Electronic device supporting signal radiation of antenna structure

An electronic device includes a housing including a first plate facing in a first direction, a second plate facing in a second direction, and a side member surrounding a space between the first plate and the second plate, a support member interposed between the first plate and the second plate and including a metallic structure, an antenna structure mounted on the support member and including a first surface facing in a third direction toward the side member, and a polymer structure disposed in a space surrounded by the first plate, the support member, the side member, and the first surface of the antenna structure, and coupled to the metallic structure. The coupled metallic structure and polymer structure includes a groove bounded by the first surface, a second surface on the polymer structure forming an acute angle with the first surface, and a third surface substantially perpendicular to the second surface.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

This application is based on and claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119 to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2019-0019468, filed on Feb. 19, 2019, in the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein its entirety.

BACKGROUND

One or more embodiments of the instant disclosure generally relate to an electronic device including an antenna structure.

2. Description of Related Art

Advancements in wireless protocols have been made to more efficiently transceive information associated with functions or services of electronic devices. For example, recently, implementation of the next generation mobile communication technology using signals in ultrahigh frequency bands called fifth generation (5G) has begun. Under the 5G protocol, high-speed and large capacity data transmission is possible due to the use of millimeter wave (mmWave) bands. The 5G protocol is promulgated by the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP).

Electronic devices supporting 5G may include an antenna structure disposed within that supports 5G. For example, the antenna structure may employ metallic structure (or coupled to at least a portion of the housing) corresponding to at least a portion of a housing as a radiator, and may be disposed in an area adjacent to the housing so as to ensure signal transmission/reception efficiency in accordance with signal characteristics (e.g., directionality) of the mmWave band.

SUMMARY

In arranging the structure of the antenna structure, a non-conductive structure may be disposed between the antenna structure and the housing to physically support the housing and/or to prevent moisture from being introduced onto the antenna structure. The non-conductive structure may be designed to have the shape corresponding to the shape of the housing at one area thereof (e.g., the area facing the housing) and a shape for avoiding the antenna structure at another area thereof (e.g., the area opposite to the housing). Due to its potentially irregular shape, the dielectric characteristic of the non-conductive structure may not be constant. Therefore, when signals radiated from the antenna structure are applied to the non-conductive structure, the radiated signals are affected by the variable dielectric characteristic of the non-conductive structure, and thus signal performance may be degraded.

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

In accordance with an aspect of the disclosure, an electronic device may include a housing including a first plate having an external surface facing in a first direction, a second plate having an external surface facing in a second direction opposite to the first direction, and a side member surrounding a first space between the first plate and the second plate and coupled to the second plate or integrated with the second plate, a support member coupled to the side member or integrated with the side member, interposed between the first plate and the second plate, and including a metallic structure, an antenna structure interposed between the first plate and the support member, mounted on the support member, including a first surface facing in a third direction toward the side member, and including at least one antenna pattern configured to output a directional beam facing in the third direction, a polymer structure disposed in a second space surrounded by the first plate, the support member, the side member, and the first surface of the antenna structure, and coupled to the metallic structure, and a wireless communication circuitry electrically connected with the antenna pattern to transmit and/or receive a signal having a frequency between 3 GHz and 100 GHz.

In accordance with another aspect of the disclosure, the coupled metallic structure and polymer structure may include at least one groove bounded by the first surface, a second surface on the polymer structure forming an acute angle with the first surface, and a third surface substantially perpendicular to the second surface.

Regarding the description of drawings, the same reference numerals will be assigned to the same components or corresponding components.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Accordingly, an aspect of the disclosure is to provide an electronic device where influence exerted on signals radiated from an antenna structure is minimized. This may be done by modifying an electronic device structure adjacent to the antenna structure.

Hereinafter, various embodiments of the disclosure may be described with reference to accompanying drawings. However, those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the disclosure is not limited to a specific embodiment, and modifications, equivalents, and/or alternatives on the various embodiments described herein can be variously made without departing from the scope and spirit of the disclosure.

FIG. 1is a view illustrating a rear surface of an electronic device according to an embodiment.

Referring toFIG. 1, an electronic device100may include a housing that defines the body of the electronic device100or at least a portion of the outer appearance of the electronic device100. According to an embodiment, the housing may include a first plate111(or rear plate) facing in a first direction, a second plate112(or front plate or cover glass) facing in a second direction opposite to the first direction, and a side member113disposed in at least a portion between edges of the first plate111and the second plate112to surround the space between the first plate111and the second plate112. The first plate111, the second plate112, and the side member113are coupled to each other in at least one area thereof to form the housing. An inner space of the electronic device100is encapsulated by the first plate111, the second plate112, and the side member113. In this regard, one area of the edge of the first plate111is curved with a specific curvature to extend in the second direction. In correspondence to the first plate111, one area of the edge of the second plate112is curved with a curvature identical to or similar to the specific curvature of the first plate111to extend in the first direction. In an embodiment, the side member113may be integrated with the second plate112and included as a portion of the second plate112. In this case, the housing of the electronic device100may be formed by coupling of the first plate111and the second plate112.

In an embodiment, at least one component of the electronic device100may be disposed in the inner space of the housing of the electronic device100. For example, a battery120that supplies power to various components of the electronic device100may be mounted in the inner space of the housing. In addition, an antenna structure supporting 5G mobile communication of the electronic device100may be, depending on the structure of the electronic device, mounted in a cavity area130formed adjacent to the mounting area of the battery120. For example, the cavity area130may be located at the lower part of the right edge of the electronic device100when the electronic device100is viewed in the second direction with the first plate111removed. According to various other embodiments, the above-described mounting area of the antenna structure is provided according to one embodiment, and the electronic device100may further include at least one other antenna structure in various other areas.

According to an embodiment, the structure of the electronic device100with the cavity area130may be modified to support the operation of the antenna structure mounted in the cavity area130(e.g., radiating signals at a specific frequency band). For example, the structure of the electronic device100facing at least a portion of the antenna structure may function as a medium for the signals radiated from the antenna structure. Accordingly, the shape of the structure of the electronic device100may be modified to have a relatively constant dielectric characteristic in order to minimize the influence exerted on the radiated signals. Hereinafter, the structure of the electronic device100for supporting signal radiation of the antenna structure will be described with reference to accompanying drawings.

FIG. 2Ais a perspective view illustrating the arrangement space of an antenna structure of an electronic device according to a first embodiment, andFIG. 2Bis a sectional view of the electronic device taken along A-A′ according to the first embodiment. InFIG. 2A, for illustration purposes, the first plate111is removed.

Referring toFIGS. 2A and 2B, the cavity area130corresponding to the arrangement space of an antenna structure140is formed in the inner space of the housing of the electronic device100. A support member150and a polymer structure160may be disposed in the inner space of the housing to define at least some surfaces or edges of the cavity area130. According to an embodiment, the support member150and the polymer structure160may replace certain portions of the side member113, or may be coupled to or integrated with the side member113to form a portion of the side member113.

According to different embodiments, the support member150may be coupled to one area of the side member113or may be formed integrally with the side member113. The support member150may extend inward into the inner space of the housing between, and may have a step152formed in one portion of the extended section. In addition, one end of the support member150extending from the step152may be bent at a specific angle (e.g. at a substantially right angle as shown inFIG. 2B) toward the first plate111to form the rib151. According to various different embodiments, the step152and a rib151may be formed through various processes. For example, the step152and the rib151may be coupled onto the support member150by welding. In the welding process of the step152and the rib151, the gap between the step152and the rib151may be determined based on the width or the thickness of the antenna structure140. According to one embodiment, the rib151may define the edge of the space in which the battery120is disposed in one direction, and the edge of the cavity area130in which the antenna structure140is disposed in an opposite direction. In other words, the rib151corresponding to one end of the support member150may separate the space in which the battery120is to be disposed from the space in which the antenna structure140is to be disposed.

