ANTENNA AND ELECTRONIC DEVICE INCLUDING SAME

An electronic device is provided. The electronic device includes a housing including a front cover, a rear cover facing the direction opposite to that of the front cover, and a lateral member encompassing the space between the front cover and the rear cover, a display panel, a dielectric sheet, a first mesh pattern part formed through a plurality of first conductive lines in the dielectric sheet, and a wireless communication circuit, and which is electrically connected to the first mesh pattern part, wherein the first mesh pattern part is formed so that the inner length of a first line facing a first direction, is longer than the inner length of a second line, and the unit pattern is formed so that the inner length of a third line, is longer than the inner length of a fourth line.

BACKGROUND

The disclosure relates to an antenna, and an electronic device including the same.

2. Description of Related Art

With the development of wireless communication technologies, electronic devices (e.g., communication electronic devices) are widely used in everyday life, and thus the use of content increases exponentially. Due to the rapid increase in the use of the content, the usage of the network is approaching capacity limit. After commercialization of 4th generation (4G) communication systems, in order to meet growing wireless data traffic demand, a communication system (e.g., 5th generation (5G), pre-5G communication system, or new radio (NR)) that transmits and/or receives signals using a frequency of a high frequency (e.g., millimeter wave (mmWave)) band (e.g., 3 gigahertz (GHz) to 300 GHz band) is being developed.

SUMMARY

An electronic device may include an antenna capable of transmitting and receiving a signal using a frequency ranging from about 3 GHz to about 100 GHz. The antenna is being developed to have an efficient mounting structure and various forms corresponding to the structure to overcome high free space loss due to high frequency characteristics and increase gain. For example, the antenna may include an antenna array in which at least one antenna element (e.g., at least one conductive pattern and/or at least one conductive patch) is arranged at regular intervals on a substrate (e.g., a printed circuit board (PCB)). These antenna elements may have the same or different phases inside the electronic device, and may be placed to form a beam pattern in at least one direction using this phase difference.

The antenna may be constrained in radiation direction due to peripheral conductors (e.g., a conductive frame or a bezel) of the electronic device. For example, the radiation performance of the antenna may be degraded due to peripheral conductors (e.g., a conductive frame or a side bezel) of the electronic device. Also, in case that the display including a conductive layer occupies most of the front surface of the electronic device, the antenna arranged in the inner space of the electronic device may have difficulty in front radiation.

The antenna may be arranged between the display panel and the front cover (e.g., a window layer or a front plate) for radiation in a front direction toward which the display of the electronic device faces. In this case, in order to achieve smooth radiation performance while ensuring visibility of the display, the antenna may be formed in a manner that removes a portion of the conductive mesh pattern arranged on the dielectric sheet.

However, the antenna formed as a part of the conductive mesh pattern may have degraded polarization isolation and/or cross-polarization discrimination (XPD) in dual polarization feeding structure in which feeders are symmetrically arranged to be orthogonal to each other, due to the difference in the electrical effective lengths in the horizontal and vertical directions.

Another aspect of the disclosure is to provide an antenna capable of improving polarization isolation and/or cross-polarization discrimination in a dual polarization feeding structure, and an electronic device including the same.

In accordance with an aspect of the disclosure, an electronic device is provided. The electronic device includes a housing including a front cover, a rear cover facing a direction opposite to a direction of the front cover, and a lateral member encompassing a space between the front cover and the rear cover, a display panel which is arranged in the space and which is arranged to be viewable from an outside through the front cover, a dielectric sheet arranged between the display panel and the front cover, a first mesh pattern part formed through a plurality of first conductive lines in the dielectric sheet, and a wireless communication circuit which is arranged in the space, and which is electrically connected to the first mesh pattern part, wherein the first mesh pattern part is formed so that an inner length of a first line, which passes through a first center of the first mesh pattern part and faces a first direction, is longer than the inner length of a second line, which passes through the first center and faces a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, the first mesh pattern includes at least one unit pattern, and the unit pattern is formed so that the inner length of a third line, which passes through a second center of the unit pattern and is at an angle range of 0 to 45 degrees with respect to the first direction, is longer than the inner length of a fourth line, which passes through the second center of the unit pattern and is perpendicular to the third line.

In accordance with another aspect of the disclosure, a display is provided. The display includes a display panel, a dielectric sheet arranged on the display panel, and a first mesh pattern part formed in the dielectric sheet through a plurality of conductive lines and operated as an antenna. The first mesh pattern part is formed so that an inner length of a first line passing through a first center of the first mesh pattern part and facing a first direction is formed to be longer than an inner length of a second line passing through the first center and facing a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. The first mesh pattern part includes at least one unit pattern. The unit pattern may be formed so that an inner length of a third line passing through a second center of the unit pattern and forming an angle in the range of 0 degrees to 45 degrees with the first direction is formed longer than an inner length of a fourth line perpendicular to the third line.

According to various embodiments of the disclosure, the polarization isolation and/or cross-polarization discrimination in the dual polarization feeding structure may be improved through the shape change of the conductive mesh pattern.

Other aspects, advantages, and salient features of the disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following description, which, taken in conjunction with the annexed drawings, discloses various embodiments of the disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG.1is a block diagram illustrating an example electronic device in a network environment according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

The camera module180may capture an image or moving images. The camera module180may include one or more lenses, image sensors, image signal processors, or flashes.

The power management module188may manage power supplied to the electronic device101. The power management module188may be implemented as at least part of, for example, a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

An electronic device according to an embodiment may be one of various types of electronic devices. The electronic device may include a portable communication device (e.g., a smart phone), a computer device, a portable multimedia device, a portable medical device, a camera, a wearable device, or a home appliance. However, the electronic device is not limited to any of those described above.

FIG.2is a block diagram illustrating an example configuration of an electronic device in a network environment including a plurality of cellular networks according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

Referring toFIG.2, the electronic device101a network environment200may include a first communication processor (e.g., including processing circuitry)212, second communication processor (e.g., including processing circuitry)214, first RFIC222, second RFIC224, third RFIC226, fourth RFIC228, first radio frequency front end (RFFE)232, second RFFE234, first antenna module242, second antenna module244, and antenna248. The electronic device101may include a processor120and a memory130. A second network199may include a first cellular network292and a second cellular network294. According to an embodiment, the electronic device101may further include at least one of the components described with reference toFIG.1, and the second network199may further include at least one other network. According to an embodiment, the first communication processor212, second communication processor214, first RFIC222, second RFIC224, fourth RFIC228, first RFFE232, and second RFFE234may form at least part of the wireless communication module192. According to an embodiment, the fourth RFIC228may be omitted or included as part of the third RFIC226.

The first communication processor212may include various processing circuitry and establish a communication channel of a band to be used for wireless communication with the first cellular network292and support legacy network communication through the established communication channel. According to various embodiments, the first cellular network may be a legacy network including a second generation (2G), third generation (3G), 4G, or long term evolution (LTE) network. The second communication processor214may include various processing circuitry and establish a communication channel corresponding to a designated band (e.g., about 6 GHz to about 60 GHz) of bands to be used for wireless communication with the second cellular network294, and support 5G network communication through the established communication channel. According to various embodiments, the second cellular network294may be a 5G network defined in third generation partnership project (3GPP). Additionally, according to an embodiment, the first communication processor212or the second communication processor214may establish a communication channel corresponding to another designated band (e.g., about 6 GHz or less) of bands to be used for wireless communication with the second cellular network294and support 5G network communication through the established communication channel. According to an embodiment, the first communication processor212and the second communication processor214may be implemented in a single chip or a single package. According to various embodiments, the first communication processor212or the second communication processor214may be formed in a single chip or a single package with the processor120, the auxiliary processor123, or the communication module190.

Upon transmission, the first RFIC222may convert a baseband signal generated by the first communication processor212to a radio frequency (RF) signal of about 700 megahertz (MHz) to about 3 GHz used in the first cellular network292(e.g., legacy network). Upon reception, an RF signal may be obtained from the first cellular network292(e.g., legacy network) through an antenna (e.g., the first antenna module242) and be preprocessed through an RFFE (e.g., the first RFFE232). The first RFIC222may convert the preprocessed RF signal to a baseband signal so as to be processed by the first communication processor212.

Upon transmission, the second RFIC224may convert a baseband signal generated by the first communication processor212or the second communication processor214to an RF signal (hereinafter, 5G Sub6 RF signal) of a Sub6 band (e.g., 6 GHz or less) to be used in the second cellular network294(e.g., 5G network). Upon reception, a 5G Sub6 RF signal may be obtained from the second cellular network294(e.g., 5G network) through an antenna (e.g., the second antenna module244) and be pretreated through an RFFE (e.g., the second RFFE234). The second RFIC224may convert the preprocessed 5G Sub6 RF signal to a baseband signal so as to be processed by a corresponding communication processor of the first communication processor212or the second communication processor214.

The third RFIC226may convert a baseband signal generated by the second communication processor214to an RF signal (hereinafter, 5G Above6 RF signal) of a 5G Above6 band (e.g., about 6 GHz to about 60 GHz) to be used in the second cellular network294(e.g., 5G network). Upon reception, a 5G Above6 RF signal may be obtained from the second cellular network294(e.g., 5G network) through an antenna (e.g., the antenna248) and be preprocessed through the third RFFE236. The third RFIC226may convert the preprocessed 5G Above6 RF signal to a baseband signal so as to be processed by the second communication processor214. According to an embodiment, the third RFFE236may be formed as part of the third RFIC226.

According to an embodiment, the electronic device101may include a fourth RFIC228separately from the third RFIC226or as at least part of the third RFIC226. In this case, the fourth RFIC228may convert a baseband signal generated by the second communication processor214to an RF signal (hereinafter, an intermediate frequency (IF) signal) of an intermediate frequency band (e.g., about 9 GHz to about 11 GHz) and transfer the IF signal to the third RFIC226. The third RFIC226may convert the IF signal to a 5G Above 6 RF signal. Upon reception, the 5G Above 6 RF signal may be received from the second cellular network294(e.g., a 5G network) through an antenna (e.g., the antenna248) and be converted to an IF signal by the third RFIC226. The fourth RFIC228may convert an IF signal to a baseband signal so as to be processed by the second communication processor214.

According to an embodiment, the first RFIC222and the second RFIC224may be implemented into at least part of a single package or a single chip. According to an embodiment, the first RFFE232and the second RFFE234may be implemented into at least part of a single package or a single chip. According to an embodiment, at least one of the first antenna module242or the second antenna module244may be omitted or may be combined with another antenna module to process RF signals of a corresponding plurality of bands.

According to an embodiment, the third RFIC226and the antenna248may be disposed at the same substrate to form a third antenna module246. For example, the wireless communication module192or the processor120may be disposed at a first substrate (e.g., main PCB). In this case, the third RFIC226is disposed in a partial area (e.g., lower surface) of the first substrate and a separate second substrate (e.g., sub PCB), and the antenna248is disposed in another partial area (e.g., upper surface) thereof; thus, the third antenna module246may be formed. By disposing the third RFIC226and the antenna248in the same substrate, a length of a transmission line therebetween can be reduced. This may reduce, for example, a loss (e.g., attenuation) of a signal of a high frequency band (e.g., about 6 GHz to about 60 GHz) to be used in 5G network communication by a transmission line. Therefore, the electronic device101may improve a quality or speed of communication with the second cellular network294(e.g., 5G network).

