first segment611ofFIG.6). For example, the second electrode1662may be arranged spaced from the sixth electrode1666through a third segment1613(e.g., the third segment613ofFIG.6).

Referring to reference numeral1600a, the electronic device1601may detect the user's touch input to an area including the first electrode1661, the second electrode1662, the first segment1611, the third segment1613, and the sixth electrode1666. In this case, the electronic device1601may select one electrode for obtaining a BIA signal from among the second electrode1662and the sixth electrode1666based on a specified criterion.

For example, the electronic device1601may obtain the BIA signal using the second electrode1662having low contact impedance among the second electrode1662and the sixth electrode1666. For example, while obtaining the BIA signal using the second electrode1662, the electronic device1601may turn off the operation of the sixth electrode1666. For example, while obtaining the BIA signal using the second electrode1662, the electronic device1601may turn off operations of the remaining electrodes such as the fifth electrode1665and the sixth electrode1666other than the first electrode1661and the second electrode1662for obtaining the BIA signal from among a plurality of electrodes in the first electrode area.

Referring to reference numeral1600b, the electronic device1601may detect the user's touch input to an area including the first electrode1661, the second electrode1662, and the first segment1611. In this case, the electronic device1601may display a user interface including guide information for identifying BIA information on a display (e.g., the display1020ofFIG.10).

For example, while obtaining the BIA signal using the first electrode1661and the second electrode1662, the electronic device1601may display a GUI (e.g., an arrow) indicating that a touch input to the first electrode1661and the second electrode1662is continuously being detected, in an area adjacent to the first electrode1661and the second electrode1662of the display.

For example, when the touch input to the first electrode1661or the second electrode1662is not normally detected while the electronic device1401obtains the BIA signal using the first electrode1661and the second electrode1662, the electronic device1401may display guide information (not shown) for guiding a touch input to the first electrode1661or the second electrode1662on the display.

For example, the electronic device1601may display a GUI related to the touch input detected based on the touch input. For example, the electronic device1601may display a color of a GUI related to the touch input, an image included in the GUI, and/or a text included in the GUI based on at least one of the type of the touch input, the duration of the touch input, or the touch intensity of the touch input.

For example, when a touch input to the first segment1611continues, the electronic device1601may display guide information for inducing termination of the touch input to the first segment1611on the display.

For example, the electronic device1601may display guide information including the measurement progress of the BIA signal on the display. For example, the electronic device1601may display guide information indicating that the state of the touch input or the user's posture needs to be maintained while the electronic device1601displays the measurement progress.

FIG.17is a diagram illustrating an example operation of an electronic device, according to various embodiments.

FIG.17illustrates an operation in which an electronic device1701provides BIA information when a user performs a touch input using one finger.

According to an embodiment, the electronic device1701(e.g., the electronic device601ofFIG.6) may include a first electrode1761(e.g., the first electrode661ofFIG.6), a second electrode1762(e.g., the second electrode662ofFIG.6), a fifth electrode1765(e.g., the fifth electrode665ofFIG.6), a sixth electrode1766(e.g., the sixth electrode666inFIG.6), and an antenna1710(e.g., the antenna610ofFIG.6) positioned on a front plate (e.g., the front plate621ofFIG.6) and a side surface (e.g., the side surface110C ofFIG.1). For example, the first electrode1761may be arranged spaced from the fifth electrode1765through a second segment1712(e.g., the second segment612ofFIG.6).

In an embodiment, the electronic device1701may detect a touch input to two electrodes, may obtain a BIA signal using electrodes to which the touch input is applied, while the touch input continues, and may identify the user's BIA information based on the obtained BIA signal.

In an embodiment, the electronic device1701may detect a touch input to an area including the first electrode1761, the fifth electrode1765, and the second segment1712. In this case, the electronic device1701may identify an electrical loop formed through the first electrode1761, the fifth electrode1765, and a third electrode (e.g., the third electrode663ofFIG.7) and a fourth electrode (e.g., the fourth electrode664ofFIG.7) which are positioned within a second electrode area positioned on a rear plate (e.g., the rear plate607ofFIG.7), and may identify the user's BIA information based on the BIA signal obtained based on the electrical loop.

