Patent Description:
Ever more functionality and technology are being integrated into modern electronic devices, such as smart phones. Sometimes, additional hardware may need to be added to the electronic device in order to provide new functionality. For example, additional <NUM> antennas will be required to support <NUM> technologies in a modern electronic device and to co-exist with existing hardware, such as <NUM>-<NUM> antennas. The term "<NUM>" stands for fifth generation wireless telecommunications technologies, and the term "<NUM>-<NUM>" means the second to the fourth generation wireless telecommunications technologies.

There is, however, very limited available space in the electronic device for placing additional antennas. Additionally, placement of the additional <NUM> antennas in the electronic device is limited by the placement of the existing <NUM>-<NUM> antennas, which are generally placed on the top and bottom portions of the PCB board of the electronic devices. For example, in order to achieve desired performance, <NUM> antennas are generally not placed on top of the existing <NUM>-<NUM> antennas without any space between the <NUM> antennas and the <NUM>-<NUM> antennas. The Article by <NPL>, describes reconfigurable Antenna for Future Spectrum Reallocations in <NUM> Communications. <CIT>, <CIT>, <CIT>, <CIT> and <CIT> all describe antennas for various smartphone applications. The Article by <NPL> describes <NUM>/<NUM> multiple Antennas for Future Multi-Mode Smartphone Applications. The Article by <NPL>, describes antennas for future <NUM>/<NUM> smartphone applications.

As well, <NUM> frequency bands in different countries may range from <NUM> to <NUM>. Therefore, it is desirable to provide additional antennas in an electronic device that covers these potential <NUM> frequency bands.

The present description describes example embodiments of broadband antennas and arrangements of antenna arrays. The antennas and arrangements of antenna arrays have broad bandwidth, high efficiency, and good impedance matching with the output impedance of the transceiver of the electronic device, such as a <NUM> electronic device. In at least some configurations, the antenna arrays support previous <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> RATs in <NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM>, and <NUM> RATs in <NUM> - <NUM>.

In at least some configurations, the antenna arrays are placed in the electronic device based on the actual arrangement of the existing hardware and available free space in the electronic device. Therefore, the antennas and antenna arrays can be conveniently introduced in electronic device without interfering or modifying the existing arrangement of the hardware components of electronic device.

In at least some configurations, the antenna arrays allow the electronic device to support <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM> RATs at the same time without existing <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM> antennas. Accordingly, the antennas and antenna arrays occupy less free space in the electronic device and thus is more flexible to implement in the electronic device.

According to an aspect, there is provided an electronic device that includes a radio frequency (RF) communications circuit; and a multiple input multiple output (MIMO) antenna array including a plurality of antennas connected to the RF communications circuit, wherein at least one of the antennas has operating frequency ranges of <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, and <NUM>-<NUM>.

Optionally, each of the antennas has a first total efficiency of at least <NUM>% in <NUM>-<NUM>.

Optionally, any two of the antennas have a mutual coupling level less than -<NUM> dB in <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, and <NUM>-<NUM>.

Optionally, the antennas have a common operating frequency range of <NUM>-<NUM>.

Optionally, the at least one antenna is placed on a bottom portion of the electronic device and serves as a main antenna in frequency ranges of <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>.

Optionally, the plurality of antennas include a second antenna that has operating frequency ranges of <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, and <NUM>-<NUM>.

Optionally, the second antenna is placed on a top portion of the electronic device and serves as a diversity antenna in frequency ranges of <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>.

Optionally, the MIMO antenna array including <NUM> antennas.

According to another aspect, there is provided a multiple input multiple output (MIMO) antenna array that includes a plurality of antennas for transmitting RF signals from a transmitter of an electronic device and for receiving external RF signals, wherein at least one of the antennas has operating frequency ranges of <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, and <NUM>-<NUM>.

Optionally, the at least one antenna further has a second total efficiency of at least <NUM>% in <NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM>.

Optionally, in any of the preceding aspects, the at least one antenna further has a second scattering parameter SRx-Rx of less than or equal to -<NUM> dB in <NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM>.

Optionally, the MIMO antenna array includes <NUM> antennas.

According to another aspect, there is provided an antenna that includes a plurality of radiating members for radiating the RF signals and for receiving the external RF signals; a feeding pin electrically connected with a first one of the radiating members for receiving RF signals from a transmitter of an electronic device and for transmitting external RF signals to a receiver of the electronic device; and a shorting pin electrically connected with a second one of the radiating members for electrically connecting the antenna with a common ground, wherein the antenna has operating frequency ranges of <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, and <NUM>-<NUM>.

Reference will now be made, by way of example, to the accompanying drawings which show example embodiments of the present disclosure, and in which:.

Newer radio access technologies (RATs), for example <NUM> wireless technologies, require faster data rates and greater data streams in the air interface. A multiple-input and multiple-output (MIMO) antenna array may be used to increase the capacity of wireless channels without extra radiation power or spectrum bandwidth. In a multipath wireless environment, the capacity of wireless channels generally increases in proportion to the number of transmitting and receiving antennas of a MIMO antenna array.

In this regard, <FIG> illustrates a back perspective view of an exemplary electronic device <NUM> that implements MIMO antenna array according to the present disclosure. The electronic device <NUM> may be a mobile device that is enabled to receive and transmit radio frequency (RF) signals including, for example, a tablet, a smart phone, a Personal Digital Assistant (PDA), or an Internet of Things (IOT) device, among other things.

As illustrated in the example of <FIG>, the electronic device <NUM> includes a housing <NUM> that supports and houses, among other things, a MIMO antenna array (described in detail below), a PCB board <NUM> populated with electronic components, a battery <NUM>, and a display screen <NUM>.

An electronic device intended for handheld use typically has a rectangular prism configuration with a top and bottom of the device that correspond to the orientation that the device is most commonly held in during handheld use, and in this regard the terms "top", "bottom", "front" and "back" as used in the present disclosure refer to the most common use orientation of the electronic device <NUM> as intended by the device manufacturer, while recognizing that some devices can be temporarily orientated to different orientations (for example from a portrait orientation to a landscape orientation). In examples in which the electronic device <NUM> has a display screen <NUM>, the term "front" refers to the surface of the device on which screen <NUM> is located.

In the example device shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, a plurality of antennas are arranged in the electronic device <NUM> to implement an exemplary MIMO antenna array, which includes antennas <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> (<NUM>)-<NUM>(<NUM>) (referred generically as antenna <NUM>).

Antennas <NUM> and <NUM> are configured to operate in the same frequency ranges, for example, in <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, and <NUM> - <NUM>. In other words, antennas <NUM> and <NUM> are capable of supporting existing <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> RATs, and newer <NUM> RATs. Antennas <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> are configured to operate in the same frequency range, for example, from <NUM>-<NUM>.

In example embodiments, antennas <NUM> each have an identical physical configuration different from that of antennas <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>. Despite physical differences, antennas <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> are configured to operate in the same frequency range, for example, in <NUM>-<NUM>.

In the example embodiment of <FIG>, the electronic device <NUM> includes an antenna support member <NUM> that functions as an antenna carrier for antennas <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> (collectively, the "antenna array"). In the example of <FIG>, the electronic device <NUM> further includes a housing frame <NUM> for enclosing the hardware of electronic device <NUM>, including the antenna array and antenna support member <NUM>. The housing frame <NUM> in the example of <FIG> includes a back cover <NUM>. Although the housing frame <NUM> and antenna support member <NUM> are shown as two components in <FIG>, in at least some example embodiments, features of support member <NUM> are integrated into the housing frame <NUM> to provide a housing <NUM> with a unitary structure.

The antenna support member <NUM> includes a top portion 140a and a bottom portion 140b interconnected by two parallel side portions 140c and 140d. Each of the top portion 140a, bottom portion 140b, and two side portions 140c and 140d defines a respective back surface <NUM> that is substantially parallel to and faces an opposite direction than the display screen <NUM>, an inner surface <NUM> facing the inside of the electronic device <NUM>, and an outer surface <NUM> facing the outside of the electronic device <NUM>. Both the inner surface <NUM> and the outer surface <NUM> are substantially orthogonal to the back surface <NUM>. The back, inner, and outer surfaces <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> of the support member <NUM> provide support to the antenna array without interfering with the other hardware components of the electronic device <NUM>. The inner surfaces <NUM> of the top portion 140a, bottom portion 140b, and two side portions 140c and 140d collectively form a rectangular perimeter that defines a central region for receiving hardware components, such as a battery <NUM> and some of the electronic components populated on the PCB <NUM>. The support member <NUM> may be placed on top of a periphery of the PCB <NUM>. The support member <NUM> may also be attached to the housing frame <NUM>, for example by adhesives, or, as noted above, be integrated in the housing frame <NUM>. The configuration of the support member <NUM> may be varied as long as it provides support to the antenna array at selected positions inside the electronic device <NUM> without interfering with the arrangement of the other hardware components of the electrical device <NUM>.

In some example embodiments, the PCB <NUM> includes a plurality of layers including at least one signal layer and at least one ground layer. The signal layer includes a plurality of conductive traces that each forms signal paths <NUM> between respective PCB pads (see <FIG>). The ground layer of the PCB <NUM> provides shielding and a common ground reference in the PCB <NUM> for current returns of the electronic components, and includes a plurality of conductive traces that each form ground paths. Conductive vias are provided through the PCB <NUM> to extend the signal paths <NUM> and ground paths to surface connection points (such as pads) on the PCB <NUM>. Electronic components are populated on the PCB <NUM> to form circuits capable of performing desired functions. Electronic components may include, for example, integrated circuit (IC) chips, capacitors, resistors, inductors, diodes, transistors and other components.