According to an embodiment, the antenna248may be formed in an antenna array including a plurality of antenna elements that may be used for beamforming. In this case, the third RFIC226may include a plurality of phase shifters238corresponding to a plurality of antenna elements, for example, as part of the third RFFE236. Upon transmission, each of the plurality of phase shifters238may convert a phase of a 5G Above6 RF signal to be transmitted to the outside (e.g., a base station of a 5G network) of the electronic device101through a corresponding antenna element. Upon reception, each of the plurality of phase shifters238may convert a phase of the 5G Above6 RF signal received from the outside to the same phase or substantially the same phase through a corresponding antenna element. This enables transmission or reception through beamforming between the electronic device101and the outside.

The second cellular network294(e.g., 5G network) may operate (e.g., stand-alone (SA)) independently of the first cellular network292(e.g., legacy network) or may be operated (e.g., non-stand alone (NSA)) in connection with the first cellular network292. For example, the 5G network may have only an access network (e.g., 5G radio access network (RAN) or a next generation (NG) RAN and have no core network (e.g., next generation core (NGC)). In this case, after accessing to the access network of the 5G network, the electronic device101may access to an external network (e.g., Internet) under the control of a core network (e.g., an evolved packed core (EPC)) of the legacy network. Protocol information (e.g., LTE protocol information) for communication with a legacy network or protocol information (e.g., new radio (NR) protocol information) for communication with a 5G network may be stored in the memory130to be accessed by other components (e.g., the processor120, the first communication processor212, or the second communication processor214).

FIG.3Ais a front perspective view of a mobile electronic device according to an embodiment of the disclosure, andFIG.3Bis a rear perspective view of the mobile electronic device shown inFIG.3Aaccording to an embodiment of the disclosure.

The electronic device300inFIGS.3A and3Bmay be at least partially similar to the electronic device101inFIG.1or may further include various embodiments.

Referring toFIGS.3A and3B, a mobile electronic device300may include a housing310that includes a first surface (or front surface)310A, a second surface (or rear surface)310B, and a lateral surface310C that surrounds a space between the first surface310A and the second surface310B. The housing310may refer to a structure that forms a part of the first surface310A, the second surface310B, and the lateral surface310C. The first surface310A may be formed of a front plate302(e.g., a glass plate or polymer plate coated with a variety of coating layers) at least a part of which is substantially transparent. The second surface310B may be formed of a rear plate311which is substantially opaque. The rear plate311may be formed of, for example, coated or colored glass, ceramic, polymer, metal (e.g., aluminum, stainless steel (STS), or magnesium), or any combination thereof. The lateral surface310C may be formed of a lateral bezel structure (or “lateral member”)318which is combined with the front plate302and the rear plate311and includes a metal and/or polymer. The rear plate311and the lateral bezel structure318may be integrally formed and may be of the same material (e.g., a metallic material such as aluminum).

The front plate302may include two first regions310D disposed at long edges thereof, respectively, and bent and extended seamlessly from the first surface310A toward the rear plate311. Similarly, the rear plate311may include two second regions310E disposed at long edges thereof, respectively, and bent and extended seamlessly from the second surface310B toward the front plate302. The front plate302(or the rear plate311) may include only one of the first regions310D (or of the second regions310E). The first regions310D or the second regions310E may be omitted in part. When viewed from a lateral side of the mobile electronic device300, the lateral bezel structure318may have a first thickness (or width) on a lateral side where the first region310D or the second region310E is not included, and may have a second thickness, being less than the first thickness, on another lateral side where the first region310D or the second region310E is included.

The mobile electronic device300may include at least one of a display301, audio modules303,307and314, sensor modules304and319, camera modules305,312and313, a key input device317, a light emitting device, and connector holes308and309. The mobile electronic device300may omit at least one (e.g., the key input device317or the light emitting device) of the above components, or may further include other components.

The display301may be visible through a substantial portion of the front plate302, for example. At least a part of the display301may be visible through the front plate302that forms the first surface310A and the first region310D of the lateral surface310C. Outlines (i.e., edges and corners) of the display301may have substantially the same form as those of the front plate302. The spacing between the outline of the display301and the outline of the front plate302may be substantially unchanged in order to enlarge the visible area of the display301.

The audio modules303,307and314may correspond to a microphone hole303and speaker holes307and314, respectively. The microphone hole303may contain a microphone disposed therein for acquiring external sounds and, in a case, contain a plurality of microphones to sense a sound direction. The speaker holes307and314may be classified into an external speaker hole307and a call receiver hole314. The microphone hole303and the speaker holes307and314may be implemented as a single hole, or a speaker (e.g., a piezo speaker) may be provided without the speaker holes307and314.

The sensor modules304and319may generate electrical signals or data corresponding to an internal operating state of the mobile electronic device300or to an external environmental condition. The sensor modules304and319may include a first sensor module304(e.g., a proximity sensor) and/or a second sensor module (e.g., a fingerprint sensor) disposed on the first surface310A of the housing310, and/or a third sensor module319(e.g., a heart rate monitor (HRM) sensor) and/or a fourth sensor module (e.g., a fingerprint sensor) disposed on the second surface310B of the housing310. The fingerprint sensor may be disposed on the second surface310B as well as the first surface310A (e.g., the display301) of the housing310. The electronic device300may further include at least one of a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, an air 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 illuminance sensor.

The camera modules305,312and313may include a first camera device305disposed on the first surface310A of the electronic device300, and a second camera module312and/or a flash313disposed on the second surface310B. The camera module305or the camera module312may include one or more lenses, an image sensor, and/or an image signal processor. The flash313may include, for example, a light emitting diode or a xenon lamp. Two or more lenses (infrared cameras, wide angle and telephoto lenses) and image sensors may be disposed on one side of the electronic device300.

The key input device317may be disposed on the lateral surface310C of the housing310. The mobile electronic device300may not include some or all of the key input device317described above, and the key input device317which is not included may be implemented in another form such as a soft key on the display301. The key input device317may include the sensor module disposed on the second surface310B of the housing310.

The light emitting device may be disposed on the first surface310A of the housing310. For example, the light emitting device may provide status information of the electronic device300in an optical form. The light emitting device may provide a light source associated with the operation of the camera module305. The light emitting device may include, for example, a light emitting diode (LED), an IR LED, or a xenon lamp.

The connector holes308and309may include a first connector hole308adapted for a connector (e.g., a universal serial bus (USB) connector) for transmitting and receiving power and/or data to and from an external electronic device, and/or a second connector hole309adapted for a connector (e.g., an earphone jack) for transmitting and receiving an audio signal to and from an external electronic device.

Some modules305of camera modules305and312, some sensor modules304of sensor modules304and319, or an indicator may be arranged to be exposed through a display301. For example, the camera module305, the sensor module304, or the indicator may be arranged in the internal space of an electronic device300so as to be brought into contact with an external environment through an opening of the display301, which is perforated up to a front plate302. In an embodiment, some sensor modules304may be arranged to perform their functions without being visually exposed through the front plate302in the internal space of the electronic device. For example, in this case, an area of the display301facing the sensor module may not require a perforated opening.

FIG.3Cis an exploded perspective view illustrating the mobile electronic device shown inFIG.3Aaccording to an embodiment of the disclosure.

Referring toFIG.3Ca mobile electronic device300may include a lateral bezel structure320, a first support member3211(e.g., a bracket), a front plate302, a display301, an electromagnetic induction panel (not shown), a printed circuit board (PCB)340, a battery350, a second support member360(e.g., a rear case), an antenna370, and a rear plate311. The mobile electronic device300may omit at least one (e.g., the first support member3211or the second support member360) of the above components or may further include another component. Some components of the electronic device300may be the same as or similar to those of the mobile electronic device101shown inFIGS.3A or3B, thus, descriptions thereof are omitted below.

The first support member3211is disposed inside the mobile electronic device300and may be connected to, or integrated with, the lateral bezel structure320. The first support member3211may be formed of, for example, a metallic material and/or a non-metal (e.g., polymer) material. The first support member3211may be combined with the display301at one side thereof and also combined with the printed circuit board (PCB)340at the other side thereof. On the PCB340, a processor, a memory, and/or an interface may be mounted. The processor may include, for example, one or more of a central processing unit (CPU), an application processor (AP), a graphics processing unit (GPU), an image signal processor (ISP), a sensor hub processor, or a communications processor (CP).

The memory may include, for example, one or more of a volatile memory and a non-volatile memory.

The interface may include, for example, a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a USB interface, a secure digital (SD) card interface, and/or an audio interface. The interface may electrically or physically connect the mobile electronic device300with an external electronic device and may include a USB connector, an SD card/multimedia card (MMC) connector, or an audio connector.

The battery350is a device for supplying power to at least one component of the mobile electronic device300, and may include, for example, a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable secondary battery, or a fuel cell. At least a part of the battery350may be disposed on substantially the same plane as the PCB340. The battery350may be integrally disposed within the mobile electronic device300, and may be detachably disposed from the mobile electronic device300.

The antenna370may be disposed between the rear plate311and the battery350. The antenna370may include, for example, a near field communication (NFC) antenna, a wireless charging antenna, and/or a magnetic secure transmission (MST) antenna. The antenna370may perform short-range communication with an external device, or transmit and receive power required for charging wirelessly. An antenna structure may be formed by a part or combination of the lateral bezel structure320and/or the first support member3211.

FIG.4illustrates an exploded perspective view of a display according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

A display400inFIG.4may be similar, at least in part, to the display301inFIG.3A, or may further include other embodiment of a display.

Referring toFIG.4, a display400may include a dielectric sheet500stacked through an adhesive member on a rear surface of the front cover302(e.g., a front plate, a glass plate, a first cover member, or a cover member), a polarizer (POL)432(e.g., polarizing film), a display panel431, and/or at least one additional layer440. According to an embodiment, the adhesive member may include an optical clear adhesive (OCA), a pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA), a heat-reactive adhesive, a normal adhesive, or a double-sided tape. According to an embodiment, the display panel431and the POL432may be integrally formed. According to another embodiment, the display400may further include a touch sensor (e.g., a touch sensor800inFIG.23) arranged between the front cover302and the polarizer432, between the display panel431and the polarizer432, or on the display panel431.

According to various embodiments, the display400may include a control circuit (not illustrated). According to an embodiment, the control circuit may include a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB) for electrically connecting a printed circuit board (e.g., the printed circuit board340inFIG.3C) of an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device300inFIG.3C) and the display panel431, and a display driver IC (DDI) mounted on the FPCB. According to an embodiment, the display400may include a touch sensor. In a case that the display400operates as a touch display of an in-cell or on-cell type depending on the arrangement position of the touch sensor, the control circuit may include a touch display driver integrated circuit (TDDI). In another embodiment, the display400may also include a fingerprint sensor (not illustrated) arranged near the control circuit. According to an embodiment, the fingerprint sensor may include an ultrasonic or optical fingerprint sensor capable of recognizing, through a hole formed at least partially in some of components of the display400, a fingerprint of a finger that is in contact with or close to the outer surface of the front cover302.

