ELECTRONIC DEVICE INCLUDING ANTENNA

An electronic device is provided. The electronic device includes first and second printed circuit boards (PCBs); a flexible PCB (FPCB) connecting the first and second PCBs; and an antenna module between the first and second PCBs. The antenna module includes: a first pattern layer provided on a first substrate surface and forming a first coil pattern; a second pattern layer provided on a second substrate surface and forming a second coil pattern; an overlapping area in which the FPCB is provided between portions of the second pattern layer; and a plurality of pattern areas in which the portions of the second coil pattern are respectively provided

BACKGROUND

The disclosure relates to an electronic device including an antenna.

2. Description of Related Art

There is continuous demand for an electronic device, such as a portable terminal, with reduced size and increased functionality. Various components and substrates are mounted in the electronic device to perform the respective functions and such parts may be connected through a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB).

Miniaturization of an electronic device is required to improve portability and aesthetics. Since various parts are provided in the electronic device, technology for effectively using an inner space of the miniaturized electronic device is being developed. Also, when internal parts of the electronic device are connected through a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB), an internal arrangement structure of the electronic device may be optimized by designing a shape of the FPCB to not overlap other parts (e.g., an antenna, a battery, etc.).

SUMMARY

Provided are an electronic device including an antenna.

In accordance with an aspect of the disclosure, an electronic device includes: a display including a first area and a second area; a housing structure including a first housing supporting the first area and a second housing supporting the second area, wherein an inner space is provided between the housing structure and a rear surface of the display; a hinge structure foldably connecting the first housing and the second housing based on a folding axis so that the first housing and the second housing are foldable relative to each other on the folding axis between a first state in which the first area and the second area are substantially coplanar and a second state in which the first area and the second area face each other; a first printed circuit board (PCB) provided in the inner space; a second PCB provided in the inner space; a flexible PCB (FPCB) connecting the first PCB and the second PCB; and an antenna module provided in the inner space of the housing structure and overlapping the FPCB along a direction perpendicular to the rear surface of the display. The antenna module includes: a base member including a first surface, and a second surface opposite to the first surface and facing the FPCB; a first pattern layer provided on the first surface of the base member and forming a first coil pattern; a second pattern layer provided on the second surface of the base member and forming a second coil pattern; an overlapping area in which the FPCB is provided between portions of the second pattern layer; and a plurality of pattern areas in which the portions of the second coil pattern are respectively provided.

The antenna module may further include a plurality of vias provided in each of the plurality of pattern areas and electrically connecting the portions of the second coil pattern provided in each of the plurality of pattern areas to the first coil pattern.

The antenna module may further include a first shielding layer provided in the plurality of pattern areas on the second pattern layer.

The antenna module may further include a second shielding layer provided in the overlapping area on the second surface of the base member.

The first shielding layer and the second shielding layer may form an integrated shielding layer.

The first shielding layer may be spaced apart from the second shielding layer.

The antenna module may further include a heat dissipation layer in the plurality of pattern areas on the first shielding layer.

The FPCB may be provided in the overlapping area, and a surface of the second pattern layer may have a height substantially equal to or greater than that of a surface of the FPCB along the direction perpendicular to the rear surface of the display.

The plurality of pattern areas may include a first pattern area and a second pattern area that are separated from each other by the overlapping area, and a portion of the second coil pattern may be provided in each of the first pattern area and the second pattern area.

The antenna module may further include a plurality of vias electrically connecting the first coil pattern and the second coil pattern. The first coil pattern may include a first separation pattern and a second separation pattern that are separate from each other. Each of the first separation pattern and the second separation pattern may be connected, through the plurality of vias, to the second coil pattern in the first pattern area and the second coil pattern in the second pattern area.

The electronic device may further include a battery provided in the inner space of the housing structure. The battery may overlap the overlapping area along the direction perpendicular to the rear surface of the display.

The FPCB may extend through the antenna module in a substantially straight line.

The overlapping area may include a first overlapping area extending in a first longitudinal direction and a second overlapping area connected to the first overlapping area and extending a second longitudinal direction that crosses the first longitudinal direction. The FPCB may be provided in the first overlapping area and the second overlapping area.

The first longitudinal direction may be substantially perpendicular to the second longitudinal direction.

The overlapping area and the FPCB may have substantially common widths in the overlapping area.

In accordance with an aspect of the disclosure, an electronic device includes: a housing including a front surface, a rear surface, and a side surface between the front surface and the rear surface; a display; a first printed circuit board (PCB) provided in an inner space of the housing; a second PCB provided in the inner space of the housing and spaced apart from the first PCB; an antenna module provided in the inner space of the housing; and a flexible PCB (FPCB) connecting the first PCB and the second PCB and extending in a first direction through the antenna module. The antenna module includes: a base member including a first surface, and a second surface opposite to the first surface and facing the FPCB; a first pattern layer provided on the first surface of the base member and forming a first coil pattern; a second pattern layer provided on the second surface of the base member and forming a plurality of second coil patterns; a plurality of pattern areas respectively corresponding to the plurality of second coil patterns; and an overlapping area in which the FPCB is provided, wherein the overlapping area separates the plurality of second coil patterns from each other.

The antenna module may further include a plurality of vias extending through the base member in each of the plurality of pattern areas and electrically connecting the plurality of second coil patterns to the first coil pattern.

The antenna module may further include: a first shielding layer provided in each of the plurality of pattern areas on the second pattern layer; and a second shielding layer provided in the overlapping area between the second surface and the FPCB.

The electronic device may further include a battery provided in the space of the housing. The overlapping area and the battery may overlap along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction.

In accordance with an aspect of the disclosure, an electronic device includes: a display including a first area and a second area; a first housing supporting the first area and forming a first space; a second housing supporting the second area and forming a second space; a hinge structure foldably connecting the first housing and the second housing based on a folding axis so that the first housing and the second housing are foldable relative to each other on the folding axis between a first state in which the first area and the second area are substantially coplanar and a second state in which the first area and the second area face each other; a first printed circuit board (PCB) provided in the first space; a second PCB provided in the second space; a flexible PCB (FPCB) connecting the first PCB and the second PCB and extending across the hinge structure; an antenna module provided in the first space or the second space, and overlapping the FPCB along a direction perpendicular to a surface of the display; and a battery provided in the first space or the second space, and overlapping the antenna module along the direction. The antenna module includes: a base member including a first surface, and a second surface opposite to the first surface and facing the FPCB; a first pattern layer provided on the first surface of the base member and forming a first coil pattern; a second pattern layer provided on the second surface of the base member and forming a second coil pattern; a plurality of vias electrically connecting the first coil pattern and the second coil pattern, and passing through the base member; and an overlapping area in which the FPCB is provided between portions of the second pattern layer.

In accordance with an aspect of the disclosure, an antenna module includes: a first coil provided on a first surface of a substrate; a first portion of a second coil provided on a second surface of the substrate; a second portion of the second coil provided on the second surface of the substrate and separated from the first portion of the second coil; and a plurality of vias that extend through the substrate and electrically connect the first portion of the second coil to the first coil, and the second portion of the second coil to the first coil.

Side surfaces of the first portion of the second coil and the second portion of the second coil may face each other, may be substantially perpendicular to the second surface of the substrate, and may define a space configured to accommodate a flexible printed circuit board.

The antenna module may further include a shielding layer that extends on the second surface of the substrate between the first portion of the second coil and the second portion of the second coil.

The antenna module may further include: a first shielding layer provided on the first portion of the second coil and the second portion of the second coil; and a second shielding layer that extends on the second surface of the substrate between the first portion of the second coil and the second portion of the second coil.

The antenna module may further include vertical shielding portions electrically connecting the first shielding layer and the second shielding layer.

A space may be provided on the second surface of the substrate between the first portion of the second coil and the second portion of the second coil.

The antenna module may further include a flexible printed circuit board that extends on the second surface of the substrate between the first portion of the second coil and the second portion of the second coil.

The antenna module may further include a battery. The flexible printed circuit board, the substrate and the battery may overlap each other along a direction perpendicular to the first surface of the substrate.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Hereinafter, various example embodiments will be described in greater detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Like reference numerals refer to like elements and a repeated description related thereto will be omitted.

The program140may be stored as software in the memory130, and may include, for example, an operating system (OS)142, middleware144, or an application146.

The camera module180may capture a still image and moving images. According to an embodiment, the camera module180may include one or more lenses, image sensors, image signal processors, or flashes.

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

FIG.2is a block diagram illustrating a wireless communication module292, a power management module288, and an antenna module297of an electronic device200(e.g., the electronic device101ofFIG.1) according to embodiments. Referring toFIG.2, the wireless communication module292may include a magnetic secure transmission (MST) communication module210or a near field communication (NFC) module230, and the power management module288may include a wireless charging module250. In this case, the antenna module297may include a plurality of antennas including an MST antenna297-1connected to the MST communication module210, an NFC antenna297-3connected to the NFC module230, and a wireless charging antenna297-5connected to the wireless charging module250. For clarity of description, an overlapping component ofFIG.1may be omitted or briefly described.

The MST communication module210may receive a signal including control information or payment information such as card information from the processor120and generate a magnetic signal corresponding to the received signal and then deliver the generated magnetic signal to the external electronic device (e.g., a POS device) (e.g., the electronic device102ofFIG.1) through the MST antenna297-1. To generate the magnetic signal, according to an embodiment, the MST communication module210may include a switching module (not shown) including one or more switches connected to the MST antenna297-1and may control the switching module to change a direction of voltage or current supplied to the MST antenna297-1according to the received signal. Change in the direction of voltage or current enables a direction of the magnetic signal (e.g., a magnetic field) transmitted through the MST antenna297-1to be changed accordingly. When the magnetic signal is detected by the external electronic device, the magnetic signal in a direction shifted state may cause the similar effect (e.g., a waveform) as the magnetic field that is generated while a magnetic card corresponding to the received signal (e.g., card information) is being swiped by a card reader of the electronic device102. According to an embodiment, payment related information and a control signal received in a form of the magnetic signal by the electronic device102may be transmitted to an external server208(e.g., a payment server) through a network.

The NFC module230may acquire a signal including control information or payment information, such as card information, from the processor120and may transmit the acquired signal to the external electronic device102through the NFC antenna297-3. According to an embodiment, the NFC module230may receive such a signal transmitted from the external electronic device102through the NFC antenna297-3.