The electronic device <NUM> may also include other hardware such as sensors, speakers <NUM>, headphone jack <NUM>, USB jack <NUM>, cameras and various circuits formed by electronic components populated on the PCB <NUM>. In the example of <FIG>, one speaker <NUM> and the headphone jack <NUM> are placed on the top portion of the PCB board <NUM> and under the antenna <NUM>, and one speaker <NUM> and the USB jack <NUM> are placed on the bottom portion of the PCB board <NUM> and under the antenna <NUM>.

In example embodiments, an RF communications circuit is implemented by PCB <NUM> and the components populated on PCB <NUM>. In the example of <FIG>, RF communications circuit includes matching circuits, switches, signal paths <NUM>, ground path electrically connected to the ground plane of the PCB <NUM> (not shown) an RF transceiver circuit <NUM>, electrical connectors (for example coax cables) for connecting to feeding pins of the antenna array , and other circuitry required for handling RF wireless signals. In example embodiments, RF transceiver circuit <NUM> can be formed from one or more integrated circuits and include modulating circuitry, power amplifier circuitry, low-noise input amplifiers and other components required to transmit or receive RF signals.

In an example, transceiver circuit <NUM> includes components to implement transmitter circuitry that modulates baseband signals to a carrier frequency and amplifies the resulting modulated RF signals. The amplified RF signals are then sent from the transceiver circuit <NUM> using signal path <NUM> and ground path via the ground plane of the PCB <NUM> to the antenna array which then radiates the amplified RF signals into a wireless transmission medium. In an example, transceiver circuit <NUM> also includes components to implement receiver circuitry that receives external carrier frequency modulated RF signals through signal path <NUM> and ground plane of the PCB <NUM> from the antenna array. The transceiver circuit <NUM> may include a low noise amplifier (LNA) for amplifying the received signals and a demodulator for demodulating the received RF signals to baseband. In some examples, RF transceiver circuit <NUM> may be replaced with a transmit-only circuitry and in some examples, RF transceiver circuit <NUM> may be replaced with a receive-only circuitry.

In example embodiments, electronic device <NUM> includes a battery <NUM> for supplying power to electronic device <NUM>. Battery <NUM> is electrically connected to a power supply circuit of the PCB <NUM>. The power supply circuit then supplies power to circuits on the PCB <NUM>, such as RF communications circuit, or to other electronic components of the electronic device <NUM>. In an example illustrated in <FIG>, battery <NUM> is placed above the PCB <NUM> and inside the housing <NUM>. Battery <NUM> may also be directly placed on PCB <NUM>, for example, in the middle of PCB <NUM>. Battery <NUM> may have a substantial size and occupy a substantial space of the housing <NUM>. In an example, battery <NUM> has dimensions of <NUM> (width) x90mm (length) x5mm (height).

In some examples, battery <NUM> includes metal materials, and therefore absorbs RF wave energy radiated from the antenna array. In this case, efficiency of the antenna array without battery <NUM> in the electronic device <NUM> may be higher than that of the antenna array with the battery <NUM> in the electronic device <NUM>, for example, by <NUM>%.

As illustrated in <FIG>, the housing frame <NUM> includes a planar element <NUM> with a perpendicular rim or sidewall <NUM> that extends downwardly around a perimeter of the planar element <NUM>. The planar element <NUM> functions as a back cover of the electronic device <NUM>. In an embodiment, the housing frame <NUM> securely encloses hardware of the electronic device <NUM>, such as the antennas array, the antenna support member <NUM>, the PCB board <NUM> and components populated thereon, the battery <NUM>, the screen <NUM>, and other hardware of the electronic device <NUM>. In example embodiments, the display screen <NUM> is secured to a front of the housing frame <NUM>.

In the examples of <FIG>, the sidewall <NUM> of housing frame <NUM> includes a top wall portion 161a, a bottom wall portion 161b and two opposite side wall portions 161c and 161d that extend between the top and bottom wall portions 161a and 161b. In at least some example embodiments, the side wall portions 161c and 161d of the housing frame <NUM> have a greater length than the top wall portion 161a and bottom wall portion 161b of the housing frame <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the support member <NUM> and housing <NUM> are integrated together into a unitary housing <NUM>, and elements of the support member <NUM> can be integrated into the sidewall <NUM> to support to the antenna array at the respective positions shown in <FIG>. For example, the housing <NUM> may include protrusions extending from the sidewall <NUM> of the housing <NUM> and towards internal region of the housing <NUM> to provide support to the antenna array at their respective locations. In this example, support member <NUM> is replaced with the protrusions. In some example embodiments, the antenna array is secured to the support member <NUM> with an adhesive, for example, copper glue. The antenna array may also be secured to the support member <NUM> using other suitable mechanisms, such as a laser direct structuring (LDS) process, or an insert molding process, or a flex tape process in which each of antenna of the antenna array is mounted on a respective flex PCB that is then mounted using an adhesive to the support member <NUM>.

In some example embodiment, the support member <NUM> and housing frame <NUM> are formed from suitable material, such as plastic, carbon-fiber materials or other composites, glass, or ceramics.

In some example embodiments, the PCB <NUM> of the electronic device <NUM> is located parallel to the back cover <NUM> and may be secured to standoffs that are located in housing <NUM>.

In example embodiments, each antenna of the antenna array is secured in respective locations in the housing <NUM> that have been selected to optimize MIMO performance in the compact environment of the electronic device <NUM>. For example, antenna locations are selected to achieve at least one of the following, or an optimal combination of the following: mitigate electric and magnetic interference with other components in the electronic device <NUM>, mitigate coupling between antennas, and optimize diversity gain.

Antennas <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM> are formed from a conductive material, for example a metal, such as copper. Each of antennas <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM> is capable of transmitting RF signals received from a transmitter of the transceiver circuit <NUM> of the electronic device <NUM> and receiving external RF signals for further processing by a receiver of the transceiver circuit <NUM> of the electronic device <NUM>.

As to be further discussed below, each <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM> has a plurality of radiating members for radiating the RF signals and for receiving the external RF signals, and a feeding pin electrically connected with one of the radiating members for receiving RF signals from a transmitter/transceiver circuit <NUM> of the electronic device <NUM> and for transmitting external RF signals to a receiver/transceiver circuit <NUM> of the electronic device, and a shorting pin electrically connected with another one of the radiating members for electrically connecting the antenna with the common ground provided by the PCB <NUM>.

In the description below, an element of an antenna "substantially parallel to" a plane defined by an orthogonal X, Y, Z reference coordinate system also includes the element on the plane. An edge or end of an element "substantially parallel to" an axis also includes the edge or end overlap with axis. In the exemplary embodiments, antennas <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> include planar elements, and the heights of the planar elements may be the same, for example, <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrate an example embodiment of antenna <NUM>. Antenna <NUM> includes a feeding pin <NUM>, radiating members <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>, and a shorting pin <NUM>. As illustrated in the example of <FIG> and <FIG>, the feeding pin <NUM>, radiating members <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>, and the shorting pin <NUM> are each substantially planar rectangular elements.

Each of radiating members <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> has a top surface and a bottom surface. Each of the feeding pin <NUM>, radiating members <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>, and the shorting pin <NUM>, has an inner surface and an outer surface. When antenna <NUM> is placed on the support member <NUM>, for example, as illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>, the top surfaces face the back cover <NUM> of the housing frame <NUM> and the bottom surface faces the screen <NUM> of the electronic device <NUM>; the inner surfaces of radiating members <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM> face the outer surface <NUM> of the support member <NUM>,and the outer surfaces of radiating members <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM> face the outside of the electronic device <NUM>; inner surfaces of feeding pin <NUM>, radiating members <NUM> and <NUM>, and the shorting pin <NUM> face the inside of the electronic device <NUM>, and outer surfaces of feeding pin <NUM>, radiating members <NUM> and <NUM>, and the shorting pin <NUM> face inner surface <NUM> of the support member <NUM>.

The feeding pin <NUM> has two opposite ends 201a and 201b, and two opposite side edges 201c and 201d. Referring to the orthogonal X, Y, Z reference coordinate system shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the feeding pin <NUM> is parallel to the Y-Z plane, and two side edges 201c and 201d are substantially parallel to the Z-axis. The rectangular feeding pin <NUM> has a length L20 between opposite ends 201a and 201b, and a width W20 between opposite side edges 201c and 201d. For example, L20 =<NUM>, W20= <NUM>.

In some embodiments, as illustrated in <FIG>, the feeding pin <NUM> receives RF signals fed to antenna <NUM> from transceiver circuit <NUM>. Similarly, RF signals received over an air interface by antenna <NUM> are fed through feeding pin <NUM> to transceiver circuit <NUM>. In some embodiments, a cable is used to connect the feeding pin <NUM> of antenna <NUM> to the transceiver circuit <NUM> via a signal path <NUM> on the PCB board <NUM>.

The rectangular radiating member <NUM> has two opposite ends 202a and 202b, and two opposite side edges 202c and 202d. The feeding pin <NUM> and the radiating members <NUM> are perpendicular to each other in the same planes. In the examples of <FIG> and <FIG>, the rectangular radiating member <NUM> is substantially parallel to the Z-Y plane. Two side edges 202c and 202d are substantially parallel to the Z-axis. The radiating member <NUM> has a length L211 between opposite ends 202a and 202b, and a width W211 between opposite side edges 202c and 202d. For example, L211=<NUM> (<FIG>), and W211=<NUM> (<FIG>). The end 202a is electrically connected with the side edge 201c and close to the end 201b, for example by a weld.