According to various embodiments, the display400may include a dielectric sheet500arranged under the front cover302. According to an embodiment, the dielectric sheet500may include at least one mesh pattern part510formed through a plurality of conductive lines (e.g., conductive lines515inFIG.5C). According to an embodiment, the at least one mesh pattern part510may operate as an antenna A by being electrically connected to a wireless communication circuit (e.g., a wireless communication circuit591inFIG.5B) (e.g., the wireless communication module192inFIG.1) of an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device300inFIG.3A) through a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB)590drawn from the dielectric sheet500. According to an embodiment, the wireless communication circuit192may be configured to transmit and/or receive a wireless signal in a frequency band (e.g., about 3 GHz to about 100 GHz) specified through at least one mesh pattern part510. In some embodiments, the at least one mesh pattern part510may operate as an array antenna by including at least two mesh pattern parts spaced apart from each other at a predetermined interval in the dielectric sheet500. According to an embodiment, the antenna A including the mesh pattern part510may form a beam pattern in a direction (z-axis direction) the front cover302of the electronic device300is facing. According to an embodiment, the antenna A including the mesh pattern part510may be arranged at a position overlapping the active area (display area) of the display panel431when the front cover302is viewed from above. In some embodiments, the antenna A may be arranged in an area overlapping an inactive area (non-display area) of the display panel431. For example, the antenna A including the mesh pattern part510may be arranged in the area 4 ofFIG.3A, but is not limited thereto. In some embodiments, the antenna A including the mesh pattern part510may be arranged to overlap various positions of the display400. In some embodiments, in a case that a plurality of antennas A including at least one mesh pattern part510is arranged, at least some of the plurality of antennas A may be arranged in different regions overlapping the display.

According to various embodiments, the antenna A including at least one mesh pattern part510may include two feeders for constituting two polarizations orthogonal to each other. According to an embodiment, the two feeders include a first feeder arranged at a first point on a first imaginary line passing through the center of the at least one mesh pattern part510, and a second feeder arranged at a second point on a second virtual line passing through the center of the at least one mesh pattern part510and crossing the first virtual line. According to an embodiment, a conductive member444(e.g., a metal sheet) of the display400may be applied as a ground for the antenna A including at least one mesh pattern part510.

According to various embodiments, the at least one additional layer440may include at least one polymer members441,442arranged on the rear surface (-z-axis direction) of the display panel431, at least one functional member443arranged on the rear surface (-z-axis direction) of the at least one polymer members441,442, and a conductive member444arranged on the rear surface (-z-axis direction) of the at least one functional member443. According to an embodiment, the at least one polymer members441,442may include a light-shielding layer441(e.g., a black layer having an uneven pattern) and/or a cushion layer442. The light-shielding layer441not only removes air bubbles that may occur between the display panel431and underlying layers, but also blocks light generated from the display panel431or light incident from the outside. The cushion layer442is arranged to relieve a shock. According to an embodiment, the at least one functional member443may include a heat dissipation sheet for heat dissipation (e.g., a graphite sheet), a force-touch FPCB, a fingerprint sensor FPCB, a communication antenna radiator, a conductive/non-conductive tape, an open cell sponge, or the like. According to an embodiment, the conductive member444may be a metal sheet (e.g., metal plate) that may be used for reinforcing the rigidity of an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device300inFIGS.3A to3C), shielding ambient noise, and dissipating heat released from surrounding heat-releasing components. In an embodiment, the conductive member444may include copper (Cu), aluminum (Al), magnesium (Mg), stainless steel (SUS), or a clad (e.g., a laminated member in which SUS and Al are alternately arranged). In another embodiment, the display400may further include a detection member445for detecting an input action by an electronic pen of an electromagnetic induction type. According to an embodiment, the detection member445may include a digitizer. According to an embodiment, the detection member445may be arranged between the at least one polymer member442and the functional member443. In another embodiment, the detection member445may be arranged between the display panel431and the at least one polymer member441.

According to various embodiments, the additional layer440may have openings4321,4411,4421,4441, or4451arranged in the inner space of the electronic device300. For example, these openings4321,4411,4421,4441, or4451may be utilized as a path for external environment detection for a sensor module (e.g., the sensor module304inFIG.3A) and/or a camera device (e.g., a camera device305inFIG.3A) arranged in the inner space of the electronic device300. In another embodiment, the polarizer432may be treated transparently or have a removed polarization characteristic at a position corresponding to the sensor module and/or camera device without the opening4321. In another embodiment, the display panel431may be formed without an opening so that the transmittance of a position corresponding to the sensor module and/or the camera device is higher than that of the surrounding area. In this case, the region of the display panel431corresponding to the sensor module and/or the camera device may be formed to have a pixel and/or wiring structure omitted or to have a lower pixel density and/or wiring density than a peripheral region.

FIG.5Aillustrates a block view of a dielectric sheet500according to an embodiment of the disclosure.FIG.5Billustrates an enlarged view of an area 5b inFIG.5Aaccording to an embodiment of the disclosure.FIG.5Cillustrates an enlarged view of an area 5c inFIG.5Baccording to an embodiment of the disclosure.

FIGS.6A and6Billustrate views of a current flow through unit patterns516according to various embodiments of the disclosure.

Referring toFIG.5A, the dielectric sheet500may be arranged at a position substantially overlapping a front cover (substantially a display panel (e.g., the display panel431inFIG.4when the front cover302inFIG.4is viewed from above). According to an embodiment, the dielectric sheet500may be formed of a transparent polymer material. According to an embodiment, the dielectric sheet500may be formed in a rectangular shape. As another example, the dielectric sheet500may be formed in a shape corresponding to the shape of the display panel. According to an embodiment, the dielectric sheet500may include a first edge5031having a first length, a second edge5032extending in a substantially perpendicular direction from the first edge5031and formed longer than the first length, a third edge5033extending parallel to the first edge5031from the second edge5032and having the first length, and a fourth edge5034extending substantially parallel to the second edge5032from the third edge5033to the fourth edge5034and having a second length. According to an embodiment, the dielectric sheet500may include a first area501and a second area502(e.g., a peripheral region) configured to at least partially encompass the first area501. According to an embodiment, the first area501may be arranged at a position overlapping the active area (display area) of the display panel (e.g., the display panel431inFIG.4) when the front cover (e.g., the front cover302inFIG.4) is viewed from above. According to an embodiment, at least a portion of the second area502is arranged at a position overlapping the inactive area (non-display area) of the display panel (e.g., the display panel431inFIG.4) when the front cover (e.g., the front cover302inFIG.4) is viewed from above. In another embodiment, the first area501may be formed in an area smaller or larger than the active area of the display panel431(e.g., the display panel431inFIG.4).

According to various embodiments, the dielectric sheet500may include the mesh pattern part510(e.g., at least one mesh pattern part510inFIG.4) formed through a plurality of conductive lines (e.g., the conductive lines515inFIG.5C) and used as the antenna A. According to an embodiment, in the antenna A, the mesh pattern part510may be arranged near the first edge5031of the dielectric sheet500. However, the disclosure is not limited thereto, and the antenna A may be arranged near the second edge5032, the third edge5033and/or the fourth edge5034. According to an embodiment, the dielectric sheet500may include a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB)590attached to the first edge5031and electrically connected to the mesh pattern part510. According to an embodiment, the FPCB590may be formed to have a length that can be electrically connected to a printed circuit board (e.g., the printed circuit board340inFIG.3C) of an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device300inFIG.3C). According to an embodiment, the FPCB590may include a wireless communication circuit591(e.g., the third RFIC226inFIG.2). In another embodiment, the wireless communication circuit591is mounted on a printed circuit board (e.g., the printed circuit board340inFIG.3C) of an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device300inFIG.3C), and may be electrically connected to the mesh pattern part510through the FPCB590.

According to various embodiments, the wireless communication circuit591may be configured to form a beam pattern in a direction in which the front cover faces through the antenna A including the mesh pattern part510. According to an embodiment, the wireless communication circuit591may be configured to transmit and/or receive a radio signal in a frequency band of about 3 GHz to about 100 GHz through the antenna A including the mesh pattern part510.

Referring toFIG.5B, the antenna A may include the mesh pattern part510formed near the first edge5031of the dielectric sheet500through a plurality of conductive lines (e.g., the conductive lines515inFIG.5C). According to an embodiment, the mesh pattern part510may include a first feed line511and a second feed line512that extend from the mesh pattern part510and are electrically connected to the FPCB590. According to an embodiment, the mesh pattern part510may be formed in a rhombus shape, and may operate to have a dual polarization by the first feed line511passing through the center (e.g., the center (C) inFIG.5C) and connected to the first point on the first virtual line intersecting each other, and the second feed line512connected to the second point on the second virtual line. According to an embodiment, the wireless communication circuit591may be configured to transmit and/or receive a first signal having a first polarization through the first feed line511. According to an embodiment, the wireless communication circuit591may be configured to transmit and/or receive a second signal having a second polarization perpendicular to the first polarization through the second feed line512.

Referring toFIGS.5C and6, the mesh pattern part510arranged on the dielectric sheet500may be formed in such a way that the plurality of conductive lines515crosses each other. According to an embodiment, the unit patterns516of the mesh pattern part510may have a rhombus structure having different horizontal to vertical diagonal ratios to reduce a more phenomenon. For example, the unit patterns516may be formed to have the horizontal to vertical diagonal ratio of 1:2.

In this case, as illustrated inFIGS.6A and6B, in the conductive mesh structure formed through the plurality of conductive lines515, due to the shape of the unit patterns516having different horizontal and vertical ratios, a difference in an electrical performance may occur depending on the direction in which current flows. For example, in a case of the mesh pattern part510having a square shape, in a case that a current travels in the horizontal direction (e.g., the second direction (② direction)), since a current traveling path is lengthen compared in a case where the current travels in the vertical direction (e.g., the first direction (① direction)), a difference may be generated in the effective lengths in the current traveling direction. Therefore, even if the antenna A including the mesh pattern part510has a dual polarization feeding structure that is symmetrical to each other, as described above, due to the difference in effective length with respect to the current traveling direction, the polarization isolation and/or cross-polarization discrimination may be degraded.

Various embodiments of the disclosure change the shape of the mesh pattern part510to form substantially the same current traveling path in the horizontal and vertical directions of the conductive mesh structure, thereby improving the polarization isolation and/or cross-polarization discrimination of the antenna A.

Referring toFIG.5C, the mesh pattern part510may be formed in a rhombus shape similar to the unit pattern516. The mesh pattern part510may include, for example, the plurality of unit patterns516. According to an embodiment, the mesh pattern part510may be formed so that the inner length d1 of the first line L1 passing through the center C of the mesh pattern part510and directed in the first direction (① direction) is formed to be longer than the inner length d2 of the second line L2 passing through the center C and directed in the second direction (direction ②) perpendicular to the first direction (direction ①). According to an embodiment, each of the plurality of unit patterns516included in the mesh pattern part510may be formed so that the inner length d3 of the third line L3 passing through the center C' of the unit pattern516and forming an angle (θ) in the range of about 0 degrees to about 45 degrees with the first direction (direction ①) is formed to be longer than the inner length d4 of the fourth line L4 passing through the center C' of the unit pattern516and perpendicular to the third line L3. Through this structure, the mesh pattern part510makes the inner length in the first direction (direction ①) longer than the inner length in the second direction (direction ②), so that the current traveling path through the unit patterns516may be formed substantially identically.

