ELECTRONIC DEVICES WITH MMWAVE ANTENNAS

Antennas and electronic devices using antennas are described herein. A mmWave antenna integrated module (AiM) may be disposed in a barrel hinge between the display and base portions of a laptop. An AiM module on the chassis of the laptop uses base station location and laptop location and orientation to rotate to provide mmWave communication. The chassis-mounted AiM module may be able to be magnetically attached and make electrical connection via pogo pins. A flexible printed circuit (FPC) and metal box may surround the AiM module to form an electromagnetic interference shield and thermal spreader. An identification system may be used to determine whether an antenna is compatible with a modem of the electronic device based on analog or digital signaling between the antenna side and modem side. An FPC may be disposed between portions of a bisected speaker box.

TECHNICAL FIELD

Embodiments pertain to mmWave antennas in electronic devices. In particular, some embodiments relate to mmWave antenna integrated module (AiM) modules incorporated in electronic devices.

BACKGROUND

The use and complexity of wireless systems has increased due to both an increase in the types of electronic devices using network resources as well as the amount of data and bandwidth being used by various applications, such as video streaming, operating on the electronic devices. As expected, a number of issues abound with the advent of any new technology, including complexities related to the integration of mmWave communications (i.e., communications in the mm wave bands) in electronic devices.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG.1is a block diagram of a radio architecture100in accordance with some embodiments. Radio architecture100may include radio front-end module (FEM) circuitry104, radio IC circuitry106and baseband processing circuitry108. Radio architecture100as shown includes both Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) functionality and Bluetooth (BT) functionality although embodiments are not so limited. In this disclosure, “WLAN” and “Wi-Fi” are used interchangeably.

FEM circuitry104may include a WLAN or Wi-Fi FEM circuitry104A and a Bluetooth (BT) FEM circuitry104B. The WLAN FEM circuitry104A may include a receive signal path comprising circuitry configured to operate on WLAN RF signals received from one or more antennas101, to amplify the received signals and to provide the amplified versions of the received signals to the WLAN radio IC circuitry106A for further processing. The BT FEM circuitry104B may include a receive signal path which may include circuitry configured to operate on BT RF signals received from one or more antennas101, to amplify the received signals and to provide the amplified versions of the received signals to the BT radio IC circuitry106B for further processing. FEM circuitry104A may also include a transmit signal path which may include circuitry configured to amplify WLAN signals provided by the radio IC circuitry106A for wireless transmission by one or more of the antennas101. In addition, FEM circuitry104B may also include a transmit signal path which may include circuitry configured to amplify BT signals provided by the radio IC circuitry106B for wireless transmission by the one or more antennas. In the embodiment ofFIG.1, although FEM104A and FEM104B are shown as being distinct from one another, embodiments are not so limited, and include within their scope the use of an FEM (not shown) that includes a transmit path and/or a receive path for both WLAN and BT signals, or the use of one or more FEM circuitries where at least some of the FEM circuitries share transmit and/or receive signal paths for both WLAN and BT signals.

Radio IC circuitry106as shown may include WLAN radio IC circuitry106A and BT radio IC circuitry106B. The WLAN radio IC circuitry106A may include a receive signal path which may include circuitry to down-convert WLAN RF signals received from the FEM circuitry104A and provide baseband signals to WLAN baseband circuitry108A. BT radio IC circuitry106B may in turn include a receive signal path which may include circuitry to down-convert BT RF signals received from the FEM circuitry104B and provide baseband signals to BT baseband processing circuitry108B. WLAN radio IC circuitry106A may also include a transmit signal path which may include circuitry to up-convert WLAN baseband signals provided by the WLAN baseband circuitry108A and provide WLAN RF output signals to the FEM circuitry104A for subsequent wireless transmission by the one or more antennas101. BT radio IC circuitry106B may also include a transmit signal path which may include circuitry to up-convert BT baseband signals provided by the BT baseband processing circuitry108B and provide BT RF output signals to the FEM circuitry104B for subsequent wireless transmission by the one or more antennas101. In the embodiment ofFIG.1, although radio IC circuitries106A and106B are shown as being distinct from one another, embodiments are not so limited, and include within their scope the use of a radio IC circuitry (not shown) that includes a transmit signal path and/or a receive signal path for both WLAN and BT signals, or the use of one or more radio IC circuitries where at least some of the radio IC circuitries share transmit and/or receive signal paths for both WLAN and BT signals.

Baseband processing circuitry108may include a WLAN baseband circuitry108A and a BT baseband processing circuitry108B. The WLAN baseband circuitry108A may include a memory, such as, for example, a set of RAM arrays in a Fast Fourier Transform or Inverse Fast Fourier Transform block (not shown) of the WLAN baseband circuitry108A. Each of the WLAN baseband circuitry108A and the BT baseband circuitry108B may further include one or more processors and control logic to process the signals received from the corresponding WLAN or BT receive signal path of the radio IC circuitry106, and to also generate corresponding WLAN or BT baseband signals for the transmit signal path of the radio IC circuitry106. Each of the WLAN baseband circuitry108A and the BT baseband circuitry108B may further include physical layer (PHY) and medium access control layer (MAC) circuitry, and may further interface with application processor111for generation and processing of the baseband signals and for controlling operations of the radio IC circuitry106.

Referring still toFIG.1, according to the shown embodiment, WLAN-BT coexistence circuitry113may include logic providing an interface between the WLAN baseband circuitry108A and the BT baseband circuitry108B to enable use cases requiring WLAN and BT coexistence. In addition, a switch103may be provided between the WLAN FEM circuitry104A and the BT FEM circuitry104B to allow switching between the WLAN and BT radios according to application needs. In addition, although the antennas101are depicted as being respectively connected to the WLAN FEM circuitry104A and the BT FEM circuitry104B, embodiments include within their scope the sharing of one or more antennas as between the WLAN and BT FEMs, or the provision of more than one antenna connected to each of FEM104A or104B.

In some embodiments, the front-end module circuitry104, the radio IC circuitry106, and baseband processing circuitry108may be provided on a single radio card, such as wireless radio card102. In some other embodiments, the one or more antennas101, the FEM circuitry104and the radio IC circuitry106may be provided on a single radio card. In some other embodiments, the radio IC circuitry106and the baseband processing circuitry108may be provided on a single chip or IC, such as IC112.

In some embodiments, the radio architecture100may be configured for high-efficiency (HE) Wi-Fi (HEW) communications in accordance with the IEEE 802.11ax standard. In these embodiments, the radio architecture100may be configured to communicate in accordance with an OFDMA technique, although the scope of the embodiments is not limited in this respect.

In some embodiments, as further shown inFIG.1, the BT baseband circuitry108B may be compliant with a Bluetooth (BT) connectivity standard such as Bluetooth, Bluetooth 4.0 or Bluetooth 5.0, or any other iteration of the Bluetooth Standard. In embodiments that include BT functionality as shown for example inFIG.1, the radio architecture100may be configured to establish a BT synchronous connection oriented (SCO) link and/or a BT low energy (BT LE) link. In some of the embodiments that include functionality, the radio architecture100may be configured to establish an extended SCO (eSCO) link for BT communications, although the scope of the embodiments is not limited in this respect. In some of these embodiments that include a BT functionality, the radio architecture may be configured to engage in a BT Asynchronous Connection-Less (ACL) communications, although the scope of the embodiments is not limited in this respect. In some embodiments, as shown inFIG.1, the functions of a BT radio card and WLAN radio card may be combined on a single wireless radio card, such as single wireless radio card102, although embodiments are not so limited, and include within their scope discrete WLAN and BT radio cards

In some embodiments, the radio architecture100may include other radio cards, such as a cellular radio card configured for cellular (e.g., 3GPP such as LTE, LTE-Advanced or 5G communications).

In some IEEE 802.11 embodiments, the radio architecture100may be configured for communication over various channel bandwidths including bandwidths having center frequencies of about 900 MHZ, 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, and bandwidths of about 1 MHz, 2 MHZ, 2.5 MHz, 4 MHZ, 5 MHz, 8 MHz, 10 MHz, 16 MHz, 20 MHz, 40 MHz, 80 MHz (with contiguous bandwidths) or 80+80 MHz (160 MHz) (with non-contiguous bandwidths). In some embodiments, a 320 MHz channel bandwidth may be used. The scope of the embodiments is not limited with respect to the above center frequencies however.

FIG.2illustrates FEM circuitry200in accordance with some embodiments. The FEM circuitry200is one example of circuitry that may be suitable for use as the WLAN and/or BT FEM circuitry104A/104B (FIG.1), although other circuitry configurations may also be suitable.

In some embodiments, the FEM circuitry200may include a TX/RX switch202to switch between transmit mode and receive mode operation. The FEM circuitry200may include a receive signal path and a transmit signal path. The receive signal path of the FEM circuitry200may include a low-noise amplifier (LNA)206to amplify received RF signals203and provide the amplified received RF signals207as an output (e.g., to the radio IC circuitry106(FIG.1)). The transmit signal path of the circuitry200may include a power amplifier (PA) to amplify input RF signals209(e.g., provided by the radio IC circuitry106), and one or more filters212, such as band-pass filters (BPFs), low-pass filters (LPFs) or other types of filters, to generate RF signals215for subsequent transmission (e.g., by one or more of the antennas101(FIG.1)).