The wireless charging module250may wirelessly transmit power to the external electronic device102(e.g., a mobile phone or a wearable device) or may wirelessly receive power form the external electronic device102(e.g., a wireless charging device) through the wireless charging antenna297-5. The wireless charging module250may support at least one of various wireless charging methods including, for example, a magnetic resonance method and a magnetic induction method.

According to an embodiment, some antennas among the MST antenna297-1, the NFC antenna297-3, and the wireless charging antenna297-5may share at least a portion of an emitter. For example, an emitter of the MST antenna297-1may be used as that of the NFC antenna297-3or the wireless charging antenna297-5, or vice versa. In this case, the antenna module297may include a switching circuit (not shown) configured to selectively connect (e.g., close) or separate (e.g., open) at least a portion of the antennas297-1,297-3, and297-3under control of the wireless communication module292(e.g., the MST communication module210or the NFC module230) and the power management module288(e.g., the wireless charging module250). For example, when the electronic device200uses a wireless charging function, the NFC module230or the wireless charging module250may control the switching circuit to temporarily separate at least a partial area of the emitter shared between the NFC antenna297-3and the wireless charging antenna297-5from the NFC antenna297-3and may connect the same to the wireless charging antenna297-5.

According to an embodiment, at least one function of the MST communication module210, the NFC module230, or the wireless charging module250may be controlled by the processor120. According to an embodiment, designated functions (e.g., a payment function) of the MST communication module210or the NFC module230may be performed in a trusted execution environment (TEE). The TEE according to embodiments may form an execution environment in which at least a partially designated area of the memory (e.g., the memory130ofFIG.1) is allocated to be used to perform a function (e.g., a function related to financial transaction or personal information) that requires a relatively high level of security. In this case, an approach to the designated area may be restrictedly allowed according to an entity that accesses the designated area or an application executed in the TEE.

FIG.3Aillustrates an unfolded state of an electronic device according to embodiments,FIG.3Billustrates a folded state of an electronic device according to embodiments, andFIG.3Cis an exploded perspective view illustrating an electronic device according to embodiments.

Referring toFIGS.3A,3B, and3C, an electronic device301(e.g., the electronic device101ofFIG.1) according to embodiments may include a pair of housings310and320configured to rotatably couple through a hinge structure to be folded against each other, a hinge cover365configured to cover a foldable portion of the single pair of housings310and320, and a display330(e.g., a flexible display or a foldable display) provided in a space formed by the single pair of housings310and320, a hinge assembly360, a substrate370, and a heat dissipation member.

In an embodiment, the electronic device301may include the first housing310including a sensor area333, the second housing320, a first rear cover340, and a second rear cover350. The single pair of housings310and320of the electronic device301are not limited to a shape or a combination and/or coupling of parts ofFIGS.3A and3Band may be implemented in another shape or combination and/or coupling of other parts.

In an embodiment, the first housing310and the second housing320may be provided at both sides based on a folding axis A and may be substantially symmetrically provided with respect to the folding axis A. In an embodiment, an angle or a distance formed by the first housing310and the second housing320may vary depending on whether the electronic device301is in an unfolded state, a folded state, or an intermediate state. In an embodiment, dissimilar to the second housing320, the first housing310includes the sensor area333in which various sensor modules (e.g., the sensor module176ofFIG.1) are provided. In other areas, the first housing310and the second housing320may have a symmetrical shape. In some embodiments, the sensor area333may be replaced with at least a partial area of the second housing320. For example, the sensor area333may include a camera hole area, a sensor hole area, an under display camera (UDC) area and/or a under display sensor (UDS) area.

In an embodiment, the first housing310may be connected to the hinge structure in an unfolded state of the electronic device301. The first housing310may include a first housing surface311provided to face the front surface of the electronic device301, a second housing surface312configured to face an opposite direction of the first housing surface311, and a first side portion313configured to surround at least a portion of a space between the first housing surface311and the second housing surface312. The first side portion313may include a first side surface313aprovided (e.g., disposed) substantially parallel to the folding axis A, a second side surface313bconfigured to extend from one end of the first side surface313ain a direction substantially perpendicular to the folding axis A and a third side surface313cconfigured to extend from another end of the first side surface313ain a direction substantially perpendicular to the folding axis A and substantially parallel to the second side surface313b. The second housing320may be connected to the hinge structure in the unfolded state of the electronic device301. The second housing320may include a third housing surface321provided to face the front surface of the electronic device301, a fourth housing surface322provided to face an opposite direction of the third housing surface321, and a second side portion323configured to surround at least a portion of a space between the third housing surface321and the fourth housing surface322. The second side portion323may include a fourth side surface323aprovided substantially parallel to the folding axis A, a fifth side surface323bconfigured to extend from one end of the fourth side surface323ain a direction substantially perpendicular to the folding axis A, and a sixth side surface323cconfigured to extend from another end of the fourth side surface323ain a direction substantially perpendicular to the folding axis A and substantially parallel to the fifth side surface323b. The first housing surface311and the third housing surface321may face each other when the electronic device301is in a folded state.

In an embodiment, the electronic device301may include a recess-shaped accommodation portion302configured to accommodate the display330through structural coupling of the first housing310and the second housing320. The accommodation portion302may have the substantially same size as that of the display330. In an embodiment, due to the sensor area333, the accommodation portion302may have two or more different widths in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis A. For example, the accommodation portion302may have a first width W1between a first portion310aformed at an edge of the sensor area333in the first housing310and a second portion320aparallel to the folding axis A in the second housing320and a second width W2between a third portion310bnon-overlapping the sensor area333and parallel to the folding axis A in the first housing310and a fourth portion320bin the second housing320. Here, the second width W2may be greater than the first width W1.

That is, the accommodation portion302may be formed to have the first width W1from the first portion310aof the first housing310to the second portion320aof the second housing320having a symmetrical shape with respect to each other and the second width W2from the third portion310bof the first housing310to the fourth portion320bof the second housing320. The first portion310aand the third portion310bof the first housing310may be formed at different distances from the folding axis A. The width of the accommodation portion302is not limited to the illustrated example. For example, the accommodation portion302may have three or more different widths depending on a shape of the sensor area333or an asymmetrical shape of the first housing310and the second housing320.

In an embodiment, at least a portion of the first housing310and the second housing320may be formed of a metallic material or a nonmetallic material having a rigidity suitable for supporting the display330.

In an embodiment, the sensor area333may be formed adjacent to one corner of the first housing310. Here, an arrangement, a shape, or a size of the sensor area333is not limited to the illustrated example. In other embodiments, the sensor area333may be formed in another corner or a predetermined area of an upper corner and a lower corner of the first housing310. In some embodiments, the sensor area333may be formed to extend between the first housing310and the second housing320.

In an embodiment, the electronic device301may include at least one component for performing various functions that are displayed to be exposed on the front surface of the electronic device301through the sensor area333or at least one opening formed in the sensor area333. For example, the component may include at least one of a front camera module, a receiver, a proximity sensor, an illuminance sensor, a biometric sensor (e.g., an iris recognition sensor), an ultrasonic sensor, and an indicator.

In an embodiment, the first rear cover340may be provided (e.g., disposed) on the second housing surface312of the first housing310and may have substantially rectangular edges. At least a portion of the edges of the first rear cover340may be surrounded by the first housing310. The second rear cover350may be provided on the fourth housing surface322of the second housing320and may have substantially rectangular edges. At least a portion of the edges of the second rear cover350may be surrounded by the second housing320.

In an embodiment, the first rear cover340and the second rear cover350may have a substantially symmetrical shape based on the folding axis A. In another embodiment, the first rear cover340and the second rear cover350may have different shapes. In still another embodiment, the first housing310and the first rear cover340may be integrally formed, and the second housing320and the second rear cover350may be integrally formed.

In an embodiment, the first housing310, the second housing320, the first rear cover340, and the second rear cover350may provide a space in which various components (e.g., a printed circuit board (PCB), the antenna module197ofFIG.1, the sensor module176ofFIG.1, or the battery189ofFIG.1) of the electronic device301through an interconnected structure. In an embodiment, at least one component may be visually exposed on the rear surface of the electronic device301. For example, at least one component may be visually exposed through a first rear area341of the first rear cover340. Here, the component may include a proximity sensor, a rear camera module, and/or a flash. In an embodiment, at least a portion of a sub-display362may be visually exposed through a second rear area351of the second rear cover350. In an embodiment, the electronic device301may include a sound output module (e.g., the sound output module155ofFIG.1) that is provided through at least a partial area of the second rear cover350.

In an embodiment, the display330may be provided (e.g., disposed) in the accommodation portion302formed by the single pair of housings310and320. For example, the display330may be provided to occupy a substantially all of an area of the front surface of the electronic device301. The front surface of the electronic device301may include an area in which the display330is provided, a partial area (e.g., an edge area) of the first housing310adjacent to the display330, and a partial area (e.g., an edge area) of the second housing320. The rear surface of the electronic device301may include the first rear cover340, a partial area (e.g., an edge area) of the first housing310adjacent to the first rear cover340, the second rear cover350, and a partial area (e.g., an edge area) of the second housing320adjacent to the second rear cover350. In an embodiment, at least a partial area of the display330may be deformable to a planar surface or a curved surface. In an embodiment, the display330may include a folding area331c, a first area331aprovided in a first side (e.g., right) based on the folding area331c, and a second area331bprovided in a second side (e.g., left) based on the folding area331c. The first area331amay be positioned on the first housing surface311of the first housing310and the second area331bmay be positioned on the third housing surface321of the second housing310. Here, area division of the display330is provided as an example only and the display330may be divided into a plurality of areas according to a structure or a function of the display330. The above area division of the display330refers to only a physical division by the single pair of housings310and320and the hinge structure. Practically, the display330may display a substantially single screen through the single pair of housings310and320and the hinge structure. In an embodiment, the first area331amay include a notch area formed along the sensor area333, and the first area331aand the second area331bmay have a substantially symmetrical shape in other areas. In another embodiment, because the sensor area333is not exposed in the first area331aor the second area331b, the first area331aand the second area331bmay have a substantially symmetrical shape based on the folding axis A.