According to various embodiments, the mesh pattern part510may include the first feed line511formed so that the first side513and the second side514are adjacent to each other at a position close to the first edge5301of the dielectric sheet500and extending from the first side513, and the second feed line512extending from the second side514. According to an embodiment, the first feed line511extends from the first side513of the mesh pattern part510and may be electrically connected to a first feed pad5021arranged in the second area502of the dielectric sheet500. According to an embodiment, the second feed line512extends from the second side514of the mesh pattern part510, and may be electrically connected to a second feed pad5022arranged in the second area502of the dielectric sheet500. According to an embodiment, the first feed line511may include a first subline5111connected substantially perpendicularly to the first side513at a first side513, and a second subline5112extending from the first subline5111to the first feed pad501in a direction substantially perpendicular to the first edge5301. According to an embodiment, the second feed line512may include a third subline5121connected substantially perpendicular to the second side514at the center of the second side514, and a fourth subline5122extending from the third subline5121to the second feed pad5022in a direction substantially perpendicular to the first edge5031.

According to various embodiments, the dielectric sheet500may include first conductive pads5023arranged on the left and right sides of the first feed pad5021at the first edge5031and/or second feed pads5022arranged on the left and right sides of the second feed pad5022. According to an embodiment, the first conductive pads5023and/or the second conductive pads5024are electrically connected to the ground of the FPCB590connected to the dielectric sheet500, so that, for example, it can help to shield the noise of the first feed pad5021and the second feed pad5022used as a signal line.

FIG.5Dillustrates a partial cross-sectional view of the dielectric sheet500taken along line 5d-5d inFIG.5Baccording to an embodiment of the disclosure.

Referring toFIG.5D, the dielectric sheet500may include a first section T1 having the first area501that at least partially overlaps with the active area (display area) of a display (e.g., the display400inFIG.4), and a second section T2 having the second area502that at least partially encompasses the first section T1 and at least partially overlaps with the inactive area (non-display area) of the display400. According to an embodiment, the mesh pattern part510is arranged overlapping at least a partial area of the second section T2, and may be electrically connected to the FPCB590arranged in a third section T3 from the outside of the dielectric sheet500through the feed lines511,512. According to an embodiment, the first section T1 may include the mesh pattern part510used as the antenna A and the feed lines511,512. According to an embodiment, the second section T2 may include the feed pads5021,5022electrically connected to the feed lines511,512and/or the conductive pads5023,5024arranged on both sides of the feed pads5021,5022. According to an embodiment, the third section T3 may include the FPCB590as a transmission line. In another embodiment, the FPCB590may further include a wireless communication circuit591arranged on at least one surface.

According to an embodiment, at least a portion of the FPCB590may be located in the second section T2. For example, the FPCB590may be electrically connected to the first feed pad5021, the second feed pad5022, the first conductive pads5023, or the second conductive pads5024in the second section T2.

FIGS.7A and7Billustrate views of the comparison of electric field distributions through shape change of a mesh pattern part according to various embodiments of the disclosure.

FIGS.8A and8Billustrate views of the comparison of polarization isolations through shape change of a mesh pattern part according to various embodiments of the disclosure.

Referring toFIGS.7A and8A, it is found that in a mesh pattern part710A of a square structure used as an antenna, the current fed from a second feed line712A affects a first feed line711A, and the polarization isolation is about -10 dB (an area801inFIG.8A). As illustrated inFIGS.7B and8B, it is found that in the mesh pattern part510of a rhombus structure used as an antenna according to an embodiment of the disclosure, which is formed so that the internal length in the vertical direction (e.g., the direction ① inFIG.5C) is relatively elongated, the current fed from the second feed line512does not affect the first feed line511, and the polarization isolation is improved to about -20 dB (an area802inFIG.8B). This may mean that the isolation between the two polarizations of the antenna according to the embodiment of the disclosure using the mesh pattern part510of a rhombus structure with an increased vertical length is improved.

FIGS.9A and9Billustrate views of the comparison of radiation patterns through shape change of a mesh pattern part according to various embodiments of the disclosure.

Referring toFIG.9A, in a case that a square mesh pattern part (e.g., the mesh pattern part710A inFIG.7A) is used as an antenna, the cross-polarization discrimination902from the co-polarization (Co-Pol)901is lowered. On the other hand, as illustrated inFIG.9B, in a case that the mesh pattern part (e.g., the mesh pattern part510inFIG.7B) of a rhombus structure according to an embodiment of the disclosure formed so that the internal length in the vertical direction (e.g., the direction ① inFIG.5C) is relatively increased is used as an antenna, it is found that the cross-polarization discrimination904B from the co-polarization (Co-Pol)903B is improved.

FIG.10illustrates a partial structure view of a dielectric sheet600including a mesh pattern part610according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

Since the structures of the dielectric sheet600and mesh pattern part610ofFIG.10have substantially the same electrical connection structures as the mesh pattern part510formed on the dielectric sheet500ofFIGS.5A to5C, the detailed description thereof may be omitted.

According to various embodiments, the unit patterns (e.g., the unit patterns516inFIG.5C) are formed in a rhombus shape, and the mesh pattern part610formed using the unit patterns may be formed in various shapes capable of having a dual polarization feeding structure.

For example, with reference toFIG.10, the mesh pattern part610may be formed in a circular shape. According to an embodiment, the mesh pattern part610may be formed in an elliptical shape formed so that the inner length C1 of the first direction (① direction) is longer than the inner length of the second direction (② direction) perpendicular to the first direction (① direction). According to an embodiment, the mesh pattern part610may include a first feed line611formed in substantially the same manner as the above-described first mesh pattern (e.g., the first mesh pattern510inFIG.5C) and a second feed line612. According to an embodiment, the mesh pattern part610has an elliptical shape in which the inner length of the first direction (direction ①) is longer, which forms substantially the same current traveling path in the horizontal and vertical directions of the conductive mesh pattern (e.g., the conductive mesh pattern501inFIG.5C), thereby improving the polarization isolation and/or cross-polarization discrimination of the mesh pattern part610used as an antenna.

FIGS.11A and11Billustrate views of the comparison of electric field distributions through shape change of a mesh pattern part according to various embodiments of the disclosure.

FIGS.12A and12Billustrate views of the comparison of polarization isolation through shape change of a mesh pattern part according to various embodiments of the disclosure.

Referring toFIGS.11A and12A, it is found that in the mesh pattern part1110of a circular structure used as an antenna, the current fed from the second feed line1112affects the first feed line1111and the polarization isolation is about -10 dB (an area1201inFIG.12A). On the other hand, as illustrated inFIGS.11B and12B, it is found that in the mesh pattern part610of an elliptical structure used as an antenna according to an embodiment of the disclosure is formed so that the internal length in the vertical direction (e.g., the direction ① inFIG.10) is relatively increased, the current fed from the second feed line612does not affect the first feed line611and the polarization isolation is improved to about -20 dB or less (an area1202inFIG.12B). This may mean that the isolation between two polarizations is also improved in the antenna according to the embodiment of the disclosure using the mesh pattern part610of an elliptical structure with an increased vertical length.

FIGS.13A and13Billustrate views of the comparison of radiation patterns through shape change of a mesh pattern part according to various embodiments of the disclosure.

Referring toFIG.13A, in a case that a circular mesh pattern part (e.g., the mesh pattern part1110inFIG.11A) is used as an antenna, the cross-polarization discrimination1302from the co-polarization (Co-Pol)1301is degraded. On the other hand, as illustrated inFIG.13b, in a case that the mesh pattern part of an elliptical structure (e.g., the mesh pattern part610inFIG.10) formed so that the internal length in the vertical direction (e.g., direction ① inFIG.10) is relatively increased is used as an antenna, it is found that the cross-polarization discrimination1304from the co-polarization (Co-Pol)1303is improved.

FIG.14illustrates a partial structure view of a dielectric sheet including a mesh pattern part according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

Since the structures of the dielectric sheet650and mesh pattern part651ofFIG.14are formed in substantially the same manner as the mesh pattern part510formed on the dielectric sheet500ofFIGS.5A to5C, the detailed description thereof may be omitted.

Referring toFIG.10, the mesh pattern part610may be formed in a rhombus shape as illustrated inFIG.5C.

Referring toFIG.14, according to an embodiment, the mesh pattern part610may include a first side6501and a second side6502that are arranged close to a first edge6301of the dielectric sheet650and are adjacent to each other. According to an embodiment, the pair of feed lines6511,6512may include a straight first feed line6511connected to the first side6501in a direction substantially perpendicular to the first edge6301of the dielectric sheet650, and a straight first feed line6511connected to the second side6502in a direction substantially perpendicular to the first edge6301of the dielectric sheet650.

According to various embodiments, the first feed line6511may be connected to the first side6510and the mesh pattern part610to include a first side θ1 and a second angle θ2 (e.g., obtuse angle) greater than the first angle θ1 (e.g., acute angle). In this case, a coupling is generated between the first side6501and the first feed line6511, having the first angle θ1. Thus, even if the first feed line6511is connected to the center of the first side6501, as an asymmetric feed characteristic that acts as if power is supplied closer to the first edge6301from the center of the first side6501rather than the center is generated, the radiation characteristics may be degraded. According to an embodiment, the first feed line6511may be connected to a position farther from the first edge6301than the center6501aof the first side6501on the first side6501. As another example, the second feed line6512may be connected to a position farther from the first edge6301than the center6502aof the second side6502on the second side6502.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, by changing the feed positions of the feed lines6511,6512, the polarization isolation and cross-polarization discrimination of the mesh pattern part610may be improved.

FIGS.15A and15Billustrate views of the comparison of electric field distributions through shape change of a mesh pattern part according to various embodiments of the disclosure.

FIGS.16A and16Billustrate views of the comparison of polarization isolations through shape change of a mesh pattern part according to various embodiments of the disclosure.

Referring toFIGS.15A and16A, it is found that in a mesh pattern part1510having the straight feed lines1511,1512connected to the center of two adjacent sides of the mesh pattern part1510in a direction perpendicular to the edge of the dielectric sheet, the current fed from the second feed line1512affects the first feed line1511, and the polarization isolation is about -10 dB (an area1601inFIG.16A). As illustrated inFIGS.15B and16B, it is found that in the mesh pattern part651having the straight feed lines6511,6512connected from the edge (e.g., the first edge6301ofFIG.14) of the dielectric sheet (e.g., the dielectric sheet650inFIG.14) at a position farther than the center (e.g., the center6501a,6502ainFIG.14) of the adjacent two sides (e.g., the first side6510and the second side6502inFIG.14) of the mesh pattern part651, the current fed from the second feed line6512does not affect the first feed line6511, and the polarization isolation is about -20 dB or less (the area1602inFIG.16B). In a case that the feed lines6511,6512are connected at a position moved by a specified distance from the center of each side65016502of the mesh pattern part651, this may mean that the isolation between two polarizations is improved in consideration of the electrical coupling.

FIGS.17A and17Billustrate views of the comparison of radiation patterns through shape change of a mesh pattern part according to various embodiments of the disclosure.