In some dual-mode embodiments for Wi-Fi communication, the FEM circuitry200may be configured to operate in either the 2.4 GHz frequency spectrum or the 5 GHz frequency spectrum. In these embodiments, the receive signal path of the FEM circuitry200may include a receive signal path duplexer204to separate the signals from each spectrum as well as provide a separate LNA206for each spectrum as shown. In these embodiments, the transmit signal path of the FEM circuitry200may also include a power amplifier210and a filter212, such as a BPF, a LPF or another type of filter for each frequency spectrum and a transmit signal path duplexer214to provide the signals of one of the different spectrums onto a single transmit path for subsequent transmission by the one or more of the antennas101(FIG.1). In some embodiments, BT communications may utilize the 2.4 GHZ signal paths and may utilize the same FEM circuitry200as the one used for WLAN communications.

FIG.3illustrates radio integrated circuit (IC) circuitry300in accordance with some embodiments. The radio IC circuitry300is one example of circuitry that may be suitable for use as the WLAN or BT radio IC circuitry106A/106B (FIG.1), although other circuitry configurations may also be suitable.

In some embodiments, the radio IC circuitry300may include a receive signal path and a transmit signal path. The receive signal path of the radio IC circuitry300may include at least mixer circuitry302, such as, for example, down-conversion mixer circuitry, amplifier circuitry306and filter circuitry308. The transmit signal path of the radio IC circuitry300may include at least filter circuitry312and mixer circuitry314, such as, for example, up-conversion mixer circuitry. Radio IC circuitry300may also include synthesizer circuitry304for synthesizing a frequency305for use by the mixer circuitry302and the mixer circuitry314. The mixer circuitry302and/or314may each, according to some embodiments, be configured to provide direct conversion functionality. The latter type of circuitry presents a much simpler architecture as compared with standard super-heterodyne mixer circuitries, and any flicker noise brought about by the same may be alleviated for example through the use of OFDM modulation.FIG.3illustrates only a simplified version of a radio IC circuitry, and may include, although not shown, embodiments where each of the depicted circuitries may include more than one component. For instance, mixer circuitry320and/or314may each include one or more mixers, and filter circuitries308and/or312may each include one or more filters, such as one or more BPFs and/or LPFs according to application needs. For example, when mixer circuitries are of the direct-conversion type, they may each include two or more mixers.

In some embodiments, mixer circuitry302may be configured to down-convert RF signals207received from the FEM circuitry104(FIG.1) based on the synthesized frequency305provided by synthesizer circuitry304. The amplifier circuitry306may be configured to amplify the down-converted signals and the filter circuitry308may include a LPF configured to remove unwanted signals from the down-converted signals to generate output baseband signals307. Output baseband signals307may be provided to the baseband processing circuitry108(FIG.1) for further processing. In some embodiments, the output baseband signals307may be zero-frequency baseband signals, although this is not a requirement. In some embodiments, mixer circuitry302may comprise passive mixers, although the scope of the embodiments is not limited in this respect.

In some embodiments, the mixer circuitry314may be configured to up-convert input baseband signals311based on the synthesized frequency305provided by the synthesizer circuitry304to generate RF output signals209for the FEM circuitry104. The baseband signals311may be provided by the baseband processing circuitry108and may be filtered by filter circuitry312. The filter circuitry312may include a LPF or a BPF, although the scope of the embodiments is not limited in this respect.

In some embodiments, the mixer circuitry302and the mixer circuitry314may each include two or more mixers and may be arranged for quadrature down-conversion and/or up-conversion respectively with the help of synthesizer circuitry304. In some embodiments, the mixer circuitry302and the mixer circuitry314may each include two or more mixers each configured for image rejection (e.g., Hartley image rejection). In some embodiments, the mixer circuitry302and the mixer circuitry314may be arranged for direct down-conversion and/or direct up-conversion, respectively. In some embodiments, the mixer circuitry302and the mixer circuitry314may be configured for super-heterodyne operation, although this is not a requirement.

Mixer circuitry302may comprise, according to one embodiment: quadrature passive mixers (e.g., for the in-phase (I) and quadrature phase (Q) paths). In such an embodiment, RF input signal207fromFIG.3may be down-converted to provide I and Q baseband output signals to be sent to the baseband processor

In some embodiments, the LO signals may differ in duty cycle (the percentage of one period in which the LO signal is high) and/or offset (the difference between start points of the period). In some embodiments, the LO signals may have a 25% duty cycle and a 50% offset. In some embodiments, each branch of the mixer circuitry (e.g., the in-phase (I) and quadrature phase (Q) path) may operate at a 25% duty cycle, which may result in a significant reduction is power consumption.

The RF input signal207(FIG.2) may comprise a balanced signal, although the scope of the embodiments is not limited in this respect. The I and Q baseband output signals may be provided to low-nose amplifier, such as amplifier circuitry306(FIG.3) or to filter circuitry308(FIG.3).

In some embodiments, the output baseband signals307and the input baseband signals311may be analog baseband signals, although the scope of the embodiments is not limited in this respect. In some alternate embodiments, the output baseband signals307and the input baseband signals311may be digital baseband signals. In these alternate embodiments, the radio IC circuitry may include analog-to-digital converter (ADC) and digital-to-analog converter (DAC) circuitry.

In some embodiments, the synthesizer circuitry304may be a fractional-N synthesizer or a fractional N/N+1 synthesizer, although the scope of the embodiments is not limited in this respect as other types of frequency synthesizers may be suitable. For example, synthesizer circuitry304may be a delta-sigma synthesizer, a frequency multiplier, or a synthesizer comprising a phase-locked loop with a frequency divider. According to some embodiments, the synthesizer circuitry304may include digital synthesizer circuitry. An advantage of using a digital synthesizer circuitry is that, although it may still include some analog components, its footprint may be scaled down much more than the footprint of an analog synthesizer circuitry. In some embodiments, frequency input into synthesizer circuitry304may be provided by a voltage controlled oscillator (VCO), although that is not a requirement. A divider control input may further be provided by either the baseband processing circuitry108(FIG.1) or the application processor111(FIG.1) depending on the desired output frequency305. In some embodiments, a divider control input (e.g., N) may be determined from a look-up table (e.g., within a Wi-Fi card) based on a channel number and a channel center frequency as determined or indicated by the application processor111.

In some embodiments, synthesizer circuitry304may be configured to generate a carrier frequency as the output frequency305, while in other embodiments, the output frequency305may be a fraction of the carrier frequency (e.g., one-half the carrier frequency, one-third the carrier frequency). In some embodiments, the output frequency305may be a LO frequency (fLO).

FIG.4illustrates a functional block diagram of baseband processing circuitry400in accordance with some embodiments. The baseband processing circuitry400is one example of circuitry that may be suitable for use as the baseband processing circuitry108(FIG.1), although other circuitry configurations may also be suitable. The baseband processing circuitry400may include a receive baseband processor (RX BBP)402for processing receive baseband signals309provided by the radio IC circuitry106(FIG.1) and a transmit baseband processor (TX BBP)404for generating transmit baseband signals311for the radio IC circuitry106. The baseband processing circuitry400may also include control logic406for coordinating the operations of the baseband processing circuitry400.

In some embodiments (e.g., when analog baseband signals are exchanged between the baseband processing circuitry400and the radio IC circuitry106), the baseband processing circuitry400may include ADC410to convert analog baseband signals received from the radio IC circuitry106to digital baseband signals for processing by the RX BBP402. In these embodiments, the baseband processing circuitry400may also include DAC412to convert digital baseband signals from the TX BBP404to analog baseband signals.

FIG.5illustrates a WLAN500in accordance with some embodiments. The WLAN500may comprise a basis service set (BSS) that may include an access point (AP)502, a plurality of stations (STAs)504, and a plurality of legacy devices506. In some embodiments, the STAs504and/or AP502are configured to operate in accordance with IEEE 802.11be extremely high throughput (EHT) and/or high efficiency (HE) IEEE 802.11ax. In some embodiments, the STAs504and/or AP520are configured to operate in accordance with IEEE 802.11az. In some embodiments, IEEE 802.11EHT may be termed Next Generation 802.11.

The AP502may be an AP using the IEEE 802.11 to transmit and receive. The AP502may be a base station. The AP502may use other communications protocols as well as the IEEE 802.11 protocol. The EHT protocol may be termed a different name in accordance with some embodiments. The IEEE 802.11 protocol may include using orthogonal frequency division multiple-access (OFDMA), time division multiple access (TDMA), and/or code division multiple access (CDMA). The IEEE 802.11 protocol may include a multiple access technique. For example, the IEEE 802.11 protocol may include space-division multiple access (SDMA) and/or multiple-user multiple-input multiple-output (MU-MIMO). There may be more than one EHT AP502that is part of an extended service set (ESS). A controller (not illustrated) may store information that is common to the more than one APs502and may control more than one BSS, e.g., assign primary channels, colors, etc. AP502may be connected to the internet.

The legacy devices506may operate in accordance with one or more of IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/ad/af/ah/aj/ay/ax, or another legacy wireless communication standard. The legacy devices506may be STAs or IEEE STAs. The STAs504may be wireless transmit and receive devices such as cellular telephone, portable electronic wireless communication devices, smart telephone, handheld wireless device, wireless glasses, wireless watch, wireless personal device, tablet, or another device that may be transmitting and receiving using the IEEE 802.11 protocol such as IEEE 802.11be or another wireless protocol.

The AP502may communicate with legacy devices506in accordance with legacy IEEE 802.11 communication techniques. In example embodiments, the H AP502may also be configured to communicate with STAs504in accordance with legacy IEEE 802.11 communication techniques.