In one embodiment, the antenna structure140may be interposed in the space between the support member150and the first plate111. For example, in the antenna structure140, at least a portion of a first surface10associated with forming a directional beam makes contact with the step152while facing the side member113(or the third direction ofFIG. 1). At the same time, at least a portion of a second surface20, which is opposite the first surface10, may be installed (or mounted) on the support member150to make contact with the rib151. Accordingly, a portion of the first surface10of the antenna structure140is supported or fixed by the step152of the support member150, and at least a portion of the second surface20may be supported or fixed to the rib151of the support member150.

In one embodiment, the antenna structure140installed (or mounted) on the support member150may include at least one antenna element. The at least one antenna element may include, for example, a shielding member141(e.g., a shield can) and a printed circuit board143having at least one dipole antenna pattern and at least one patch antenna pattern. In one embodiment, a power management integrated circuit (PMIC) and a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC) may be disposed inside the shielding member141. The antenna structure140may form a directional beam by performing beamforming in a direction (e.g., the third direction ofFIG. 1) corresponding to the side member113and/or a direction (e.g., the first direction ofFIG. 1) corresponding to the first plate111by using the at least one antenna element. In this regard, the support member150may include a structure to support beamforming by the antenna structure140. For example, the support member150may include a metallic structure in at least a portion thereof to function as a radiator of the antenna structure140. In addition, the first plate111may include a metallic structure in at least a portion thereof to function as a radiator of the antenna structure140.

In an embodiment, the polymer structure160may be disposed in a space formed by the side member113, the support member150, the antenna structure140, and the first plate111. For example, on a specific section of the side member113corresponding to the cavity area130, part of the polymer structure160is coupled to the side member113, and another part of the polymer structure160may be disposed to be coupled to the support member150(or the metallic structure included in the support member150). According to an embodiment, one area of the polymer structure160is implemented in a shape corresponding to the shape of the edge of the first plate111curved with a specific curvature to make contact with the edge of the first plate111. In addition, another area of the polymer structure160may make contact with the edge of the first surface10of the antenna structure140installed (or mounted) on the support member150. Accordingly, the polymer structure160may support at least the first plate111and the antenna structure140. In addition, the polymer structure160may block moisture from being introduced onto the antenna structure140from outside the device. According to an embodiment, at least one metal pattern may be disposed on a portion of the polymer structure160, and the antenna structure140may use the at least one metal pattern on the polymer structure160as a radiator.

According to an embodiment, after the support member150and the polymer structure160are coupled to each other, parts of the support member150and the polymer structure160may be removed. This may be done by partly removing (or cutting out) the support member150and the polymer structure160using a machining tool with a specific inclination. The removal may be done prior to seating the first plate111, the battery120, and the antenna structure140in the electronic device100. According to an embodiment, the specific inclination of the machining tool may be designed such that, when portions of the support member150and the polymer structure160are removed, a third surface30formed in the polymer structure160forms an acute angle with respect to the first surface10of the antenna structure140. In addition, the machining tool may be, for example, designed to be applied at a specific depth by the head end of the machining tool such that a fourth surface40is formed on the support member150and the polymer structure160when coupled to each other. The proportion of the portions of the fourth surface40disposed on the support member150and the polymer structure160depends on where the fourth surface40meets the boundary between the support member150and the polymer structure160.

According to an embodiment, through the process of partly removing the support member150and the polymer structure160when they are coupled to each other, at least one groove170may be formed in the support member150and the polymer structure160. The groove170may be defined by at least the third surface30and the fourth surface40substantially perpendicular to the third surface30. According to an embodiment, the at least one groove170may be referred to as an air gap because it represents a space where nothing is disposed.

In an embodiment, by creating this air gap, the width or thickness of the polymer structure160from the third surface30to the edge of the polymer structure160making contact with the edge of the first plate111may be relatively uniform. In this regard, when the width or thickness in this portion of the polymer structure160is uniform, the dielectric characteristic of the polymer structure160may be relatively constant, which may minimize the influence exerted on signals radiated from the adjacent antenna structure140. In addition, the air contained in the at least one groove170may also minimize the influence exerted on the signals radiated from the adjacent antenna structure140.

According to an embodiment, a display180may be disposed under the battery120and the support member150in the inner space of the housing of the electronic device100. According to an embodiment, the display180may be at least partly flexible such that its shape corresponds to the curved shape of the second plate112.

FIG. 3is a sectional view of an electronic device according to a second embodiment, andFIG. 4is a sectional view of an electronic device according to a third embodiment.FIGS. 3 and 4may illustrate the electronic devices in which the first plate111(seeFIG. 1), the second plate112(seeFIG. 1), and a side member113(seeFIG. 1) are coupled to each other. The cross sections may be taken along direction A-A′ illustrated inFIG. 1. Corresponding components of the electronic device100inFIGS. 1-4share the same element numerals, and duplicated descriptions thereof will be omitted below. Accordingly, referring toFIGS. 3 and 4, it can be understood that the components assigned with the same reference numerals as those inFIGS. 1-2Bhave the same structure or functional features unless otherwise specified.

Referring toFIG. 3, the at least one groove171formed in the support member150and the polymer structure160, when they are coupled to each other, may have various shapes depending on how parts of the support member150and the polymer structure160are removed through the air gap-creating process. That is, the machining tool used in the creation of the at least one groove171may include heads of various shapes. For example, the head of the machining tool may have a conical shape where the end is inclined with a specific inclination. In this case, the shape of the at least one groove171may be defined by the third surface30of the polymer structure160forming an acute angle with respect to the first surface10of the antenna structure140, and a fifth surface50and a sixth surface60formed corresponding to the conical shape of the end of the machining tool. In an embodiment, in the cross section shown inFIG. 3, the fifth surface50may form an obtuse angle with respect to the third surface30, and the sixth surface60may form an acute angle with respect to the third surface30. According to an embodiment, the machining tool may be designed be applied to a specific depth such that the fifth surface50is disposed on parts of the support member150and the polymer structure160.

According to an embodiment, the shape of the at least one groove171as described above may be modified depending on testing how the at least one groove171affects signals radiated from the antenna structure140. For example, using machining tool with variously-shaped heads, grooves having various shapes may be formed in the support member150and the polymer structure160, and signal radiation performance of the antenna structure140can be measured with respect to the variously-shaped grooves. The groove with the best performance may be selected. Through this operation, the mechanical stiffness of a particular surface formed by the at least one groove (e.g., the surface including the boundary of the support member150and the polymer structure160) is additionally considered, so the optimal shape of the at least one groove may be determined.

Referring toFIG. 4, in another embodiment, at least one groove172, which is open in at least one direction (e.g., a direction opposite to the third direction ofFIG. 1and/or the first direction ofFIG. 1), may be formed in the support member150and the polymer structure160. This type of groove172may be realized by applying the machining tool in the direction facing the second plate112(e.g., the second direction ofFIG. 1), such that portions of the polymer structure160and the support member150making contact with the first surface10of the antenna structure140are removed (or cut out) by a specific width or a specific thickness. As shown inFIG. 4, in one embodiment, all of the portion of the polymer structure160making contact with the first surface10is removed, while only a step cut-out is made in the support member150, such that a portion of the support member150is still making contact with the first surface10. Accordingly, the polymer structure160may include a seventh surface70formed by removal of the above-mentioned portion of the polymer structure160making contact with the first surface10of the antenna structure140. The seventh surface70may be spaced apart from the first surface10of the antenna structure140by a distance corresponding to the removed width or thickness.

According to an embodiment, within the housing of the electronic device100there may be a battery support member190to support the battery120disposed closely to the antenna structure140while the rib151is between the antenna structure140and the battery120. For example, the battery support member190may be coupled (e.g., welded) to one area of the support member150extending inward of the housing, between the first plate111and the second plate112. Alternatively, the battery support member190may be integrated with the support member150as a single component to support the battery120.