Referring toFIG.17A, it is found that in the antenna with the straight feed lines (e.g., feed lines1511,1512inFIG.15A) connected to the center of the mesh pattern part (e.g., the mesh pattern part1510inFIG.15A), the cross-polarization discrimination1702from the co-polarization (Co-Pol)1701is degraded. On the other hand, as illustrated inFIG.17B, it is found that in the antenna with the straight feed lines (e.g., feed lines6511,6512inFIG.14) connected at a position moved by a specified distance from the center of the mesh pattern part (e.g.,651inFIG.14) in consideration of coupling, the cross-polarization discrimination1704from the co-polarization (Co-Pol)1703is improved.

FIGS.18A and18Billustrate partial structure views of a dielectric sheet500including a mesh pattern part510according to various embodiments of the disclosure.

In the description ofFIGS.18A and18B, the same reference numerals are assigned to the components substantially the same as those ofFIG.5C, and detailed descriptions thereof may be omitted.

Referring toFIG.18A, the dielectric sheet500may include a mesh pattern part510formed by a plurality of unit patterns516formed by a plurality of first conductive lines515and a dummy pattern part510-1formed by a plurality of second unit patterns516-1formed by a plurality of second conductive lines515-1and arranged to encompass at least a portion of the mesh pattern part510. According to an embodiment, the mesh pattern part510and the dummy pattern part510-1may be arranged to be segmented through a gap5011having a predetermined interval. According to an embodiment, the gap5011may include a gap (e.g., about 10 µm) that does not interfere with radiation performance when the mesh pattern part510is used as the antenna A. In another embodiment, the plurality of first unit patterns516and the plurality of second unit patterns516-1may have the same size and/or shape. In another embodiment, the plurality of first unit patterns516and the plurality of second unit patterns516-1may have different sizes and/or shapes. In this case, since the first mesh pattern part510and the encompassing dummy pattern part510-1may have uniform transmittance through the display, the phenomenon that only the mesh pattern part510is visually recognized in the dielectric sheet500can be prevented.

Referring toFIG.18B, the dielectric sheet500may include the mesh pattern part510formed by the plurality of first unit patterns516formed by the plurality of first conductive lines515, the first dummy pattern part510-1formed by the plurality of second unit patterns516-1formed by the plurality of conductive lines515-1and arranged to encompass at least a portion of the mesh pattern part510, and a second dummy pattern part510-2formed by a plurality of third unit patterns516-2formed by a plurality of third conductive lines515-2and arranged to encompass at least a portion of the first dummy pattern part510-2. According to an embodiment, the mesh pattern part510and the first dummy pattern part510-1may be arranged to be segmented through the first gap5011having a predetermined interval. According to an embodiment, the first dummy pattern part510-1and the second dummy pattern part510-2may be arranged to be segmented through a second gap5012having a predetermined interval. According to an embodiment, the first gap5011and/or the second gap5012may have an interval (e.g., about 10 µm) that does not interfere with the radiation performance when the mesh pattern part510is used as the antenna A. In another embodiment, the first plurality of unit patterns516, the second plurality of unit patterns516-1, and/or the third plurality of unit patterns516-2may have substantially the same size and/or shape. In another embodiment, the first plurality of unit patterns516, the second plurality of unit patterns516-1, and/or the third plurality of unit patterns516-2may have different sizes and/or shapes from each other. According to an embodiment, since the mesh pattern part510is electrically isolated from the encompassing dummy pattern parts510-1,510-2through the first gap5011and the second gap5012, at least doubly, radiation performance can be improved. In another embodiment, the at least one second gap5012may be formed irregularly (e.g., at a non-uniform interval) so as not to have a frequency in a specific space, thereby reducing the degradation in radiation performance of the antenna. For example, the second gap5012may be formed so that the distance from the first gap5011is not uniform. The first gap5011or the second gap5012may act as an insulating part. As another example, with reference toFIGS.18A or18B, the first gap5011is formed in a substantially straight line, but the first gap5011may be formed in the form of a line instead of a straight line. In this case, visibility from the outside of the first gap5011may be reduced.

FIG.19illustrates a partial structure view of a dielectric sheet500including a plurality of mesh pattern parts510,520,530,540according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

Since the first mesh pattern part510, the second mesh pattern part520, the third mesh pattern part530, and/or the fourth mesh pattern part540included in an array antenna AR ofFIG.19have substantially the same electrical connection structure as the mesh pattern part510formed in the dielectric sheet500ofFIG.5C, a detailed description thereof may be omitted.

Referring toFIG.19, the dielectric sheet500may include an array antenna AR arranged in at least a portion of the first area501overlapping the active area (display area) of a display panel (e.g., the display panel431inFIG.4). According to an embodiment, the array antenna AR may include the first mesh pattern part510, the second mesh pattern part520, the third mesh pattern part530, and/or the fourth mesh pattern part540that are spaced apart from each other near the first edge5031of the dielectric sheet500. According to an embodiment, the first mesh pattern part510, the second mesh pattern part520, the third mesh pattern part530, and/or the fourth mesh pattern part540may be formed in a rhombus shape, and may operate to have a double polarization by two feed lines511,512,521,522,531,532,541,542. According to an embodiment, the first mesh pattern part510may include the first feed line511and the second feed line that extend from the first mesh pattern part510and are electrically connected to the FPCB590. According to an embodiment, the second mesh pattern part520may include the third feed line521and the fourth feed line522that extend from the second mesh pattern part520and are electrically connected to the FPCB590. According to an embodiment, the third mesh pattern part530may include a fifth feed line531and a sixth feed line532that extend from the third mesh pattern part530and are electrically connected to the FPCB590. According to an embodiment, the fourth mesh pattern part540may include a seventh line541and an eight feed line542that extend from the fourth mesh pattern part540and are electrically connected to the FPCB590. According to an embodiment, the wireless communication circuit591may be configured to transmit and/or receive a first signal having a first polarization through the first feed line511, the third feed line521, the fifth feed line531, and/or the seventh feed line541. According to an embodiment, the wireless communication circuit591may be configured to transmit and/or receive a second signal having a second polarization perpendicular to the first polarization through the second feed line512, the fourth feed line522, the sixth feed line532, and/or the eighth feed line542. In another embodiment, the array antenna AR may include five or more mesh pattern parts spaced apart from the dielectric sheet500. In another embodiment, as illustrated inFIGS.8A or8B, at least one mesh pattern part of the plurality of mesh pattern parts510,520,530,540of the array antenna AR may be formed through at least one of the gaps5011,5012by cutting the plurality of conductive lines515in a case that the plurality of conductive lines515is arranged in the first area501of the dielectric sheet500.

FIG.20Ais a perspective view illustrating an electronic device in a flat or unfolding state according to an embodiment of the disclosure.FIG.20Bis a plan view illustrating a front of an electronic device in a flat or unfolding state according to an embodiment of the disclosure.FIG.20Cis a plan view illustrating a rear of an electronic device in a flat or unfolding state according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG.21Ais a perspective view illustrating an electronic device in a folding state according to an embodiment of the disclosure.FIG.21Bis a perspective view illustrating an electronic device in an intermediate state according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

Referring toFIGS.20A,20B,20C,21A, and21B, the electronic device700may include housings710,720(e.g., a foldable housing) that are rotatably coupled to face each other and to be folded based on a hinge module (e.g., a hinge module740inFIG.20B). In another embodiment, the hinge module (e.g., the hinge module740inFIG.20B) may be arranged in the x-axis direction or the y-axis direction. In another embodiment, two or more hinge modules740may be arranged to be folded in the same direction or in different directions. According to an embodiment, the electronic device700may include a flexible display730(e.g., a foldable display) arranged in an area formed by the housings710,720. According to an embodiment, the first housing710and the second housing720are arranged on both sides about a folding axis (A-axis), and may have substantially symmetrical shapes with respect to the folding axis (A-axis). According to an embodiment, the first housing710and the second housing720may form an angle or a distance therebetween, which may be variable depending on whether the electronic device700is in a flat or unfolding state, in a folding state, or in an intermediate state.

According to various embodiments, the housings710,720may include the first housing710(e.g., a first housing structure) coupled to a hinge module and the second housing720(e.g., the second housing structure) coupled to the hinge module. According to an embodiment, the first housing710may include, in the unfolding state, a first surface711facing a first direction (e.g., front direction) (z-axis direction) and a second surface712facing a second direction (e.g., rear direction) (-z-axis direction) opposite the first surface711. According to an embodiment, the second housing720includes, in the unfolding state, a third surface721facing the first direction (z-axis direction) and a fourth surface722facing the second direction (-z-axis direction). According to an embodiment, the electronic device700may be operated such that, in the unfolding state, the first surface711of the first housing710and the third surface721of the second housing720face substantially the same direction, i.e., the first direction (z-axis direction) and in the folding state, the first surface711and the third surface721face each other. According to an embodiment, the electronic device700may be operated such that, in the unfolding state, the second surface712of the first housing710and the fourth surface722of the second housing720face substantially the same direction, i.e., the second direction (-z-axis direction) and in the folding state, the second surface712and the fourth surface722face opposite directions. For example, in the folding state, the second surface712may face the first direction (z-axis direction), and the fourth surface722may face the second direction (-z-axis direction).

According to various embodiments, the first housing710may include a first side frame713forming at least a portion of the exterior of the electronic device700and a first rear cover714coupled to the first side frame713and forming at least a portion of the second surface712of the electronic device700. According to an embodiment, the first side frame713may include a first side surface713a, a second side surface713bextending from one end of the first side surface713a, and a third side face713cextending from the other end of the first side surface713a. According to an embodiment, the first side frame713may be formed in a rectangular (e.g., square or rectangular) shape through the first side713a, the second side713b, and the third side713c.

According to various embodiments, the second housing720may include a second side frame723forming at least a portion of the exterior of the electronic device700and a second rear cover724coupled to the second side frame723and forming at least a portion of the fourth surface722of the electronic device700. According to an embodiment, the second side frame723may include a fourth side surface723a, a fifth side surface723bextending from one end of the fourth side surface723a, and a sixth side face723cextending from the other end of the fourth side surface723a. According to an embodiment, the second side frame723may be formed in a rectangular shape through the fourth side723a, the fifth side723b, and the sixth side723c.

According to various embodiments, the housings710,720are not limited to the illustrated shape and assembly, but may be implemented by other shapes or other combinations and/or assemblies of components. For example, in another embodiment, the first side frame713and the first rear cover714may be integrally formed, and in still another embodiment, the second side frame723and the second rear cover724may be integrally formed.

According to various embodiments, in the electronic device700in the unfolding state, the second side surface713bof the first side frame713and the fifth side surface723bof the second side frame723may form one virtual line. According to an embodiment, in the electronic device700in the unfolding state, the third side surface713cof the first side frame713and the sixth side surface723cof the second side frame723may form one a virtual line. According to an embodiment, the electronic device700may be configured such that, in the unfolding state, the total length of the second side surface713band the fifth side surface723bis longer than the first side surface713aand/or the fourth side surface723a. As another example, the electronic device700may be configured such that the total length of the third side surface713cand the sixth side surface723cis longer than the first side surface713aand/or the fourth side surface723a.

According to various embodiments, the first side frame713and the second side frame723may be formed of metal or may further include a polymer injected into the metal. According to an embodiment, the first side frame713and/or the second side frame723may include at least one conductive portion716and/or726electrically segmented through at least one segmented portion7161,7162and/or7261,7262formed of a polymer. In this case, the at least one conductive portion716and/or726may be electrically connected to a wireless communication circuit included in the electronic device700, thereby being used as an antenna that operates in at least one designated band (e.g., a legacy band).