In some embodiments, a HE or EHT frames may be configurable to have the same bandwidth as a channel. The HE or EHT frame may be a physical Layer Convergence Procedure (PLCP) Protocol Data Unit (PPDU). In some embodiments, PPDU may be an abbreviation for physical layer protocol data unit (PPDU). In some embodiments, there may be different types of PPDUs that may have different fields and different physical layers and/or different media access control (MAC) layers. For example, a single user (SU) PPDU, multiple-user (MU) PPDU, extended-range (ER) SU PPDU, and/or trigger-based (TB) PPDU. In some embodiments EHT may be the same or similar as HE PPDUs.

The bandwidth of a channel may be 20 MHz, 40 MHz, or 80MHZ, 80+80 MHz, 160 MHz, 160+160 MHz, 320 MHz, 320+320 MHz, 640 MHz bandwidths. In some embodiments, the bandwidth of a channel less than 20 MHz may be 1 MHz, 1.25 MHz, 2.03 MHz, 2.5 MHz, 4.06 MHZ, 5 MHz and 10 MHz, or a combination thereof or another bandwidth that is less or equal to the available bandwidth may also be used. In some embodiments the bandwidth of the channels may be based on a number of active data subcarriers. In some embodiments the bandwidth of the channels is based on 26, 52, 106, 242, 484, 996, or 2×996 active data subcarriers or tones that are spaced by 20 MHz. In some embodiments the bandwidth of the channels is 256 tones spaced by 20 MHz. In some embodiments the channels are multiple of 26 tones or a multiple of 20 MHz. In some embodiments a 20 MHz channel may comprise 242 active data subcarriers or tones, which may determine the size of a Fast Fourier Transform (FFT). An allocation of a bandwidth or a number of tones or subcarriers may be termed a resource unit (RU) allocation in accordance with some embodiments.

In some embodiments, the 26-subcarrier RU and 52-subcarrier RU are used in the 20 MHz, 40 MHz, 80 MHz, 160 MHz and 80+80 MHz OFDMA HE PPDU formats. In some embodiments, the 106-subcarrier RU is used in the 20 MHz, 40 MHz, 80 MHZ, 160 MHz and 80+80 MHz OFDMA and MU-MIMO HE PPDU formats. In some embodiments, the 242-subcarrier RU is used in the 40 MHz, 80 MHZ, 160 MHz and 80+80 MHz OFDMA and MU-MIMO HE PPDU formats. In some embodiments, the 484-subcarrier RU is used in the 80 MHZ, 160 MHz and 80+80 MHz OFDMA and MU-MIMO HE PPDU formats. In some embodiments, the 996-subcarrier RU is used in the 160 MHz and 80+80 MHz OFDMA and MU-MIMO HE PPDU formats.

A HE or EHT frame may be configured for transmitting a number of spatial streams, which may be in accordance with MU-MIMO and may be in accordance with OFDMA. In other embodiments, the AP502, STA504, and/or legacy device506may also implement different technologies such as code division multiple access (CDMA) 2000, CDMA 2000 1×, CDMA 2000 Evolution-Data Optimized (EV-DO), Interim Standard 2000 (IS-2000), Interim Standard 95 (IS-95), Interim Standard 856 (IS-856), Long Term Evolution (LTE), Global System for Mobile communications (GSM), Enhanced Data rates for GSM Evolution (EDGE), GSM EDGE (GERAN), IEEE 802.16 (i.e., Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access (WiMAX)), BlueTooth®, low-power BlueTooth®, or other technologies.

In accordance with some IEEE 802.11 embodiments, e.g., IEEE 802.11EHT/ax embodiments, a HE AP502may operate as a master station which may be arranged to contend for a wireless medium (e.g., during a contention period) to receive exclusive control of the medium for a transmission opportunity (TXOP). The AP502may transmit an EHT/HE trigger frame transmission, which may include a schedule for simultaneous UL/DL transmissions from STAs504. The AP502may transmit a time duration of the TXOP and sub-channel information. During the TXOP, STAs504may communicate with the AP502in accordance with a non-contention based multiple access technique such as OFDMA or MU-MIMO. This is unlike conventional WLAN communications in which devices communicate in accordance with a contention-based communication technique, rather than a multiple access technique. During the HE or EHT control period, the AP502may communicate with stations504using one or more HE or EHT frames. During the TXOP, the HE STAs504may operate on a sub-channel smaller than the operating range of the AP502. During the TXOP, legacy stations refrain from communicating. The legacy stations may need to receive the communication from the HE AP502to defer from communicating.

In accordance with some embodiments, during the TXOP the STAs504may contend for the wireless medium with the legacy devices506being excluded from contending for the wireless medium during the master-sync transmission. In some embodiments the trigger frame may indicate an UL-MU-MIMO and/or UL OFDMA TXOP. In some embodiments, the trigger frame may include a DL UL-MU-MIMO and/or DL OFDMA with a schedule indicated in a preamble portion of trigger frame.

In some embodiments, the multiple-access technique used during the HE or EHT TXOP may be a scheduled OFDMA technique, although this is not a requirement. In some embodiments, the multiple access technique may be a time-division multiple access (TDMA) technique or a frequency division multiple access (FDMA) technique. In some embodiments, the multiple access technique may be a space-division multiple access (SDMA) technique. In some embodiments, the multiple access technique may be a Code division multiple access (CDMA).

The AP502may also communicate with legacy stations506and/or STAs504in accordance with legacy IEEE 802.11 communication techniques. In some embodiments, the AP502may also be configurable to communicate with STAs504outside the TXOP in accordance with legacy IEEE 802.11 or IEEE 802.11EHT/ax communication techniques, although this is not a requirement.

In some embodiments the STA504may be a “group owner” (GO) for peer-to-peer modes of operation. A wireless device may be a STA502or a HE AP502.

In some embodiments, the STA504and/or AP502may be configured to operate in accordance with IEEE 802.11mc. In example embodiments, the radio architecture ofFIG.1is configured to implement the STA504and/or the AP502. In example embodiments, the front-end module circuitry ofFIG.2is configured to implement the STA504and/or the AP502. In example embodiments, the radio IC circuitry ofFIG.3is configured to implement the HE station504and/or the AP502. In example embodiments, the base-band processing circuitry ofFIG.4is configured to implement the STA504and/or the AP502.

In example embodiments, the STAs504, AP502, an apparatus of the STA504, and/or an apparatus of the AP502may include one or more of the following: the radio architecture ofFIG.1, the front-end module circuitry ofFIG.2, the radio IC circuitry ofFIG.3, and/or the base-band processing circuitry ofFIG.4.

In example embodiments, the radio architecture ofFIG.1, the front-end module circuitry ofFIG.2, the radio IC circuitry ofFIG.3, and/or the base-band processing circuitry ofFIG.4may be configured to perform the methods and operations/functions herein described in conjunction withFIGS.1-13.

In example embodiments, the STAs504and/or the HE AP502are configured to perform the methods and operations/functions described herein in conjunction with the figures herein. The term Wi-Fi may refer to one or more of the IEEE 802.11 communication standards. AP and STA may refer to EHT/HE access point and/or EHT/HE station as well as legacy devices506.

In some embodiments, a HE AP STA refers to an AP502and/or STAs504that are operating as EHT APs502. In some embodiments, when a STA504is not operating as an AP, it may be referred to as a non-AP STA or non-AP. In some embodiments, STA504may be referred to as either an AP STA or a non-AP.

In some embodiments, a physical layer protocol data unit (PPDU) may be a physical layer conformance procedure (PLCP) protocol data unit (PPDU). In some embodiments, the AP502and STAs504may communicate in accordance with one of the IEEE 802.11 standards such as 11be, 11r, 11i, and/or 11w. IEEE P802.11be™/D1.0, May 2021, IEEE P802.11, December 2020, and IEEE P802.11 ax are incorporated herein by reference.

Machine (e.g., computer system)600may include a hardware processor602(e.g., a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), a hardware processor core, or any combination thereof), a main memory604and a static memory606, some or all of which may communicate with each other via an interlink (e.g., bus)608.

Specific examples of main memory604include Random Access Memory (RAM), and semiconductor memory devices, which may include, in some embodiments, storage locations in semiconductors such as registers. Specific examples of static memory606include non-volatile memory, such as semiconductor memory devices (e.g., Electrically Programmable Read-Only Memory (EPROM), Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory (EEPROM)) and flash memory devices: magnetic disks, such as internal hard disks and removable disks: magneto-optical disks: RAM: and CD-ROM and DVD-ROM disks.

The machine600may further include a display device610, an input device612(e.g., a keyboard), and a user interface (UI) navigation device614(e.g., a mouse). In an example, the display device610, input device612and UI navigation device614may be a touch screen display. The machine600may additionally include a mass storage (e.g., drive unit)616, a signal generation device618(e.g., a speaker), a network interface device620, and one or more sensors, such as a global positioning system (GPS) sensor, compass, accelerometer, or other sensor. The machine600may include an output controller, such as a serial (e.g., universal serial bus (USB), parallel, or other wired or wireless (e.g., infrared (IR), near field communication (NFC), etc.) connection to communicate or control one or more peripheral devices (e.g., a printer, card reader, etc.). In some embodiments the processor602and/or instructions624may comprise processing circuitry and/or transceiver circuitry.

Specific examples of machine readable media may include: non-volatile memory, such as semiconductor memory devices (e.g., EPROM or EEPROM) and flash memory devices: magnetic disks, such as internal hard disks and removable disks: magneto-optical disks: RAM: and CD-ROM and DVD-ROM disks.