The rectangular radiating member <NUM> has two opposite ends 203a and 203b, and two opposite side edges 203c and 203d. The radiating members <NUM> and <NUM> are perpendicular to each other in two planes. In the examples of <FIG> and <FIG>, the rectangular radiating member <NUM> is substantially parallel to the Z-X plane. Two side edges 203c and 203d are substantially parallel to the X-axis. The radiating member <NUM> has a length L212 between opposite ends 203a and 203b and a width W212 between opposite side edges 203c and 203d. For example, L212=<NUM> (<FIG>) and W212=<NUM> (<FIG>). The end 203a is electrically connected with an end portion of radiating member <NUM> of the inner surface 202e and close to the end 202b, for example by a weld.

The rectangular radiating member <NUM> has two opposite ends 204a and 204b, and two opposite side edges 204c and 204d. The feeding pin <NUM> and the radiating members <NUM> are perpendicular to each other in two planes. In the examples of <FIG> and <FIG>, the rectangular radiating member <NUM> is parallel to the X-Y plane, and two side edges 204c and 204d are parallel to the X-axis. The rectangular radiating member <NUM> has a length L21 between opposite ends 204a and 204b, and a width W21 between opposite side edges 204c and 204d. For example, L21=<NUM> (<FIG>) and W21= <NUM> (<FIG>). The end 204a is electrically connected with an end portion of a bottom surface of the feeding pin <NUM> and close to the end 201b, for example by a weld.

The rectangular radiating member <NUM> has two opposite ends 205a and 205b, and two opposite side edges 205c and 205d. The radiating members <NUM> and <NUM> are perpendicular to each other in the same plane. In the example of <FIG>, the rectangular radiating member <NUM> is substantially parallel to the X-Y plane. Two side edges 205c and 205d are substantially parallel to the Y-axis. The rectangular radiating member <NUM> has a length L28 between opposite ends 205a and 205b, and a width W28 between opposite side edges 205c and 205d. For example, L28=<NUM> (<FIG>) and W28=<NUM> (<FIG>). The end 205a is electrically connected with the side edge 204d between the ends 204a and 204b, for example by a weld. For example, the distance between side edge 205d and the end 204b is <NUM> (<FIG>).

The rectangular radiating member <NUM> has two opposite ends 206a and 206b, and two opposite side edges 206c and 206d. The radiating members <NUM> and <NUM> are perpendicular to each other in two planes. In the example of <FIG> and <FIG>, the rectangular radiating member <NUM> is substantially parallel to the Z-Y plane. Two side edges 206c and 206d are substantially parallel to the Z-axis. The rectangular radiating member <NUM> has a length L22 between opposite ends 206a and 206b, and a width W22 between opposite side edges 206c and 206d. For example, L22= <NUM> (<FIG>) and W22=<NUM> (<FIG>). The end 206b is electrically connected with an end portion of the bottom surface 204e of radiating member <NUM> and close to the distal end 204b, for example by a weld.

The rectangular radiating member <NUM> has two opposite ends 207a and 207b, and two opposite side edges 207c and 207d. The radiating members <NUM> and <NUM> are perpendicular to each other in the same plane. In the example of <FIG> and <FIG>, the rectangular radiating member <NUM> is substantially parallel to the Z-Y plane. Two side edges 207c and 207d substantially parallel to the Y-axis. The rectangular radiating member <NUM> has a length L23 between opposite ends 207a and 207b, and a width W23 between opposite side edges 207c and 207d. For example, L23=<NUM> (<FIG>) and W23=<NUM>(<FIG>). The end 207a is electrically connected with side edge 206d and close to the distal end 206a, for example by a weld.

The rectangular radiating member <NUM> has two opposite ends 208a and 208b, and two opposite side edges 208c and 208d. The radiating members <NUM> and <NUM> are perpendicular to each other in the same plane. In the example of <FIG> and <FIG>, the rectangular radiating member <NUM> is substantially parallel to the Z-Y plane. Two side edges 208c and 208d are substantially parallel to the Z-axis. The rectangular radiating member <NUM> has a length L24 between opposite ends 208a and 208b, and a width W24 between opposite side edges 208c and 208d. For example, L24=<NUM> (<FIG>) and W24= <NUM> (<FIG>). The end 207b is electrically connected with side edge 208d and close to the distal end 208a, for example by a weld.

The rectangular radiating member <NUM> has two opposite ends 209a and 209b, and two opposite side edges 209c and 209d. The radiating members <NUM> and <NUM> are perpendicular to each other in the same plane. In the example of <FIG>, the rectangular radiating member <NUM> is substantially parallel to the Y-Z plane. Two side edges 209c and 209d are substantially parallel to the Y-axis. The rectangular radiating member <NUM> has a length L29 between opposite ends 209a and 209b, and a width W29 between opposite side edges 209c and 209d. For example, L29=<NUM> (<FIG>) and W29=<NUM> (<FIG>). The end 209a is electrically connected with the side edge 208d and close to the end 208b, for example by a weld.

The radiating members <NUM> and <NUM> are substantially parallel to each other in the same plane. The side edge 209c is substantially parallel to the side edge 207d and define a space of uniform width S21 between side edges 209c and 207d. For example, S21=<NUM> (<FIG>). The side edge 209d is also substantially parallel to the side edge 208d and define a space of uniform width S22 between side edges 209d and 208d. For example, S22=<NUM> (<FIG>).

The rectangular radiating member <NUM> has two opposite ends 210a and 210b, and two opposite side edges 210c and 210d. The radiating members <NUM> and <NUM> are perpendicular to each other in two planes. In the example of <FIG>, the rectangular radiating member <NUM> is substantially parallel to the X-Y plane. Two side edges 210c and 210d are substantially parallel to the X-axis. The rectangular radiating member <NUM> has a length L25 between opposite ends 210a and 210b, and a width W25 between opposite side edges 210c and 210d. For example, L25=<NUM> and W25=<NUM> (See <FIG>). The end 208b is electrically connected with an end portion of a bottom surface 210e of radiating member <NUM>, and close to the end 210a and the side edge 210d, for example by a weld.

The rectangular radiating member <NUM> has two opposite ends 212a and 212b, two opposite side edges 212c and 212d. The radiating members <NUM> and <NUM> are perpendicular to each other in the same plane. In the example of <FIG>, the rectangular radiating member <NUM> is substantially parallel to the X-Y plane. Two side edges 212c and 212d are substantially parallel to the Y-axis. The rectangular radiating member <NUM> has a length L26 between opposite ends 212a and 212b, and a width W26 between opposite side edges 212c and 212d. For example, L26=<NUM> and W26=<NUM> (see <FIG>). The end 212a is electrically connected with the side edge 210d and close to the end 210b, for example by a weld. The radiating members <NUM> and <NUM> are also parallel to each other in the same plane. The side edges 205c and 212d are substantially parallel with each other and define a space of uniform width S23. For example, S23=<NUM> (<FIG>).

The shorting pin <NUM> has two opposite ends 214a and 214b, and two opposite side edges 214c and 214d. The radiating members <NUM> and the shorting pin <NUM> are perpendicular to each other in two planes. In the example of <FIG>, the shorting pin <NUM> is substantially parallel to the Z-Y plane. Two side edges 214c and 214d are substantially parallel to the Z-axis. The shorting pin <NUM> has a length L210 between opposite ends 214a and 214b, and a width W210 between opposite side edges 214c and 214d. For example, L210=<NUM> and W210=<NUM> (see <FIG>). The end 214a is electrically connected with an end portion of a bottom surface 212e of the radiating member <NUM>, and close to side edge 212c and the distal end 212b, for example by a weld.

The shorting pin <NUM> is used for electrically connecting the antenna <NUM> with the common ground of the PCB board <NUM>. The common ground of PCB <NUM> provides a grounding plane for antenna <NUM>. For example, the shorting pin <NUM> connects through a wire with the common ground of the PCB board <NUM> or connects with the common ground of the PCB board <NUM> via a spring contact.

With the exemplary dimensions illustrated in <FIG>, radiating members <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> collectively support a first operating frequency range of <NUM>-<NUM>; radiating members <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> collectively support a second operating frequency range of <NUM>-<NUM>; and radiating members <NUM> and <NUM> collectively support a third operating frequency range of <NUM>-<NUM>. Collectively, the combination of the radiating members <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> in this example allow antenna <NUM> to operate over the frequency ranges of <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, and <NUM>-<NUM> with desired performance. In other words, antenna <NUM> is capable of supporting <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM> RATs at the same time. As such, antenna <NUM> can replace existing <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> antennas placed in the electronic device <NUM>, such as the diversity antenna placed on the top portion of electronic device <NUM>, and support <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> RATs at the same time without increasing total number of the antennas in electronic device <NUM>.

Structure and dimensions of antenna <NUM> are determined based on actual arrangements of the existing hardware on the top portion of the PCB <NUM> and available space in the electronic device <NUM>. As illustrate in <FIG>, for example, antenna <NUM> is placed above headphone jack <NUM> and speaker <NUM> on the PCB. Therefore, antenna <NUM> can be conveniently implemented in the electronic device <NUM> to support <NUM>-<NUM> RATs without modifying the existing hardware.