According to various embodiments, the first rear cover714and/or the second rear cover724may be formed of at least one of coated or colored glass, ceramic, polymer, or metal (e.g., aluminum, stainless steel (STS), or magnesium), or any combination of at least two of the above.

According to various embodiments, the flexible display730may be arranged to extend from the first surface711of the first housing710to at least a portion of the third surface721of the second housing720across the hinge module740. For example, the flexible display730may include a first area730asubstantially corresponding to the first surface711, a second area730bcorresponding to the second surface721, and a third area730cconnecting the first area730aand the second area730band corresponding to the hinge module740. The third area730cmay be bent or unfolded according to the operation of the first housing710or the second housing720. According to various embodiment, the electronic device700may include a first protective cover715(e.g., a first protective frame or a first decoration member) coupled along edges of the first housing710. According to an embodiment, the electronic device700may include a second protective cover725(e.g., a second protective frame or a second decoration member) coupled along edges of the second housing720. According to one embodiment, the first protective cover715and/or the second protective cover725may be formed of a metal or polymer material. According to an embodiment, the first protective cover715and/or the second protective cover725may be used as a decoration member. According to an embodiment, the flexible display730may be positioned such that edges of a first flat area730ais interposed between the first housing710and the first protective cover715. According to an embodiment, the flexible display730may be positioned such that the edges of a second flat area730bis interposed between the second housing720and the second protective cover725. According to an embodiment, the flexible display730may be positioned such that by a protective cap (e.g., the protective cap135inFIGS.3A,3B, and3C) arranged an area corresponding to the hinge module740, the edge of the flexible display730corresponding to the protective cap can be protected. Accordingly, the edges of the flexible display730may be substantially protected from the outside. According to an embodiment, the electronic device700may include a hinge housing741(e.g., a hinge cover) to support the hinge module740. The hinge housing741may be arranged so that, when the electronic device700is in the folding state, the hinge housing is exposed to the outside and when the electronic device700is in the unfolding state, the hinge housing is drawn into a first space (e.g., an inner space of the first housing710) and a second space (e.g., an inner space of the second housing720) so as to be invisible from the outside. In another embodiment, when the electronic device700is in a folding state, the second surface712and the fourth surface722may be operated to face each other so that the flexible display730is viewed from the outside. In this case (adjacent folding method), a first array antenna (AR1) and a second array antenna (AR2) may have beam patterns formed in opposite directions to each other.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device700may include a sub-display731arranged separately from the flexible display730. According to an embodiment, the sub-display731may be arranged on the second surface712of the first housing710or the fourth surface722of the second housing to be at least partially exposed. For example, in the case of folding state, the sub-display731may display status information of the electronic device700or various contents such as time, image, or application. According to an embodiment, the sub-display731may be arranged to be visible from the outside through at least one area in the first rear surface cover714. In another embodiment, the sub-display731may be arranged on the fourth surface722of the second housing720. In this case, the sub-display731may be arranged to be visible from the outside through at least one area in the second rear surface cover724.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device700may include at least one of an input device703(e.g., a microphone), sound output devices701,702, a sensor module704, camera devices705,708, a key input device706, and a connector port707. In the illustrated embodiment, the input device703(e.g., a microphone), the sound output devices701,702, the sensor module704, the camera devices705,708, the key input device706, or the connector port707are indicated as holes or shapes formed in the first housing710or the second housing720, but may be defined as including substantial electronic components (e.g., an input device, a sound output device, a sensor module, or a camera device) operating through the holes or shapes.

According to various embodiment, the input device703may include at least one microphone arranged in the second housing720. In another embodiment, the input device703may include a plurality of microphones arranged to sense the direction of sound. In another embodiment, the plurality of microphones may be arranged at appropriate positions in the first housing710and/or the second housing720. According to various embodiment, the sound output devices701,702may include speakers. According to an embodiment, the speakers may include a call receiver701arranged in the first housing710and a speaker702arranged in the second housing720. In another embodiment, the input device703, the sound output devices701,702, and/or the connector port707are provided in the first housing710and/or the second housing720of the electronic device700, and may be exposed to the external environment through one or more holes formed in the first housing710and/or the second housing720. According to an embodiment, at least one connector port707may be used to transmit/receive power and/or data with respect to an external electronic device. In another embodiment, the at least one connector port707(e.g., an ear jack hole) may accommodate a connector (e.g., an ear jack) for transmitting/receiving an audio signal with respect to an external electronic device. In another embodiment, the holes formed in the first housing710and/or the second housing720may be commonly used for the input device703and the sound output devices701,702. In another embodiment, the sound output devices 70,702may include a speaker (e.g., a piezo speaker) that operates without holes formed in the first housing710and/or the second housing720.

According to various embodiments, the sensor module704may generate an electrical signal or a data value corresponding to an internal operating state of the electronic device700or an external environmental state. The sensor module704may detect an external environment through the first surface711of the first housing710. In another embodiment, the electronic device700may further include at least one sensor module arranged to detect an external environment through the second surface712of the first housing710. According to an embodiment, the sensor module704(e.g., an illuminance sensor) may be arranged under the flexible display730in order to detect an external environment through the flexible display730. According to an embodiment, the sensor module704may include at least one of a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, an atmospheric 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, an illuminance sensor, a proximity sensor, a biometric sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, or an illuminance sensor704.

According to various embodiments, the camera devices705,708may include a first camera device705(e.g., a front camera device) arranged on the first surface711of the first housing710and/or a second camera device708arranged on the second surface712of the first housing710. The electronic device700may further include a flash709arranged near the second camera device708. According to an embodiment, the camera devices705,708may include one or more lenses, an image sensor, and/or an image signal processor. For example, the flash709may include a light emitting diode or a xenon lamp. According to an embodiment, the camera devices705,708may be arranged such that two or more lenses (e.g., a wide-angle lens, an ultra-wide-angle lens, or a telephoto lens) and image sensors are located on one surface (e.g., the first surface711, the second surface712, the third surface721, or the fourth surface722) of the electronic device700. In another embodiment, the camera devices705,708may include lenses for time-of-flight (TOF) and/or image sensors.

According to various embodiments, the key input device706(e.g., a key button) may be arranged on the third side surface713cof the first side frame713of the first housing710. In another embodiment, the key input device706may be arranged on at least one of the other side surfaces713a,713bof the first housing710and/or the side surfaces723a,723b,723cof the second housing720. In another embodiment, the electronic device700may not include some or all of the key input devices706, and a key input device706not included in the electronic device700may be implemented in another form such as a touch key or a soft key on the flexible display730. In another embodiment, the key input device706may be implemented using a pressure sensor included in the flexible display730.

According to various embodiments, some of the camera devices705,708(e.g., the first camera device705) or the sensor module704may be arranged to be exposed through the flexible display730. For example, the first camera device705or the sensor module704may be arranged to be in contact with the external environment through an opening (e.g., a through hole) formed at least partially in the flexible display730in the inner space of the electronic device700. In another embodiment, some sensor modules704may be arranged in the space inside the electronic device700to perform the functions thereof without being visually exposed through the flexible display730. For example, in this case, an area of the flexible display730that faces the sensor module may not need to be opened. As another example, without the flexible display730opening, a position corresponding to the sensor module704and/or the camera devices705,708may be formed to have a higher transmittance than a peripheral area. In this case, the area corresponding to the sensor module704and/or the camera devices705,708of the flexible display730may be formed to have a pixel and/or wiring structure omitted, or to have a lower pixel density and/or wiring density than a peripheral area.

Referring toFIG.21B, the electronic device700may be operated to maintain an intermediate state through the hinge module740. For example, in the case of intermediate state, the angle between the first housing710and the second housing720may be greater than 0 degrees and less than 180 degrees. In an embodiment, in the case of intermediate state, the electronic device700may control the flexible display730to display different contents on the display area corresponding to the first surface711and the display area corresponding to the third surface721. For example, in the case of intermediate state, the electronic device700may display a video on the first area730aof the flexible display730and may display a controller capable of controlling the video on the second area730b. According to an embodiment, the electronic device700may be operated in a substantially unfolding state (e.g., an unfolding state inFIG.20A) and/or a substantially folding state (e.g., a folding state inFIG.21A) through the hinge module740based on a predetermined bend angle (e.g., an angle between the first housing710and the second housing720in the intermediate state). For example, in a case that a pressing force is provided in an unfolding direction (B direction) in a state in which the electronic device700is unfolded at a predetermined bend angle through the hinge module740, the electronic device700may be operated to transit into an unfolding state (e.g., an unfolding state inFIG.20A). For example, in a case that a pressing force is provided in a folding direction (C direction) in a state in which the electronic device700is unfolded at a predetermined bend angle through the hinge module740, the electronic device700may be operated to transit into a closed state (e.g., a folding state inFIG.21A). In an embodiment, the electronic device700may be operated to maintain an unfolding state (not illustrated) at various angles through the hinge module740.

Referring toFIG.22, according to various embodiments, the electronic device700may include a dielectric sheet732arranged to at least partially overlap the flexible display730. According to an embodiment, the dielectric sheet732may include at least one array antenna AR1, AR2, AR3(e.g., the array antenna AR inFIG.19) arranged in at least a partial area. For example, the at least one array antenna AR1, AR2, AR3may include a first array antenna AR1, a second array antenna AR2, and/or a third array antenna AR3. According to an embodiment, the at least one array antenna AR1, AR2, AR3may include a first array antenna AR1arranged in an area overlapping the first housing710, a second array antenna AR2and third array antenna AR3arranged in an area overlapping the second housing720in the dielectric sheet732when the flexible display730is viewed from above. According to an embodiment, the first array antenna AR1may be arranged at a position overlapping the first protective cover715arranged on the first housing710when the flexible display730is viewed from above. In this case, when the flexible display730is viewed from above, the area of the first protective cover715overlapping the first array antenna AR1may include a non-conductive material (e.g., a polymer material). In another embodiment, the first array antenna AR1may be arranged at a position overlapping the first flat area730aof the flexible display730when the flexible display730is viewed from above. According to an embodiment, the second array antenna AR2and/or the third array antenna AR3may be arranged at a position overlapping the second protective cover arranged on the second housing720when the flexible display730is viewed from above. In this case, when the flexible display730is viewed from above, the area of the second protective cover725overlapping the second array antenna AR1or the third array antenna AR3may include a non-conductive material (e.g., a polymer material). In another embodiment, the second array antenna AR2and/or the third array antenna AR3may be arranged to a position overlapping the second flat area730bof the flexible display730when the flexible display730is viewed from above. In another embodiment, the at least one array antenna AR1, AR2, AR3may be arranged at a position overlapping a bendable area730cwhen the flexible display730is viewed from above. In this case, the dielectric sheet732may be formed of a bendable material. According to an embodiment, the first array antenna AR1, the second array antenna AR2, and/or the third array antenna AR3may form a beam pattern in a direction the flexible display730is facing when the electronic device700is in an unfolding state. In another embodiment, the first array antenna AR1, the second array antenna AR2, and/or the third array antenna AR3may be replaced with one mesh pattern part (e.g., the mesh pattern part510inFIG.5C) arranged on the dielectric sheet732.

FIG.22illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of an electronic device700taken along line 22-22 ofFIG.20Baccording to an embodiment of the disclosure.