For example, while identifying the BIA information, the electronic device1701may display a user interface including information indicating that a touch input to the second segment1712continues, on a display (e.g., the display1020ofFIG.10). For example, when a touch input to the second segment1712continues, the electronic device1701may display guide information for inducing termination of the touch input to the second segment1712on the display.

FIG.17illustrates that a touch input to an area including two electrodes is applied. However, embodiments of the disclosure are not limited thereto. For example, while obtaining the BIA signal, the electronic device1701may identify that only the touch input to the first electrode1761is detected. In this case, the electronic device1701may display guide information related to an operation state of the second electrode1762on the display. For example, the electronic device1701may display, on the display, a user interface including information indicating that the second electrode1762is operating and/or information for guiding a touch input to the second electrode1762for identification of BIA information.

FIG.18is a flowchart illustrating an example operation of an electronic device, according to various embodiments.

According to an embodiment, an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device101ofFIG.1or the electronic device601ofFIG.6) may perform operations illustrated inFIG.18. For example, a processor of the electronic device (e.g., the processor620ofFIG.6) may be configured to perform operations ofFIG.18when instructions stored in a memory (e.g., the memory950ofFIG.9) are executed.

In operation1805, when a touch input is detected in a part of the electrodes, the electronic device may identify an electrical loop. For example, when a touch input to at least part of a first electrode and a second electrode of a first electrode area positioned on a part of a front surface and a side surface of the electronic device is detected, the electronic device may identify an electrical loop, which is positioned on the first electrode, the second electrode, and a rear surface of the wearable electronic device and which is formed through the third electrode and the fourth electrode that are in contact with a part of the user's body, or a combination thereof.

In operation1810, the electronic device may identify user biometric information by obtaining a biometric signal based on the electrical loop. For example, the electronic device may obtain ECG information or BIA information based on the biometric signal.

For example, when the first touch input to the first electrode in the first electrode area is detected, the electronic device may identify a first electrical loop formed through the first electrode, the third electrode, and the fourth electrode and may identify the user's ECG information based on the ECG signal formed based on the first electrical loop.

For example, when a second touch input to the area including the first electrode, the second electrode, and the first segment is detected, the electronic device may obtain an ECG signal using a first electrode having low contact impedance among the first electrode and the second electrode, and may identify the user's ECG information based on the obtained ECG signal. In this case, while obtaining the ECG signal using the first electrode, the electronic device may turn off the operation of the second electrode.

For example, when a third touch input to an area including the first electrode and the second electrode is detected, the electronic device may identify a second electrical loop formed through the first electrode, the second electrode, the third electrode, and the fourth electrode and may identify the user's BIA information based on the BIA signal obtained based on the second electrical loop.

For example, when a fourth touch input to an area including the sixth electrode, which is positioned in a part of the first electrode, the second electrode, a first segment, and a front surface and a side surface of the electronic device to be spaced from the second electrode through a third segment, is detected, the electronic device may obtain a BIA signal using the first electrode and the second electrode having low contact impedance from among the second electrode and the sixth electrode. In this case, while obtaining the BIA signal using the first electrode and the second electrode, the electronic device may turn off operations of the fifth electrode and the sixth electrode.

FIG.19is a block diagram illustrating an example electronic device1901in a network environment1900according to various embodiments. Referring toFIG.19, the electronic device1901in the network environment1900may communicate with an electronic device1902via a first network1998(e.g., a short-range wireless communication network), or at least one of an electronic device1904or a server1908via a second network1999(e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). According to an embodiment, the electronic device1901may communicate with the electronic device1904via the server1908. According to an embodiment, the electronic device1901may include a processor1920, memory1930, an input module1950, a sound output module1955, a display module1960, an audio module1970, a sensor module1976, an interface1977, a connecting terminal1978, a haptic module1979, a camera module1980, a power management module1988, a battery1989, a communication module1990, a subscriber identification module (SIM)1996, or an antenna module1997. In various embodiments, at least one of the components (e.g., the connecting terminal1978) may be omitted from the electronic device1901, or one or more other components may be added in the electronic device1901. In various embodiments, some of the components (e.g., the sensor module1976, the camera module1980, or the antenna module1997) may be implemented as a single component (e.g., the display module1960).