In an embodiment, the hinge cover365may be provided (e.g., disposed) between the first housing310and the second housing320and configured to cover the hinge structure. The hinge cover365may be hidden or exposed to the outside by at least a portion of the first housing310and the second housing320according to an operating state of the electronic device301. For example, referring toFIG.3A, when the electronic device301is in the unfolded state, the hinge cover365may be hidden by the first housing310and the second housing320to not be exposed to the outside. Referring toFIG.3B, when the electronic device301is in the folded state, the hinge cover365may be exposed to the outside between the first housing310and the second housing320. When the electronic device301is in an intermediate state that forms an angle between the unfolded state ofFIG.3Aand the folded state of FIG.3B, at least a portion of the hinge cover365may be exposed to the outside between the first housing310and the second housing320. In this case, an area in which the hinge cover365is exposed to the outside may be smaller than an exposed area of the hinge cover365in the folded state of the electronic device301. In an embodiment, the hinge cover365may include a curved shape.

In an embodiment, when the electronic device301is in the unfolded state (e.g., the unfolded state ofFIG.3A), the first housing310and the second housing320may form a first angle (e.g., about 180 degrees) and the first area331aand the second area331bof the display330may be oriented in substantially the same direction. The folding area331cof the display330may be substantially coplanar with the first area331aand the second area331b. In another embodiment, when the electronic device301is in the unfolded state, the first housing310may rotate at a second angle (e.g., about 360 degrees) relative to the second housing320, such that the second housing surface312and the fourth housing surface322may be reversely folded to face each other. Also, when the electronic device301is in the folded state (e.g., the folded state ofFIG.3B), the first housing310and the second housing320may face each other. The first housing310and the second housing320may form an angle of about 0 to 10 degrees and the first area331aand the second area331bof the display330may face each other. In this case, at least a portion of the folding area331cof the display330may be deformed to a curved surface. In an embodiment, when the electronic device301is in the intermediate state, the first housing310and the second housing320may form a specific angle. In this case, an angle (e.g., a third angle, about 90 degrees) formed by the first area331aand the second area331bof the display330may be greater than the angle when the electronic device301is in the folded state and may be less than the angle when the electronic device301is in the unfolded state. In this case, the folding area331cmay be deformed to have a curvature less than a curvature of the curved surface of the electronic device301that is in the folded state.

In an embodiment, the display330may include a display panel331(e.g., a flexible display panel) and at least one plate332or layer provided (e.g., disposed) on the rear surface of the display panel331.

In an embodiment, the display panel331may include a display substrate having flexibility, a plurality of display elements configured to form some pixels in coupling with the display substrate, at least one conductive line configured to couple to the display substrate and to electrically connect to other display elements, and a thin film encapsulation layer configured to prevent inflow of oxygen and moisture from the outside. In an embodiment, a touch panel may be provided to or integrally formed with the display panel331.

Although the display substrate may be formed of a flexible material, for example, a plastic material, such as polyimide (PI), the material of the display substrate is not limited thereto and may include various materials having a flexible property. The plurality of display elements may be provided on the display substrate and may form some pixels. For example, the plurality of display elements may be arranged in a matrix form on the display substrate and may form pixels of the display panel331. In this case, the plurality of display elements may include a fluorescent material or an organic fluorescent material capable of expressing a color. For example, the display elements may include an organic light emitting diode (OLED). The conductive line may include at least one gate signal line or at least one data signal line. For example, the conductive line may include a plurality of gate signal lines and a plurality of data signal lines, and the plurality of gate signal lines and the plurality of data signal lines may be arranged in a matrix form. In this case, the plurality of display elements may be provided adjacent to a point at which a plurality of lines intersects and may be electrically connected to each line. The thin film encapsulation layer may prevent inflow of oxygen and moisture from the outside by covering the display substrate, the plurality of display elements, and the conductive line. In an embodiment, the thin film encapsulation layer may be stacked such that at least one organic film layer and at least one inorganic film layer may be alternately provided.

In an embodiment, the touch panel may be integrally formed with or attached to the display panel331. For example, the touch panel may be formed in such a manner that an aluminum metal mesh sensor is patterned on the thin film encapsulation layer of the display panel331.

In an embodiment, a polarizing film may be provided between the display panel331and the touch panel. The polarizing film may improve visibility of the display330. The polarizing film may shift a phase of light that passes through the display330. For example, the polarizing film may prevent light incident on the display panel331from being reflected by converting linearly polarized light to circularly polarized light or by converting the circularly polarized light to the linearly polarized light.

A window layer may be formed using a transparent plastic film having high flexibility and high hardness. For example, the window layer may be formed using a polyimide (PI) or polyethylene terephthalate (PET) film. In an embodiment, the window layer may be include a plurality of layers, such as a plurality of plastic films.

In an embodiment, the plate332may support the rear surface of the display panel331and thereby improve impact resistance of the display panel331. In an embodiment, the plate332may be divided to support the rear surface of each of the first area331aand the second area331bof the display panel331. In this case, the respective areas of the plate332may be dividedly attached to the rear surfaces of the first area331aand the second area331bof the display330to not be in contact with each other along the folding axis A. According to the above structure, the plate332may not interfere with a folding operation of the display330that is performed along the folding axis A.

In an embodiment, the plate332may be formed of a conductive material, for example, copper or a synthetic material that includes copper. In this case, the plate332may improve impact resistance of the display330, and at the same time, serve as a heat transfer path of delivering heat generated in an internal part (e.g., an application processor (AP)) of the electronic device301to the display panel331.

The hinge assembly360may include a first support plate361, a second support plate362, a hinge housing provided between the first support plate361and the second support plate362, and the hinge cover365configured to cover the hinge housing when being viewed from the outside.

In an embodiment, the first support plate361may be positioned in a rear direction of the first area331aof the display330and the second support plate362may be positioned in a rear direction of the second area331bof the display330.

In an embodiment, an FPCB363and at least a portion364of the hinge structure may be provided in the hinge assembly360. The FPCB363may be provided (e.g., disposed) in a direction (e.g., x-axis direction) transverse to the first support plate361and the second support plate362. The FPCB363may be provided in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis A of the electronic device301.

The first housing310and the second housing320may be assembled to be coupled at both sides of the hinge assembly360in a state in which the hinge assembly360is coupled to the display330. For example, the first housing310and the second housing320may slide from both sides of the hinge assembly360and may couple to the hinge assembly360. In an embodiment, the first housing310may include a first rotation support surface314, and the second housing320may include a second rotation support surface324corresponding to the first rotation support surface314. The first rotation support surface314and the second rotation support surface324may include a curved surface corresponding to the curved surface included in the hinge cover365.

In an embodiment, when the electronic device301is in the unfolded state (e.g., the unfolded state ofFIG.3A), the first rotation support surface314and the second rotation support surface324may cover the hinge cover365such that the hinge cover365may not be exposed to the rear surface of the electronic device301or may have a minimum exposed area. In contrast, when the electronic device301is in the folded state (e.g., the folded state ofFIG.3B), the first rotation support surface314and the second rotation support surface324may rotate along the curved surface included in the hinge cover365such that the hinge cover365may have a maximum exposed area on the rear surface of the electronic device301.

In an embodiment, the electronic device301may include a plurality of substrates370. For example, the substrates370may include a first PCB371, a second PCB372, and a third PCB373. The plurality of substrates370, for example, the first PCB371, the second PCB372, and the third PCB373, may be provided (e.g., disposed) in a space formed by the hinge assembly360, the first housing310, the second housing320, the first rear cover340, and the second rear cover350. Electronic parts for implementing various functions of the electronic device301may be mounted to the first PCB371, the second PCB372, and the third PCB373. In an embodiment, the first PCB371and the second PCB372may be provided in an opposite direction of the first area331abased on the first support plate361, and the third PCB373may be provided in an opposite direction of the second area331bbased on the second support plate362. For example, the first PCB371and the second PCB372may be provided in the first housing310, and the third PCB373may be provided in the second housing320.

The FPCB363may serve to connect part elements provided (e.g., disposed) in the inner space of the device301that is formed by the first housing310and the second housing320. For example, the FPCB363may connect the first PCB371and the second PCB372that are separate from each other. In another embodiment, the FPCB363may be provided in a direction (e.g., X-axis direction ofFIG.3C) transverse to the first support plate361and the second support plate362such that both sides extend to an inside of the first housing310and the second housing320, respectively, and may electrically connect a substrate (e.g., the first PCB371) provided to the first housing310and a substrate (e.g., the third PCB373) provided to the second housing320.

In an embodiment, a battery380may be provided (e.g., disposed) in the electronic device301and may supply power to the electronic device301. In an embodiment, the battery380may be provided in the first housing310or the second housing320. For example, the battery380may include a first battery381provided in the first housing310and a second battery382provided in the second housing320. As another example, the battery380may be provided in only one of the first housing310and the second housing320or may be provided as a flexible battery to cross the first housing310and the second housing320. In an embodiment, the battery380may be provided between the first PCB371and the second PCB372based on a state of viewing the display330in the unfolded state of the electronic device301as shown inFIG.3A.

In an embodiment, an antenna module390may be provided (e.g., disposed) in the first housing310or the second housing320. The antenna module390may include, for example, a near field communication (NFC) antenna, a wireless charging antenna, and/or a magnetic secure transmission (MST) antenna. The antenna module390may perform NFC with, for example, an external device or may wirelessly transmit and receive power required for charging.

In an embodiment, the antenna module390may be provided (e.g., disposed) to the first housing310or the second housing320such that at least a portion of the antenna module390may overlap the FPCB363. For example, based on a state of viewing the display330in the unfolded state of the electronic device301as shown inFIG.3A, the antenna module390may overlap the FPCB363. In this case, the antenna module390and the battery380may partially overlap the FPCB363.

FIG.4Aillustrates an arrangement relationship between an antenna module and an FPCB in an unfolded state of an electronic device according to embodiments,FIG.4Billustrates an overlapping state of an antenna module and an FPCB according to an embodiment,FIG.4Cillustrates a first pattern layer of an antenna module according to an embodiment,FIG.4Dillustrates a second pattern layer of an antenna module according to an embodiment,FIG.5Ais a cross-sectional view illustrating an antenna module cut along a line A-A ofFIG.4A,FIG.5Bis a cross-sectional view illustrating an antenna module cut along a line A-A ofFIG.4A, andFIG.5Cis a cross-sectional view illustrating an antenna module cut along a line A-A ofFIG.4A.

Referring toFIGS.4A to4DandFIG.5A, an electronic device401(e.g., the electronic device101ofFIG.1or the electronic device301ofFIG.3A) according to an embodiment may include a display431, a housing structure, for example, a first housing410and a second housing420, a first PCB471, a second PCB472, an FPCB463, (e.g., the FPCB363ofFIG.3C), and an antenna module490(e.g., the antenna module390ofFIG.3C).