Referring toFIG.22, the electronic device700may include the flexible display730arranged through at least a portion of the inner space7101of the first housing710. According to an embodiment, the flexible display730may include a window layer731, a dielectric sheet732including a first array antenna AR1arranged under the window layer731, a display panel733arranged under the dielectric sheet732, a polymer layer734arranged under the display panel733, and/or a metal sheet layer735. According to an embodiment, the window layer731may include a polymer member (e.g., PET) and a glass member (e.g., UTG or polyimide) arranged under the polymer member. According to an embodiment, the flexible display730may include a polarizer (e.g., POL) arranged on the display panel733. According to an embodiment, the polymer layer734may be applied with a dark color (e.g., black) to help implement a background when the display is turned off. According to an embodiment, the polymer layer734may operate as a cushion to absorb an impact from the outside of the electronic device700to prevent damage of the flexible display730. According to an embodiment, the metal sheet layer735may help to reinforce stiffness of the electronic device700, shield ambient noise, and be used for dissipating a heat emitted from peripheral heat emitting components. According to an embodiment, the metal sheet layer735may include at least one of steel use stainless (SUS) (e.g., stainless steel (STS)), Cu, Al, or CLAD (e.g., a stacked member in which SUS and Al are alternately arranged). In another embodiment, the metal sheet layer735may include other alloy materials. According to an embodiment, the flexible display730may include at least one functional member (not illustrated) arranged between the polymer layer734and the metal sheet layer735. According to an embodiment, the functional member may include at least one of a graphite sheet for heat dissipation, a force touch FPCB, a fingerprint sensor FPCB, a communication antenna radiator, a heat dissipation sheet, a conductive/non-conductive tape, and a detection member for detecting an input by a writing member of an electromagnetic induction method. According to an embodiment, the detecting member may include a digitizer.

According to various embodiments, the first array antenna AR1arranged on the dielectric sheet732may be arranged at a position overlapping the first protective cover715when the flexible display730is viewed from above. In this case, when the flexible display730is viewed from above, the area of the first protective cover715overlapping the first array antenna AR1may include a non-conductive material7151. In another embodiment, the first array antenna AR1may be arranged at a position overlapping the active area of the display panel733instead of the first protective cover715when the flexible display730is viewed from above.

FIG.23illustrates a constitution view of a dielectric sheet810in which a touch sensor800and an antenna AR are arranged together through conductive lines815according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

Referring toFIG.23, the electronic device may include a dielectric sheet810and a touch sensor800including a plurality of electrode pattern parts820,830formed on the dielectric sheet810. According to an embodiment, the dielectric sheet810may include a first region801and a second region802at least partially encompassing the first region801. According to an embodiment, the first area801may include an area facing the active area (display area) of the display. According to an embodiment, the second area802may include an area facing the inactive area (a non-display area) of the display.

According to various embodiments, the plurality of electrode pattern parts820,830may include first electrode pattern parts820arranged at a predetermined interval along a first direction and second electrode pattern parts830arranged between the first electrode pattern parts820at predetermined intervals along a second direction intersecting the first direction. According to an embodiment, the first electrode pattern parts820and the second electrode pattern parts830may arranged in the first area801of the dielectric sheet810to be segmented through a gap8011formed by cutting at least a portion of the unit patterns816formed by the plurality of conductive lines815. According to an embodiment, each of the second electrode pattern parts830may be electrically connected through a conductive bridge840and/or conductive vias841. According to an embodiment, the touch sensor800may include a capacitive touch sensor. According to an embodiment, the touch sensor800may include the first electrode pattern parts820, the second electrode pattern parts830, and a touch control circuit (e.g., a touch display driver IC (TDDI)). According to an embodiment, the first electrode pattern parts820and the second electrode pattern parts830may be electrically connected to a wiring structure arranged in the second area802of the dielectric sheet810, and the wiring structure may be electrically connected to the printed circuit board (e.g., the printed circuit board340inFIG.3C) of the electronic device through the FPCB. According to an embodiment, the FPCB may include a touch display driver IC (TDDI).

According to various embodiments, an array antenna AR arranged on at least a portion of the first area801of the dielectric sheet810may be included. According to an embodiment, the array antenna AR may include a first mesh pattern part811, a second mesh pattern part812, a third mesh pattern part813, and/or a fourth mesh pattern part814. The first mesh pattern part811, the second mesh pattern part812, the third mesh pattern part813, and/or the fourth mesh pattern part814may have, for example, substantially the same electrical wiring structure as the mesh pattern part510inFIG.5C. According to an embodiment, the first mesh pattern part811, the second mesh pattern part812, the third mesh pattern part813, and/or the fourth mesh pattern part814may be arranged to be segmented from the peripheral conductive lines815through a gap8012formed by cutting at least a portion of the plurality of conductive lines815. According to an embodiment, the size of the first mesh pattern part811, the second mesh pattern part812, the third mesh pattern part813, and/or the fourth mesh pattern part814are formed to be smaller than the size of the electrode pattern parts820,830for the touch sensor800, so touch operation may not be affected.

FIGS.24A and24Billustrate a front perspective view of an electronic device900in a slide-in state and a slide-out state according to various embodiments of the disclosure.

FIGS.25A and25Billustrate a rear perspective view of an electronic device900in a slide-in state and a slide-out state according to various embodiments of the disclosure.

The electronic device900ofFIG.24Amay be at least partially similar to the electronic device101ofFIG.1or may further include other embodiments of an electronic device.

Referring toFIGS.24A,24B,25A, and25B, an electronic device900may include a housing910(e.g., a housing structure) and a slide plate960that is at least partially movably coupled from the housing910and supports at least a portion of the flexible display930. According to an embodiment, the slide plate960may include a bendable hinge rail (not illustrated) coupled to an end and supporting at least a portion of the flexible display930. For example, in a case that the slide plate960performs a sliding operation in the housing910, the hinge rail may be drawn into the inner space of the housing910while supporting the flexible display930. According to an embodiment, the electronic device900may include the housing910including a front surface910a(e.g., a first surface) facing a first direction (e.g., z-axis direction), a rear surface910b(e.g., a second surface) facing a second direction (e.g., -z-axis direction) opposite to the first direction, and a lateral member940encompassing the space between the front surface910aand the rear surface910band including a side surface910cat least partially exposed to the outside. According to an embodiment, the rear surface910bmay be formed through a rear cover921coupled to the housing910. According to an embodiment, the rear cover921may be formed of at least one of polymer, coated or colored glass, ceramic, metal (e.g., aluminum, stainless steel (STS), or magnesium), or any combination of at least two of the above materials. In another embodiment, the rear surface921may be formed integrally with the housing910. According to an embodiment, at least a portion of the side surface910cmay be arranged to be exposed to the outside through the housing910.

According to various embodiments, the lateral member940may include a first side941having a first length, and a second side extending in a direction perpendicular to the first side941and having a second length longer than the first length, a third side943extending parallel to the first side941from the second side942and having the first length, and a fourth944extending parallel to the second side942from the third side943and having the second length. According to an embodiment, the slide plate960supports the flexible display930and opens the flexible display930in a direction (e.g., x-axis direction) from the second side942to the fourth side944(slide-out), thereby extending the display area of the flexible display930, or closes the flexible display930in a direction (e.g., -x-axis direction) from the fourth side944to the second side942(slide-in), thereby reducing the display area of the flexible display930. According to an embodiment, the electronic device900may include a first side cover940aand a second side cover940bfor covering the first side941and the third side943. According to an embodiment, the first side941and the third side943may be arranged so as not to be exposed to the outside through the first side cover940aand the second side cover940b.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device900may include a flexible display930arranged to be supported by the slide plate960. According to an embodiment, the flexible display930may include a flat portion231supported by the slide plate960and a bendable portion930bextending from the flat portion930aand supported by the hinge rail961. According to an embodiment, the bendable portion930bof the flexible display930may be arranged to be drawing in the inner space of the housing910to prevent exposure to the outside when the electronic device900is in a closed state (e.g., a state in which the slide plate960is drawn into the housing910), and may be exposed to the outside to extend from the flat portion931while being supported by the hinge rail when the electronic device900is in an open state (e.g., a state in which the slide plate960is drawn out from the housing910). Accordingly, the electronic device900may include a rollable type or a slideable type electronic device in which the area of the display screen of the flexible display930is changed according to the movement of the slide plate960from the housing910.

According to various embodiments, the slide plate960may be movably coupled in a sliding manner so as to be at least partially retracted or drawn out from the housing910. For example, in the closed state, the electronic device900may be constituted to have a first width w1 from the second side942to the fourth side944. According to an embodiment, in the open state, the electronic device900may be constituted to have a third width w greater than the first width w1 as the hinge rail having a second width w2 drawn into the housing910moves to the outside of the electronic device.

According to various embodiments, the slide plate960may be operated through a user’s manipulation. In another embodiment, the slide plate960may be automatically operated through a driving mechanism arranged in the inner space of the housing910. According to an embodiment, when the electronic device900detects an event for opening/closing state transition of the electronic device900through a processor (e.g., the processor120inFIG.1), the electronic device900may be configured to control the operation of the slide plate960through the driving mechanism. In another embodiment, the processor (e.g., the processor120inFIG.1) of the electronic device900may control to display an object in various way and execute an application program in response to the changed display area of the flexible display930according to the open state, closed state, or intermediate state of the slide plate960.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device900may include at least one of an input device903, sound output devices906,907, sensor modules904.917, camera modules905,916, a connector port908, a key input device (not illustrated), or an indicator (not illustrated). In another embodiment, the electronic device900may omit at least one of the above-mentioned components, or may additionally include other components.

According to various embodiments, the input device903may include a microphone903. In another embodiment, the input device903may include a plurality of microphones903arranged to sense the direction of sound. The sound output devices906,907may include speakers906,907. The speakers906,907may include an external speaker906and a phone call receiver907. In another embodiment, the sound output devices906,907may include a speaker (e.g., a piezo speaker) that operates without a separate speaker hole906.

According to various embodiments, the sensor modules904,917may generate an electrical signal or a data value corresponding to the internal operating state of the electronic device900or an external environmental state. The sensor modules904,917may include, for example, a first sensor module904(e.g., a proximity sensor or an illuminance sensor) arranged on the front surface of the electronic device and/or a second sensor module917(e.g., an HRM sensor) arranged on the rear surface of the electronic device. According to an embodiment, the first sensor module904may be arranged below the flexible display930in the front surface910aof the electronic device900. According to an embodiment, the first sensor module904may further include at least one of a proximity sensor, an illuminance sensor904, a time of flight (TOF) sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, a fingerprint recognition sensor, a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, an atmospheric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a color sensor, an infrared (IR) sensor, a biometric sensor, a temperature sensor, and a humidity sensor.