The processor1920may execute, for example, software (e.g., a program1940) to control at least one other component (e.g., a hardware or software component) of the electronic device1901coupled with the processor1920, and may perform various data processing or computation. According to an embodiment, as at least part of the data processing or computation, the processor1920may store a command or data received from another component (e.g., the sensor module1976or the communication module1990) in volatile memory1932, process the command or the data stored in the volatile memory1932, and store resulting data in non-volatile memory1934. According to an embodiment, the processor1920may include a main processor1921(e.g., a central processing unit (CPU) or an application processor (AP)), or an auxiliary processor1923(e.g., a graphics processing unit (GPU), a neural processing unit (NPU), an image signal processor (ISP), a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor (CP)) that is operable independently from, or in conjunction with, the main processor1921. For example, when the electronic device1901includes the main processor1921and the auxiliary processor1923, the auxiliary processor1923may be adapted to consume less power than the main processor1921, or to be specific to a specified function. The auxiliary processor1923may be implemented as separate from, or as part of the main processor1921.

The auxiliary processor1923may control at least some of functions or states related to at least one component (e.g., the display module1960, the sensor module1976, or the communication module1990) among the components of the electronic device1901, instead of the main processor1921while the main processor1921is in an inactive (e.g., sleep) state, or together with the main processor1921while the main processor1921is in an active state (e.g., executing an application). According to an embodiment, the auxiliary processor1923(e.g., an image signal processor or a communication processor) may be implemented as part of another component (e.g., the camera module1980or the communication module1990) functionally related to the auxiliary processor1923. According to an embodiment, the auxiliary processor1923(e.g., the neural processing unit) may include a hardware structure specified for artificial intelligence model processing. An artificial intelligence model may be generated by machine learning. Such learning may be performed, e.g., by the electronic device1901where the artificial intelligence is performed or via a separate server (e.g., the server1908). Learning algorithms may include, but are not limited to, e.g., supervised learning, unsupervised learning, semi-supervised learning, or reinforcement learning. The artificial intelligence model may include a plurality of artificial neural network layers. The artificial neural network may be a deep neural network (DNN), a convolutional neural network (CNN), a recurrent neural network (RNN), a restricted boltzmann machine (RBM), a deep belief network (DBN), a bidirectional recurrent deep neural network (BRDNN), deep Q-network or a combination of two or more thereof but is not limited thereto. The artificial intelligence model may, additionally or alternatively, include a software structure other than the hardware structure.

The memory1930may store various data used by at least one component (e.g., the processor1920or the sensor module1976) of the electronic device1901. The various data may include, for example, software (e.g., the program1940) and input data or output data for a command related thereto. The memory1930may include the volatile memory1932or the non-volatile memory1934.

The program1940may be stored in the memory1930as software, and may include, for example, an operating system (OS)1942, middleware1944, or an application1946.

The input module1950may receive a command or data to be used by another component (e.g., the processor1920) of the electronic device1901, from the outside (e.g., a user) of the electronic device1901. The input module1950may include, for example, a microphone, a mouse, a keyboard, a key (e.g., a button), or a digital pen (e.g., a stylus pen).

The display module1960may visually provide information to the outside (e.g., a user) of the electronic device1901. The display module1960may include, for example, a display, a hologram device, or a projector and control circuitry to control a corresponding one of the display, hologram device, and projector. According to an embodiment, the display module1960may include a touch sensor adapted to detect a touch, or a pressure sensor adapted to measure the intensity of force incurred by the touch.