In an embodiment, the housing structure may include the first housing410and the second housing420. An inner space may be formed on the rear surface of the display431in such a manner that the first housing410and the display431form a first space411apositioned on the rear surface of a first area431aof the display431, and the second housing420and the display431form a second space421apositioned on the rear surface of a second area431bof the display431.

In an embodiment, the first PCB471and the second PCB472may be provided (e.g., disposed) in the inner space of the housing structure. For example, the first PCB471and the second PCB472may be provided to be separate from each other in the first space411aas shown inFIG.4A. In an embodiment, the FPCB463may connect the first PCB471and the second PCB472. For example, the FPCB463may extend in a longitudinal direction such that both ends may connect to the first PCB471and the second PCB472, respectively.

In an embodiment, the antenna module490may be provided (e.g., disposed) in the first space411aor the second space421a. For example, referring toFIG.4A, the antenna module490may be provided in the first space411aof the first housing410. However, it is provided as an example only for clarity of description. For example, the antenna module490may be provided in the second space421a, or a plurality of antenna modules490may be provided in the first space411aand the second space421a, respectively. In an embodiment, in a state of viewing the display431as shown inFIG.4A, the antenna module490may be provided between the first PCB471and the second PCB472. In this case, the antenna module490and the FPCB463may overlap each other. For example, in a state of viewing the display431, the FPCB463may be provided in the housing structure to connect the first PCB471and the second PCB472across the antenna module490.

In an embodiment, the antenna module490may be provided (e.g., disposed) between the display431and the FPCB463. However, it is provided as an example only and the FPCB463may be provided between the display431and the antenna module490. Hereinafter, for clarity of description, description is made based on an example in which the antenna module490is provided between the display431and the FPCB463.

In an embodiment, the antenna module490may include a first antenna surface490-1and a second antenna surface490-2opposite to the first antenna surface490-1and configured to face the FPCB463. In an embodiment, the antenna module490may include a base member491, a first pattern layer492, and a second pattern layer493.

In an embodiment, the base member491may be formed in a plate shape. In an embodiment, the base member491may be formed as a substrate of a flexible material. For example, the base member491may include PI. The base member491may include a first substrate surface491A and a second substrate surface491B opposite to the first substrate surface491A.

In an embodiment, the first pattern layer492and the second pattern layer493may be provided (e.g., disposed) on the first surface491A and the second surface491B of the base member491, respectively. The second pattern layer493may include a first portion493aprovided in the first pattern area P1and a second portion493bprovided in the second pattern area P2. The first pattern layer492may form a first coil pattern4921formed on the first surface491A, and the second pattern layer493may form a second coil pattern4931formed on the second surface491B. The first coil pattern4921and the second coil pattern4931may be formed of a conductive material, for example, Cu. In an embodiment, the first coil pattern4921and the second coil pattern4931may be electrically connected through the following via594and thereby may serve as a single connected coil antenna. In an embodiment, the first coil pattern4921and the second coil pattern4931may be interconnected and may serve as a wireless charging coil for wireless charging or an NFC coil for NFC with an external device.

In an embodiment, the antenna module490may include an overlapping area O in which the second pattern layer493is omitted in the second surface491B of the base member491and a plurality of pattern areas in which the second coil patterns4931are separated through the overlapping area O. For example, referring toFIG.4D, the antenna module490may include a first pattern area P1and a second pattern area P2that are separated by the overlapping area O. Although it is illustrated that the antenna module490includes two separate pattern areas P1and P2for clarity of description, it is provided as an example only for clarity of description. The antenna module490may include a plurality of pattern areas separate in various shapes according to a shape of the overlapping area O. For example, referring toFIG.10C, the antenna module1090may include four pattern areas P1, P2, P3, and P4separated through the overlapping area O in a cross shape. In an embodiment, second coil patterns4931aand4931bseparate from another pattern area may be formed in the plurality of pattern areas P1and P2, respectively.

In an embodiment, the antenna module490may include a plurality of vias594through which the first coil pattern4921and the second coil pattern4931are electrically connected. In an embodiment, the plurality of vias594may be formed in vial holes that pass through the base member491. The plurality of vias594may be provided to the base member491to pass through the first surface491A and the second surface491B and may electrically connect the first coil pattern4921formed on the first surface491A and the second coil pattern4931formed on the second surface491B. In an embodiment, the plurality of vias594may be provided to the plurality of pattern areas P1and P2, respectively. For example, referring toFIG.5A, the antenna module490may include a first via594aprovided to the first pattern area P1and a second via594bprovided to the second pattern area P2. In an embodiment, the plurality of vias594provided to the plurality of pattern areas P1and P2may electrically connect the second coil pattern4931formed in each of the pattern areas P1and P2to the first coil pattern4921. For example, the first via594amay electrically connect the second coil pattern4931aformed in the first pattern area P1to the first coil pattern4921, and the second via594bmay electrically connect the second coil pattern4931bformed in the second pattern area P2to the first coil pattern4921. In this case, the plurality of second coil patterns4931aand4931bformed in the plurality of pattern areas P1and P2, respectively, may be electrically connected to the first coil pattern4921through the plurality of vias594and may serve as a single coil. Therefore, the first coil pattern4921and the plurality of second coil patterns4931aand4931bthat are separate from each other may serve as a single coil through the plurality of vias594.

In an embodiment, referring toFIG.4A, in a state of viewing the display431, the antenna module490may overlap the FPCB463through the overlapping area O. In an embodiment, the overlapping area O of the antenna module490may have a relatively thin thickness compared to that of the pattern area P1, P2by omitting the second pattern layer493. Therefore, the antenna module490may form a space in which the FPCB463is to be provided (e.g., disposed) on the second surface491B corresponding to the overlapping area O. That is, the FPCB463may be provided in the electronic device401to connect the first PCB471and the second PCB472across the antenna module490through the overlapping area O. In this case, because the antenna module490is provided to overlap the FPCB463through the overlapping area O with the relatively thin thickness compared to that of the pattern area P1, P2, it is possible to decrease the thickness according to overlapping arrangement of the antenna module490and the FPCB463in the electronic device401.

In an embodiment, in a state of viewing the second surface491B, the overlapping area O may be formed to substantially cross the antenna module490. In this case, the FPCB463may be overlappingly provided (e.g., disposed) to (i.e., may overlap) the antenna module490and cross the antenna module490through the overlapping area O. Therefore, a portion of the FPCB463that overlaps the antenna module490may be simplified, and for example may be in a linear form. According to the above structure, in the electronic device401according to an embodiment, it is possible to improve signal stability by reducing a connection length of the first PCB471and the second PCB472using FPCB463in a straight form and to improve internal space utilization of the electronic device401by reducing a thickness according to overlapping arrangement with the antenna module490.

In an embodiment, the antenna module490may include a protective layer597stacked on the first surface491A to cover the first pattern layer492. The protective layer597may prevent the first coil pattern4921from being damaged by covering the surface of the first pattern layer492. The protective layer597may be formed using a transparent material, for example, polyethylene terephthalate (PET).

In an embodiment, the antenna module490may include a first shielding layer5951stacked on the second surface491B to cover the second pattern layer493. In an embodiment, the first shielding layer5951may be stacked in each of the plurality of pattern areas P1and P2. For example, when the antenna module490includes the first pattern area P1and the second pattern area P2that are separate based on the overlapping area O, first shielding layers5951aand5951bto cover the second pattern layer493of each pattern area may be provided to the first pattern area P1and the second pattern area P2, respectively. In this case, the first shielding layer5951aformed in the first pattern area P1and the first shielding layer5951bformed in the second pattern area P2may be separate from each other. In an embodiment, the first shielding layers5951aand5951bformed in the pattern areas P1and P2, respectively, may have the same thickness or may have different thicknesses. In an embodiment, the first shielding layer5951may include a material capable of blocking an electromagnetic wave occurring in the antenna module490. For example, the first shielding layer5951may include a material capable of blocking an electromagnetic wave of a set frequency band. In an embodiment, the first shielding layer5951may be formed as a single layer as shown inFIG.5A. However, embodiments are not limited thereto and the first shielding layer5951may include a plurality of layers.

In an embodiment, the antenna module490may include a heat dissipation layer596stacked in the pattern area to cover the first shielding layer5951. In an embodiment, the heat dissipation layer596may cover the second surface491B of the antenna module490. In an embodiment, the heat dissipation layer596may radiate heat generated in the antenna module490, for example, heat generated due to heating of the first coil pattern4921and the second coil pattern4931to an outside of the antenna module490. In an embodiment, the heat dissipation layer596may include a material having high heat dissipation performance, for example, a graphite material and may be provided in a form of a heat dissipation plate that includes a heat sink or a heat pipe. In an embodiment, the heat dissipation layer596may be provided (e.g., disposed) in each of the plurality of pattern areas. For example, when the antenna module490includes the first pattern area P1and the second pattern area P2that are separate from each other, the heat dissipation layer596may include a first heat dissipation layer596aprovided in the first pattern area P1and a second heat dissipation layer596bprovided in the second pattern area P2. In this case, the first heat dissipation layer596aand the second heat dissipation layer596bmay be separate from each other.

In an embodiment, the antenna module490may expose the second surface491B of the base member491to decrease the thickness of the overlapping area O. For example, referring toFIG.5A, the first shielding layer5951and the heat dissipation layer596may be omitted from the second surface491B corresponding to the overlapping area O. In this case, the antenna module490may form a space in which the FPCB463may be overlappingly provided (e.g., disposed) through the overlapping area O. For example, referring toFIG.5A, the FPCB463may be provided (e.g., disposed) within the overlapping area O in a space between the first pattern area P1and the second pattern area P2of the antenna module490. In this case, in a state in which the FPCB463is provided in the overlapping area O, the surface of the pattern area of the antenna module490may have a height substantially equal to or greater than that of the second surface491B. Therefore, in a state in which the FPCB463is overlappingly provided in the overlapping area O of the antenna module490, the FPCB463may overlap the antenna module490without increasing the thickness of the antenna module490. In an embodiment, in a state in which the FPCB463is provided in the overlapping area O, the antenna module490may be formed such that a width of the overlapping area O is substantially equal to or greater than that of a portion of the FPCB463provided in the overlapping area O. In this case, the FPCB463may be stably provided in a space formed by the overlapping area O of the antenna module490.