According to various embodiments, the camera devices905,916may include a first camera device905arranged on the front surface910aof the electronic device900and a second camera916arranged on the rear surface910bof the electronic device900. According to an embodiment, the electronic device900may include a flash918arranged in the vicinity of the second camera916. According to an embodiment, the camera devices905,916may include one or more lenses, an image sensor, and/or an image signal processor. According to an embodiment, the first camera device905may be arranged under the flexible display930, and may be constituted to image an object through a part of the active area of the flexible display930. According to an embodiment, the flash918may include, for example, a light-emitting diode or a xenon lamp. In another embodiment, two or more lenses (e.g., a wide-angle lens and a telephoto lens) and image sensors may be arranged on one surface of the electronic device900.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device900may include at least one antenna (not illustrated). According to an embodiment, the at least one antenna may wirelessly communicate with an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device104inFIG.1), or may wirelessly transmit/receive the power required for charging. According to an embodiment, the antenna may include a legacy antenna, a mmWave antenna, a nearfield communication (NFC) antenna, a wireless charging antenna, and/or a magnetic secure transmission (MST) antenna.

According to various embodiments, the housing910(e.g., a side frame) may be at least partially formed of a conductive material (e.g., a metal material). According to an embodiment, at least the first side941and/or the third side943of the housing910, which are not involved in driving the slide plate960, may be formed of a conductive material, and may be divided into a plurality of conductive parts electrically insulated through the non-conductive material. According to an embodiment, the plurality of conductive parts is electrically connected to a wireless communication circuit (e.g., the wireless communication module192inFIG.1) arranged inside the electronic device900and may be used as antennas operating in various frequency bands.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device900may include a dielectric sheet932arranged to at least partially overlap the flexible display930in an inner space. According to an embodiment, the dielectric sheet932may be formed to have substantially the same size as the flexible display930. In another embodiment, the dielectric sheet932may be formed to have a smaller size than that of the flexible display930. According to an embodiment, the dielectric sheet932may include at least one array antenna AR1, AR2, AR3(e.g., the array antenna AR inFIG.19) arranged in at least a partial area. For example, the at least one array antenna AR1, AR2, AR3may include a first array antenna AR1, a second array antenna AR2, and/or a third array antenna AR3. According to an embodiment, the at least one array antenna AR1, AR2, AR3may include the first antenna array AR1and second antenna array AR2arranged in an area overlapping a flat portion930aand the third antenna array AR3arranged in an area overlapping a bendable portion930bin the dielectric sheet932when the flexible display930is viewed from above. According to an embodiment, the first antenna array AR1may be arranged near the fourth side944in an area overlapping the flat portion930awhen the flexible display930is viewed from above. According to an embodiment, the second antenna array AR2may be arranged near the first side941in an area overlapping the flat portion930awhen the flexible display930is viewed from above. According to an embodiment, the third antenna array AR3may be arranged near the first side941in an area overlapping the bendable portion930bwhen the flexible display930is viewed from above. In another embodiment, the first antenna array AR1and the second antenna array AR2may be arranged in the first side941, the second side942, or the third side943in an area overlapping the flat portion930awhen the flexible display930is viewed from above. In another embodiment, the third antenna array AR3may be arranged on at least a portion of the second side942or the third side943in an area overlapping the bendable portion930bwhen the flexible display930is viewed from above.

According to various embodiments, the first antenna array AR1and the second antenna array AR2may form a beam pattern in a first direction (e.g., z-axis direction) regardless of the closed state and/or open state of the electronic device900. According to an embodiment, in the case of the electronic device900in the open state, the third antenna array AR3may form a beam pattern in the first direction (e.g., z-axis direction). According to an embodiment, in the case of the electronic device900in the closed state, the third antenna array AR3may form a beam pattern in the second direction (e.g., -z-axis direction) according to the movement of the bendable portion930b. Accordingly, the electronic device900may be constituted to expand a beam coverage through the first antenna array AR1, the second antenna array AR2, and/or the third antenna array AR3according to a change in state. In another embodiment, in the case of the electronic device900in the closed state, the third antenna array AR3may be arranged to form a beam pattern at least partially in a direction (e.g., -x direction) toward which the second side surface942faces.

According to various embodiments of the disclosure, the at least one antenna array AR1, AR2, AR3may be constituted to form beam coverage in various directions according to a change in the position of the flexible display930according to a change in the state of the electronic device900. For example, the dielectric sheet932including the at least one array antenna AR1, AR2, AR3may be applied to an out-foldable electronic device that allows the flexible display to be visible from the outside in a folding state, or a multi-foldable electronic device in which three or more housings operate to be folded relative to each other in various ways.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device (e.g., the electronic device300inFIG.3C) includes a housing (e.g., the housing310inFIG.3A) including a front cover (e.g., the front cover302inFIG.3C), a rear cover (e.g., the rear plate311inFIG.3C) facing a direction (e.g., -z-axis direction inFIG.3C) opposite to the front cover, and a lateral member (e.g., the lateral member320inFIG.3C) encompassing a space between the front cover and the rear cover, a display panel (e.g., the display panel431inFIG.4) arranged in the space and visible from the outside through the front cover, a dielectric sheet (e.g., the dielectric sheet500inFIG.5C) arranged between the display panel and the front cover, a first mesh pattern part (e.g., the first mesh pattern part510inFIG.5C) formed through a plurality of first conductive lines in the dielectric sheet, and a wireless communication circuit (e.g., the wireless communication circuit591inFIG.5B) arranged in the space and electrically connected to the first mesh pattern part. The first mesh pattern part is formed so that an inner length d1 of a first line (e.g., the first line L1 inFIG.5C) passing through a first center (e.g., the center C inFIG.5C) of the first mesh pattern part and facing a first direction (e.g., the direction ① inFIG.5C) is formed to be longer than an inner length d2 of a second line (e.g., the second line L2 inFIG.5C) passing through the first center and facing a second direction (e.g., the direction ② inFIG.5C) perpendicular to the first direction. The first mesh pattern part includes at least one unit pattern (e.g., the unit pattern516inFIG.5C). The unit pattern may be formed so that an inner length d3 of a third line (e.g., the third line L3 inFIG.5C) passing through a second center (e.g., the center C' inFIG.5C) of the unit pattern and forming an angle in the range of 0 degrees to 45 degrees with the first direction is formed longer than an inner length d4 of a fourth line (e.g., the fourth line L4 inFIG.5C) perpendicular to the third line.

According to various embodiments, the dielectric sheet may include a second mesh pattern part (e.g., the second mesh pattern part520inFIG.5B) formed to be spaced apart from the first mesh pattern part at a predetermined interval. The wireless communication circuit may form a beam pattern in a direction (e.g., the z-axis direction inFIG.4) toward which the front cover faces through an array antenna (e.g., the array antenna AR1inFIG.4) including the first mesh pattern part and the second mesh pattern part.

According to various embodiments, the first mesh pattern part and the second mesh pattern part may be arranged in parallel with any one edge (e.g., the first edge5031inFIG.5C) of the dielectric sheet at a predetermined interval.

According to various embodiments, the first mesh pattern part may be arranged to overlap an active area (display area) of the display panel when the front surface cover is viewed from above.

According to various embodiments, at least one dummy pattern part formed through a plurality of second conductive lines to encompass at least a portion of the first mesh pattern part may be further included. The first mesh pattern part and the at least one dummy pattern part may be segmented with respect to each other through at least one gap spaced apart from each other by a predetermined interval between the plurality of first conductive lines and the plurality of second conductive lines.

According to various embodiments, the first mesh pattern part may include a first feed line (e.g., the first feed line511inFIG.5C) connected to a first point (e.g., the first side513inFIG.5C) of the first mesh pattern part and a second feed line (e.g., the second feed line512inFIG.5C) connected to a second point (e.g., the second side514inFIG.5C) of the first mesh pattern part spaced apart from the first point by a predetermined interval.

According to various embodiments, the wireless communication circuit may be configured to transmit and/or receive a first signal having a first polarization through the first feed line, and a second signal having a second polarization perpendicular to the first polarization through the second feed line.

According to various embodiments, the first feed line may include a first subline (e.g., the first subline5111inFIG.5C) vertically connected to the first point at a center of the first point and a second subline (e.g., the second subline5112inFIG.5C) extending perpendicular to the edge of the dielectric sheet from the first subline.

According to various embodiments, the second feed line may include a third subline (e.g., the third subline5121inFIG.5C) vertically connected to the second point at a center of the second point and a fourth subline (e.g., the fourth subline5122inFIG.5C) extending perpendicular to the edge from the third subline.

According to various embodiments, the first feed line may be connected to the first point in a direction perpendicular to the edge at a position farther from the edge of the dielectric sheet than the center of the first point.

According to various embodiments, the second feed line may be connected to the second point in a direction perpendicular to the edge at a position farther from the edge than the center of the second point.

According to various embodiments, the dielectric sheet may include a first area including the first mesh pattern part and a second area encompassing at least a portion of the first area, and may include a first feed pad (e.g., the first feed pad5021inFIG.5C) arranged in the second area and electrically connected to the first feed line and a second feed pad (e.g., the second feed pad5022inFIG.5C) arranged in the second area and electrically connected to the second feed line.

According to various embodiments, a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB) (e.g., the FPCB590inFIG.5C) attached to the dielectric sheet and electrically connected to the first feed line and the second feed line may be included.

According to various embodiments, a printed circuit board (e.g., the printed circuit board340inFIG.3C) arranged in the inner space may be further included, and the FPCB may be electrically connected to the printed circuit board.

According to various embodiments, the wireless communication circuit may be arranged on the FPCB or the printed circuit board.

According to various embodiments, a polarizer (e.g., the polarizer432inFIG.4) arranged between the front cover and the display panel may be further included, the dielectric sheet may be arranged between the polarizer and the front cover or between the polarizer and the display panel.

According to various embodiments, a touch sensor arranged between the front cover and the display panel may be further included, and the dielectric sheet may be arranged between the touch sensor and the front cover.

According to various embodiments, the wireless communication circuit may be configured to transmit and/or receive a wireless signal in a frequency band of 3 GHz to 100 GHz through the first mesh pattern portion.

According to various embodiments, a display includes a display panel (e.g., the display panel431inFIG.4), a dielectric sheet (e.g., the dielectric sheet500inFIG.5C) arranged on the display panel, and a first mesh pattern part (e.g., the first mesh pattern part510inFIG.5C) formed in the dielectric sheet through a plurality of conductive lines (e.g., the conductive lines515inFIG.5C) and operated as an antenna. The first mesh pattern part is formed so that an inner length d1 of a first line (e.g., the first line L1 inFIG.5C) passing through a first center (e.g., the center C inFIG.5C) of the first mesh pattern part and facing a first direction (e.g., the direction ① inFIG.5C) is formed to be longer than an inner length d2 of a second line (e.g., the second line L2 inFIG.5C) passing through the first center and facing a second direction (e.g., the direction ② inFIG.5C) perpendicular to the first direction. The first mesh pattern part includes at least one unit pattern (e.g., the unit pattern516inFIG.5C). The unit pattern may be formed so that an inner length d3 of a third line (e.g., the third line L3 inFIG.5C) passing through a second center (e.g., the center C′ inFIG.5C) of the unit pattern and forming an angle in the range of 0 degrees to 45 degrees with the first direction is formed longer than an inner length d4 of a fourth line (e.g., the fourth line L4 inFIG.5C) perpendicular to the third line.

According to various embodiments, the dielectric sheet may include a second mesh pattern part (e.g., the second mesh pattern part520inFIG.5B) formed to be spaced apart from the first mesh pattern part at a predetermined interval. The first mesh pattern part and the second mesh pattern part may operate as an array antenna (e.g., the array antenna AR1inFIG.4) in which a beam pattern is formed in a direction toward which the display panel faces.