FIG. 5Ais a view illustrating a rear surface of an electronic device according to another embodiment,FIG. 5Bis a sectional view of an electronic device taken along line A-A′ ofFIG. 5Aaccording to a fourth embodiment, andFIG. 5Cis a view illustrating the applying of the machining tool to the electronic device according to the fourth embodiment. InFIG. 5A, the first plate111(seeFIG. 1) is removed for illustration purposes. InFIG. 5B, the first plate111, the second plate112(seeFIG. 1), and the side member113(seeFIG. 1) are coupled. Corresponding components of the electronic device100inFIGS. 1-5Bshare the same element numerals, and duplicated descriptions thereof will be omitted below. Accordingly, referring toFIGS. 5A and 5B, it can be understood that the components assigned with the same reference numerals as those inFIGS. 1-4have the same structure or functional features unless otherwise specified.

Referring toFIGS. 5A and 5B, according to an embodiment, the polymer structure160may include one area coupled to the support member150and having the shape of protruding by a specific length toward the second plate112(e.g., the second direction ofFIG. 1). For example, the polymer structure160may include a flat first area161coupled to a boundary area between the side member113and the support member150, and a second area162extending inward of the housing of the electronic device100from the first area161. The second area162may have the shape of protruding with a specific inclination toward the second plate112. In this case, the support member150coupled to the polymer structure160may be in the shape corresponding to the flat shape and the protruding shape of the polymer structure160. Due to the protrusion of the polymer structure160, the previously-shown step152of the support member150may have its height reduced or be removed entirely.

According to an embodiment, the polymer structure160having the above-described shape may include at least one first groove173and at least one second groove174to support beamforming by the antenna structure140installed (or mounted) on the support member150. In other words, according to an embodiment described with reference toFIGS. 5A and 5B, the at least one first groove173or174may be formed only in the polymer structure160and not in the support member. In one embodiment, the at least one groove173may be realized by applying the machining tool in a direction facing the second plate112(e.g., the second direction ofFIG. 1), such that at least a portion of the surface of the polymer structure160making contact with the first surface10of the antenna structure140are removed (or cut out) by a specific width or a specific thickness. This may be similar to at least one groove172described above with reference toFIG. 4. Accordingly, the polymer structure160may include an eighth surface71formed by this operation. In an embodiment, the at least one second groove174may be formed by removing a portion of the polymer structure160by the machining tool applied to the polymer structure160at a specific inclination.

In the embodiment described above with reference toFIG. 5B, the section of the electronic device100is illustrated along line A-A′ inFIG. 5A. Although not shown inFIG. 5B, a cross section may be made along a line parallel to A-A′ but in which the at least one first groove173is not made. In this cross section, the polymer structure160makes contact with the first surface10of the antenna structure140.

Referring toFIGS. 5B and 5C, the inclination of a machining tool200may be changed when it is applied to form the at least one second groove174. Accordingly, the at least one second groove174may include a ninth surface72formed as the machining tool200is applied with the first inclination and a tenth surface73formed as the machining tool200is applied with the second inclination.

According to an embodiment, the variation in the inclination for applying the machining tool200results in the eighth surface71, the ninth surface72, and the tenth surface73forming a relatively gentle curve.

According to an embodiment, for example, the rib151may extend from the support member150with the height substantially similar to the thickness (or the height) of the battery120adjacent to the rib151to stably support or fix the battery120adjacent to the rib151.

In an embodiment, the machining tool200may be applied to the polymer structure160by fixing the electronic device100on a die300using at least one jig310. The inclination of the die300is adjustable, and the machining tool200is vertically moved from above the die300to be applied to the polymer structure160. In this operation, the inclination of the die300may be one that avoids locking between the machining tool200and the rib151. For example, when the inclination of the die300is40degrees, locking between the machining tool200and the rib151may be avoided, but at the same time the at least one groove174may be formed by the machining tool200as it is introduced to the polymer structure160. On the other hand, if the inclination of the die300is50degrees, locking between the machining tool200and the rib151may occur such that part of the rib151may be accidentally removed by the machining tool. In this case, the height of the rib151may be reduced, and it may not support the battery120as well. Accordingly, the inclination of the die300may be determined to be in the range of 40 degrees to 50 degrees when the machining tool200is applied. As explained in connection withFIG. 5B, the inclination of the die300may change when forming the at least one second groove174. The embodiment shown inFIG. 5Cis only an example, and the instant disclosure is not limited to the range of 40-50 degrees. For example, the range may vary depending on the height of the rib151or the distance between the rib151and the polymer structure160.

FIG. 6Ais a sectional view of an electronic device along line A-A′ ofFIG. 1according to a fifth embodiment, andFIG. 6Bis a view illustrating a machining process of the electronic device according to the fifth embodiment.FIG. 6Aillustrates the electronic device when the first plate111(seeFIG. 1), the second plate112(seeFIG. 1), and the side member113(seeFIG. 1) are coupled to each other. Corresponding components of the electronic device100inFIGS. 1-6Bshare the same element numerals, and duplicated descriptions thereof will be omitted below. Accordingly, referring toFIGS. 6A and 6B, it can be understood that the components assigned with the same reference numerals as those inFIGS. 1-5Bhave the same structure or functional features unless otherwise specified.

Referring toFIGS. 6A and 6B, as one surface of the polymer structure160making contact with the first surface10of the antenna structure140is removed (or cut out), in a space formed by the side member113, the support member150, the antenna structure140, and the first plate111, at least one groove175may be formed in the polymer structure160. The groove175may be referred to as a recess that is recessed into a portion of the polymer structure160.

Regarding the process of forming the at least one groove175, the machining tool200including a body having a specific width W1(e.g., 1.2 mm) and a head having a specific width W2(e.g., 2.4 mm) is introduced between the rib151and the polymer structure160and is moved down as part of a first process while being spaced apart from the rib151by a specific distance (e.g., 0.15 mm), such that the portion of the polymer structure160aligned with the step152of the support member150(not shown) may be removed. After being moved down, the machining tool200is then moved back up and moved as part of a second process by a specific distance (e.g., 0.5 mm) toward the side member113. Thereafter, the machining tool200is moved down as part of a third process to the boundary between the support member150and the polymer structure160to remove (cut out) a portion of the eleventh surface80of the polymer structure160. Accordingly, a recess or groove175toward the side member113may be generated in the polymer structure160. According to an embodiment, the width W3from the rib151of the support member150to the newly-recessed eleventh surface80may be the sum of the distance (e.g., 2.7 mm) between the rib151and the step152, the thickness of the removed part of the polymer structure160in the first process, and the moved distance of the machining tool200toward the side member113in the second process.

FIG. 7Ais a view illustrating the arrangement space of an antenna structure of an electronic device according to a sixth embodiment, andFIG. 7Bis a sectional view of the electronic device taken along line A-A′ inFIG. 7Aaccording to the sixth embodiment. InFIG. 7A, the first plate111(seeFIG. 1) is removed. InFIG. 7B, the first plate111, the second plate112(seeFIG. 1), and the side member113(seeFIG. 1) are coupled. Corresponding components of the electronic device100inFIGS. 1-7Bshare the same element numerals, and duplicated descriptions thereof will be omitted below. Accordingly, referring toFIGS. 7A and 7B, it can be understood that the components assigned with the same reference numerals as those inFIGS. 1-6Bhave the same structure or functional features unless otherwise specified.

Referring toFIGS. 7A and 7B, the head of the machining tool200applied to the support member150and the polymer structure160, when they are coupled to each other, may have a curved shape. In this case, at least one groove177formed in the support member150and the polymer structure160may include a twelfth surface90curved in at least a portion thereof corresponding to the head of the machining tool200. In an embodiment, the machining tool200may be applied to a specific depth or height such that the twelfth surface90is disposed on parts of the support member150and the polymer structure160.