Structure of antenna <NUM> in <FIG> may be varied. In an example, two or more of the feeding pin <NUM>, radiating members <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>, and the shorting pin <NUM> form one radiating member. For example, radiating members <NUM> and <NUM> form one radiating member, which is welded with feeding pin <NUM> and radiating member <NUM>, or radiating members <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> form one radiating member that is welded with radiating members <NUM> and <NUM>.

In another example, the feeding pin <NUM>, radiating members <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>, and the shorting pin <NUM> (collectively, the "elements") are formed from a planar conductive sheet. For example, antenna <NUM> can be made with the following steps:.

The order of steps <NUM>)-<NUM>) may be varied.

<FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG> illustrate an example embodiment of antenna <NUM>. Antenna <NUM> includes a feeding pin <NUM>, radiating members <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>, and a shorting pin <NUM>. As illustrated in the examples in <FIG> and <FIG>, the feeding pin <NUM>, radiating members <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>, and the shorting pin <NUM> are each substantially planar rectangular elements.

Each of radiating members <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM> has a top surface and a bottom surface. Each of the feeding pin <NUM>, radiating members <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>, and the shorting pin <NUM> has an inner surface and an outer surface. When antenna <NUM> is placed on the support member <NUM>, for example, as illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>, the top surface faces the back cover <NUM> of the housing frame <NUM> and the bottom surface faces the screen <NUM> of the electronic device <NUM>; the inner surfaces of radiating members <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM> face the outer surface <NUM> of the support member <NUM>,and the outer surfaces of radiating members <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM> face the outside of the electronic device <NUM>; inner surfaces of feeding pin <NUM>, radiating members <NUM> and <NUM>, and the shorting pin <NUM> face the inside of the electronic device <NUM>, and outer surfaces of feeding pin <NUM>, radiating members <NUM> and <NUM>, and the shorting pin <NUM> face inner surface <NUM> of the support member <NUM>.

The feeding pin <NUM> has two opposite ends 301a and 301b, and two opposite side edges 301c and 301d. Referring to the orthogonal X, Y, Z reference coordinate system in <FIG> and <FIG>, the feeding pin <NUM> is substantially parallel to the X-Z plane, and two side edges 310c and 301d are substantially parallel to Z-axis. The feeding pin <NUM> has a length L30 between opposite ends 301a and 301b, and a width W30 between opposite side edges 301c and 301d. For example, L30=<NUM> and W30=<NUM> (see <FIG>).

The rectangular radiating member <NUM> has two opposite ends 302a and 302b, and two opposite side edges 302c and 302d. The feeding pin <NUM> and radiating member <NUM> are perpendicular to each other in the same plane. In the example of <FIG>, the rectangular radiating member <NUM> is substantially parallel to the Z-X plane. Two side edges 302c and 302d are substantially parallel to the X-axis. The radiating member <NUM> has a length L312 between opposite ends 302a and 302b, and a width W312 between opposite side edges 302c and 302d. For example, L312=<NUM> (<FIG>) and W312=<NUM> (<FIG>). The end 302a is electrically connected, for example by a weld, with the side edge 301d and close to the end 301b.

The rectangular radiating member <NUM> has two opposite ends 303a and 303b, and two opposite side edges 303c and 303d. The radiating members <NUM> and <NUM> are perpendicular to each other in two planes. In the example of <FIG>, the rectangular radiating member <NUM> is substantially parallel to the Z-Y plane. Two side edges 303c and 303d are substantially parallel to the Y-axis. The radiating member <NUM> has a length L313 between opposite ends 303a and 303b, and a width W313 between two opposite side edges 303c and 303d. For example, L313=<NUM> (<FIG>) and W313=<NUM> (<FIG>). The end 302b is electrically connected, for example by a weld, with an end portion of bottom surface 303e of radiating member <NUM> and close to the end 303a.

The rectangular radiating member <NUM> has two opposite ends 304a and 304b, and two opposite side edges 304c and 304d. The feeding pin <NUM> and the radiating members <NUM> are perpendicular to each other in two planes. In the example of <FIG>, the rectangular radiating member <NUM> is substantially parallel to the X-Y plane, and two side edges substantially parallel to the Y-axis. The rectangular radiating member <NUM> has a length L31 between opposite ends 304a and 304b, and a width W31 between opposite side edges 304c and 304d. For example, L31=<NUM> and W31=<NUM> (see <FIG>). The end 301b is electrically connected, for example by a weld, with an end portion of the bottom surface 304e of the radiating member <NUM> and close to the end 304a.

The rectangular radiating member <NUM> has two opposite ends 305a and 305b, and two opposite side edges 305c and 305d. The radiating members <NUM> and <NUM> are perpendicular to each other in the same plane. In the example of <FIG>, the rectangular radiating member <NUM> is substantially parallel to the X-Y plane. Two side edges 305c and 305d are substantially parallel to the X-axis. The rectangular radiating member <NUM> has a length L305 between opposite ends 305a and 305b, and a width W305 between opposite side edges 305c and 305d. For example, L305=<NUM> and W305=<NUM> (see <FIG>). The end 305a is electrically connected with the side edge 304d and between the ends 304a and 304b. In the example of <FIG>, the distance between the side edge 305c and the end 304b is <NUM>.

The rectangular radiating member <NUM> has two opposite ends 306a and 306b, and two opposite side edges 306c and 306d. The radiating members <NUM> and <NUM> are perpendicular to each other in two planes. In the example of <FIG>, the rectangular radiating member <NUM> is substantially parallel to the Z-X plane. Two side edges 306c and 306d substantially parallel to Z-axis. The rectangular radiating member <NUM> has a length L32 between opposite ends 306a and 306b, and a width W32 between opposite side edges 306c and 306d. For example, L32= <NUM> and W32=<NUM> (see <FIG>). The end 306a is electrically connected, for example by a weld, with an end portion of bottom surface 306e of the radiating member <NUM> and close to the distal end 304b.

The rectangular radiating member <NUM> has two opposite ends 307a and 307b, and two opposite side edges 307c and 307d. The radiating members <NUM> and <NUM> are perpendicular to each other in the same plane. In the example of <FIG>, the rectangular radiating member <NUM> is substantially parallel to the Z-X plane. Two side edges 307c and 307d are substantially parallel to the X-axis. The rectangular radiating member <NUM> has a length L33 between opposite ends 307a and 307b, and a width W33 between opposite side edges 307c and 307d. For example, L33=<NUM> and W33=<NUM> (see <FIG>). The end 307a is electrically connected, for example by a weld, with side edge 306d and close to the distal end 306b.

The rectangular radiating member <NUM> has two opposite ends 308a and 308b, and two opposite side edges 308c and 308d. The radiating members <NUM> and <NUM> are perpendicular to each other in the same plane. In the example of <FIG> and <FIG>, the rectangular radiating member <NUM> is substantially parallel to the Z-X plane. Two side edges 308c and 308d are substantially parallel to the Z-axis. The rectangular radiating member <NUM> has a length L34 between opposite ends 308a and 308b, and a width W34 between opposite side edges 308c and 308d. For example, L34=<NUM> and W34=<NUM> (see <FIG>). The end 307b is electrically connected, for example by a weld, with side edge 308c and close to the distal end 308a.

The rectangular radiating member <NUM> has two opposite ends 309a and 309b, and two opposite side edges 309c and 309d. The radiating members <NUM> and <NUM> are perpendicular to each other in the same plane. In the example of <FIG> and <FIG>, the rectangular radiating member <NUM> is substantially parallel to the Z-X plane. Two side edges 309c and 309d are substantially parallel to the X-axis. The rectangular radiating member <NUM> has a length L310 between opposite ends 309a and 309b, and a width W310 between opposite side edges 309c and 309d. For example, L310=<NUM> and W310=<NUM> (See <FIG>). The end 309a is electrically connected, for example by a weld, with the side edge 308c and close to the ends 308b. The side edge 309c is substantially parallel to the side edge 307d and define a space of uniform width S31, for example S31=<NUM>; the side edge 309d is substantially parallel to the side edge 305c and define a space of uniform width S32, for example S32=<NUM> (<FIG>).

The rectangular radiating member <NUM> has two opposite ends 310a and 310b, and two opposite side edges 310c and 310d. The radiating members <NUM> and <NUM> are perpendicular to each other in the same plane. In the example of <FIG>, the rectangular radiating member <NUM> is substantially parallel to the Z-X plane. Two side edges 310c and 310d are substantially parallel to the X-axis. The rectangular radiating member <NUM> has a length L35 between opposite ends 310a and 310b, and a width W25 between opposite side edges 310c and 310d. For example, L35=<NUM> and W35=<NUM>. The end 310a is electrically connected, for example by a weld, with the side edge 308d and close to the distal end 308b.

The rectangular radiating member <NUM> has two opposite ends 312a and 312b, and two opposite side edges 312c and 312d. The radiating members <NUM> and <NUM> are perpendicular to each other in two planes. In the example of <FIG>, the rectangular radiating member <NUM> is substantially parallel to the X-Y plane. Two side edges 312c and 312d are substantially parallel to the Y-axis. The rectangular radiating member <NUM> has a length L36 between opposite ends 312a and 312b, and a width W36 between opposite side edges 312c and 312d. For example, L36=<NUM> and W36=<NUM> (see <FIG>). The end 312a is electrically connected, for example by a weld, with an end portion of inner surface 310e of radiating member <NUM> close to the edge 310c and the end 310b.