An apparatus of the machine600may be one or more of a hardware processor602(e.g., a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), a hardware processor core, or any combination thereof), a main memory604and a static memory606, sensors, network interface device620, antennas, a display device610, an input device612, a UI navigation device614, a mass storage616, instructions624, a signal generation device618, and an output controller. The apparatus may be configured to perform one or more of the methods and/or operations disclosed herein. The apparatus may be intended as a component of the machine600to perform one or more of the methods and/or operations disclosed herein, and/or to perform a portion of one or more of the methods and/or operations disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the apparatus may include a pin or other means to receive power. In some embodiments, the apparatus may include power conditioning hardware.

In an example, the network interface device620may include one or more physical jacks (e.g., Ethernet, coaxial, or phone jacks) or one or more antennas to connect to the communications network626. In an example, the network interface device620may include one or more antennas to wirelessly communicate using at least one of single-input multiple-output (SIMO), multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO), or multiple-input single-output (MISO) techniques. In some examples, the network interface device620may wirelessly communicate using Multiple User MIMO techniques. The term “transmission medium” shall be taken to include any intangible medium that is capable of storing, encoding or carrying instructions for execution by the machine600, and includes digital or analog communications signals or other intangible medium to facilitate communication of such software.

5G Mm Wave AiM Module in Barrel Hinge

As above, the desire to incorporate the ability to use mmWave communications in electronic devices has become of increasing interest with the advent of protocols for using such communications. However, to use mmWave signals, a particular piece of electronics may be redesigned to accommodate multiple mmWave AiM modules (also referred to herein as antenna modules or AiMs), as well as Wi-Fi and 5G sub-6 GHz antennas. This may be problematic in electronics with limited space, such as portable computers (such as laptops). The availability of additional space inside a laptop chassis to mount the additional (mmWave) antennas is a challenge considering the thin form factor of present laptops. The placement of mmWave modules in a laptop chassis may use a plastic opening over a C-cover of the laptop. This may directly impact the ID and/or thermal performance of the laptop. Note that the A-cover is the top of the display portion of the laptop, the B-cover is the bottom of the display portion (which contains the actual display), the C-cover is the top of the base (which contains one or more processors, as well as input devices including keyboard and mousepad, among others), and the D-cover is the bottom of the base.

The hinge mechanism herein enables placement of a 5G mmWave AiM module inside a barrel hinge cap of a laptop with wider radiation coverage in different laptop use cases. The hinge mechanism, along with a removable antenna holder, may fulfill mechanical, thermal, RF and radiation requirements of the mmWave AiM module. Replacement of mmWave FPCs with cable routing with the routing mechanism herein may allow placement of the mmWave module in a compact barrel hinge. Cable clamps are designed to fix cable movement near the antenna region, specifically in case of lid movement to prevent contact of cables with antenna connectors. This makes cable routing more reliable.

FIG.7Aillustrates radiation axes for a laptop in accordance with some embodiments. As 5G mmWave modules are directional in nature,FIG.7Ashows the multiple directions with respect to the laptop700. Multiple AiM modules may thus be used cover multiple directions (in upper hemisphere) with good connectivity. The 5G mmWave modules are directional and may typically cover an angular range from −50° to +50° angle. It may be desirable for AiM modules to fire (emit) towards the +X, +Y, and +Z directions as shown. Mechanically, AiM modules may easily be placed to fire towards the +X, −X and −Y directions (from a user experience standpoint, AiM modules that fire in the −Y and −Z directions may be less preferable). This may accordingly leave the +Y and +Z directions remaining for the AiM modules to fire.

FIG.7Billustrates radiation for a closed lid laptop with a top firing AiM module in accordance with some embodiments.FIG.7Cillustrates radiation for an open lid laptop with a top firing AiM module in accordance with some embodiments. To cover the +Z direction, one possible location of the AiM module is in base of the laptop with a firing upward direction. Placement in the lid may not be feasible due to high insertion loss of the transmission lines to the AiM module. However, a placement in the base of the laptop may directly impact the ID and thermal characteristics of the AiM module. Also, such a placement may not allow the AiM module to operate effectively when the lid of the laptop is closed, as shown inFIGS.7A and7B.

FIG.7Dillustrates radiation for a closed lid laptop with a 60° firing AiM module in accordance with some embodiments.FIG.7Eillustrates radiation for an open lid laptop with a 60° firing AiM module in accordance with some embodiments.FIG.7Fillustrates radiation for a closed lid laptop with a 110° firing AiM module in accordance with some embodiments.FIG.7Gillustrates radiation for an open lid laptop with a 110° firing AiM module in accordance with some embodiments.FIGS.7D-7Gthus illustrate use case scenarios for an AiM module disposed inside a barrel of the laptop (that connects the lid and the base of the laptop). However, with movement of the lid, the antenna placed inside will also rotate, which may lead to challenges that include routing cable/FPC placement, maintaining all mode performance, etc. In addition, such a placement still may not allow the AiM module to operate effectively when the lid of the laptop is closed.

As can be seen inFIGS.7A-7G, the AiM module radiation coverage may be limited at best in closed lid mode of the laptop. For laptops having a barrel hinge, placement of a mmWave module that works for different use cases may be challenging, and implementation challenges may exist if the module is placed inside the barrel hinge.

Notably, an empty space may be present inside the barrel hinge cap. The barrel hinge cap may be formed, in some examples, from plastic material. The barrel hinge cap may be a suitable location for the antenna placement. Using this space, plastic cutouts can be avoided in the all-metal chassis of the laptop for antenna radiation. However, limitations of hinge mechanism remain. These limitations include maintaining/obtaining antenna performance (having directional radiation characteristics) when antenna module rotates along with lid movement, all peripherals inside the barrel hinge rotate with the lid movement, and routing of the antenna module FPCs/cables inside the barrel hinge (notably to avoid damage of the cables).

A modular hinge antenna holder may be used to avoid the above-mentioned limitations and place one or more directional mmWave antennas inside the barrel.FIG.8Aillustrates a modular hinge antenna holder in accordance with some embodiments.FIG.8Billustrates another view of the modular hinge antenna holder ofFIG.8Ain accordance with some embodiments.FIG.8Cillustrates another view of the modular hinge antenna holder ofFIG.8Ain accordance with some embodiments.FIG.8Dillustrates an exploded view of the modular hinge antenna holder ofFIG.8Ain accordance with some embodiments. The modular hinge antenna holder structure800shown inFIGS.8A-8Dincludes a rotatable hinge portion802, with holes804for connection to the laptop chassis. A removable antenna holder806is disposed to access threads of the laptop lid. The hinge contains a static portion808having a portion that may be retained in a static hinge mandrel812. A mmWave AiM module810may be disposed on another portion of the static portion808of the hinge. The mmWave AiM module810may have dimensions of, for example, about 22 mm×about 3 mm×about 2.5 mm. As shown, the static portion808of the hinge may be connected to the metal chassis with one or more screws (or other fasteners)814and hence may itself provide good heat dissipation for the mmWave AiM module810. Cable clamps816may be used to fix cable movement to the mmWave AiM module810, which does not rotate.

FIG.9Aillustrates an arrangement for preventing vibration to AiM module in accordance with some embodiments.FIG.9Billustrates another view of the arrangement ofFIG.9Ain accordance with some embodiments. The overall arrangement900includes a screw908used to connect the screw arrangement902to the removeable hinge910. To reduce vibrations affecting the mmWave AiM module904, the mmWave AiM module904may be pasted with metallic glue906(or another adherent) to form the screw arrangement902prior to connecting the screw arrangement902to the removeable hinge910.

As above, FPCs may be used to route the cables for the mmWave AiM module. However, routing of the FPCs inside the barrel hinge along with lid cable bundle may be challenging due to less space being available. Accordingly, FPCs may be replaced with cables to provide the inputs to the mmWave AiM module through direct coupling to the AiM module.FIG.10illustrates cable routing to enable placement in a barrel hinge in accordance with some embodiments. The splitting of the cables1004may be located near a base area of the connector1002to accommodate the cables for the mmWave AiM module1006in the system1000shown inFIG.10.

Here, in a bundle, routing of the cables1004may be:

FIG.11Aillustrates cable clamps for fixing cable movement in accordance with some embodiments.FIG.11Billustrates a side view of the cable clamps ofFIG.11Ain accordance with some embodiments.FIGS.11A and11Bshow an arrangement1100in which the cable clamps1102are used to secure cables (carrying signals) attached to the mmWave AiM module1104so that the cables do not move (which may reduce the cable breakage).

FIG.12Aillustrates cable splitting for a mmWave AiM module near hinge in accordance with some embodiments.FIG.12Billustrates another view of the cable splitting ofFIG.12Ain accordance with some embodiments.FIGS.12A and12Bshow an arrangement1200in which the cable bundle1202is split into a cable bundle for functions of the lid of the laptop1202aand a cable bundle for the mmWave AiM module1202b. The cable bundle1202is split near the base area of the hinge1204.

FIG.13Aillustrates a modular hinge mechanism in accordance with some embodiments.FIG.13Billustrates a cross-sectional view of the modular hinge mechanism ofFIG.13Ain accordance with some embodiments.FIG.13Cillustrates another cross-sectional view of the modular hinge mechanism ofFIG.13Ain accordance with some embodiments. Thus,FIGS.13A-13Cillustrate closeups of the modular hinge mechanism1300. The modular hinge mechanism1300includes a retaining portion1302that may be used to retain the mandrel. A connection portion1304extends from the retaining portion1302. Holes1306in the connection portion1304are sized to fit connectors such as screws to the case of the laptop lid1308. The modular hinge mechanism1300and cable bundle1310may be retained within a cover1312, which may be formed from a flexible material such as plastic

FIG.14illustrates a closed lid view for a static barrel hinge in accordance with some embodiments.FIG.14shows a cross-sectional view of a portion of a laptop1400that includes a base1402and a lid1404of the laptop1400connected by the modular hinge mechanism1406. As illustrated inFIG.14, when the laptop1400is closed, the mmWave AiM module1408may be able to rotate and provide connectivity (i.e., radiate) in an angular range of about 110° from about 60° to about 160°. The radiation from the mmWave AiM module1408may partially interact with the lid1404of the laptop1400, thereby somewhat reducing the angular range of radiation.