In an embodiment, the rib151formed on the support member150, as compared to previous embodiments, may be partly removed so that its height is reduced. This is to ensure that the machining tool can be properly applied to the support member150and the polymer structure160. Accordingly, the rib151of the support member150may include at least one opening153serving as an area corresponding to at least one groove177. According to an embodiment, instead of using a head with a curved surface, the twelfth surface90may be formed by a machining tool with a flat head. In this embodiment, the inclination at which the machining tool is applied may be gradually altered to create the curved surface of the groove177.

FIG. 8is a view illustrating the rear surface of an electronic device, according to still another embodiment.

Referring toFIG. 8, the polymer structure160making up part of the side member113may be separated from the side member113and may be included in one area of the first plate111(e.g., the rear plate). For example, the polymer structure160may be disposed to be matched with the support member150at a specific section of the side member113when the first plate111is coupled to the side member113. The polymer structure160may be inserted into an inner area of the edge of the first plate111curved with a specific curvature. According to an embodiment, the polymer structure160included in the inner area of the edge of the first plate111may be coupled to the first plate111or may be formed integrally with the first plate111. In an embodiment, the polymer structure160included in the first plate111may include at least one groove forming a specific inclination with respect to the first surface of the antenna structure140(e.g., reference numeral10ofFIG. 2B) or at least one groove parallel to the first surface10. In addition, due to the grooves, the polymer structure160may support signal radiation of the antenna structure140.

FIG. 9is a view illustrating an antenna structure according to an embodiment.

Referring toFIG. 9, the antenna structure140according to an embodiment may include the shielding member141(e.g., a shield can) described above and the printed circuit board143having at least one antenna pattern (e.g., a dipole antenna pattern and a patch antenna pattern), and may further include a heat radiation member145and a flexible printed circuit board147. According to one embodiment, the heat radiation member145may be formed to surround at least a portion of the shielding member141and the printed circuit board143, which are coupled to each other. Accordingly, the second surface20(seeFIG. 2B) of the above-described antenna structure140may be understood as one surface of the heat radiation member145. For example, one surface of the heat radiation member145makes contact with the shielding member141, and another surface bent and extending from that surface may make contact with the bottom surface of each of the shielding member141and the printed circuit board143. Alternatively, the one surface of the heat radiation member145makes contact with the shielding member141, and another surface of the heat radiation member145, which is bent and extending from that one surface, may make contact with the top surface of each of the shielding member141and the printed circuit board143. In an embodiment, the heat radiation member145may include at least one hole146for receiving a screw that couples the antenna structure to the support member150, for example as shown inFIG. 2B. In an embodiment, the heat radiation member145may be made with materials (e.g., copper) having excellent thermal conductivity to conduct heat generated from the shielding member141or the printed circuit board143away from the shielding member141or the printed circuit board143. In one embodiment, the flexible printed circuit board147may be electrically connected with a communication circuitry included in the electronic device100. A portion of the flexible printed circuit board147may be disposed between the heat radiation member145and the shielding member141so that the flexible printed circuit board147can be electrically connected with the printed circuit board143. The flexible printed circuit board147may transmit signal or data from at least one dipole antenna pattern and at least one patch antenna pattern included in the printed circuit board143to the communication circuitry and vice versa, thereby supporting the transmitting or receiving of signals having specific frequency bands (e.g., the frequency band in the range of 3 GHz and 100 GHz) using the antenna structure140.

FIG. 10is a view illustrating a rear surface of an electronic device according to still another embodiment,FIG. 11is a view illustrating the arrangement space of an antenna structure of an electronic device according to a seventh embodiment, andFIG. 12is a sectional view of the electronic device taken along line A-A′ ofFIG. 10according to the seventh embodiment. InFIGS. 10 and 11, for illustration purposes, the first plate111(seeFIG. 1) is removed. InFIG. 12, the first plate111, the second plate112(seeFIG. 1), and a side member113(seeFIG. 1) are coupled. Corresponding components of the electronic device100inFIGS. 1-12share the same element numerals, and duplicated descriptions thereof will be omitted below. Accordingly, referring toFIGS. 10-12, it can be understood that the components assigned with the same reference numerals as those inFIGS. 1-9have the same structure or functional features unless otherwise specified.

Referring toFIGS. 10, 11, and 12, according to an embodiment, the antenna structure140may be further disposed in the cavity area130(hereinafter, referred to as a second cavity area) formed at the upper end of the left edge of the electronic device100, in addition to the cavity area130ofFIG. 1(hereinafter referred to as a “first cavity area”) formed at the lower end of the right edge of the electronic device100. According to an embodiment, at least one camera module400may be disposed in an area adjacent to the second cavity area130. In this regard, the rib151, which is bent at a specific angle (e.g., substantially vertically) toward the first plate111from one area of the support member150, may separate the second cavity area130from an area410for disposing at least one camera module400and may support or fix at least a portion of each of the antenna structure140and at least one camera module400. Alternatively, the rib151may block heat generated from the antenna structure140from being conducted to the space adjacent to the at least one camera module400. At least one groove that may be formed without removing the rib151may be employed in the polymer structure160facing the antenna structure140.

In an embodiment, the polymer structure160coupled to the support member150may include at least one groove178formed by removing at least a portion of the polymer structure160. According to an embodiment, the at least one groove178may be formed in a process similar to the process described in connection toFIGS. 5A and 5B. For example, the at least one groove178may be formed by first applying the machining tool in the direction facing the second plate112(e.g., the second direction ofFIG. 1) to remove (or cut out) a portion of the surface of the polymer structure160making contact with the first surface10of the antenna structure140. Then, the machining tool may be applied with a specific inclination with respect to the removed surface of the polymer structure160. Alternatively, according to various embodiments, the at least one groove178may be formed using a process similar to the processes described in connection withFIGS. 2B, 3, 4, 6A, and/or7B.

As described above, according to an embodiment, the electronic device100may including a housing including a first plate111having an external surface facing in a first direction, a second plate112having an external surface facing in a second direction opposite to the first direction, and a side member113surrounding a first space between the first plate and the second plate and coupled to the second plate or integrated with the second plate, a support member150coupled to the side member or integrated with the side member, interposed between the first plate and the second plate, and including a metallic structure, an antenna structure140interposed between the first plate and the support member, mounted on the support member, including a first surface (e.g., reference numeral10ofFIG. 2B) facing in a third direction toward the side member, and including at least one antenna pattern configured to output a directional beam facing in the third direction, a polymer structure160disposed in a second space surrounded by the first plate, the support member, the side member, and the first surface of the antenna structure, and coupled to the metallic structure, and a wireless communication circuitry electrically connected with the antenna pattern and configured to transmit and/or receive a signal having a frequency between 3 GHz and 100 GHz.

According to an embodiment, the coupled metallic structure and polymer structure may include at least one groove bounded by the first surface, a second surface30(e.g.,FIG. 2B) on the polymer structure forming an acute angle with the first surface, and a third surface40(e.g.,FIG. 2B) substantially perpendicular to the second surface.

According to an embodiment, the antenna structure may be disposed at a lower area of a right edge of the electronic device when the electronic device is viewed in the second direction.

According to an embodiment, the support member and the polymer structure may be disposed at the lower area of the right edge of the electronic device.

According to an embodiment, the support member may include a step formed at one area extending away from the side member.

According to an embodiment, the support member may include a rib151formed at an end of the support member further away from the side member than the step, the rib extending from the end in the first direction.

According to an embodiment, the electronic device may further include the battery120disposed in a third space surrounded by the first plate, the second plate, and the support member, wherein the battery and the antenna structure are disposed on opposite sides of the rib.