The rectangular radiating member <NUM> has two opposite ends 313a and 313b, and two opposite side edges 313c and 313d. The radiating members <NUM> and <NUM> are perpendicular to each other in the same plane. In the example of <FIG>, the rectangular radiating member <NUM> is substantially parallel to the X-Y plane. Two side edges 318c and 318d are substantially parallel to the X-axis. The rectangular radiating member <NUM> has a length L39 between opposite ends 313a and 313b, and a width W39 between opposite side edges 313c and 313d. For example, L39=<NUM> and W39=<NUM>(See <FIG>). The end 313a is electrically connected, for example by a weld, with the side edge 312d and between the ends 312a and 312b. The side edge 313d is substantially parallel to the side edge 310c; side edge 313d and side edge 310c define a space of uniform width S33, for example S33=<NUM>.

The rectangular radiating member <NUM> has two opposite ends 314a and 314b, and two opposite side edges 314c and 314d. The radiating members <NUM> and <NUM> are perpendicular to each other in the same plane. In the example of <FIG>, the rectangular radiating member <NUM> is substantially parallel to the X-Y plane. Two side edges 314c, 314d are substantially parallel to the X-axis. The rectangular radiating member <NUM> has a length L37 between opposite ends 314a and 314b, and a width W37 between opposite side edges 314c and 314d. For example, L37=<NUM> and W37=<NUM> (See <FIG>). The end 314a is electrically connected, for example by a weld, with the side edge 312d close to the end 312b. The side edge 313c is substantially parallel to the side edge 314d and define a space of uniform width S34, for example, S34=<NUM> (<FIG>).

The rectangular radiating member <NUM> has two opposite ends 315a and 315b, and two opposite side edges 315c and 315d. The radiating members <NUM> and <NUM> are perpendicular to each other in the same plane. In the example of <FIG>, the rectangular radiating member <NUM> is substantially parallel to the X-Y plane. Two side edges 315c and 315d are substantially parallel to the Y-axis. The rectangular radiating member <NUM> has a length L38 between opposite ends 315a and 315b, and a width W38 between opposite side edges 315c and 315d. In the example of <FIG>, L38=<NUM> and W38=<NUM> (<FIG>). The end 314b is electrically connected, for example by a weld, with the side edge 315c and close to the end 315b.

Shorting pin <NUM> has two opposite ends 316a and 316b, and two opposite side edges 316c and 316d. Radiating member <NUM> and shorting pin <NUM> are perpendicular to each other in two planes. In the example of <FIG> and <FIG>, shorting pin <NUM> is substantially parallel to the Z-X plane. Two side edges 316c and 316d are substantially parallel to the Z-axis. Shorting pin <NUM> has a length L39 between opposite ends 316a and 316b, and a width W39 between opposite side edges 316c and 316d. For example, L39=<NUM> and W39=<NUM> (See <FIG>). The end 316b is electrically connected, for example by a weld, with an end portion of the bottom surface 315e of radiating member <NUM> and close to the distal end 315a.

With the exemplary dimensions illustrated in <FIG>, radiating members <NUM> and <NUM> collectively support a first operating frequency range of <NUM>-<NUM>, radiating members <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> collectively support a second operating frequency range of <NUM>-<NUM>, and radiating members <NUM>, <NUM><NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> collectively support a third operating frequency range of <NUM>-<NUM>. Therefore, the combination of radiating members <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM><NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> in this example allow antenna <NUM> to operate over the frequency ranges of <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, and <NUM>-<NUM>. In other words, antenna <NUM> is capable of supporting <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM> RATs at the same time. As such, antenna <NUM> can substitute existing <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> antenna, such as the main antenna placed on the bottom portion of the electronic device <NUM>, and support <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> RATs at the same time without increasing total number of the antennas in electronic device <NUM>.

Structure and dimensions of antenna <NUM> are determined based on actual arrangements of the existing hardware on the bottom portion of the PCB <NUM> and available space in the electronic device <NUM>. As illustrate in <FIG>, for example, antenna <NUM> is placed above a speaker <NUM> and a USB jack <NUM> on the PCB <NUM>. Therefore, antenna <NUM> can be conveniently implemented in the electronic device <NUM> to support <NUM>-<NUM> RATs without modifying the existing hardware.

Structure of antenna <NUM> in <FIG> may be varied. In an example, two or more of the feeding pin <NUM>, radiating members <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>, and the shorting pin <NUM> form one radiating member. For example, radiating members <NUM> and <NUM> form one radiating member, which is welded with feeding pin <NUM> and radiating member <NUM>, or radiating members <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM> form one radiating member that is welded with radiating members <NUM> and <NUM>.

In another example, the feeding pin <NUM>, radiating members <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>, and the shorting pin <NUM> (collectively, the "elements") are formed from a planar conductive sheet. For example, antenna <NUM> can be made with the following steps:.

<FIG> illustrate an example embodiment of antenna <NUM>. Antenna <NUM> includes a feeding pin <NUM>, radiating members <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>, and a shorting pin <NUM>. As illustrated in the example of <FIG>, the feeding pin <NUM>, radiating members <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM>, and the shorting pin <NUM> are each substantially planar rectangular elements. Radiating member <NUM> is substantially a curved element.

Each of radiating members <NUM> and <NUM> has a top surface and a bottom surface. Each of the feeding pin <NUM>, radiating members <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>, and the shorting pin <NUM>, has an inner surface and an outer surface. When antenna <NUM> is placed on the support member <NUM>, for example, as illustrated in <FIG>, the top surfaces of radiating members <NUM> and <NUM> face the back cover <NUM> of the housing frame <NUM>, and the bottom surfaces of radiating members <NUM> and <NUM> face the screen <NUM> of the electronic device <NUM>; the inner surfaces of radiating members <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM>, and the shorting pin <NUM> face the outer surface <NUM> of the support member <NUM>,and the outer surfaces of radiating members <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM>, and the shorting pin <NUM> face an outside of the electronic device <NUM>; the inner surface of feeding pin <NUM> faces the inside of the electronic device <NUM>, and the outer surface of feeding pin <NUM> faces inner surface <NUM> of the support member <NUM>.

The feeding pin <NUM> has two opposite ends 401a and 401b, and two opposite side edges 401c and 401d (<FIG>). Referring to the orthogonal X, Y, Z reference coordinate system in <FIG>, the feeding pin <NUM> is substantially parallel to the Y-Z plane, and two side edges 401c and 401d are substantially parallel to the Z-axis. The feeding pin <NUM> has a length L40 between opposite ends 401a and 401b, and a width W40 between opposite side edges 401c and 401d. For example, L40=<NUM> and W40=<NUM> (<FIG>).

The rectangular radiating member <NUM> has two opposite ends 402a and 402b, and two opposite side edges 402c and 402d. The feeding pin <NUM> and the radiating members <NUM> are perpendicular to each other in two planes. In the example of <FIG>, the rectangular radiating member <NUM> is substantially parallel to the X-Y plane, and two side edges 402c and 402d substantially parallel to the X-axis. The rectangular radiating member <NUM> has a length L41 between opposite ends 402a and 402b, and a width W41 between opposite side edges 402c and 402d. For example, L41=<NUM> and W41=<NUM> (<FIG>). The end 401a is electrically connected, for example by a weld, with an end portion of the bottom surface 402e of the radiating member <NUM> and close to the end 402a.

The rectangular radiating member <NUM> has two opposite ends 404a and 404b, and two opposite side edges 404c and 404d. The radiating members <NUM> and <NUM> are perpendicular to each other in two planes. In the example of <FIG>, the rectangular radiating member <NUM> is substantially parallel to the Z-Y plane, and two side edges 404c and 404d are substantially parallel to the Y-axis. The rectangular radiating member <NUM> has a length L42 between opposite ends 404a and 404b, and a width W42 between opposite side edges 404c and 404d. For example, L42=<NUM>,W42=<NUM> (<FIG>), and the distance between side edge 402c and the end 404a D41=<NUM> (<FIG>).

A slot <NUM> is defined between the end 402b and the side edge 404c. Signals to and from the feeding pin <NUM> are coupled between the rectangular radiating members <NUM> and <NUM> via the slot <NUM>. The slot <NUM> functions as a capacitive element between the rectangular radiating members <NUM> and <NUM> such that the slot <NUM> enables the overall size of the antenna <NUM> to be smaller with respect to a given bandwidth than the antenna would be without the slot <NUM>. As well, the slot <NUM> improves impedance match between antenna <NUM> and transceiver circuit <NUM>. In example embodiments, the slot <NUM> has a uniform width, for example S41=<NUM> (<FIG>).

The rectangular radiating member <NUM> has two opposite ends 407a and 407b, and two opposite side edges 407c and 407d. The radiating members <NUM> and <NUM> are substantially perpendicular to each other in two planes. In the example of <FIG>, the rectangular radiating member <NUM> is substantially parallel to the X-Y plane, and two side edges 407c and 407d are substantially parallel to the X-axis. The rectangular radiating member <NUM> has a length L45 between opposite ends 407a and 407b, and a width W45 between opposite side edges 407c and 407d. For example, L45=<NUM> and W45=<NUM> (<FIG>). Side edges 407d and 402d are substantially parallel to each other. In an example, the distance between side edges 407d and 402d is D45=<NUM> (<FIG>). The end 407a is electrically connected, for example by a weld, with an end portion of the inner surface 404e of rectangular radiating member <NUM> and close to side edge 404c and the distal end 404b. In an example, the distance between the side edge 407c and the end 404b D46=<NUM> (<FIG>).