Referring toFIGS.5B and5C, the antenna module490B,490C according to embodiments may include the base member491, the first pattern layer492provided (e.g., disposed) on the first surface491A of the base member491, the second pattern layer493and the plurality of vias594provided to the second surface491B of the base member491, the protective layer597, the first shielding layer5951, a second shielding layer5952, and the heat dissipation layer596.

In an embodiment, the antenna module490B,490C may include the overlapping area O in which the second pattern layer493is omitted and the FPCB463is provided (e.g., disposed), and the first pattern area P1and the second pattern area P2each in which the second pattern layer493is formed based on the overlapping area O.

In an embodiment, the first shielding layer5951may be stacked on the second surface491B to cover the second pattern layer493. In an embodiment, the first shielding layer5951may be provided in each of the plurality of pattern areas P1and P2(e.g., the first pattern area P1and the second pattern area P2ofFIG.5B). In an embodiment, the first shielding layer5951may be formed of a material capable of blocking an electromagnetic wave generated in the antenna module490B,490C.

In an embodiment, the second shielding layer5952may be provided (e.g., disposed) in the overlapping area O and stacked to cover the second surface491B of the base member491. In this case, in a state in which the FPCB463is provided in the overlapping area O, the second shielding layer5952may prevent direct contact between the base member491and the FPCB463. In an embodiment, the second shielding layer5952may be formed of the same material as that of the first shielding layer5951. In this case, referring toFIG.5B, the second shielding layer5952provided in the overlapping area O and the shielding layer5951formed in each of the plurality of pattern areas P1and P2may be integrally connected and may form a single shielding layer.

In an embodiment, the first shielding layer5951and the second shielding layer5952may be formed to have different thicknesses. For example, the second shielding layer5952may be formed to have a relatively thin thickness compared to that of the first shielding layer5951to minimize the thickness of the antenna module490B,490C corresponding to the overlapping area O. Therefore, in a state in which the FPCB463is positioned in the overlapping area O, the overlapping thickness of the antenna module490B,490C and the FPCB463may be minimized.

According to another embodiment, referring toFIG.5C, in the antenna module490C, the first shielding layer5951and the second shielding layer5952may be separately formed and may be provided (e.g., disposed) in the pattern area P1, P2and the overlapping area O, respectively.

FIG.6AandFIG.6Billustrate a first pattern layer and a second pattern layer of an antenna module according to an embodiment, andFIG.6Cis a cross-sectional view of an antenna module cut along a line B-B ofFIG.6B.

For reference,FIG.6Aillustrates a first antenna surface of an antenna module690andFIG.6Billustrates a second antenna surface of the antenna module690opposite to the first antenna surface.

Referring toFIGS.6A,6B and6C, the antenna module690may include a base member691, a first pattern layer692provided (e.g., disposed) on a first surface691A of the base member691, a second pattern layer693and a plurality of vias694provided to the second surface691B of the base member691, a protective layer697, a first shielding layer6951, and a heat dissipation layer696. The first pattern layer692may include a first portion692aprovided in the first pattern area P1and a second portion692bprovided in the second pattern area P2. The second pattern layer693may include a first portion693aprovided in the first pattern area P1and a second portion693bprovided in the second pattern area P2. The heat dissipation layer696may include a first portion696aprovided in the first pattern area P1and a second portion696bprovided in the second pattern area P2. The first shielding layer6951may include a first portion6951aprovided in the first pattern area P1and a second portion6951bprovided in the second pattern area P2.

In an embodiment, the first pattern layer692may form a first coil pattern6921formed on the first surface691A. In an embodiment, the first pattern layer692may include a plurality of first coil patterns6921that are separate from each other. For example, referring toFIG.6A, the first coil pattern6921may include a first separation pattern6921A and a second separation pattern6921B that are separate from each other.

In an embodiment, the second pattern layer693may be provided (e.g., disposed) on the second surface691B. In this case, referring toFIG.6B, the second pattern layer693may be provided on each of the plurality of pattern areas P1and P2omitted in the overlapping area O and separate from each other based on the overlapping area O. The second pattern layer693may form the plurality of second coil patterns6931separate from each other in each pattern area P1, P2. For example, the second coil patterns6931A and6931B may be formed in the first pattern area P1and the second pattern area P2, respectively.

In an embodiment, in a state of viewing the first antenna surface (e.g.,FIG.6A) of the antenna module690, the first coil patterns6921A and6921B separate from each other may be formed at positions at which the first coil patterns6921A and6921B at least partially overlap the plurality of second coil patterns6931A and6931B formed in the second pattern layer693, respectively. For example, each of the first separation pattern6921A and the second separation pattern6921B may be formed to continue from the first pattern area P1to the second pattern area P2.

In an embodiment, the plurality of vias694may electrically connect the first coil pattern6921and the second coil pattern6931. For example, the plurality of vias694may include a first via6941provided in the first pattern area P1and configured to connect the first separation pattern6921A and the second coil pattern6931A formed in the first pattern area P1, a second via6942provided in the second pattern area P2and configured to connect the first separation pattern6921A and the second coil pattern6931B formed in the second pattern area P2, a third via6943provided in the first pattern area P1and configured to connect the second separation pattern6921B and the second coil pattern6931A formed in the first pattern area P1, and a fourth via6944provided in the second pattern area P2and configured to connect the second separation pattern6921B and the second coil pattern6931B provided in the second pattern area P2. In this case, the plurality of first coil patterns6921and the plurality of second coil patterns6931separate from each other may be electrically connected through the plurality of vias694and may serve as a single antenna coil.

FIGS.7A and7Beach illustrates an example of an arrangement state of an antenna module and an FPCB in an unfolded state of an electronic device according to an embodiment.

Referring toFIGS.7A and7B, an electronic device701a,701b(e.g., the electronic device101ofFIG.1, the electronic device301ofFIG.3A) according to an embodiment may include a display731, a first housing710, a second housing720, a first PCB771, a second PCB772, an FPCB763(e.g., the FPCB363ofFIG.3C), and an antenna module790(e.g., the antenna module297ofFIG.2or the antenna module390ofFIG.3C).

In an embodiment, the display731may include a first area731a, a second area731b, and a folding area731cconfigured to connect the first area731aand the second area731b. In an embodiment, the first housing710may form a first space711apositioned on the rear surface of the first area731aand the second housing720may form a second space721apositioned on the rear surface of the second area731b. In an embodiment, the first PCB771and the second PCB772may be selectively provided to the first area731aor the second area731baccording to a part arrangement structure in an inner space of the electronic device701a,701b.

In an embodiment, both ends of the FPCB763may be connected to the first PCB771and the second PCB772. In an embodiment, the FPCB763may be formed to be capable of effectively delivering a signal according to arrangement positions and shapes of the first PCB771and the second PCB772and positions of connectors mounted thereto. For example, referring toFIG.7A, when the first PCB771and the second PCB772are symmetrically provided in the first space711aand the second space721b, respectively, the FPCB763may extend to the first area731aand the second area731bacross the folding area731cand both ends of the FPCB763may be connected to the first PCB771and the second PCB772. In this case, the FPCB763may be formed in a linearly extending form to connect the first PCB771and the second PCB772at a shortest distance. In contrast, referring toFIG.7B, when the first PCB771and the second PCB772are asymmetrically provided in the electronic device701b, at least a portion of the FPCB763may be formed in a vertically bent shape to connect connectors of the first PCB771and the second PCB772at a shortest distance and the FPCB763may be provided in the electronic device701.

In an embodiment, the antenna module790may be provided (e.g., disposed) in the electronic device701, for example, the first housing710or the second housing720. In this case, the antenna module790may be provided at a position at which at least a portion thereof overlaps the FPCB763based on a state of viewing the display731. For example, the antenna module790may be provided in the first housing710as shown inFIG.7Aor may be provided in the second housing720as shown inFIG.7B, to overlap the FPCB763through the overlapping area O. In an embodiment, to minimize an overlapping thickness with the FPCB763, the antenna module790may be formed such that a second surface (e.g., the second surface491B ofFIG.5A) may be exposed in the overlapping area O. For example, in the antenna module790, a second pattern layer (e.g., the second pattern layer493ofFIG.5A) for forming a second coil pattern, a first shielding layer (e.g., the first shielding layer5951ofFIG.5A), or a heat dissipation layer (e.g., the heat dissipation layer596ofFIG.5A) is omitted in the overlapping area O, it is possible to decrease a thickness according to an overlapping arrangement with the FPCB763.

In an embodiment, in the antenna module790, a shape of the overlapping area O may be designed according to a relative arrangement position with the FPCB763in the electronic device701. For example, referring toFIG.7B, when the antenna module790is provided (e.g., disposed) in the electronic device701to overlap the bent portion of the FPCB763, the overlapping area O may include a first overlapping area O1having a first longitudinal direction and a second overlapping area O2connected to the first overlapping area O1and having a second longitudinal direction with a constant angle relative to the first longitudinal direction. In this case, at least a portion of the FPCB763overlappingly provided to the antenna module790may be provided in the first overlapping area O1and the second overlapping area O2. Although it is illustrated that the overlapping area O is divided into the first overlapping area O1and the second overlapping area O2that are vertically connected to each other, it is provided as an example only for clarity of description. The shape of the overlapping area O in the antenna module790is not limited thereto. For example, the overlapping area O in the antenna module490may be formed in a substantially straight shape as shown inFIG.4Aor may be formed in a shape bent at a predetermined angle as shown inFIG.12C. According to the above structure, the antenna module790may improve internal space utilization of the electronic device701by minimizing a thickness according to overlapping with the FPCB763without limiting an arrangement position and shape of the FPCB763in the electronic device701.

FIGS.8A and8Billustrate an operating state of an electronic device according to embodiments,FIG.9Aillustrates an example of an arrangement state of an antenna module, an FPCB, and a battery in an unfolded state of an electronic device according to an embodiment, andFIG.9Bis a cross-sectional view illustrating an antenna module cut along a line C-C ofFIG.9A.

Referring toFIGS.8A,8B,9A, and9B, an electronic device801according to an embodiment may include a display831including a first area831aand a second area831b, a first housing810configured to support the first area831a, a second housing820configured to support the second area831b, a first PCB871, a second PCB872, an FPCB963, an antenna module990, and a battery980.