FIG.15Aillustrates radiation for a closed lid laptop with a 110° firing AiM module with a static hinge in accordance with some embodiments.FIG.15Billustrates radiation for an open lid laptop with a 110° firing AiM module with a static hinge in accordance with some embodiments.FIGS.15A and15Bthus show use cases (open/closed)1500of a laptop that contains the mmWave AiM module in the modular hinge mechanism. As above, independent of whether the laptop is open or closed, the mmWave AiM module rotates to radiate in an angular range of about 110° (from about 60° to about) 160° from a plane of the surface of the laptop base. Note that while a laptop is described herein, any hinged electronic device (e.g., smartphone) may include the mmWave AiM module in a similar manner.

Base Station-Assisted Mm Wave Antenna Module Rotation Algorithm

In some embodiments, multiple mmWave AiM modules may be used to meet the cumulative distribution function (CDF) requirement defined by the standards and network operators. However, as the addition of multiple AiM modules adds to the cost and system complexity, it is desirable to meet the CDF requirement using a minimum number of AiM modules. Accordingly, some embodiments may provide a base station-assisted rotatable AiM module, whose rotation may be based on the location coordinates of the base station. In this case, a mmWave base station with which the electronic device (e.g., laptop, mobile device) is connected may share the location coordinates through the LTE/NR link between the laptop and the base station. The electronic device may also acquire its own location coordinates from a built-in GNSS/WLAN and then determine its current position and orientation with respect to the mmWave base station using a compass and built-in sensor as described above. Using the above parameters, the electronic device may then calculate the amount of rotation to align the AiM module in the direction of the mmWave base station and rotates the AiM module accordingly.

FIG.16illustrates an AiM module in accordance with some embodiments. The AiM module1600shown inFIG.16may be stationary and may cover an angular range of, for example, about 100° (as shown about −50° to about +50°).FIG.17illustrates a laptop with multiple AiM modules in accordance with some embodiments. Three separate AiM modules1702are disposed in the laptop1700.

FIG.18illustrates EIRP of a laptop with multiple AiM modules in accordance with some embodiments. CDF is cumulative response gain, or power measured for steering angles for each array. CDF indicates what percentage of a coverage sphere can attain the measured parameter desired/specified value. EIRP CDF is a measure of how much of the sphere can be covered by a certain power level. As shown inFIG.18, for an EIRP of 10 dBm, in configuration 1 (One AiM module): about 55% of the sphere will have a power less than 10 dBm: in configuration 2 (Two AiM modules): about 48% of the sphere will have power less than 10 dBm: in configuration 3 (Three or more AiM modules): about 22% of the sphere will have power less than 10 dBm. It is clear that the use of an increasing number of AiM modules may provide increasingly better coverage, albeit at increased cost and complexity.

FIG.19illustrates a rotatable mmWave AiM module in accordance with some embodiments. The AiM module1900shown inFIG.19may be rotatable and may cover an angular range of, for example, greater than about 120°. In this case, the number of AiM modules1900used may be reduced to one or two to maintain the EIRP.

FIG.20illustrates a system with a laptop with a rotatable AiM module in accordance with some embodiments.FIG.21illustrates communications in a system with a laptop with a rotatable AiM module in accordance with some embodiments. As illustrated in the system2000ofFIG.20and2100ofFIG.21, the base station2002,2102may assist the rotation of the mmWave AiM module2006,2106in the electronic device2004,2104(shown as a laptop). The base station2002,2102may share its location coordinates to the electronic device2004,2104through downlink communication using the LTE/NR link between the base station2002,2102and the electronic device2004,2104. The electronic device2004,2104may obtain its own current location and orientation from the built-in GNSS or WLAN connection. Using both sets of information, the electronic device2004,2104may estimate the direction of signal arrival from the base station2002,2102. The location of the AiM module2006,2106on the electronic device2004,2104may be predefined for a given design. Using the built-in compass and predefined AiM module location in the electronic device2004,2104, a processor in the electronic device2004,2104may calculate a degree of rotation to align the AiM module2006,2106in the direction of the base station2002,2102.

Once the AiM module2006,2106has been controlled to rotate in the direction of base station2002,2102, the AiM module2006,2106can track the base station beam and correct the angle of the AiM module2006,2106for minor movements in the system location/direction using beam steering.

In the embodiments shown inFIGS.20and21, a single AiM module2006,2106may be located on the right side of the electronic device2004,2104(shown as the laptop base). For the given orientation of the electronic device2004,2104shown inFIGS.20and21, the base station2002,2102is located on the left side of the electronic device2004,2104. As can be seen inFIG.20, the coverage of the AiM module2006is towards right side and the base station2002may thus be out of coverage of the AiM module2006.

As the base station2002inFIG.20is out of coverage, the electronic device2004may initiate the rotation algorithm. The base station2002may (periodically or on request) send location coordinates of the base station2002to the electronic device2004through the downlink LTE/NR connection. The electronic device2004may either before or after reception of the location coordinates from the base station2002obtain its own location coordinates from a GNSS/WLAN connection. The electronic device2004may also obtain its orientation details from the built-in compass or other sensors. By using these inputs, the electronic device2004may calculate the angle of rotation to align the AiM module2006to the incoming mmWave signal from the base station2002and subsequently rotate the AiM module2006such that the base station2002is within the coverage of AiM module2006.

As shown inFIG.21, once the AiM module2106has been rotated to latch onto the mmWave signal from the base station2102, the electronic device2104may further use beam steering to track the base station beam if there are any minor movements in the placement/orientation of the electronic device2104that are detected by the sensors in the electronic device2104.

FIG.22illustrates a flowchart of use of a rotatable AiM module in accordance with some embodiments. The flowchart2200illustrates the operations described above for the system shown inFIGS.20and21. The flowchart2200may be performed continuously automatically or triggered by manual activation. The LTE/NR connection may be established between the base station and the electronic device at operation2202. The electronic device may determine at operation2204whether a mmWave signal is being received from the base station, which the electronic has determined is configured to transmit to the electronic device. At operation2206, if the electronic device determines at operation2204that a mmWave signal is being received from the base station, the electronic device may determine that no further rotation of the AiM module is to be undertaken. At operation2208, if the electronic device determines at operation2204that a mmWave signal is not being received from the base station, the electronic device may obtain location coordinates of the base station from the base station. The location coordinates may be sent periodically from the base station to the electronic device or, as shown in the flowchart2200, transmission of the location coordinates may be triggered by a request from the electronic device. At operation2210, after obtaining the location coordinates of the base station, the electronic device may determine location coordinates of the electronic device as well as orientation of the electronic device using one or more of GNSS information, maps stored in the electronic device, and compass/gyroscope/other sensor information. Using the information of the base station location and the electronic device location and orientation, at operation2212the electronic device may compute the angle of rotation of the AiM module to align the AiM module with the base station in the mmWave signal direction of the base station. Having calculated the angle of rotation at operation2212, the electronic device may at operation2214rotate the AiM module in the mmWave signal direction of the base station to obtain (and maximize) the mmWave signal reception. In some embodiments, the initial rotation is essentially a gross tuning: the AiM module may continue to be rotated by a predetermined amount (e.g., one or two degrees) in each direction to maximize the mmWave signal reception once the mmWave signal has been received. The electronic device may then apply beam steering techniques to adjust to minor changes in the position and orientation of the electronic device (e.g., a few inches and degrees).

The ability to rotate the AiM module(s) may lead to a reduction in the number of AiM modules to be incorporated in the laptop, thereby increasing the design possibilities by reducing the system space constraints, cost, and AiM interconnect complexity while increasing the mmWave link reliability, meeting the CDF requirements, and number of proximity sensors. The AiM module may be disposed at any of the locations described herein (e.g., on one or more of the laptop covers, internal to the chassis, or rotatably disposed in the barrel hinge).

Magnetic Attachment of AiM Modules on Mobile Systems

As above, enablement of mmWave communications for electronic devices (e.g., laptops) may be challenging when the minimum 3 AiM modules are used to meet the CDF defined by the operator. Each AiM module may use at least 6 signals, including digital and RF signals, for optimum operation. This may add to the cost and area used for the AiM module integration in an electronic device.

To combat the cost and area issues when multiple AiM modules are used, sets of spring loaded pogo-pin based interconnects may be used to enable power, digital, and shielded RF signals interfaces through a single connector, thereby reducing pin count by 10 instead of 24. This reduction may also enable the external plug and play of an AiM module, which brings down the overall system cost for mmWave communications.

FIG.23illustrates a block diagram of an AiM module in accordance with some embodiments. In particular, as shown in the circuit diagram ofFIG.23, the electronic device2300may include a magnetically attachable antenna dongle2302in which two AiM modules2302a,2302bmay be placed back-to-back. The AiM modules2302a,2302bmay be connected to the communication system2304of the electronic device2300. As shown, a wireless wide area network (WWAN) module2306(and/or other communication module) is connected to the AiM modules2302a,2302bthrough a connector2308and switch2310.