The curved radiating member <NUM> has two opposite ends 408a and 408b, and two opposite curved parallel edges 408c and 408d extended between the ends 408a and 408b. In some examples, the curved radiating member <NUM> substantially is a circular arc having a radius curvature R and a degree of curvature D. For example, R=<NUM>, D=<NUM>° (<FIG>). The curved radiating member <NUM> has a width W43 between opposite side edges 408c and 408d, for example, W43=<NUM>. The end 404b of radiating member <NUM> is electrically connected, for example by a weld, with the end 408a of curved radiating member <NUM>.

The rectangular radiating member <NUM> has two opposite ends 410a and 410b, and two opposite side edges 410c and 410d. Radiating members <NUM> and <NUM> are substantially perpendicular to each other in two planes. In the example of <FIG>, the rectangular radiating member <NUM> is substantially parallel to the Z-X plane, and two side edges 410c and 410d are substantially parallel to the X-axis. The rectangular radiating member <NUM> has a length L44 between opposite ends 410a and 410b, and a width W44 between opposite side edges 410c and 410d. For example, L44=<NUM> (<FIG>), W44=<NUM> (<FIG>). The end 408b of radiating member <NUM> is electrically connected, for example by a weld, with the end 410a of radiating member <NUM>.

The shorting pin <NUM> has two opposite ends 414a and 414b, and two opposite side edges 414c and 414d. The shorting pin <NUM> and the radiating member <NUM> are perpendicular to each other in the same plane. In the example of <FIG>, the shorting pin <NUM> is substantially parallel to the Z-Y plane, and two side edges 414c and 414d are substantially parallel to the Z-axis. The shorting pin <NUM> has a length L46 between opposite ends 414a and 414b, and a width W46 between opposite side edges 414c and 414d. For example, L46=<NUM> and W46=<NUM> (<FIG>). The end 414a is electrically connected with side edge404d and close to the distal end 404b. In the example of <FIG>, the distance between side edges 414d and the end 404a is D46=<NUM>.

In some embodiments, antenna <NUM> is connected to the common ground of the PCB <NUM> via the shorting pin <NUM>, so that the common ground of PCB <NUM> provides a grounding plane for antenna <NUM>. For example, the shorting pin <NUM> connects through a wire with the common ground of the PCB board <NUM> or connects with the common ground of the PCB board <NUM> via a spring contact.

With the exemplary dimensions illustrated in <FIG>, antenna <NUM> supports an operating frequency range of <NUM>-<NUM>. Structure and dimensions of antenna <NUM> are determined based on actual arrangements of existing hardware on the bottom portion of the PCB <NUM> and available space in the electronic device <NUM>. Therefore, antenna <NUM> can be conveniently implemented in the electronic device <NUM> to support <NUM> RATs, for example, a bottom corner portion of the housing <NUM>, without modifying the arrangement of the existing hardware components of electronic device <NUM>.

Structure of antenna <NUM> may be varied. In an example, two or more of the feeding pin <NUM>, radiating members <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM>, and the shorting pin <NUM> form one radiating member. For example, radiating members <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> form one radiating member, which is welded with shorting pin <NUM> and radiating member <NUM>; feeding pin <NUM> and radiating member <NUM> form one radiating member.

In another example the feeding pin <NUM>, radiating members <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM>, and the shorting pin <NUM> (collectively, the "elements") are formed from a planar conductive sheet. For example, antenna <NUM> can be made with the following steps:.

<FIG> illustrate an exemplary embodiment of antenna <NUM>. Antenna <NUM> includes a feeding pin <NUM>, radiating members <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>, and a shorting pin <NUM>. The feeding pin <NUM>, radiating members <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM>, and the shorting pin <NUM> are each substantially planar rectangular elements. Radiating member <NUM> is substantially a trapezoidal element. Radiating members <NUM> is substantially a curved element.

Each of radiating members <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM> has a top surface and a bottom surface. Each of the feeding pin <NUM>, radiating members <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>, and the shorting pin <NUM>, has an inner surface and an outer surface. When antenna <NUM> is placed on the support member <NUM>, for example, as illustrated in <FIG>, the top surfaces of radiating members <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM> face the back cover <NUM> of the housing frame <NUM>, and the bottom surfaces of radiating members <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM> face the screen <NUM> of the electronic device <NUM>; the inner surfaces of radiating members <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>, and the shorting pin <NUM> face the outer surface <NUM> of the support member <NUM>, and the outer surfaces of radiating members <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>, and the shorting pin <NUM> face the outside of the electronic device <NUM>; the inner surface of feeding pin <NUM> faces the inside of the electronic device <NUM>, and the outer surface of feeding pin <NUM> faces inner surface <NUM> of the support member <NUM>.

The feeding pin <NUM> has two opposite ends 501a and 501b, and two opposite side edges 501c and 501d. Referring to the orthogonal X, Y, Z reference coordinate system in <FIG> and15, the feeding pin <NUM> is substantially parallel to the Y-Z plane, and two side edges 501c and 501d are substantially parallel to the Z-axis. The feeding pin <NUM> has a length L50 between opposite ends 501a and 501b, and a width W50 between opposite side edges 501c and 501d. For example, L50=<NUM> and W50=<NUM> (<FIG>).

The trapezoidal radiating member <NUM> has two parallel bases 502a and 502b and two side edges 502c and 502d. The feeding pin <NUM> and trapezoidal radiating member <NUM> are perpendicular to each other in two planes. The trapezoidal radiating member <NUM> is substantially parallel to the X-Y plane. In the example of <FIG> and15, bases 502a and 502b are substantially parallel to the Y-axis. Bases 502a and 502b have widths W51a and W51b, respectively. Sides 502c and 502d have lengths L51a and L51b, respectively. For example, W51a=<NUM>, W51b=<NUM>, L51a= <NUM>, and L51b=<NUM> (<FIG>). The end 501b is electrically connected, for example by a weld, with an end portion of a bottom surface 502e of the trapezoidal radiating member <NUM> and close to the base 502a. The trapezoidal radiating member <NUM> has a greater overall size than radiating element <NUM> due to the specific arrangement of existing hardware close to antenna <NUM>. The greater overall size of radiating element <NUM> helps improve the bandwidth of antenna <NUM>.

The rectangular radiating member <NUM> has two opposite ends 504a and 504b, and two opposite side edges 504c and 504d. The radiating members <NUM> and <NUM> are perpendicular to each other in two planes. In the example of <FIG> and15, the rectangular radiating member <NUM> is substantially parallel to the Z-Y plane, and two side edges 504c and 504d are substantially parallel to the Y-axis. The rectangular radiating member <NUM> has a length L52 between opposite ends 504a and 504b, and a width W52 between opposite side edges 504c and 504d. For example, L52=<NUM>, W52=<NUM> (<FIG>), and the distance between the end 504a and the corner of sided edge 504d and the base 502b D52=<NUM> (<FIG>).

A slot <NUM> is defined between the base 502b and the side edge 504c. Signals to and from the feeding pin <NUM> are coupled between the trapezoidal radiating member <NUM> and rectangular radiating member <NUM> via the slot <NUM>. The slot <NUM> functions as a capacitive element between the trapezoidal radiating members <NUM> and rectangular radiating member <NUM> such that the slot <NUM> enables the overall size of the antenna <NUM> to be smaller with respect to a given bandwidth than the antenna would be without the slot <NUM>. As well, the slot <NUM> helps improve impedance match between antenna <NUM> and transceiver circuit <NUM>. In example embodiments, the slot <NUM> has a uniform width, for example S51=<NUM>.

The rectangular radiating member <NUM> has two opposite ends 507a and 507b, and two opposite side edges 507c and 507d. The radiating members <NUM> and <NUM> are substantially perpendicular to each other in two planes. In the example of <FIG> and <FIG>, the rectangular radiating member <NUM> is substantially parallel to the X-Y plane, and two side edges 507c and 507d are substantially parallel to the X-axis. The rectangular radiating member <NUM> has a length L55 between opposite ends 507a and 507b, and a width W55 between opposite side edges 507c and 507d. For example, L55=<NUM> and W45=<NUM>,and the distance between side edge 507d and the corner of base 502b and side edge 502c is D55=<NUM> (<FIG>). The end 507a is electrically connected, for example by a weld, with an end portion of an inner surface 504e of rectangular radiating member <NUM> and close to side edge 504d and the distal end 504b. For example, the distance between the side edge 507c and the end 504b is D56=<NUM> (<FIG>).

The curved radiating member <NUM> has two opposite ends 508a and 508b, and two opposite curved parallel edges 508c and 508d extended between the ends 508b and 508a. In some examples, the bended radiating member <NUM> is substantially a circular arc having radius curvature R and a degree of curvature D. For example, R=<NUM>, D=<NUM>°. The curved radiating member <NUM> has a width W53 between opposite side edges 508c and 508d, for example, W53=<NUM> (<FIG>). The end 504b electrically connected, for example by a weld, with the end 508a of the curved radiating member <NUM>.

The rectangular radiating member <NUM> has two opposite ends 510a and 510b, and two opposite side edges 510c and 510d. Radiating members <NUM> and <NUM> are substantially perpendicular to each other in two planes. In the example of <FIG> and <FIG>, the rectangular radiating member <NUM> is substantially parallel to the Z-X plane, and two side edges 510c and 510d are substantially parallel to the X-axis. The rectangular radiating member <NUM> has a length L54 between opposite ends 510a and 510b, and a width W54 between opposite side edges 510c and 510d. For example, L54=<NUM>, W54=<NUM> (<FIG>). The end 508b of radiating member <NUM> is electrically connected, for example by a weld, with the end 510a of radiating member <NUM>.