An operating state of the electronic device801according to an embodiment may vary according to relative positions of the first housing810and the second housing820. For example, the operating state of the electronic device801may be shifted among a first state (e.g., a fully unfolded state ofFIG.9A) in which the first area831aand the second area831bof the display831are substantially coplanar, a second state (e.g., a completely closed state ofFIG.8B) in which the first area831aand the second area831bare provided to face each other and are not visually exposed to the outside, and an intermediate state (e.g., an incompletely closed state ofFIG.8A) in which the first area831aand the second area831bform a predetermined angle and are exposed to the outside.

In an embodiment, one or more PCBs871and872in which a plurality of circuit elements is mounted may be provided in the electronic device801. In this case, the PCBs871and872may be provided at various positions in the first housing810or the second housing820according to an internal part arrangement design of the electronic device801. For example, referring toFIG.9A, the electronic device801may include the first PCB871provided in the first housing810and the second PCB872provided in the second housing820. In an embodiment, the electronic device801may include the FPCB963electrically connected to the plurality of PCBs871and872and configured to deliver a signal therebetween. For example, the FPCB963may be provided (e.g., disposed) to cross the first housing810and the second housing820and both ends of the FPCB963may be connected to the first PCB871and the second PCB872, respectively. In an embodiment, the FPCB963may be formed to be capable of effectively delivering a signal between the plurality of PCBs871and872. For example, referring toFIG.9A, the FPCB963may be formed in a straight form capable of connecting the first PCB871and the second PCB872at a shortest distance.

In an embodiment, the antenna module990may be provided (e.g., disposed) in the first housing810or the second housing820between the first PCB871and the second PCB872. In this case, referring toFIG.9A, in a state of viewing the display831, the antenna module990may be provided such that at least a portion thereof may overlap the FPCB963. In an embodiment, the antenna module990may include an overlapping area O that overlaps the FPCB963and a first pattern area P1and a second pattern area P2that are separate from each other based on the overlapping area O. In this case, the overlapping area O of the antenna module990may be formed to have a relatively thin thickness compared to that of the first pattern area P1and the second pattern area P2, and at least a portion of the FPCB963may be provided in a space between the first pattern area P1and the second pattern area P2through the overlapping area O. Therefore, the antenna module990and the FPCB963may reduce the thickness according to overlapping in a state in which the antenna module990and the FPCB963are overlappingly provided in the electronic device801. In an embodiment, the overlapping area O of the antenna module990may be formed in a shape corresponding to a shape of the FPCB963or an arrangement position of the FPCB963in the electronic device801. Therefore, the antenna module990may be overlappingly provided to the FPCB963through the overlapping area O without increasing a thickness of the antenna module990in the overlapping area O to avoid an excessively occupied space in the electronic device801, and without limiting the shape or the arrangement position of the FPCB963.

In an embodiment, referring toFIG.9A, the battery980may be overlappingly provided (e.g., disposed) to the antenna module990at a state of viewing the display831. In this case, the FPCB963may be provided between the antenna module990and the battery980.

In an embodiment, the antenna module990may include a base member991, a first pattern layer992, a second pattern layer993, a plurality of vias994electrically connecting the first pattern layer992and the second pattern layer993, a first shielding layer9951provided (e.g., disposed) to the pattern areas P1and P2to cover the first pattern layer992, and a heat dissipation layer996provided to the pattern areas P1and P2to cover the first shielding layer9951. In an embodiment, second pattern layers993aand993cthat are separate from each other, first shielding layers9951aand9951bthat are separate from each other and heat dissipation layers996aand996bthat are separate from each other may be stacked in the first pattern area P1and the second pattern area P2, respectively.

In an embodiment, the base member991may include a first surface991A and a second surface991B opposite to the first surface991A and configured to face the FPCB963. The first pattern layer992may be provided (e.g., disposed) to the first surface991A to form a first coil pattern (e.g., the first coil pattern4921ofFIG.4C). In this case, the protective layer997may be stacked on the first surface991A to cover the first pattern layer992. In an embodiment, the second pattern layer993may be provided on the second surface991B to form a second coil pattern (e.g., the second coil pattern4931ofFIG.4D). In this case, the second pattern layer993may be omitted from a portion of the second surface991B corresponding to the overlapping area O and may be provided to each of the first pattern area P1and the second pattern area P2to form the separate second coil patterns (e.g., the second coil patterns4931aand4931bofFIG.4D), respectively. In an embodiment, the plurality of vias994may connect the first pattern layer992and the second pattern layer993by passing through the base member991. In this case, the plurality of vias994may be provided to the first pattern area P1and the second pattern area P2, respectively, and may simultaneously connect the second coil pattern of the first pattern area P1and the second coil pattern of the second pattern area P2to the first coil pattern. In an embodiment, the first shielding layer9951and the heat dissipation layer996may be sequentially stacked to cover the second pattern layer993provided in the pattern area.

In an embodiment, in the antenna module990, the second pattern layer993, the first shielding layer9951, and the heat dissipation layer996may be omitted in the overlapping area O. Therefore, the overlapping area O may have a relatively thin thickness compared to that of the pattern area in a direction of the second surface991B. In this case, in a state in which the FPCB963is positioned in the overlapping area O, the thickness of the pattern area P1and P2of the antenna module990may be substantially equal to or greater than the overlapping thickness of the overlapping area O and the FPCB963. For example, in a state of viewing the second surface991B of the antenna module990, the surface of the pattern areas P1and P2may have a step substantially equal to or greater than that of the surface of the FPCB963positioned in the overlapping area O.

In an embodiment, when the battery980is overlappingly provided (e.g., disposed) to the antenna module990based on the FPCB963as shown inFIG.9A, the FPCB963may be provided in a space formed by the overlapping area O of the antenna module990as shown inFIG.9Band may minimize a cross-sectional thickness according to overlapping of the battery980, the FPCB963, and the antenna module990accordingly. Therefore, when an internal part arrangement space of the electronic device801is narrow, for example, when the antenna module990and the battery980are overlappingly provided, the arrangement space of the FPCB963may be secured through the overlapping area O of the antenna module990.

FIG.10Aillustrates an example of an arrangement state of an antenna module, an FPCB, and a battery in an unfolded state of an electronic device according to an embodiment, andFIGS.10B and10Cillustrate a first pattern layer and a second pattern layer of an antenna module ofFIG.10A.

Referring toFIGS.10A,10B and10C, an electronic device801(e.g., the electronic device101ofFIG.1) according to an embodiment may include a plurality of PCBs1071,1072,1073, and1074, an FPCB1063configured to connect the plurality of PCBs1071,1072,1073, and1074, and an antenna module1090(e.g., the antenna module297ofFIG.2) overlappingly provided (e.g., disposed) to the FPCB1063in a state of viewing the display831.

In an embodiment, the FPCB1063may simultaneously connect the plurality of PCBs1071,1072,1073, and1074. For example, when the first PCB1071, the second PCB1072, the third PCB1073, and the fourth PCB1074are provided (e.g., disposed) in the electronic device801, the FPCB1063may be provided between the plurality of PCBs1071,1072,1073, and1074and may simultaneously connect the plurality of PCBs1071,1072,1073, and1074through an end that extends to each PCB1071,1072,1073,1074. In an embodiment, the FPCB1063may be formed with a shortened connection length to improve stability according to signal transmission between the PCBs. For example, when the plurality of PCBs1071,1072,1073, and1074are provided in a cross shape ofFIG.10A, the FPCB1063may be formed in a cross shape with an end that extends to each PCB1071,1072,1073,1074.

In an embodiment, the antenna module1090may be overlappingly provided (e.g., disposed) to the FPCB1063at a state of viewing the display831. In an embodiment, the antenna module1090may be provided in the electronic device801to face the FPCB1063through the second antenna surface1090B opposite to the first antenna surface1090A. In an embodiment, the antenna module1090may include a base member1091, a first pattern layer1092provided to member1091toward the first antenna surface1090A and configured to form a first coil pattern10921as shown inFIG.10B, and a second pattern layer1093provided to the base member1091toward the second antenna surface1090B and configured to form the second coil pattern10931as shown inFIG.10C.

In an embodiment, in a state of viewing the display831, the antenna module1090may include the overlapping area O that overlaps the FPCB1063and a plurality of pattern areas separated from each other by the overlapping area O. In an embodiment, the overlapping area O may be formed in a form in which the antenna module1090overlaps the FPCB1063. For example, when the FPCB1063that overlaps antenna module1090is formed in a cross shape as shown inFIG.10A, the overlapping area O may be formed in a corresponding cross shape as shown inFIG.10B. In this case, the antenna module1090may include a first pattern area P1, a second pattern area P2, a third pattern area P3, and a fourth pattern area P4that are separated from each other by the overlapping area O.

In an embodiment, in the antenna module1090, because the second pattern layer1093is omitted in the overlapping area O, a thickness of the overlapping area O may be formed to have a relatively thin thickness compared to that of the pattern areas P1, P2, P3, and P4. In this case, each second coil pattern10931formed through the second pattern layer1093may be formed in each of the pattern areas P1, P2, P3, and P4that are separated through the overlapping area O. For example, the second coil pattern10931may include a first separation pattern10931aformed in the first pattern area P1, a second separation pattern10931bformed in the second pattern area P2, a third separation pattern10931cformed in the third pattern area P3, and a fourth separation pattern10931dformed in the fourth pattern area P4. In an embodiment, a plurality of vias1095configured to connect the first pattern layer1092and the second pattern layer1093may be formed in the respective pattern areas P1, P2, P3, and P4. In this case, because each via1095connects the first pattern layer1092and the second pattern layer1093by passing through the base member1091, the first coil pattern10921and the second coil pattern10931may be electrically connected. For example, the plurality of vias1095may include a first via10951provided in the first pattern area P1to connect the first separation pattern10931ato the first coil pattern10921, a second via10952provided in the second pattern area P2to connect the second separation pattern10931bto the first coil pattern10921, a third via10953provided in the third pattern area P3to connect the third separation pattern10931cto the first coil pattern10921, and a fourth via10954provided in the fourth pattern area P4to connect the fourth separation pattern10931dto the first coil pattern10921. In this case, because the first separation pattern10931a, the second separation pattern10931b, the third separation pattern10931c, and the fourth separation pattern10931dthat are separated from each other by the overlapping area O are simultaneously connected to the first coil pattern10921through the plurality of vias1095, the first coil pattern10921and the second coil pattern10931may serve as a single connected coil.

FIG.11Ais a front perspective view illustrating an electronic device according to embodiments,FIG.11Bis a rear perspective view illustrating an electronic device according to embodiments, andFIG.11Cis an exploded perspective view illustrating an electronic device according to embodiments.