In some embodiments, the AiM modules2302a,2302bmay have pogo pin-based interconnects that include the power supply, reference supply, power enable (PON), and intermediate frequency (IF) interface (IF-H, IF-V) with a ground shield. The pin counts for the AiM modules2302a,2302bmay be reduced by enabling a single IF interface to drive both the AiM modules2302a,2302bwith the DPDT switch2310inside the dongle2302to switch the IF interface to the desired AiM module2302a,2302b. The real estate area may be reduced inside the electronic device2300by moving the AiM modules2302a,2302binto the dongle2302. The M.2 based WWAN module2306may communicate with the mmWave interface with the help of the magnetically attached dongle2302.

FIG.24illustrates AiM modules inside a dongle in accordance with some embodiments. The dongle2400includes two AiM modules2402disposed at a specific angle (e.g., about a right angle) with respect to each other and connected to a PCB2406. The dongle2400is able to be connected to the laptop (or other device) via a magnetic connector2404.

FIG.25illustrates a dongle on laptop covers in accordance with some embodiments. The laptop2500shown inFIG.25may contain an A-cover2502and a C-cover2506, each or both of which may contain one or more areas for connection of the dongle2504.FIG.26Aillustrates a dongle placement on a laptop cover in accordance with some embodiments.FIG.26Billustrates a dongle placement on a laptop base in accordance with some embodiments. As shown inFIGS.26A and26B, the dongle2602may be provided in one or more of different locations on the laptop2600. The locations may include one or more locations on each of the A-cover or C-cover of the laptop2600, as shown. This may help to reduce the area occupied by the mmWave solutions and facilitate a compact system design of the laptop2600. Although not shown, each of the possible locations in which the dongle2602may be connected may be covered with a removable cover (e.g., formed from plastic or rubber) to protect the electrical contacts within the area.

In addition, multiple AiM modules may be controlled using a single IF interface, which may help to reduce the cost incurred by the mmWave communications.FIG.27illustrates AiM module radiation coverage in accordance with some embodiments. As shown inFIG.27, the dongle2700includes two AiM modules2702disposed at about a right angle with respect to each other and connected to a PCB2706(e.g., via an FPC). The dongle2700is able to be connected to the laptop (or other device) via a magnetic frame2704. The AiM modules2702each contain multiple radiating elements2702a(as other AiM modules described herein) to radiate in the mmWave frequency range. The AiM modules2702may use a single IF interface (IF-H, IF-V) to drive both AiM modules2702with a Double Pole Double Throw (DPDT) switch (seeFIG.23) to switch the IF interface to the appropriate AiM module2702. The DPDT switch can be controlled by power on (PON) signals of the AiM modules2702. With help of respective PON signals of the AiM modules2702, the DPDT switch may turn on and connect to one of the AiM modules2702and enable the IF interface, power and reference signals for the AiM module2702, thereby reducing the dongle connector pin count for the AiM modules2702from 24 to 10.

The appropriate AiM module2702may be selected using the PON signals based on the CDF difference between the AiM modules2702. That is, the AiM module2702having the higher CDF may be determined and then be selected. Hence, a common power supply can be used for both AiM modules2702as only one AiM module2702may be operating at one time, thereby reducing the implementation cost. The AiM modules2702may be arranged specifically to meet a typical radiation coverage pattern of about 100° (to about 110°, as above) the CDF, as shown inFIG.27.

Turning to the pin arrangement of the dongle,FIG.28Aillustrates a view of a connector in accordance with some embodiments.FIG.28Billustrates another view of the connector ofFIG.28Ain accordance with some embodiments. As shown inFIGS.28A and28B, the dongle2800may be a pogo pin-based interconnect that includes pogo pins2802for the AiM module power supply, reference signals, power enable, and IF signals with ground shielded mechanisms for the mmwave IF interface. The pogo pins2802and RF connectors2804may extend from and be retained within a magnetic connector2808that is housed within a case2806. The case2806may also contain the AiM modules2810and PCB2812that controls the AiM modules2810. The dongle2800may be designed to enable power, digital, and RF signals together on a single connector considering the challenges to provide proper isolation between RF and digital interfaces.

The connector portion of the dongle2800ofFIGS.28A and28Bmay include 10 pogo pins: 2 pins for Vsys power (to meet a maximum current of 1.2 A), 2 pins for PON signals (1 for each AiM module2810), 1 pin for Vref power (to meet a maximum current of 90 mA), 2 pins specially designed for RF signals (V, H), and 3 pins for ground.

The dongle provides a pogo pin-based interconnect with pins for the AiM module signals and specially designed pins for the RF connectors.FIG.29Aillustrates a top view of a RF connector in accordance with some embodiments.FIG.29Billustrates a cutaway view of the RF connector ofFIG.29Ain accordance with some embodiments. The RF connector2900includes an RF pogo pin2902to provide the RF signals, a spring2904to permit the RF pogo pin2902to make contact with the appropriate connector on the laptop, and a cylindrical RF ground shield2906surrounding the spring2904and the RF pogo pin2902. The ground shield2906is configured to meet the 50-ohm impedance requirement and provide proper isolation for high frequency mmWave RF signals. In some embodiments, the pogo pin covers may be formed from polyimide or rubber.

FIG.30illustrates an antenna module dongle in accordance with some embodiments. The perspective view of the dongle3000shown inFIG.30, illustrates the various pins, connectors, and electronics are contained in the case3002(also referred to as a radome), which is connected with the laptop via a magnetic connector3004. The laptop may have a recess in which the dongle3000fits and that may be able to be uncovered to expose the associated connectors for connection to the dongle3000. In other embodiments, the laptop may not have a recess. The magnetic connector3004may fix the dongle3000in place on the laptop, whether or not the laptop contains such a recess.

FPC Based Modular mmWave AiM Module Holder as EMI Shield and Thermal Spreader

In some embodiments, multiple AiM modules may be disposed in the base of a laptop. However, the introduction of multiple AiM modules in the base may result in the AiM modules being proximate to system noise sources such as memory integrated circuits (ICs), system on a chip (SOC), and various types of interconnects. This may result in RF interference (RFI) issues due to coupling of the system noise to the mmWave antenna. As the mmWave frequency band ranges from 26 to 40 GHz: it may be difficult to design a metal shield that works for the given frequencies. Reducing the dependency of RF protection on metal shields, which may have an airgap or cutout of less than 0.75 mm to minimize the electromagnetic leakage, may be difficult. Designing PCB to achieve shields without such a gap may be difficult due to PCB inner layer breakout routing—in particular routing requirements establish a relaxed shield via to via pitch gets up to 5 mm, which may result in to mmWave frequency leakage, causing RFI issues. To overcome this, an antenna barricade may be used for the mmWave AiM module with the help of an IF channel FPC and metal fence to reduce the dependency of RF protection on metal shields.

FIG.31Aillustrates a front view of an AiM module in accordance with some embodiments.FIG.31Billustrates a back view of the AiM module ofFIG.31Ain accordance with some embodiments.FIG.31Cillustrates a portion of the back view ofFIG.31Bin accordance with some embodiments.FIG.31Dillustrates an exploded view of the AiM module ofFIG.31Ain accordance with some embodiments.FIG.31Eillustrates an electromagnetic interference (EMI) shield assembly in accordance with some embodiments. In the AiM module system3100shown inFIGS.31A-31E, an FPC3102may be used as a thermal spreader (as best seen inFIG.31C) and EMI shield for the AiM module3106in conjunction with a metal stiffener3104and metal fence3108. The metal fence3108may be attached to a top of the FPC3102with a conductive glue or solder to provide the EMI shielding. The metal fence3108may completely encircle the AiM module3106, have a shape (as shown, rectangular) that corresponds to that of the AiM module3106, and have cutouts3108afor the screws. The FPC3102may include IF cable connectors3102ato couple signals to the AiM module3106.

As the AiM module system3100is modular, the AiM module system3100can be used for T/L systems, and the AiM module3106may be placed near locations with improved RFI with shielding in addition to reducing the length of the FPC3102with low IR losses.

The modular shield box formed from the FPC3102, metal stiffener3104, and metal fence3108may have limited impact to the radiation characteristics of the AiM module3106as the AiM module3106may retain the same coverage as a free space AiM module. In addition, the metal fence3108may not be grounded, which may help to retain the antenna array performance and can also be used for plastic systems. The metal fence3108, as shown e.g., inFIG.31E, may provide a barricade wall between the mmWave antennas of the AiM module3106and system noise sources.

The AiM module3106may be attached to the FPC3102and/or metal fence3108through screws (or other fasteners) in a screw arrangement3110aat opposing edges of a base3110on which the AiM module3106is disposed. This provides a simple, detachable and low cost solution for the modular shield box while mitigating vibrations. The portions of the modular shield box may be formed from one or more thermally conductive materials to achieve good thermal performance.

The metal stiffener3104may be formed in a substantially L shape from aluminum or another conductive material that is sufficiently inflexible to support the connected structure (FPC3102and AiM module3106) without bending. The metal stiffener3104may have holes3104aformed in or near the corners to connect the metal stiffener3104to the FPC3102and AiM module3106and to fix the metal stiffener3104to the laptop chassis.

The IF channel FPC3102may be extended beyond the AiM module connector region shown inFIG.31Dalong the length of the AiM module3106. The FPC3102may have an exposed Cu layer. The metal fence3108, metal stiffener3104, and FPC3102Cu layers may be electrically connected to each other. Conductive glue may be used to connect the parts together. The FPC3102ground and metal fence3108may form an enclosure equivalent to a single piece shield, thereby providing EMI shielding. The FPC3102metal layers, metal stiffener3104, and metal fence3108walls combined together help as heat spreader for heat dissipation of the AiM module3106.