According to an embodiment, the antenna structure may be mounted on the support member such that at least a portion of the first surface makes contact with the step of the support member, and at least a portion of a fourth surface, which is an opposite surface to the first surface, makes contact with the rib of the support member.

According to an embodiment, the polymer structure may include one area coupled to the metallic structure and another area coupled to the side member.

According to an embodiment, the first plate may include an edge area curved with a specific curvature and may extend in the second direction.

According to an embodiment, the polymer structure may include an area having a shape corresponding to a shape of the edge area of the first plate and making contact with the edge area of the first plate, and another area making contact with the first surface of the antenna structure.

According to an embodiment, the third surface may be disposed on at least a portion of the metallic structure and at least a portion of the polymer structure.

According to an embodiment, the at least one groove may be an air gap.

According to an embodiment, the antenna structure may include a patch antenna, a printed circuit board coupled to the at least one antenna pattern, a heat radiation member surrounding at least a portion of the printed circuit board and the patch antenna, and a flexible printed circuit board electrically connecting the patch antenna with the wireless communication circuitry.

As described above, according to an embodiment, an electronic device may include a housing including a first plate having an external surface facing in a first direction, a second plate having an external surface facing in a second direction opposite to the first direction, and a side member surrounding a first space between the first plate and the second plate, a support member coupled to the side member or integrated with the side member, interposed between the first plate and the second plate, and including a metallic structure, an antenna structure interposed between the first plate and the support member, mounted on the support member, including a first surface facing in a third direction toward the side member, and including at least one antenna pattern configured to output a directional beam facing in the third direction, a polymer structure coupled to the first plate or integrated with the first plate to be disposed in a second space surrounded by the first plate, the support member, the side member, and the first surface of the antenna structure, and coupled to the metallic structure, when the first plate and the side member are coupled to each other, and a wireless communication circuitry electrically connected with the antenna pattern and configured to transmit and/or receive a signal having a frequency between 3 GHz and 100 GHz.

According to an embodiment, the polymer structure may include at least one groove forming a specific inclination with the first surface of the antenna structure, when the first plate and the side member are coupled to each other.

According to an embodiment, the polymer structure may include at least one groove having a surface at an inclination with the first surface of the antenna structure, when the first plate and the side member are coupled to each other.

As described above, according to an embodiment, an electronic device may include a housing including a first plate having an external surface facing in a first direction, a second plate having an external surface facing in a second direction opposite to the first direction, and a side member surrounding a first space between the first plate and the second plate and coupled to the second plate or integrated with the second plate, a support member coupled to the side member or integrated with the side member, interposed between the first plate and the second plate, and including a metallic structure, an antenna structure interposed between the first plate and the support member, mounted on the support member, including a first surface facing in a third direction toward the side member, and including at least one antenna pattern configured to output a directional beam facing in the third direction, a polymer structure disposed in a second space surrounded by the first plate, the support member, the side member, and the first surface of the antenna structure, and coupled to the metallic structure, and a wireless communication circuitry electrically connected with the antenna pattern and configured to transmit and/or receive a signal having a frequency between 3 GHz and 100 GHz.

According to an embodiment, the coupled metallic structure and polymer structure may include at least one groove bounded by the first surface, a second surface on the polymer structure forming an acute angle with the first surface, a third surface forming an obtuse angle with the second surface; and a fourth surface forming an acute angle with the second surface.

According to an embodiment, the support member may include a step formed at one area extending away from the side member, and a rib formed at an end of the support member further away from the side member than the step, the rib extending from the end in the first direction.

According to an embodiment, the electronic device may further include a battery disposed in a third space surrounded by the first plate, the second plate, and the support member, wherein the battery and the antenna structure are disposed on opposite sides of the rib.

According to an embodiment, the antenna structure may be mounted on the support member such that at least a portion of the first surface makes contact with the step of the support member, and at least a portion of a fifth surface, which is an opposite surface to the first surface, makes contact with the rib of the support member.

FIG. 13is a front perspective view of an electronic device according to an embodiment,FIG. 14is a rear perspective view of the electronic device according to an embodiment, andFIG. 15is an exploded perspective view of the electronic device according to an embodiment.

Referring toFIGS. 13 and 14, according to an embodiment, an electronic device1300may include a housing1310including a first surface1310A (or a front surface), a second surface1310B (or a rear surface), and a side surface1310C surrounding the space between the first surface1310A and the second surface1310B. In another embodiment (not illustrated), a housing may be referred to as the structure forming some of the first surface1310A, the second surface1310B, and the side surface1310C ofFIG. 1. According to an embodiment, the first surface1310A may include a front plate1302(e.g., a glass plate or a polymer plate including various coating layers) substantially transparent in at least a portion thereof. The second surface1310B may include a rear plate1311substantially opaque. The rear plate1311may include, for example, coated or colored glass, ceramic, polymer, metal (e.g., aluminum, stainless steel (STS), or magnesium) or the combination of the above materials. The side surface1310C may include a side bezel structure (or “side member”)1318which is coupled to the front plate1302and the rear plate1311, and includes metal and/or polymer. In an embodiment, the rear plate1311and the side bezel structure1318may be formed integrally with each other and may include the same material (e.g., a metallic material such as aluminum).

In the illustrated embodiment, the front plate1302may include two first areas1310D, which are bent toward the rear plate1311from the first surface1310A while seamlessly extending, at opposite long edge ends of the front plate1302. In an embodiment illustrated (seeFIG. 14), the rear plate1311may include two second areas1310E, which are bent toward the front plate1302from the second surface1310B while seamlessly extending, at opposite long edge ends of the rear plate1311. In an embodiment, the front plate1302(or the rear plate1311) may include only one of the first areas1310D (or the second areas1310E). In another embodiment, some of the first areas1310D or the second areas1310E may not be included. In embodiments, when viewed from the side surface of the electronic device1300, the side bezel structure1318may have a first thickness (or width) at the side surface having no first area1310D or second area1310E, and may have a second thickness thinner than the first thickness at the side surface including the first areas1310D or the second areas1310E.

According to an embodiment, the electronic device1300includes at least one of a display1301, audio modules1303,1307and1314, sensor modules1304,1316and1319, camera modules1305,1312and1313, a key input device1317, a light emitting device1306, or connector holes1308and1309. In an embodiment, the electronic device1300may omit at least one (e.g., the key input device1317or the light emitting device1306) of components or may include other components.

The display1301may be exposed, for example, through a substantial portion of the front plate1302. In an embodiment, at least a portion of the display1301may be exposed through the front plate1302including the first surface1310A and the first areas1310D of the side surface1310C. In an embodiment, the edge of the display1301may be formed substantially identically to the shape of an adjacent outer shape of the front plate1302. According to another embodiment (not illustrated), to expand an area for exposing the display1301, the distance between an outer portion of the display1301and an outer portion of the front plate1302may be substantially uniformly formed.

In another embodiment (not illustrated), a recess or an opening is formed in a portion of a screen display area of the display1301. In addition, at least one of the audio module1314, the sensor module1304, the camera module1305, or the light emitting device1306aligned in line with the recess or the opening may be included in the portion of the screen display area of the display1301. In another embodiment (not illustrate), at least one of the audio module1314, the sensor module1304, the camera module1305, the fingerprint sensor1316, or a light emitting device1306may be included in a rear surface of the screen display area of the display1301. In another embodiment (not illustrated), the display1301may be coupled or disposed adjacent to a touch sensing circuit, a pressure sensor to measure the intensity (pressure) of a touch, and/or a digitizer to detect the stylus pen based on an electromagnetic scheme. In an embodiment, at least some of the sensor modules1304and1319and/or at least a portion of the key input device1317may be disposed in the first areas1310D and/or the second areas1310E

The audio modules1303,1307, and1314may include the microphone hole1303and speaker holes1307and1314. The microphone hole1303may have a microphone disposed therein to obtain an external sound. In an embodiment, the microphone hole1303may have a plurality of microphones disposed therein to sense the direction of a sound. The speaker holes1307and1314may include the external speaker hole1307and the receiver hole1314for conversation. In an embodiment, the speaker holes1307and1314and the microphone hole1303may be implemented into one hole or a speaker may be included without the speaker holes1307and1314(e.g., a piezoelectric speaker).