The audio module1970may convert a sound into an electrical signal and vice versa. According to an embodiment, the audio module1970may obtain the sound via the input module1950, or output the sound via the sound output module1955or a headphone of an external electronic device (e.g., an electronic device1902) directly (e.g., wiredly) or wirelessly coupled with the electronic device1901.

The interface1977may support one or more specified protocols to be used for the electronic device1901to be coupled with the external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device1902) directly (e.g., wiredly) or wirelessly. According to an embodiment, the interface1977may include, for example, a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB) interface, a secure digital (SD) card interface, or an audio interface.

A connecting terminal1978may include a connector via which the electronic device1901may be physically connected with the external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device1902). According to an embodiment, the connecting terminal1978may include, for example, a HDMI connector, a USB connector, a SD card connector, or an audio connector (e.g., a headphone connector).

The camera module1980may capture a still image or moving images. According to an embodiment, the camera module1980may include one or more lenses, image sensors, image signal processors, or flashes.

The power management module1988may manage power supplied to the electronic device1901. According to an embodiment, the power management module1988may be implemented as at least part of, for example, a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

The battery1989may supply power to at least one component of the electronic device1901. According to an embodiment, the battery1989may include, for example, a primary cell which is not rechargeable, a secondary cell which is rechargeable, or a fuel cell.

The communication module1990may support establishing a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between the electronic device1901and the external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device1902, the electronic device1904, or the server1908) and performing communication via the established communication channel. The communication module1990may include one or more communication processors that are operable independently from the processor1920(e.g., the application processor (AP)) and supports a direct (e.g., wired) communication or a wireless communication. According to an embodiment, the communication module1990may include a wireless communication module1992(e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module1994(e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication module or a power line communication (PLC) module). A corresponding one of these communication modules may communicate with the external electronic device via the first network1998(e.g., a short-range communication network, such as Bluetooth™, wireless-fidelity (Wi-Fi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or the second network1999(e.g., a long-range communication network, such as a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., LAN or wide area network (WAN)). These various types of communication modules may be implemented as a single component (e.g., a single chip), or may be implemented as multi components (e.g., multi chips) separate from each other. The wireless communication module1992may identify and authenticate the electronic device1901in a communication network, such as the first network1998or the second network1999, using subscriber information (e.g., international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI)) stored in the subscriber identification module1996.

The antenna module1997may transmit or receive a signal or power to or from the outside (e.g., the external electronic device) of the electronic device1901. According to an embodiment, the antenna module1997may include an antenna including a radiating element including a conductive material or a conductive pattern formed in or on a substrate (e.g., a printed circuit board (PCB)). According to an embodiment, the antenna module1997may include a plurality of antennas (e.g., array antennas). In such a case, at least one antenna appropriate for a communication scheme used in the communication network, such as the first network1998or the second network1999, may be selected, for example, by the communication module1990(e.g., the wireless communication module1992) from the plurality of antennas. The signal or the power may then be transmitted or received between the communication module1990and the external electronic device via the selected at least one antenna. According to an embodiment, another component (e.g., a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) other than the radiating element may be additionally formed as part of the antenna module1997.

Various embodiments as set forth herein may be implemented as software (e.g., the program1940) including one or more instructions that are stored in a storage medium (e.g., internal memory1936or external memory1938) that is readable by a machine (e.g., the electronic device1901). For example, a processor (e.g., the processor1920) of the machine (e.g., the electronic device1901) may invoke at least one of the one or more instructions stored in the storage medium, and execute it, with or without using one or more other components under the control of the processor. This allows the machine to be operated to perform at least one function according to the at least one instruction invoked. The one or more instructions may include a code generated by a compiler or a code executable by an interpreter. The machine-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Wherein, the “non-transitory” storage medium is a tangible device, and may not include a signal (e.g., an electromagnetic wave), but this term does not differentiate between where data is semi-permanently stored in the storage medium and where the data is temporarily stored in the storage medium.