Referring toFIGS.11A to11C, an electronic device1101(e.g., the electronic device101ofFIG.1) according to an embodiment may include a housing1110having a front surface1110a(e.g., a first housing surface), a rear surface1110b(e.g., a second housing surface), and a side surface1111c(e.g., a third housing surface) that surrounds an inner space between the front surface1110aand the rear surface1110b.

In an embodiment, the front surface1110amay be formed by a first plate1111aof which at least a portion is substantially transparent. For example, the first plate1111amay include a glass plate or a polymer plate including at least one coating layer. In an embodiment, the rear surface1110bmay be formed by a second plate1111bthat is substantially opaque. For example, the second plate1111bmay be formed using coated or tinted glass, ceramic, polymer, metal (e.g., aluminum, stainless steel, or magnesium), or a combination thereof. The side surface1111cmay be formed by a side member1140that is coupled to the first plate1111aand the second plate1111band includes metal and/or polymer. In an embodiment, the second plate1111band the side member1140may be integrally seamlessly formed. In an embodiment, the second plate1111band the side member1140may be formed using a substantially same material (e.g., aluminum).

In an embodiment, the first plate1111amay include a plurality of first edge areas1112a-1that is rounded from at least a partial area of the front surface1110atoward the second plate1111band extends in one direction (e.g., +/−X-axis direction), a plurality of second edge areas1112a-2that is rounded from at least a partial area of the front surface1110atoward the second plate1111band extends in another direction (e.g., +/−Y-axis direction), and a plurality of third edge areas1112a-3that is rounded from at least a partial area of the front surface1110atoward the second plate1111bbetween the plurality of first edge areas1112a-1and the plurality of second edge areas1112a-2.

In an embodiment, the second plate1111bmay include a plurality of fourth edge areas1112b-1that is rounded from at least a partial area of the rear surface1110btoward the first plate1111aand extends in one direction (e.g., +/−X-axis direction), a plurality of fifth edge areas1112b-2that is rounded from at least a partial area of the rear surface1110btoward the first plate1111aand extends in one direction (e.g., +/−Y-axis direction), and a plurality of sixth edge areas1112b-3that is rounded from at least a partial area of the rear surface1110btoward the first plate1111abetween the plurality of fourth edge areas1112b-1and the plurality of fifth edge areas1112b-2.

In an embodiment, the side member1140may surround at least a portion of the inner space between the front surface1110aand the rear surface1110b. The side member1140may include a first support structure1141provided to at least a portion of the side surface111cand a second support structure1142configured to connect to the first support structure1141and to form an arrangement space of parts of the electronic device1101. In an embodiment, the first support structure1141may form the side surface1111cof the housing1110by connecting edges of the first plate1111aand the second plate1111band by surrounding a space between the first plate1111aand the second plate1111b. In an embodiment, the second support structure1142may be provided in the electronic device1101(or a body portion). The second support structure1142may be integrally formed with the first support structure1141and may be separately formed and connected to the first support structure1141. In an embodiment, PCBs1171and1172may be provided to the second support structure1142. The second support structure1142may be connected to ground of the PCBs1171and1172. In an embodiment, a display1161may be positioned on one surface (e.g., a bottom surface (+Z-axis direction surface) ofFIG.11C) of the second support structure1142and the second plate1111bmay be provided on another surface (e.g., a top surface (−Z-axis direction surface) ofFIG.11C) of the second support structure1142.

In an embodiment, at least a portion of the side member1140may be formed of a conductive material. For example, the first support structure1141may be formed of metal and/or a polymer material having conductivity. In an embodiment, the second support structure1142may be formed of metal and/or a polymer material having conductivity, which is similar to the first support structure1141.

In an embodiment, the electronic device1101may include the display1161(e.g., the display module160ofFIG.1). In an embodiment, the display1161may be positioned on the front surface1110a. In an embodiment, the display1161may be visually exposed through at least a portion of the first plate1111a(e.g., the plurality of first edge areas1112a-1, the plurality of second edge areas1112a-2, and the plurality of third edge areas1112a-3). In an embodiment, the display1161may have a shape substantially identical to that of an outer edge shape of the first plate1111a. In some embodiments, the edge of the display1161may substantially match the outer edge of the first plate1111a. In an embodiment, the display1161may include a touch sensing circuit, a pressure sensor configured to sense intensity (pressure) of touch, and/or a digitizer configured to detect a stylus pen of a magnetic field scheme.

In an embodiment, the display1161may include a screen display area1161avisually exposed and configured to display content through pixels or plurality of cells. In an embodiment, the screen display area1161amay include a sensing area1161a-1and a camera area1161a-2. In this case, the sensing area1161a-1may overlap at least a partial area of the screen display area1161a. The sensing area1161a-1may allow transmission of an input signal related to a sensor module1176(e.g., the sensor module176ofFIG.1). The sensing area1161a-1may display content, which is similar to the screen display area1161athat does not overlap the sensing area1161a-1. For example, while the sensor module1176does not operate, the sensing area1161a-1may display content. The camera area1161a-2may overlap at least a partial area of the screen display area1161a. The camera area1161a-2may allow transmission of an optical signal related to a first camera module1180a(e.g., the camera module180ofFIG.1). The camera area1161a-2may display content, which is similar to the screen display area1161athat does not overlap the camera area1161a-2. For example, the camera area1161a-2may display content while the first camera module1180adoes not operate.

In an embodiment, the electronic device1101may include an audio module1170(e.g., the audio module170ofFIG.1). The audio module1170may acquire sound from the outside of the electronic device1101and generate an electrical signal based on the sound. For example, the audio module1170may be positioned on the side surface1111cof the housing1110. In an embodiment, the audio module1170may acquire sound through at least one hole.

In an embodiment, the electronic device1101may include a sensor module1176. The sensor module1176may sense a signal applied to the electronic device1101. The sensor module1176may be positioned on, for example, the front surface1110aof the electronic device1101. The sensor module1176may form the sensing area1161a-1in at least a portion of the screen display area1161a. The sensor module1176may receive an input signal that passes through the sensing area1161a-1and may generate an electrical signal based on the received input signal. For example, the input signal may have a designated physical quantity (e.g., heat, light, temperature, sound, pressure, ultrasound). As another example, the input signal may include a signal related to biometric information of a user (e.g., a fingerprint, voice of the user).

In an embodiment, the electronic device1101may include a second camera module1180b(e.g., the camera module180ofFIG.1). In an embodiment, the electronic device1101may include the first camera module1180a, the second camera module1180b, and a flash1180c. In an embodiment, the first camera module1180amay be provided (e.g., disposed) to be exposed through the front surface1110aof the housing1110and the second camera module1180band the flash1180cmay be provided to be exposed through the rear surface1110bof the housing1110. In an embodiment, at least a portion of the first camera module1180amay be provided to the housing1110to be covered through the display1161. In an embodiment, the first camera module1180amay receive an optical signal that passes through the camera area1161a-2and generate an electrical signal based on the optical signal. In an embodiment, the second camera module1180bmay include a plurality of cameras (e.g., a dual camera, a triple camera, and a quad camera), each of which may receive an optical signal and generate an electrical signal based on the optical signal. In an embodiment, the flash1180cmay include a light emitting diode or a xenon lamp.

In an embodiment, the electronic device1101may include a sound output module1155(e.g., the sound output module155ofFIG.1). The sound output module1155may output sound to the outside of the electronic device1101. For example, the sound output module1155may output sound to the outside of the electronic device1101through at least one hole formed in the side surface1111cof the housing1110. In another embodiment, the sound output module1155may include a piezo speaker in which the sound output hole is omitted on the side surface1111cof the housing1110.

In an embodiment, the electronic device1101may include an input module1150(e.g., the input module150ofFIG.1). The input module1150may receive an input of a manipulation signal of the user. The input module1150may include, for example, at least one key input device that is exposed on the side surface1111cof the housing1110.

In an embodiment, the electronic device1101may include a connecting terminal1178(e.g., the connecting terminal178ofFIG.1). In an embodiment, the connecting terminal1178may be provided on the side surface1111c. For example, when viewing the electronic device1101in one direction (e.g., +Y-axis direction ofFIG.3A), the connecting terminal1178may be provided in a central portion of the side surface1111cand the sound output module1155may be provided in one direction (e.g., a right direction) based on the connecting terminal1178.

In an embodiment, the electronic device1101may include PCBs1171and1172and a battery1180(e.g., the battery189ofFIG.1) provided (e.g., disposed) in the housing1110. In an embodiment, the PCBs1171and1172may include a first PCB1171and a second PCB1172that are spaced apart from each other. For example, the first PCB1171may be received in a first substrate slot1142aof the second support structure1142and the second PCB1172may be received in a second substrate slot1142bof the second support structure1142. In an embodiment, the first PCB1171and the second PCB1172may be connected through an FPCB1163.

In an embodiment, the battery1180may be received in a battery slot1145of the second support structure1142formed between the first substrate slot1142aand the second substrate slot1142b. In an embodiment, the battery1180may be electrically connected to the PCBs1171and1172and may supply power to parts mounted to the PCBs1171and1172.

In an embodiment, a processor (e.g., the processor120ofFIG.1) may be provided to the PCBs1171and1172. For example, the processor may include at least one of a CPU, an AP, an image signal processor, a sensor hub processor, and a communication processor. In an embodiment, a wireless communication circuitry (e.g., the wireless communication module192ofFIG.1) may be provided on the PCBs1171and1172. The wireless communication circuitry may communicate with, for example, an external device (e.g., the electronic device104ofFIG.1). In an embodiment, the electronic device1101may include an antenna module1190provided in the housing1110and the wireless communication circuitry may be electrically connected to the antenna module1190. In an embodiment, the antenna module1190may be provided in the housing1110between the first PCB1171and the second PCB1172. In an embodiment, the antenna module1190may be a coil antenna that serves as, for example, an NFC antenna, a wireless charging antenna, and/or an MST antenna.

FIG.12Aillustrates an example of an arrangement state of an antenna module, a PCB, an FPCB, and a battery in an electronic device according to an embodiment.

Referring toFIG.12A, the electronic device1101(e.g., the electronic device101ofFIG.1) according to an embodiment may include the housing1110, the first PCB1171, the second PCB1172, the FPCB1163, the antenna module1190(e.g., the antenna module297ofFIG.2), and the battery1180.