In an embodiment, the sensor modules1304,1316, and1319may generate electrical signals or data values corresponding to an internal operating state or an external environment state of the electronic device1300. The sensor modules1304,1316and1319may, for example, include the first sensor module1304(e.g., a proximity sensor) and/or a second sensor module (not illustrated) (e.g., a fingerprint sensor) disposed on the first surface1310A of the housing1310, and/or the third sensor module1319(e.g., a HRM sensor) and/or the fourth sensor module1316(e.g., a fingerprint sensor) disposed on the second surface1310B of the housing1310. The fingerprint sensor may be disposed on the second surface1310B as well as the first surface1310A (e.g., the display1301) of the housing1310. The electronic device1300may further include a sensor module (is not illustrated), for example, 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 the illuminance sensor1304.

The camera modules1305,1312and1313may include the first camera device1305disposed on the first surface1310A of the electronic device1300and the second camera device1312and/or the flash1313disposed on the second surface1310B. The camera devices1305and1312may include one or a plurality of lenses, an image sensor, and/or an image signal processor. The flash1313may include, for example, a light emitting diode or a xenon lamp. In an embodiment, two or more lenses (infrared camera, a wide angle lens, and a telephoto lens) and image sensors may be disposed on one surface of the electronic device1300.

The key input device1317may be disposed on the side surface1310C of the housing1310. In another embodiment, the electronic device1300may not include some or an entire portion of the key input device1317and the key input device1317not included may be implemented in another form such as a soft key on the display1301. In another embodiment, the key input device may include the sensor module1316disposed on the second surface1310B of the housing1310.

The light emitting device1306may be, for example, disposed on the first surface1310A of the housing1310. The light emitting device1306may provide, for example, the status information of the electronic device1300in an optical form. In another embodiment, the light emitting device1306may provide, for example, a light source operating together with the operation of the cameral module1305. The light emitting device1306may include, for example, LED, IR LED, and Zenon lamps.

The connector holes1308and1309may include the first connector hole1308to receive a connector (e.g., a USB connector) to transceive power and/or data together with the external electronic device and/or the second connector hole (e.g., an ear-phone jack)1309to receive a connector to transceive an audio signal together with the external electronic device

Referring toFIG. 15, the electronic device1300may include the side bezel structure1318, a first support member1311(e.g., a bracket), a front plate1320, a display1330, a printed circuit board1340, a battery1350, a second support member1360(e.g., a rear case), an antenna1370and a rear plate1380. In an embodiment, the electronic device1300may omit at least one (e.g., the first support member1311or the second support member1360) of components or may additionally include other components. At least one of components of the electronic device1300may be identical to or similar to at least one of components of the electronic device1300ofFIG. 13orFIG. 14, and the duplicated description thereof will be omitted.

The first support member1311is disposed in the electronic device1300to be coupled to the side bezel structure1318or to be integrated with the side bezel structure1318. The first support member1311may include, for example, a metallic material and/or a non-metallic material (e.g., polymer). The first support member1311may have one surface coupled to the display1330and an opposite surface coupled to the printed circuit board1340. A processor, a memory, and/or an interface may be mounted on the printed circuit board1340. The processor may include, for example, one or more of a central processing unit, an application processor, a graphic processing unit, an image signal processor, a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor

The memory may include, for example, a volatile memory and/or a non-volatile memory.

The interface may include, for example, a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB) interface, an SD card interface, and/or an audio interface. The interface may, for example, electrically or physically connect the electronic device1300with the external electronic device and may include a USB connector, an SD card/MMC connector, or an audio connector.

The battery1350may include a device to supply power to at least one component of the electronic device1300, for example, a non-rechargeable primary battery, or a rechargeable secondary battery, or a fuel cell. At least a portion of the battery1350may be, for example, substantially aligned in line with the printed circuit board1340. The battery1350may be disposed inside the electronic device1300integrally with the electronic device1300, and may be disposed detachably from the electronic device1300.

The antenna1370may be interposed between the rear plate1380and the battery1350. The antenna1370may include, for example, a near field communication (NFC) antenna, a wireless charging antenna, and/or a magnetic secure transmission (MST) antenna. The antenna1370may make local area network communication with an external device or may wirelessly transmit/receive power necessary for charging. In another embodiment, an antenna structure may be formed by a portion of the side bezel structure1318and/or the first support member1311or the combination of the side bezel structure1318and the first support member1311.

FIG. 16is a block diagram illustrating an electronic device1601in a network environment1600according to various embodiments. Referring toFIG. 16, the electronic device1601in the network environment1600may communicate with an electronic device1602via a first network1698(e.g., a short-range wireless communication network), or an electronic device1604or a server1608via a second network1699(e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). According to an embodiment, the electronic device1601may communicate with the electronic device1604via the server1608. According to an embodiment, the electronic device1601may include a processor1620, memory1630, an input device1650, a sound output device1655, a display device1660, an audio module1670, a sensor module1676, an interface1677, a haptic module1679, a camera module1680, a power management module1688, a battery1689, a communication module1690, a subscriber identification module (SIM)1696, or an antenna module1697. In some embodiments, at least one (e.g., the display device1660or the camera module1680) of the components may be omitted from the electronic device1601, or one or more other components may be added in the electronic device1601. In some embodiments, some of the components may be implemented as single integrated circuitry. For example, the sensor module1676(e.g., a fingerprint sensor, an iris sensor, or an illuminance sensor) may be implemented as embedded in the display device1660(e.g., a display).

The processor1620may execute, for example, software (e.g., a program1640) to control at least one other component (e.g., a hardware or software component) of the electronic device1601coupled with the processor1620, and may perform various data processing or computation. According to one embodiment, as at least part of the data processing or computation, the processor1620may load a command or data received from another component (e.g., the sensor module1676or the communication module1690) in volatile memory1632, process the command or the data stored in the volatile memory1632, and store resulting data in non-volatile memory1634. According to an embodiment, the processor1620may include a main processor1621(e.g., a central processing unit (CPU) or an application processor (AP)), and an auxiliary processor1623(e.g., a graphics processing unit (GPU), an image signal processor (ISP), a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor (CP)) that is operable independently from, or in conjunction with, the main processor1621. Additionally or alternatively, the auxiliary processor1623may be adapted to consume less power than the main processor1621, or to be specific to a specified function. The auxiliary processor1623may be implemented as separate from, or as part of the main processor1621.

The auxiliary processor1623may control at least some of functions or states related to at least one component (e.g., the display device1660, the sensor module1676, or the communication module1690) among the components of the electronic device1601, instead of the main processor1621while the main processor1621is in an inactive (e.g., sleep) state, or together with the main processor1621while the main processor1621is in an active state (e.g., executing an application). According to an embodiment, the auxiliary processor1623(e.g., an image signal processor or a communication processor) may be implemented as part of another component (e.g., the camera module1680or the communication module1690) functionally related to the auxiliary processor1623.

The memory1630may store various data used by at least one component (e.g., the processor1620or the sensor module1676) of the electronic device1601. The various data may include, for example, software (e.g., the program1640) and input data or output data for a command related thereto. The memory1630may include the volatile memory1632or the non-volatile memory1634.

The program1640may be stored in the memory1630as software, and may include, for example, an operating system (OS)1642, middleware1644, or an application1646.

The input device1650may receive a command or data to be used by other component (e.g., the processor1620) of the electronic device1601, from the outside (e.g., a user) of the electronic device1601. The input device1650may include, for example, a microphone, a mouse, a keyboard, or a digital pen (e.g., a stylus pen).