Antenna Identification System

Another aspect of modular electronic device systems is the ability to upgrade components of the electronic device for sustainability. Modularization of the radio components (including various modems) and antennas in a laptop may be desirable. In particular, with the advance of new technologies, mobile devices like laptops and mobile phones are updated with each change in technology. Such updates may call for re-designing and certifying the system even for small updates.

Antennas are passive in nature and do not have an electronic identity. Thus, no closed loop mechanism exists to ensure radio-to-antenna compatibility. This creates complexities in certification aspects (such as federal communication commission (FCC) requirements) when updates are performed at the user end. It is thus desirable to provide a mechanism that ensures RF path equivalency of a user-upgraded system to an OEM certified system. In addition, issues associated with RF cabling and connector-related failures may lead to modem failures/non-usability. This may create a related discontinuity of user experience as such failures may not be identifiable by the system as no feedback may occur from antenna to the modem.

To better enable user end modification, an inherent feedback system may be employed to ensure certification compliance from wireless modem to antenna characteristics. This enables only the modem being replaced without changing the full system when there is an upgrade in the modem. To ensure the FCCID/ETSI certification is not violated, it is desirable to provide feedback between the modem and the antenna to ensure the equivalency between modem to antenna and to make sure the antenna is not changed as against delta certified upgrade options.

FIG.32illustrates circuitry in accordance with some embodiments. The electronic device3200shown inFIG.32may include a radio side3202and an antenna side3204. The radio side3202may include one or more wireless modems3202aand a feedback circuit3202b. The antenna side3204may include one or more antennas3204a, and an analog circuit3204band/or a digital circuit3204c. In the electronic device3200, a DC and/or low frequency path (overriding and decoupled) through RF lines (RF feed and corresponding cable ground) may be used to interconnect the radio side3202and the antenna side3204. The analog circuit3204band/or a digital circuit3204cmay provide unique characteristics, either a unique impedance (of analog circuit3204b) or a digital identifier (digital circuit3204c).

The feedback circuit3202bat the radio side3202or radio host board end may be used to uniquely identify the antenna3204aby the digital or analog characteristics presented at the antenna side3204over the above-mentioned DC path (digital communication or unique impedance). This unique identity may ensure that the antenna3204ais identified and compatible with the radio side3202and specifically the modem3202a.

The feedback circuit3202bmay verify the analog circuit3204band/or digital circuit3204cat each power up (or based on manual activation). The RF path may only be enabled after this verification succeeds. The verification may not only enable antenna identification but also enable detection of open antenna situations (i.e., when a problem has occurred in the connection between the antenna side3204and the radio side3202). Note that while this is directed to a mobile electronic device such as a laptop, similar circuitry may be employed in wireless base station antennas.

In addition, RF output power from the modem3202aalong with the overridden low frequency or DC path may be provided to the antenna3204aand the analog circuit3204bor digital circuit3204c. If the RF path is DC decoupled, this may not impact the overridden DC or low frequency signal. The DC/low frequency path may be AC decoupled and hence the transmitted RF energy may not affect the analog circuit3204bor digital circuit3204c.

As one operation before enabling the RF path of the modem3202a, the unique identity (impedance of the analog circuit3204band digital ID of digital circuit3204c) may be determined by the feedback circuit3202b. The feedback circuit3202bmay determine whether the antenna3204ais compatible with the modem3202a. The feedback circuit3202bmay enable the RF path may be subject to a correct identity being determined, and may disable the RF path if no identity or a non-valid identity is determined. If the feedback circuit3202bdetermines that there is no antenna connected, or a different identity antenna is connected than an intended antenna, feedback may be transmitted to the radio as an antenna identity mismatch. Based on this feedback the RF transmit path may be disabled and a notification sent to users regarding the identity mismatch or lack of antenna being present (with different notifications being sent dependent on the circumstances detected).

As shown, the modem3202amay be coupled to the signal path via an AC coupler (e.g., a capacitor), while the feedback circuit3202bmay be coupled to the signal path via a DC coupler (e.g., an inductor). In other embodiments, other circuits may be used to isolate the appropriate signals to limit the modem3202ato receive/transmit only the RF signals, and the feedback circuit3202bto receive only the DC signals.

Improved Isolation for Adjacent Slot Antennas

Lighter, thinner and bezel-less system design is desired for electronic devices, notably laptops. In particular, many embodiments of laptops use a full metal chassis system with all six (or more) antennas on the laptop base. Antenna placement is challenging to design in such a system: antennas that are placed close to each other may yield poor isolation causing a drop in wireless throughput. In particular, the implementation of PCB antennas on the base of a laptop may use large plastic cut-outs in both the C-cover and D-cover. However, large metal cutouts are not acceptable from an industrial design perspective because of compromising the otherwise seamless design and making the system weaker.

To mitigate these issues, a united two slot antenna system may be provided in the metal chassis of the laptop with better isolation for a combination 5G/LTE/MIMO/WIFI-6E antenna design without any physical spacing. While generally antenna performance (impedance matching and radiation efficiency) deteriorates if antenna comes close to metal, the antenna architecture may operate with a minimum keep out zone (KOZ) from metal components in the system without compromising the mechanical structural performance. The antenna placement on the laptop base allows design of bezel-less or narrow bezel LID/display. The chassis design may have minimum plastic/non-conductive material in a metal chassis.

The slot antenna system in a laptop may include combined horizontal slots and/or combined vertical slots. For combined horizontal slots, shunt resistor-capacitor discrete components between a slot antenna at the C-cover side and metal shorting at the D-cover side may be used. The shunt capacitor-resistor (CR) circuit may improve the isolation for a specific frequency band. For combined vertical slots, a half-wavelength shorting stub may be used along with two slot antennas. The half-wavelength shorting stub may help to cancel the current phase coupling between the two antennas and thereby improve isolation. As shown, a total horizontal length of the slots may be a half-wavelength.

Various methods may be used to unite or merge two slot antennas while maintaining performance (efficiency, isolation) with no spacing, which also may improve miniaturization. The isolation is achieved by current and EM field cancellation between ports.

FIG.33Aillustrates a perspective view of a C-cover containing merging horizontal slots in accordance with some embodiments.FIG.33Billustrates an enlarged portion of the C-cover ofFIG.33Ain accordance with some embodiments.FIG.33Cillustrates a side view of the C-cover ofFIG.33Ain accordance with some embodiments.FIG.33Dillustrates a side view of a D-cover associated with the C-cover ofFIG.33Ain accordance with some embodiments.FIG.33Eillustrates an enlarged view of an FPC shown inFIG.33Cin accordance with some embodiments.FIG.33Fillustrates another view of the side view of the C-cover ofFIG.33Ain accordance with some embodiments.

FIGS.33A-33Fillustrate the C-cover3302of a laptop3300in which a slot antenna3304having horizontal slots are disposed. The horizontal slots of the slot antenna3304are combined. Horizontal slots of the slot antenna3304may be disposed in one or more locations indicated by the ovals inFIG.33A, such as on opposing sides of the touchpad area3306as shown in more detail inFIG.33B. To improve isolation shunt resistor-capacitor discrete components3308may be added in C-cover side of the laptop and a conductive (metal) shorting3310may be added in the D-cover side between the slot antennas as shown inFIGS.33C and33D. The resistor/capacitor isolation circuit3308in the MIMO and Wi-Fi feed traces (at the C-cover)3312a,3312bof a FPC3320may improve isolation (decoupling) by about 5 to about 10 dB and conductive shorting in D-cover by about 2 to about 5 dB, as shown inFIG.33E. The total length of slot antenna3304may be about 50 mm with no gap (i.e., the slot antennas are continuous) between the sections of the slot antenna3304, as shown inFIG.33F.

FIG.34illustrates S-parameter results of combined horizontal slot in accordance with some embodiments. In the simulation, port-01 of the slot antenna is tuned for the Wi-Fi-6E frequency bands (2.4-2.5 GHZ and 5.15-7.125 GHz) and port-02 is tuned for the 5G MIMO frequency band (1.8-2.7 GHZ and 3.3-5.0 GHZ). As seen inFIG.34, both slot antennas have a good return loss for the respective operating bands and have good impedance matching with 50Ω. The S21 parameter is the isolation between antenna-1 (Wi-Fi) and antenna-2 (5G MIMO). The achieved return loss or impedance bandwidth meets 5G MIMO and Wi-Fi6E antenna design requirements.

FIG.35Aillustrates merging vertical slots in accordance with some embodiments.FIG.35Billustrates C-cover metal containing the merging vertical slots ofFIG.35Ain accordance with some embodiments.FIG.35Cillustrates D-cover metal containing the merging vertical slots ofFIG.35Ain accordance with some embodiments. The C-cover3502of a laptop3500may contain a vertical slot3504. The vertical slot3504may be common for both antennas fed by ports3506a,3506band a half-wavelength shorting stub3508may be covered by both antennas as shown inFIG.35A. The half-wavelength shorting stub3508may help to cancel the current phase coupling between the two antennas and improve isolation. The antenna structure may thus include an open slot3504(vertical slot3504) and half-wavelength shorting stub3508as shown inFIG.35B, and may be present in both the C-cover3502(shown inFIGS.35A and35B), as well as the D-cover3520shown inFIG.35C. The ports3506a,3506bmay be connected to an FPC3510as shown inFIGS.35B and35C.