The rectangular radiating member <NUM> has two opposite ends 512a and 512b, and two opposite side edges 512c and 512d. The radiating members <NUM> and <NUM> are substantially perpendicular to each other in two planes. In the example of <FIG> and <FIG>, the rectangular radiating member <NUM> is substantially parallel to the X-Y plane and two side edges 512c and 512d are substantially parallel to the Y-axis. The rectangular radiating member <NUM> has a length L56 between opposite ends 512a and 512b, and a width W56 between opposite side edges 512c and 514d. For example, L56=<NUM> and W56=<NUM> (<FIG>). A section of side edge 510c close to the distal end 510b is electrically connected, for example by a weld, with an end portion of a bottom surface 512e of radiating member <NUM> close to the end 512a. Compared with antenna <NUM>, antenna <NUM> includes radiating element <NUM> to compensate the electromagnetic effect caused by the existing hardware close to antenna <NUM> in electronic device <NUM>.

The shorting pin <NUM> has two opposite ends 514a and 514b, and two opposite side edges 514c and 514d. The shorting pin <NUM> and the radiating member <NUM> are perpendicular to each other in the same plane. In the example of <FIG> and <FIG>, the shorting pin <NUM> is substantially parallel to the Z-Y plane, and two side edges 514c and 514d are substantially parallel to the Z-axis. The shorting pin <NUM> has a length L56 between opposite ends 514a and 514b, and a width W46 between opposite side edges 514c and 514d. For example, L56=<NUM> and W56=<NUM>. The end 514a is electrically connected, for example by a weld, with side edge 504d and close to the distal end 504b. In an example, the distance between side edges 514c and the end 504b is D56=<NUM> (<FIG>).

In some embodiments, the antenna <NUM> is connected to the common ground of the PCB <NUM> via the shorting pin <NUM>, so that the common ground of PCB <NUM> provides a grounding plane for antenna <NUM>. For example, the shorting pin <NUM> connects through a wire with the common ground of the PCB board <NUM> or connects with the common ground of the PCB board <NUM> via a spring contact.

With the exemplary dimensions illustrated in <FIG>, antenna <NUM> supports an operating frequency range of <NUM>-<NUM>. Structure and dimensions of antenna <NUM> are determined based on actual arrangements of the existing hardware on the top portion of the PCB <NUM> and available space in the electronic device <NUM>. Therefore, antenna <NUM> can be conveniently implemented in the electronic device <NUM> to support <NUM> RATs, for example, a top corner portion of the housing <NUM>, without modifying the arrangement of the existing hardware components of electronic device <NUM>.

Structure of antenna <NUM> may be varied. In an example, two or more of the feeding pin <NUM>, radiating members <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>, and the shorting pin <NUM> form one radiating member. For example, radiating members <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM> form one radiating member, which is welded with shorting pin <NUM> and radiating member <NUM>; feeding pin <NUM> and radiating member <NUM> form one radiating member.

In another example, the feeding pin <NUM>, radiating members <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>, and the shorting pin <NUM> (collectively, the "elements") are formed from a planar conductive sheet. For example, antenna <NUM> can be made with the following steps:.

<FIG> illustrate an example embodiment of antenna <NUM>. Antenna <NUM> includes a feeding pin <NUM>, radiating members <NUM> and <NUM>, and a shorting pin <NUM>. As illustrated in the example of <FIG>, the feeding pin <NUM>, radiating members <NUM> and <NUM>, and a shorting pin <NUM> are each substantially planar rectangular elements.

Each of radiating members <NUM> and <NUM> has a top surface and a bottom surface. Each of the feeding pin <NUM> and the shorting pin <NUM> has an inner surface and an outer surface. When antenna <NUM> is placed on the support member <NUM>, for example, as illustrated in <FIG>, the top surfaces of radiating members <NUM> and <NUM> face the back cover <NUM> of the housing frame <NUM>, and the bottom surfaces of radiating members <NUM> and <NUM> face the screen <NUM> of the electronic device <NUM>; the inner surface of the shorting pin <NUM> faces the outer surface <NUM> of the support member <NUM>,and the outer surface of the shorting pin <NUM> faces the outside of the electronic device <NUM>; the inner surface of feeding pin <NUM> faces the inside of the electronic device <NUM>, and the outer surface of feeding pin <NUM> faces inner surface <NUM> of the support member <NUM>.

The feeding pin <NUM> has two opposite ends 601a and 601b, and two opposite side edges 601c and 601d. Referring to the orthogonal X, Y, Z reference coordinate system in <FIG> and <FIG>, the feeding pin <NUM> is substantially parallel to the X-Z plane, and two side edges 601c and 601d are substantially parallel to the Z-axis. The feeding pin <NUM> has a length L60 between opposite ends 601a and 601b, and a width W60 between opposite side edges 601c and 601d. For example, L60=<NUM> and W60=<NUM> (<FIG>).

The rectangular radiating member <NUM> has two opposite ends 602a and 602b, and two opposite side edges 602c and 602d. The radiating member <NUM> and the feeding pin <NUM> are substantially perpendicular to each other in two planes. In the example of <FIG> and <FIG>, the rectangular radiating member <NUM> is substantially parallel to the X-Y plane, and the two side edges 602c and 602d are substantially parallel to the X-axis. The rectangular radiating member <NUM> has a length L61 between opposite ends 602a and 602b, and a width W61 between opposite side edges 602c and 602d. For example, L61=<NUM> and W61=<NUM> (<FIG>). The end 601a is electrically connected, for example by a weld, with a bottom surface 602e of radiating member <NUM> close to the side edge 602d. The distance between the side edge 601d and the end 602b is D61, for example, D61=<NUM> (<FIG>).

The rectangular radiating member <NUM> has two opposite ends 604a and 604b, and two opposite side edges 604c and 604d. The radiating members <NUM> and <NUM> are substantially parallel to each other in the same plane. The rectangular radiating member <NUM> is shorter than rectangular radiating member <NUM>. The end 604a is substantially aligned with the end 602a. In the example of <FIG> and <FIG>, the rectangular radiating member <NUM> is substantially parallel to the X-Y plane, and two side edges 604c and 604d are substantially parallel to the X-axis. The rectangular radiating member <NUM> has a length L62 between opposite ends 604a and 604b, and a width W62 between opposite side edges 604c and 604d. For example, L62=<NUM> and W62=<NUM> (<FIG>).

The side edge 604d and a corresponding section of the side edge 602c define a slot <NUM>. The length of the slot is L63 and the width of the slot is W63. For example, W63=<NUM> (<FIG>), and L63=L62=<NUM> (<FIG>). The width of the slot <NUM> may be selected to provide a desired capacitive effect. Signals to and from the feeding pin <NUM> are coupled between radiating member <NUM> and the radiating member <NUM> via the slot <NUM>. The slot <NUM> provides a capacitive element between the radiating member <NUM> and the radiating member <NUM> such that the slot <NUM> enables the overall size of the antenna <NUM> to be smaller with respect to a given bandwidth than the antenna would be without the slot <NUM>. As well, the slot <NUM> improves impedance match between antenna <NUM> and transceiver circuit <NUM>.

The shorting pin <NUM> has two opposite ends 606a and 606b, and two opposite side edges 606c and 606d. The shorting pin <NUM> and the radiating member <NUM> are substantially perpendicular to each other in two planes. In the example of <FIG> and <FIG>, the shorting pin <NUM> is substantially parallel to the X-Z plane and the two side edges 606c and 606d are substantially parallel to the Z-axis. The shorting pin <NUM> has a length L64 between opposite ends 606a and 606b, and a width W64 between opposite side edges 606c and 606d. For example, L64=<NUM> and W64=<NUM> (<FIG>). The end 606a is electrically connected, for example by a weld, with a bottom surface 604e of radiating member <NUM> and close to the side edge 604c. The distance between the side edge 606d and the end 604a is D62, for example, D62=<NUM>(<FIG>).

With the exemplary dimensions illustrated in <FIG>, antenna <NUM> supports an operating frequency range of <NUM>-<NUM>. Structure and dimensions of antenna <NUM> are determined based on actual arrangements of the existing hardware of the PCB <NUM> and available space in the electronic device <NUM>. Therefore, antenna <NUM> can be conveniently implemented in the electronic device <NUM> to support <NUM> RATs, for example, a side portion of the housing <NUM>, without modifying the arrangement of the existing hardware components of electronic device <NUM>.

Structure of antenna <NUM> may be varied. For example, feeding pin <NUM> and radiating member <NUM> form one radiating member; shorting pin <NUM> and radiating member <NUM> form another radiating member.

In another example, the feeding pin <NUM>, radiating members <NUM> and <NUM>, and the shorting pin <NUM> (collectively, the "elements") are formed from a planar conductive sheet. For example, antenna <NUM> can be made with the following steps:.

In at least some applications, measured results have indicated that antennas <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> with exemplary dimensions illustrated in <FIG> have broad bandwidth, high efficiency, low correlation, and good impedance matching with the output impedance of the transceiver circuit <NUM> of the electronic device <NUM>.

According to measured results in <FIG>, when the battery <NUM> is included in electronic device <NUM>, each of antennas <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> has a total efficiency above <NUM>% in the frequency range from <NUM> to <NUM> (<NUM> RAT frequency band); each of antennas <NUM> and <NUM> has a total efficiency above <NUM>% in the frequency ranges of <NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM> (<NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> RAT frequency bands).