The display device1660may visually provide information to the outside (e.g., a user) of the electronic device1601. The display device1660may include, for example, a display, a hologram device, or a projector and control circuitry to control a corresponding one of the display, hologram device, and projector. According to an embodiment, the display device1660may include touch circuitry adapted to detect a touch, or sensor circuitry (e.g., a pressure sensor) adapted to measure the intensity of force incurred by the touch.

The audio module1670may convert a sound into an electrical signal and vice versa. According to an embodiment, the audio module1670may obtain the sound via the input device1650, or output the sound via the sound output device1655or a headphone of an external electronic device (e.g., an electronic device1602) directly (e.g., wiredly) or wirelessly coupled with the electronic device1601.

The interface1677may support one or more specified protocols to be used for the electronic device1601to be coupled with the external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device1602) directly (e.g., wiredly) or wirelessly. According to an embodiment, the interface1677may include, for example, a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB) interface, a secure digital (SD) card interface, or an audio interface.

A connecting terminal1678may include a connector via which the electronic device1601may be physically connected with the external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device1602). According to an embodiment, the connecting terminal1678may include, for example, a HDMI connector, a USB connector, a SD card connector, or an audio connector (e.g., a headphone connector).

The camera module1680may capture a still image or moving images. According to an embodiment, the camera module1680may include one or more lenses, image sensors, image signal processors, or flashes.

The power management module1688may manage power supplied to the electronic device1601. According to one embodiment, the power management module1688may be implemented as at least part of, for example, a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

The battery1689may supply power to at least one component of the electronic device1601. According to an embodiment, the battery1689may include, for example, a primary cell which is not rechargeable, a secondary cell which is rechargeable, or a fuel cell.

The communication module1690may support establishing a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between the electronic device1601and the external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device1602, the electronic device1604, or the server1608) and performing communication via the established communication channel. The communication module1690may include one or more communication processors that are operable independently from the processor1620(e.g., the application processor (AP)) and supports a direct (e.g., wired) communication or a wireless communication. According to an embodiment, the communication module1690may include a wireless communication module1692(e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module1694(e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication module or a power line communication (PLC) module). A corresponding one of these communication modules may communicate with the external electronic device via the first network1698(e.g., a short-range communication network, such as Bluetooth™, wireless-fidelity (Wi-Fi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or the second network1699(e.g., a long-range communication network, such as a cellular network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., LAN or wide area network (WAN)). These various types of communication modules may be implemented as a single component (e.g., a single chip), or may be implemented as multi components (e.g., multi chips) separate from each other. The wireless communication module1692may identify and authenticate the electronic device1601in a communication network, such as the first network1698or the second network1699, using subscriber information (e.g., international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI)) stored in the subscriber identification module1696.

The antenna module1697may transmit or receive a signal or power to or from the outside (e.g., the external electronic device) of the electronic device1601. According to an embodiment, the antenna module1697may include an antenna including a radiating element composed of a conductive material or a conductive pattern formed in or on a substrate (e.g., PCB). According to an embodiment, the antenna module1697may include a plurality of antennas. In such a case, at least one antenna appropriate for a communication scheme used in the communication network, such as the first network1698or the second network1699, may be selected, for example, by the communication module1690(e.g., the wireless communication module1692) from the plurality of antennas. The signal or the power may then be transmitted or received between the communication module1690and the external electronic device via the selected at least one antenna. According to an embodiment, another component (e.g., a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) other than the radiating element may be additionally formed as part of the antenna module1697.

FIG. 17is a block diagram1700of the electronic device1601to support legacy network communication and 5G network communication, according to an embodiment. Referring toFIG. 17, the electronic device1601may include a first communication processor1712, a second communication processor1714, a first radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)1722, a second RFIC1724, a third RFIC1726, a fourth RFIC1728, a first radio frequency front end (RFFE)1732, a second RFFE1734, a first antenna module1742, a second antenna module1744, and an antenna1748. The electronic device1601may further include the processor1620and the memory1630. The second network1699may include a first cellular network1792and a second cellular network1794. According to another embodiment, the electronic device1601may further include at least one part of parts disclosed inFIG. 16, and the second network1699may further include at least one different network. According to an embodiment, the first communication processor1712, the second communication processor1714, the first RFIC1722, the second RFIC1724, the fourth RFIC1728, the first RFFE1732, and the second RFFE1734may form at least a portion of the wireless communication module1692. According to another embodiment, the fourth RFIC1728may be omitted or included as a portion of the third RFIC1726.

The first communication processor1712may establish a communication channel having a band to be used for wireless communication with the first cellular network1792, and may support legacy network communication through the established communication channel. According to an embodiment, the first cellular network1792may be a legacy network including a second generation (2G) network, a third generation (3G) network, a fourth generation (4G) network, and/or a long term evolution (LTE) network. The second communication processor1714may establish a communication channel corresponding to a specific band (e.g., ranging from about 6 GHz to about 60 GHz) of bands to be used for wireless communication with the second cellular network1794, and may support 5G network communication through the established communication channel. According to an embodiment, the second cellular network1794may be a 5G network defined in the 3GPP. Additionally, according to an embodiment, the first communication processor1712or the second communication processor1714may establish a communication channel corresponding to another different specific band (e.g., about 6 GHz or less) of bands to be used for wireless communication with the second cellular network1794, and may support 5G network communication through the established communication channel. According to an embodiment, the first communication processor1712and the second communication processor1714may be implemented in a single chip or a single package. According to an embodiment, the first communication processor1712or the second communication processor1714may be formed in a single chip or a single package together with the processor1620, the auxiliary processor1623ofFIG. 16, or the communication module1690.

The first RFIC1722may convert, in transmission, a baseband signal generated by the first communication processor1712into a radio frequency (RF) signal in the band of about 700 MHz to about 3 GHz used in the first cellular network1792(e.g., a legacy network). In reception, an RF signal is obtained from the first cellular network1792(e.g., a legacy network) through an antenna (e.g., the first antenna module1742), and may be preprocessed through the RFFE (e.g., the first RFFE1732). The first RFIC1722may convert the preprocessed RF signal into a baseband signal to be processed by the first communication processor1712.

The second RFIC1724may convert, in transmission, a baseband signal generated by the first communication processor1712or the second communication processor1714into a radio frequency (RF) signal (hereinafter, referred to as a 5G Sub6 RF signal) in the Sub6 band used in the second cellular network1794(e.g., a 5G network). In reception, the 5G Sub6 RF signal is obtained from the second cellular network1794(e.g., a 5G network) through an antenna (e.g., the second antenna module1744), and may preprocessed through the RFFE (e.g., the second RFFE1734). The second RFIC1724may convert the preprocessed 5G Sub6 RF signal into a baseband signal such that the preprocessed 5G Sub6 RF signal may be processed by a communication processor corresponding to the first communication processor1712or the second communication processor1714.

The third RFIC1726may convert, in transmission, a baseband signal generated by the second communication processor1714into a radio frequency (RF) signal (hereinafter, referred to as a 5G Above6 RF signal) in the 5G Above6 band (e.g., the band of about 6 GHz to about 60 GHz to be used in the second cellular network1794(e.g., a 5G network). In reception, the 5G Above6 RF signal is obtained from the second cellular network1794(e.g., a 5G network) through an antenna (e.g., the antenna1748), and may preprocessed through a third RFFE1736. For example, the third RFFE1736may perform signal preprocessing using a phase shifter1738. The third RFIC1726may convert the preprocessed 5G Above6 RF signal into a baseband signal to be processed by the second communication processor1714. According to an embodiment, the third RFFE1736may be formed as part of the third RFIC1726.