FIG.36illustrates S-parameter results of combined vertical slots with a half wavelength stub in accordance with some embodiments. While a dual feed 5G sub 6 GHz slot antenna may face isolation failure between both ports in a tablet design, the antenna slot ofFIG.35may improve the isolation for the dual feed 5G antenna. The half wavelength stub may be created from the back metal frame of the display and connected with the combined vertical slots antennas.

Speaker Integrated Antenna

Antenna location in various electronic devices is of import as proximity to a human or a foreign object (e.g., <10 mm) may cause the antenna to become detuned and impact the overall wireless performance. The Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) may increase with decreasing human proximity to the antenna radiating elements. Previous locations of antenna components in laptops include antenna FPCs attached to or printed on a dielectric platform at the C-cover or D-cover of the laptop chassis. This, however, may result in a larger RF window opening on the opposite side of the FPC to enable the desired EM radiation characteristics.

In some embodiments, antenna design in a laptop may locate the antenna FPC near the speaker box (cavity) of a speaker to avoid being detuned.FIG.37illustrates a split speaker-integrated antenna in accordance with some embodiments. In the arrangement3700shown inFIG.37, the cavity that forms the speaker box3702is split into two speaker box portions3702bthat are connected by a common speaker box area3702a(thus only a portion of the speaker box3702may be split into the speaker box portions3702b). The antenna FPC3704disposed in the area between speaker box portions3702b. The speaker box3702may be formed from a non-conductive material such as plastic. The arrangement3700forms a sandwich structure that retains the audio performance of the speaker, does not impact the overall speaker back volume, uses the speaker plastic as dielectric loading to miniaturize the antenna dimensions, and is able to avoid the antenna FPC adhesive in forming the arrangement3700while distancing the antenna FPC3704from the speaker driver3708that may otherwise cause interference. The distance between the antenna FPC3704and the RF window3706formed by the C-cover and the D-cover is about 3 mm to about 4 mm. Although the split of the speaker box3702is shown as being equal, in other embodiments it may be unequal.

The splitting of the speaker box3702may also avoid the human proximity issues that may otherwise result if the speaker box3702was not split and the antenna FPC3704attached to one surface of the speaker box3702, which may result in the antenna FPC3704being close to the surface of the C-cover or D-cover and thus reduce the SAR due to the above proximity issues. That is, the placement of the antenna FPC3704between the speaker box3702portions may increase the distance from human proximity and thus increase SAR.

EXAMPLES

Example 1 is an electronic device comprising: a first section and a second section connected by a hinge assembly: and a mmWave antenna integrated module (AiM) module disposed in the hinge assembly.

In Example 2, the subject matter of Example 1 includes, wherein the electronic device is a laptop, the first section contains a display and the second section is a base of the laptop.

In Example 3, the subject matter of Examples 1-2 includes, wherein the AiM module is stationary within the hinge assembly.

In Example 4, the subject matter of Examples 1-3 includes, wherein the hinge assembly comprises: a rotational hinge portion attached to the first section and including a cylindrical portion, configured to rotate with rotation of the first section, a hinge mandrel attached to the second section, and a static hinge portion attached to the hinge mandrel and to which the AiM module is attached, the static hinge portion configured to pass through the cylindrical portion of the rotational hinge portion and remain stationary with rotation of the first section.

In Example 5, the subject matter of Example 4 includes, wherein the static hinge portion is modular and contains a first section attached to the hinge mandrel and a second section to which the AiM module is attached, the first section detachable from the second section.

In Example 6, the subject matter of Examples 4-5 includes, wherein the hinge assembly further comprises cable clamps that clamp to the static hinge portion, the cable clamps configured to retain cables directly coupled to the AiM module such that the cables remain stationary with rotation of the first section.

In Example 7, the subject matter of Example 6 includes, wherein: the cables extend parallel and adjacent to the rotational hinge portion, and the rotational hinge portion, the static hinge portion, the AiM module, and the cables are retained within a case.

Example 8 is an electronic device comprising: a first section and a second section connected by a hinge assembly: and a mmWave antenna integrated module (AiM) module at least one of magnetically or rotationally coupled to one of the first section or the second section.

In Example 9, the subject matter of Example 8 includes, wherein: the AiM module is rotationally coupled to one of the first section or the second section, and the AiM module is rotated in response to detection by the electronic device that a mmWave transmission is unable to be received from a base station that is in communication with the electronic device.

In Example 10, the subject matter of Example 9 includes, wherein the electronic device is configured to, in response to detection by the electronic device that the mmWave transmission is unable to be received from the base station: request, from the base station, base station coordinates, receive, from the base station in response to the request, the base station coordinates, determine a location and orientation of the electronic device, determine, based on the base station coordinates and location and orientation of the electronic device, an angle of rotation of the AiM module, and rotate the AiM module based on the angle of rotation.

In Example 11, the subject matter of Example 10 includes, wherein: after rotation of the AiM module based on the angle of rotation, determine that the mmWave transmission is able to be received from the base station, and in response to a determination that the mmWave transmission is able to be received from the base station, use beam steering to detect a change in at least one of the location or orientation of the electronic device and adjust the angle of rotation in response to detection of the change.

In Example 12, the subject matter of Examples 8-11 includes, wherein: the AiM module is magnetically coupled to one of the first section or the second section via a magnetic conductor, and a dongle contains a plurality of AiM modules disposed at an angle to each other, a printed circuit board (PCB) on which the AiM modules are disposed and to which the AiM modules are electrically connected via a flexible printed circuit (FPC), the magnetic conductor on which the PCB is disposed, and a case configured to retain the AiM modules, the PCB, and the magnetic conductor.

In Example 13, the subject matter of Example 12 includes, wherein the AiM modules are driven via a single intermediate frequency (IF) interface through a Double Pole Double Throw (DPDT) switch that is configured to switch the IF interface to one of the AIMs based on Power On (PON) signals of the AiM modules, the DPDT switch configured to turn on and connect to one of the AiM modules and enable the IF interface, power and reference signals for the one of the AiM modules.

In Example 14, the subject matter of Example 13 includes, wherein the dongle further contains pogo pins and radio frequency (RF) connectors, the pogo pins configured to supply power, reference signals, power enable, and IF signals to the AiM modules from the electronic device, the RF connectors including RF pogo pins each surrounded by a ground shield.

In Example 15, the subject matter of Examples 12-14 includes, °.

Example 16 is an electronic device comprising: a first section and a second section connected by a hinge assembly: and a shielded mmWave antenna integrated module (AiM) module coupled to one of the first section or the second section.

In Example 17, the subject matter of Example 16 includes, wherein: the AiM module is encircled by a substantially rectangular metal fence configured to provide radio frequency (RF) shielding for the AiM module, the AiM module is disposed on and electrically connected to a flexible printed circuit (FPC) on which the metal fence is disposed, the FPC is disposed on a metal stiffener to which the AiM module and FPC are attached, and the metal stiffener, the FPC, and the metal fence configured to spread heat of the AiM module.

In Example 18, the subject matter of Examples 16-17 includes, wherein: an antenna module contains the AiM module and one of an analog circuit or a digital circuit configured to provide an identifier, the identifier being a unique impedance for the analog circuit and a digital identification for the digital circuit, and the electronic device comprises: a modem coupled to a signal path via an alternating current (AC) coupler and configured to communicate radio frequency (RF) signals with the antenna module via the signal path, and a feedback circuit coupled to the signal path via a direct current (DC) coupler and configured to receive the identifier via the signal path.

In Example 19, the subject matter of Example 18 includes, wherein: the feedback circuit is configured to detect the identifier, and in response to no identifier being detected or a non-valid identifier being detected, the electronic device is configured to disable the signal path such that the modem is unable communicate the RF signals with the antenna module.

In Example 20, the subject matter of Example 19 includes, wherein in response to no identifier being detected or a non-valid identifier being detected, the electronic device is further configured to provide a user notification that depends on which of no identifier is detected and the non-valid identifier is detected.

In Example 21, the subject matter of Examples 16-20 includes, wherein: the electronic device is a laptop, the laptop comprises a C-cover and a D-cover that contain merged horizontal slot antennas in a metal portion of a chassis, the C-cover containing C-portions of the merged horizontal slot antennas and the D-cover containing D-portions of the merged horizontal slot antennas, the merged horizontal slot antennas are continuous and lack a gap therebetween, and resistor-capacitor discrete components are disposed in the C-portions, and metal shorting is disposed between the D-portions.

In Example 22, the subject matter of Examples 16-21 includes, wherein: the electronic device is a laptop, the laptop comprises merged vertical slot antennas in a metal portion of a chassis, the merged vertical slot antennas are continuous and lack a gap therebetween, and a total horizontal length of the merged vertical slot antennas forms a half wavelength shorting stub.

In Example 23, the subject matter of Examples 16-22 includes, wherein: the electronic device comprises a cavity that forms a speaker box, the speaker box comprises a common speaker box area and vertically-adjacent speaker box portions that each extend laterally from the common speaker box area, and a flexible printed circuit (FPC) electrically connected to the AiM module is disposed between the vertically-adjacent speaker box portions.

In Example 24, the subject matter of Example 23 includes, wherein: the electronic device is a laptop, the laptop comprises a C-cover and a D-cover between which the speaker box is disposed, a driver that is configured to provide sound for the speaker box is adjacent to the common speaker box area, and the speaker box is formed from plastic.

Example 26 is an apparatus comprising means to implement of any of Examples 1-24.

Example 27 is a system to implement of any of Examples 1-24.

Example 28 is a method to implement of any of Examples 1-24.