According to an example embodiment of the disclosure, a wearable electronic device may include: a housing including a first surface forming a front surface of the wearable electronic device, a second surface facing away from the first surface, and a side surface surrounding an internal space between the first surface and the second surface, a first electrode area positioned in a part of the first surface and the side surface and including a plurality of electrodes, an antenna positioned in a part of the first surface and the side surface and defined by the first electrode area and a segment area, a display visible through at least part of the first surface, a second electrode area positioned on the second surface, a processor, and a memory operatively connected to the processor and including instructions. For example, when executed by the processor, the instructions may cause the wearable electronic device to: obtain a biometric signal through the first electrode area, the second electrode area, or a combination of the first electrode area and the second electrode area based on a touch input to at least part of the first electrode area being detected, and perform wireless communication through the antenna.

According to an example embodiment, the wearable electronic device may further include: a first key button and a second key button positioned on the side surface and extending toward the internal space. For example, when executed by the processor, the instructions may cause the wearable electronic device to: obtain a biometric signal through the first electrode area, the second electrode area, the first key button, the second button, or a combination of the first electrode area, the second electrode area, the first key button, and the second button.

According to an example embodiment, the plurality of electrodes included in the first electrode area may include: a first electrode and a second electrode, spaced from each other through a first segment. The second electrode area may include a third electrode and a fourth electrode in contact with a part of a body. For example, when executed by the processor, the instructions may cause the wearable electronic device to: identify an electrical loop formed through the first electrode, the second electrode, the third electrode, the fourth electrode, or a combination of the first electrode, the second electrode, the third electrode, and the fourth electrode based on a touch input to at least part of the first electrode and the second electrode being detected, and identify biometric information based on the biometric signal obtained based on the electrical loop.

According to an example embodiment, when executed by the processor, the instructions may cause the wearable electronic device to: identify a first electrical loop formed through the first electrode, the third electrode, and the fourth electrode based on a first touch input to the first electrode being detected, and identify electrocardiogram (ECG) information based on an ECG signal obtained based on the first electrical loop.

According to an example embodiment, when executed by the processor, the instructions may cause the wearable electronic device to: obtain the ECG signal using the first electrode having low contact impedance among the first electrode and the second electrode based on a second touch input to an area including the first electrode, the second electrode, and the first segment being detected.

According to an example embodiment, when executed by the processor, the instructions may cause the wearable electronic device to: turn off an operation of the second electrode while obtaining the ECG signal using the first electrode.

According to an example embodiment, when executed by the processor, the instructions may cause the wearable electronic device to: identify a second electrical loop formed through the first electrode, the second electrode, the third electrode, and the fourth electrode based on a third touch input to an area including the first electrode and the second electrode being detected, and identify bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) information based on a BIA signal obtained based on the second electrical loop.

According to an example embodiment, when executed by the processor, the instructions may cause the wearable electronic device to: display guide information associated with an operation state of the second electrode on the display based on identifying that only a touch input to the first electrode is detected while the wearable electronic device obtains the BIA signal.

According to an example embodiment, the plurality of electrodes included in the first electrode area may further include a fifth electrode spaced from the first electrode through a second segment and a sixth electrode spaced from the second electrode through a third segment. When executed by the processor, the instructions may cause the wearable electronic device to: identify biometric information using the first electrode, the second electrode, the third electrode, the fourth electrode, the fifth electrode, the sixth electrode, or a combination of the first electrode, the second electrode, the third electrode, the fourth electrode, the fifth electrode, and the sixth electrode based on the touch input to at least part of the first electrode, the second electrode, the fifth electrode, and the sixth electrode being detected.

According to an example embodiment, when executed by the processor, the instructions may cause the wearable electronic device to: obtain the BIA signal using the first electrode and the second electrode having low contact impedance among the second electrode and the sixth electrode based on a fourth touch input to an area including the first electrode, the second electrode, the first segment, the third segment, and the sixth electrode being detected.