In an embodiment, the first PCB1171and the second PCB1172may be provided (e.g., disposed) to be spaced apart in the housing1110and both ends of the FPCB1163may be connected to the first PCB1171and the second PCB1172. In an embodiment, the FPCB1163may be formed in a form with a short connection length, for example, in a straight form ofFIG.12A, to make it possible to improve signal transmission efficiency between the first PCB1171and the second PCB1172.

In an embodiment, the antenna module1190may be provided (e.g., disposed) in the housing1110to at least partially overlap the FPCB1163. In an embodiment, the antenna module1190may be formed in a plate form and coil patterns (e.g., the first coil pattern4921ofFIG.4Cand the second coil pattern4931ofFIG.4D) may be formed on both surfaces of the antenna module1190, respectively.

In an embodiment, the antenna module1190may include the overlapping area O that overlaps the FPCB1163and a first pattern area P1and a second pattern area P2that are separated from each other by the overlapping area O. In the antenna module1190, a thickness of the overlapping area O that overlaps the FPCB1163may be less than that of the first pattern area P1and the second pattern area P2. For example, a pattern layer (e.g., the second pattern layer493ofFIG.5A) for forming the coil pattern on a face on which the antenna module1190faces the FPCB1163and other members (e.g., the first shielding layer5951or the heat dissipation layer596ofFIG.5A) may be omitted in the overlapping area O of the antenna module1190. Therefore, while the antenna module1190is provided in the housing1110in an overlapping state with the FPCB1163, the overlapping thickness may be minimized.

In an embodiment, the battery1180may be provided (e.g., disposed) in the housing1110to overlap the antenna module1190based on the FPCB1163. In this case, because a space corresponding to the thickness of the FPCB1163is secured through the overlapping area O of the antenna module1190, an internal space of the housing1110for providing the battery1180may be secured.

FIG.12Billustrates an example of an arrangement state of an antenna module, a PCB, an FPCB, and a battery in an electronic device according to an embodiment, andFIG.12Cillustrates an example of an arrangement state of an antenna module, a PCB, an FPCB, and a battery in an electronic device according to an embodiment.

Referring toFIGS.12B and12C, FPCBs1263B and1263C according to an embodiment may be formed to secure an optimal connection performance and manufacturing convenience according to a PCB arrangement in the electronic device1101.

For example, when a third PCB1173is provided (e.g., disposed) between the first PCB1171and the second PCB1172and the FPCB1263B connects the first PCB1171and the third PCB1173as shown inFIG.12B, the FPCB1263B may be in a partially bent simple shape and may vertically connect the first PCB1171and the third PCB1173. In an embodiment, the antenna module1290B,1290C may be overlappingly provided to the FPCB1263B,1263C through the overlapping area O formed to have a relatively thin thickness. In this case, the overlapping area O may be formed in a shape corresponding to a shape of the FPCB1263B,1263C. For example, the overlapping area O may include a first overlapping area O1and a second overlapping area O2configured to connect to the first overlapping area O1in a bent form. A bent portion of the FPCB1263B may be overlappingly provided to the antenna module1290B through the first overlapping area O1and the second overlapping area O2.

As another example, when the FPCB1263C connects the first PCB1171and the second PCB1172as shown inFIG.12C, at least a portion of the FPCB1263C may be formed in a bent shape according to a connector position of a PCB. In this case, a shape of the overlapping area O is formed to correspond to the bent shape of the FPCB1263C and the antenna module1290C may reduce an overlapping thickness according to overlapping with the FPCB1263C.

Therefore, in a state in which the FPCB1263C and the antenna module1290C overlap, because a space corresponding to the thickness of the FPCB1263C is saved through the overlapping area O, an internal space of the housing1110for providing the battery1180may be secured.

In accordance with an aspect of the disclosure, an electronic device may include: a display including a first area and a second area; a housing structure including a first housing supporting the first area and a second housing supporting the second area, wherein an inner space is provided between the housing structure and a rear surface of the display; a hinge structure foldably connecting the first housing and the second housing based on a folding axis so that the first housing and the second housing are foldable relative to each other on the folding axis between a first state in which the first area and the second area are substantially coplanar and a second state in which the first area and the second area face each other; a first printed circuit board (PCB) provided in the inner space; a second PCB provided in the inner space; a flexible PCB (FPCB) connecting the first PCB and the second PCB; and an antenna module provided in the inner space of the housing structure and overlapping the FPCB along a direction perpendicular to the rear surface of the display. The antenna module may include: a base member including a first surface, and a second surface opposite to the first surface and facing the FPCB; a first pattern layer provided on the first surface of the base member and forming a first coil pattern; a second pattern layer provided on the second surface of the base member and forming a second coil pattern; an overlapping area in which the FPCB is provided between portions of the second pattern layer; and a plurality of pattern areas in which the portions of the second coil pattern are respectively provided.

The antenna module may further include a plurality of vias provided in each of the plurality of pattern areas and electrically connecting the portions of the second coil pattern provided in each of the plurality of pattern areas to the first coil pattern.

The antenna module may further include a first shielding layer provided in the plurality of pattern areas on the second pattern layer.

The antenna module may further include a second shielding layer provided in the overlapping area on the second surface of the base member.

The first shielding layer and the second shielding layer may form an integrated shielding layer.

The first shielding layer may be spaced apart from the second shielding layer.

The antenna module may further include a heat dissipation layer in the plurality of pattern areas on the first shielding layer.

The FPCB may be provided in the overlapping area, and a surface of the second pattern layer may have a height substantially equal to or greater than that of a surface of the FPCB along the direction perpendicular to the rear surface of the display.

The plurality of pattern areas may include a first pattern area and a second pattern area that are separated from each other by the overlapping area. A portion of the second coil pattern may be provided in each of the first pattern area and the second pattern area.

The antenna module may further include a plurality of vias electrically connecting the first coil pattern and the second coil pattern. The first coil pattern may include a first separation pattern and a second separation pattern that are separate from each other. Each of the first separation pattern and the second separation pattern may be connected, through the plurality of vias, to the second coil pattern in the first pattern area and the second coil pattern in the second pattern area.

The electronic device may further include a battery provided in the inner space of the housing structure. The battery may overlap the overlapping area along the direction perpendicular to the rear surface of the display.

The FPCB may extend through the antenna module in a substantially straight line.

The overlapping area may include a first overlapping area extending in a first longitudinal direction and a second overlapping area connected to the first overlapping area and extending a second longitudinal direction that crosses the first longitudinal direction. The FPCB may be provided in the first overlapping area and the second overlapping area.

The first longitudinal direction may be substantially perpendicular to the second longitudinal direction.

The overlapping area and the FPCB may have substantially common widths in the overlapping area.

In accordance with an aspect of the disclosure, an electronic device may include: a housing including a front surface, a rear surface, and a side surface between the front surface and the rear surface; a display; a first printed circuit board (PCB) provided in an inner space of the housing; a second PCB provided in the inner space of the housing and spaced apart from the first PCB; an antenna module provided in the inner space of the housing; and a flexible PCB (FPCB) connecting the first PCB and the second PCB and extending in a first direction through the antenna module. The antenna module may include: a base member including a first surface, and a second surface opposite to the first surface and facing the FPCB; a first pattern layer provided on the first surface of the base member and forming a first coil pattern; a second pattern layer provided on the second surface of the base member and forming a plurality of second coil patterns; a plurality of pattern areas respectively corresponding to the plurality of second coil patterns; and an overlapping area in which the FPCB is provided, wherein the overlapping area separates the plurality of second coil patterns from each other.

The antenna module may further include a plurality of vias extending through the base member in each of the plurality of pattern areas and electrically connecting the plurality of second coil patterns to the first coil pattern.

The antenna module may further include: a first shielding layer provided in each of the plurality of pattern areas on the second pattern layer; and a second shielding layer provided in the overlapping area between the second surface and the FPCB.

The electronic device may further include a battery provided in the space of the housing. The overlapping area and the battery may overlap along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction.

In accordance with an aspect of the disclosure, an electronic device may include: a display including a first area and a second area; a first housing supporting the first area and forming a first space; a second housing supporting the second area and forming a second space; a hinge structure foldably connecting the first housing and the second housing based on a folding axis so that the first housing and the second housing are foldable relative to each other on the folding axis between a first state in which the first area and the second area are substantially coplanar and a second state in which the first area and the second area face each other; a first printed circuit board (PCB) provided in the first space; a second PCB provided in the second space; a flexible PCB (FPCB) connecting the first PCB and the second PCB and extending across the hinge structure; an antenna module provided in the first space or the second space, and overlapping the FPCB along a direction perpendicular to a surface of the display; and a battery provided in the first space or the second space, and overlapping the antenna module along the direction. The antenna module may include: a base member including a first surface, and a second surface opposite to the first surface and facing the FPCB; a first pattern layer provided on the first surface of the base member and forming a first coil pattern; a second pattern layer provided on the second surface of the base member and forming a second coil pattern; a plurality of vias electrically connecting the first coil pattern and the second coil pattern, and passing through the base member; and an overlapping area in which the FPCB is provided between portions of the second pattern layer.

In accordance with an aspect of the disclosure, an antenna module includes: a first coil provided on a first surface of a substrate; a first portion of a second coil provided on a second surface of the substrate; a second portion of the second coil provided on the second surface of the substrate and separated from the first portion of the second coil; and a plurality of vias that extend through the substrate and electrically connect the first portion of the second coil to the first coil, and the second portion of the second coil to the first coil.

Side surfaces of the first portion of the second coil and the second portion of the second coil may face each other, may be substantially perpendicular to the second surface of the substrate, and may define a space configured to accommodate a flexible printed circuit board.

The antenna module may further include a shielding layer that extends on the second surface of the substrate between the first portion of the second coil and the second portion of the second coil.

The antenna module may further include: a first shielding layer provided on the first portion of the second coil and the second portion of the second coil; and a second shielding layer that extends on the second surface of the substrate between the first portion of the second coil and the second portion of the second coil.

The antenna module may further include vertical shielding portions electrically connecting the first shielding layer and the second shielding layer.

A space may be provided on the second surface of the substrate between the first portion of the second coil and the second portion of the second coil.

The antenna module may further include a flexible printed circuit board that extends on the second surface of the substrate between the first portion of the second coil and the second portion of the second coil.

The antenna module may further include a battery. The flexible printed circuit board, the substrate and the battery may overlap each other along a direction perpendicular to the first surface of the substrate

While aspects of embodiments have been particularly shown and described, it will be understood that various changes in form and details may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the following claims.