According to an embodiment, the electronic device1601may include the fourth RFIC1728separately from or at least as a portion of the third RFIC1726. In this case, for transmission of data, the fourth RFIC1728may convert a baseband signal generated by the second communication processor1714to an RF signal (hereinafter, referred to as an “intermediate frequency (IF) signal”) having an intermediate frequency band (e.g., the band of about 9 GHZ to about 11 GHz) and may transmit the IF signal to the third RFIC1726. The third RFIC1726may convert the IF signal to the 5G Above6 RF signal. In reception, the 5G Above6RF signal may be obtained from the second cellular network1794(e.g., a 5G network) through an antenna (e.g., the antenna1748), and may be converted into the IF signal by the third RFIC1726. The fourth RFIC1728may convert the IF signal into a baseband signal to be processed by the second communication processor1714.

According to an embodiment, the first RFIC1722and the second RFIC1724may be realized as at least a portion of a single chip or a single package. According to an embodiment, the first RFFE1732and the second RFFE1734may be realized as at least a portion of a single chip or a single package. According to an embodiment, at least one antenna module of the first antenna module1742or the second antenna module1744may be omitted or combined with another antenna module to process RF signals of a corresponding of bands.

According to an embodiment, the third RFIC1726and the antenna1748may be disposed on the same substrate to form a third antenna module1746. For example, the wireless communication module1692or the processor1620may be disposed on the first substrate (e.g., main PCB). In this case, to form the third antenna module1746, the third RFIC1726may be disposed at a portion (e.g., a bottom surface) of the second substrate (e.g., the sub PCB) separate from the first substrate and the antenna1748may be disposed at another portion of the second substrate, thereby forming the third antenna module1746. According to an embodiment, the antenna1748may include an antenna array that may be used for beam foaming. The third RFIC1726and the antenna1748are disposed on the same substrate, thereby reducing the length of the transmission line between the third RFIC1726and the antenna1748. Accordingly, the loss (e.g., attenuation) of a signal, which has a high frequency band (e.g., the band of about 6 GHz to about 60 GHz) used for the 5G network communication, on a transmission line may be reduced. Accordingly, the electronic device1601may improve the quality or the data rate of the communication with the second cellular network1794(e.g., a 5G network).

The second cellular network1794(e.g., 5G network) may be operated independently from the first cellular network1792(e.g., a legacy network) (e.g., Stand-Alone (SA)), or may be operated in connection with the first cellular network1792(e.g., Non-Stand Alone (NSA)). For example, the 5G network may have only an access network (e.g., a 5G radio access network (RAN) or a next generation RAN (NG RAN)), and may not include a core network (e.g., a next generation core (NGC)). In this case, the electronic device1601may access the access network in the 5G network and then access the external network (e.g., Internet) under the core network (e.g., evolved packed core (EPC)) of the legacy network. Protocol information (e.g., LTE protocol information) for communication with the legacy network or protocol information (e.g., new radio (NR) protocol information) for communication with 5G network communication may be stored in the memory1630and may accessed by another part (e.g., the processor1620, the first communication processor1712, or the second communication processor1714).

FIG. 18is a view illustrating the structure of the third antenna module1746described with reference toFIG. 17according to an embodiment. Reference numeral1800aofFIG. 18illustrates a perspective view when the third antenna module1746is viewed from one side, and reference numeral1800bofFIG. 18illustrates a perspective view when the third antenna module1746is viewed from another side. Reference numeral1800cofFIG. 18is a sectional view of the third antenna module1746taken along line A-A′.

Referring toFIG. 18, in an embodiment, the third antenna module1746may include a printed circuit board1810, an antenna array1830, a radio frequency integrate circuit (RFIC)1852, and a power manage integrate circuit (PMIC)1854, and a module interface (not illustrated). Alternatively, the third antenna module1746may further include a shielding member1890. According to another embodiment, at least one of the above-described parts may be omitted or at least two of the parts may be formed integrally with each other.

The printed circuit board1810may include a plurality of conductive layers and a plurality of non-conductive layers stacked alternately with the conductive layers. The printed circuit board1810may provide electrical connections between various parts of the printed circuit board1810and/or various electronic parts disposed outside through wires and conductive vias formed in the conductive layers.

The antenna array1830(e.g., reference numeral1748inFIG. 17) may include a plurality of antenna elements1832,1834,1836, or1838disposed to form a directional beam. The antenna elements may be formed on the first surface of the printed circuit board1810as illustrated inFIG. 18. According to another embodiment, the antenna array1830may be formed inside the printed circuit board1810. According to embodiments, the antenna array1830may include a plurality of antenna arrays (e.g., a dipole antenna array, and/or a patch antenna array) having the same or different shape or type.

The RFIC1852(for example, the third RFIC1726ofFIG. 17) may be disposed in another area (e.g., the second surface opposite to the first surface) of the printed circuit board1810separated from the antenna array1830. The RFIC1852may be configured to process a signal of a selected frequency band transmitted/received through the antenna array1830. According to an embodiment, the RFIC1852may convert a baseband signal obtained from a communication processor (not shown) into an RF signal having a specific band in transmission. The RFIC1852may convert an RF signal received through the antenna array1830into a baseband signal and transmit the converted baseband signal to the communication processor.

According to another embodiment, the RFIC1852may up-convert, in transmission, the IF signal (e.g., having the band of about 9 GHz to about 11 GHz)) obtained from an intermediate frequency integrate circuit (IFIC) (the fourth RFIC1728ofFIG. 17) to the RF signal having the selected band. The RFIC1852may down-convert, in reception, the RF signal obtained through the antenna array1830into the IF signal to be transmitted to the IFIC.

The PMIC1854may be disposed in another partial area (e.g., the second surface), which is separated from the antenna array, of the printed circuit board1810. The PMIC1854may receive a voltage from the main PCB (not illustrated) and may provide power necessary for various components (e.g., RFIC1852) on the antenna module.

The shielding member1890may be disposed on a portion (e.g., the second surface) of the printed circuit board1810to electromagnetically shield at least one of the RFIC1852or the PMIC1854. According to one embodiment, the shielding member1890may include a shield can.

Although not illustrated, in an embodiment, the third antenna module1746may be electrically connected with another printed circuit board (e.g., a main circuit board) through a module interface. The module interface may include a connecting member, for example, a coaxial cable connector, a board to board connector, an interposer, or a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB). The RFIC1852and/or the PMIC1854of the third antenna module1746may be electrically connected with the printed circuit board through the connecting member.

FIG. 19is a sectional view of the third antenna module1746taken along line B-B′ in illustrated in reference numeral1800aofFIG. 18. According to the illustrated embodiment, the printed circuit board1810may include an antenna layer1911and a network layer1913.

The antenna layer1911may include at least one dielectric layer1937-1and the antenna element1836and/or a feeding unit1925formed on the external surface of the dielectric layer or in the inner part of the dielectric layer. The feeding unit1925may include a feeding point1927and/or a feeding line1929.

The network layer1913may include at least one dielectric layer1937-2, and at least one ground layer1933, at least one conductive via1935, a transmission line1923, and/or a signal line1929formed on an external surface of the dielectric layer or in the inner part of the dielectric layer.

In addition, in the illustrated embodiment, the third RFIC1726may be electrically connected with the network layer1913, for example, through first and second solder bumps (first and second connectors)1940-1and1940-2. According to other embodiments, various connection structures (for example, a solder or a ball grid array (BGA)) may be used instead of the solder bumps. The third RFIC1726may be electrically connected with the antenna element1836through a first connector1940-1, the transmission line1923, and the feeding unit1925. The third RFIC1726may also be electrically connected with the ground layer1933through the second connector1940-2and the conductive via1935. Although not shown, the third RFIC1726may also be electrically connected with the above-described module interface through the signal line1929.

According to certain embodiments, the performance of the signal radiated from the antenna structure may be prevented from being degraded based on the modification in the structure of the electronic device, thereby supporting improved operation of 5G mobile communication by the electronic device including the antenna structure.

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