According to an example embodiment, when executed by the processor, the instructions may cause the wearable electronic device to: turn off operations of the fifth electrode and the sixth electrode while obtaining the BIA signal using the first electrode and the second electrode.

According to an example embodiment, when executed by the processor, the instructions may cause the wearable electronic device to: display a user interface associated with operation states of the plurality of electrodes on the display, and change an operation state of at least one of the first electrode, the second electrode, the fifth electrode, or the sixth electrode based on a specified input to the user interface being detected.

According to an example embodiment, the wearable electronic device may further include: a ground shield positioned between a BIA signal line configured to obtain a BIA signal and an ECG signal line configured to obtain an ECG signal.

According to an example embodiment, when executed by the processor, the instructions may cause the wearable electronic device to: provide a haptic function to an area where the touch input is detected based on the touch input to the at least part of the first electrode area being detected.

According to an example embodiment, each of the plurality of electrodes may include a coating layer comprising indium tin oxide (ITO), CrSiCN, or a combination of ITO and CrSiCN and a body layer comprising ceramic, gorilla glass, or a combination of ceramic and gorilla glass. For example, each of the plurality of electrodes may be electrically connected to a printed circuit board (PCB) positioned inside the housing through a connector in contact with a part of the coating layer.

According to an example embodiment of the disclosure, a method in which a wearable electronic device obtains a biometric signal may include: identifying an electrical loop positioned on a first electrode, a second electrode, and a rear surface of the wearable electronic device and formed through a third electrode and a fourth electrode in contact with a part of a body, or a combination of the third electrode and the fourth electrode based on a touch input to at least part of a first electrode and a second electrode positioned in a part of a front surface and a side surface of the wearable electronic device being detected, identifying biometric information based on a biometric signal obtained based on the electrical loop, and performing wireless communication through an antenna defined by the first electrode, the second electrode, and a segment area. For example, the first electrode and the second electrode may be spaced from each other through a first segment.

According to an example embodiment, the identifying of the electrical loop by the wearable electronic device may include: identifying a first electrical loop formed through the first electrode, the third electrode, and the fourth electrode based on a first touch input to the first electrode being detected, and identifying ECG information based on an ECG signal obtained based on the first electrical loop.

According to an example embodiment, the identifying of the ECG information may include: obtaining the ECG signal using the first electrode having a low contact impedance among the first electrode and the second electrode and identifying ECG information based on the obtained ECG signal based on a second touch input to an area including the first electrode, the second electrode, and the first segment being detected, and turning off an operation of the second electrode while obtaining the ECG signal using the first electrode.

According to an example embodiment, the identifying of the electrical loop by the wearable electronic device may include: identifying a second electrical loop formed through the first electrode, the second electrode, the third electrode, and the fourth electrode based on a third touch input to an area including the first electrode and the second electrode being detected, and identifying BIA information of the user based on a BIA signal obtained based on the second electrical loop.

According to an example embodiment, the identifying of the BIA information may include: obtaining the BIA signal using the first electrode and the second electrode having low contact impedance among the second electrode and the sixth electrode based on a fourth touch input to an area including a sixth electrode positioned in the first electrode, the second electrode, the first segment, and a part of the front surface and the side surface of the wearable electronic device spaced from the second electrode through a third segment, and the third segment, being detected, and turning off operations of the fifth electrode and the sixth electrode while obtaining the BIA signal using the first electrode and the second electrode.

According to various example embodiments of the disclosure, it is possible to provide a wearable device in which an antenna and an electrode are placed in a part of housing.

According to various example embodiments of the disclosure, the wearable electronic device may provide a free and convenient biometric information measurement function through electrode arrangement positioned in consideration of usability.

According to various example embodiments of the disclosure, the wearable electronic device improved in terms of aesthetics and functionality may be provided by efficiently utilizing the housing area of the limited area.

Besides, a variety of effects directly or indirectly understood through the disclosure may be provided.