According to measured results in <FIG>, each of antennas <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> has a scattering parameter SRx-Rx, or a measured antenna return loss, equal or substantially less than -<NUM> dB from <NUM> to <NUM>, and each of antennas <NUM> and <NUM> also has a scattering parameter SRx-Rx equal or substantially less than -<NUM> dB in <NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM> frequency ranges.

In other words, each of antennas <NUM> and <NUM> has operating frequency ranges of <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, and <NUM>-<NUM>, and each of antennas <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM> has an operating frequency range of <NUM>-<NUM>. The term "an operating frequency range" of an antenna means that the antenna is capable of transmitting and receiving RF signals within the frequency range with desired performance. For example, each of antennas <NUM> and <NUM> is capable of receiving and transmitting RF signals having frequency ranges of <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, and <NUM>-<NUM>, and each of antennas <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM> is capable of receiving and transmitting RF signals having frequency range of <NUM>-<NUM>. Additionally, within the operating frequency ranges, the total efficiency of each of antennas <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> is above a predetermined threshold, such as <NUM>%, and the scattering parameter SRx-Rx of each of antennas <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> is equal or substantially less than a predetermined threshold, such as -<NUM> dB.

As well, in some applications, antennas <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> are compatible with previous <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> UE antenna technologies.

An exemplary 8x8 MIMO antenna array is illustrated in <FIG>. The 8x8 MIMO antenna array includes eight antennas <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM>(<NUM>)-<NUM>(<NUM>), which are supported by and secured to the support member <NUM> in the housing <NUM>, for example by copper glue. The 8x8 MIMO antenna array has a total length L9 and a total width of W9, in the Example of <FIG>, L9=<NUM>, W9=<NUM>.

As illustrated in <FIG>, antenna <NUM> is placed on the back surface <NUM> of the top portion 140a of the support member <NUM>, and antenna <NUM> is placed on the back surface <NUM> of the top left corner defined by the top portion 140a and the side portion 140d of the support member <NUM>. The feeding pin <NUM> and the shorting pin <NUM> of antenna <NUM>, and the feeding pin <NUM> of antenna <NUM> are placed close to or on the inner surface <NUM> defined by the top portion 140a of the support member <NUM>. Shorting pin <NUM> of antenna <NUM> is placed close to or on the outer surface <NUM> defined by the top portion 140a of the support member <NUM>. In some examples, the distance between the outer surface 203e of radiating member <NUM> of antenna <NUM> and the outer surface <NUM> defined by the side portion 140c is D90, for example in <FIG>, D90=<NUM>; the distance between the end 504a of radiating member <NUM> of antenna <NUM> and side edge 210c of the radiating member <NUM> of antenna <NUM> is D91, for example in <FIG>, D91=<NUM>.

Antenna <NUM> is placed on the back surface <NUM> of the bottom portion 140b of the support member <NUM>, and antenna <NUM> is placed on the back surface <NUM> of the bottom left corner defined by the bottom portion 140b and the side portion 140d of the support member <NUM>. As illustrated in <FIG>, the feeding pin <NUM> and the shorting pin <NUM> of antenna <NUM>, and the feeding pin <NUM> of antenna <NUM> are placed close to or on the inner surface <NUM> defined by the bottom portion 140b of the support member <NUM>. Shorting pin <NUM> of antenna <NUM> is placed close to or on the outer surface <NUM> defined by the bottom portion 140b of the support member <NUM>. In some examples, the distance between the outer surface 303e (<FIG>) of radiating member <NUM> of antenna <NUM> and the outer surface <NUM> defined by the side portion 140c is D92, for example in <FIG>, D92=<NUM>; the distance between the end 404a of radiating member <NUM> of antenna <NUM> and side edge 312c of the radiating member <NUM> of antenna <NUM> is D93, for example in <FIG>, D93=<NUM>.

Antennas <NUM>(<NUM>)-<NUM>(<NUM>) are placed on the back surface <NUM> defined by the side portion 140d. Antennas <NUM>(<NUM>)-<NUM>(<NUM>) are placed on the back surface <NUM> defined by the side portion 140c. As illustrated in <FIG>, the feeding pin <NUM> of each of the antennas <NUM>(<NUM>)-<NUM>(<NUM>) is placed close to or on the inner surface <NUM> defined by corresponding side portions 140c and 140d of the support member <NUM>. Shorting pin <NUM> of each of the antennas <NUM>(<NUM>)-<NUM>(<NUM>) is placed close to or on the outer surface <NUM> defined by the corresponding side portions 140c and 140d of the support member <NUM>. In an example in <FIG>, <NUM>(<NUM>)-<NUM>(<NUM>) are symmetrical to antennas <NUM>(<NUM>)-<NUM>(<NUM>) with respect to a longitudinal central axis a-a (i.e. the major axis) of the housing <NUM>, and <NUM>(<NUM>) and <NUM>(<NUM>) are symmetrical to antennas <NUM>(<NUM>) and <NUM>(<NUM>) with respect to a latitudinal central axis b-b (i.e. the minor axis) of the housing <NUM>. The distance between the line defined by the end 602a and 604a of the antenna <NUM>(<NUM>) and <NUM>(<NUM>) and the outer surface <NUM> defined by the bottom portion 140b of the support member <NUM> is D94, for example in <FIG>, D94=<NUM>; the distance between the line defined by the end 602a and 604a of the antenna <NUM>(<NUM>) and <NUM>(<NUM>) and the outer surface <NUM> defined by the top portion 140a of the support member <NUM> is D95, for example in <FIG>, D95=<NUM>. The distance between the ends 602b of antenna <NUM>(<NUM>) and <NUM>(<NUM>) and of antenna <NUM>(<NUM>) and <NUM>(<NUM>) is D96, for example, in <FIG>, D96=<NUM>.

In the example of <FIG> and <FIG>, the aligned ends 602a and 604a of antennas <NUM>(<NUM>) and <NUM>(<NUM>) are pointed toward the bottom portion 140b of the support member <NUM>, and the aligned ends 602a and 604a of antennas <NUM>(<NUM>) and <NUM>(<NUM>) are pointed toward the top portion 140a of the support member <NUM>. In some examples, the aligned ends 602a and 604a of at least one of antennas <NUM>(<NUM>) and <NUM>(<NUM>) are pointed toward the top portion 140a of the support member <NUM>, or the aligned ends 602a and 604a of at least one of antennas <NUM>(<NUM>) and <NUM>(<NUM>) are pointed toward the bottom portion 140b of the support member <NUM>.

Each of the antennas <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM>(<NUM>)-<NUM>(<NUM>) is electrically connected to the transceiver circuit <NUM> on the PCB <NUM>. For example, each antenna <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM>(<NUM>)-<NUM>(<NUM>) may be connected to transceiver circuit <NUM> by a separate signal trace <NUM>, allowing incoming and outgoing signals for all eight antennas in the MIMO antenna array to be individually processed. Battery <NUM> supplies power to PCB <NUM> and transceiver circuit <NUM>. With the distances D91, D92, D93, D94, D95 and D96 illustrated in <FIG>, a mutual coupling level between any two antennas of the 8X8 MIMO antenna array does not exceed -<NUM> dB from <NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM>, and <NUM> to <NUM>. The distances D91, D92, D93, D94, D95 and D96 illustrated in <FIG> may be varied as long as any coupling between any two antennas of <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM>(<NUM>)-<NUM>(<NUM>) below a threshold level. Additionally, in example embodiments the antennas <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM>(<NUM>)-<NUM>(<NUM>) are positioned and configured in <FIG>, the measured Rx-Rx Envelope Correlation Coefficient between different antennas pairs is below <NUM> from <NUM> to <NUM>.

By placing antennas <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM>(<NUM>)-<NUM>(<NUM>) at the positions illustrated in <FIG> based on the actual arrangement of the existing hardware and available free space in the housing <NUM> of electronic device <NUM>, the 8X8 MIMO antenna array can, in at least some configurations, be introduced in electronic device <NUM> without interfering or modifying the existing arrangement of the hardware components of electronic device <NUM>.

Additionally, an electronic device having a 8X8 MIMO antenna array typically includes at least <NUM> antennas: two separate antennas to support <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM> RATs, such as the main antenna and diversity antenna (typically, antennas for <NUM>-<NUM> RATs are placed in the top and bottom portions of the electronic device), and eight additional antennas to support <NUM> RATs. As discussed above, antennas <NUM> and <NUM> allows the electronic device <NUM> to support <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM> RATs at the same time. Therefore, antennas <NUM> and <NUM> can replace the two separate antennas to support <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM> RATs. Accordingly, the electronic device <NUM> with the 8X8 MIMO antenna array illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG> only needs <NUM> antennas to support <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM> RATs at the same time. As such, the 8X8 MIMO antenna array illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG> occupies less free space within the housing <NUM> and thus is more flexible to implement in electronic device <NUM>.

In at least some configurations, the exemplary 8X8 MIMO antenna array described above supports previous <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> RATs, and provides broad bandwidth from <NUM>-<NUM>, high efficiency, and low correlation.

In some examples, the 8X8 MIMO antenna array such as those shown in <FIG> and <FIG> has a low correlation between different antennas. For example, according to measured simulation results, the Rx-Rx Envelope Correlation Coefficient between different antennas is substantially below <NUM> from <NUM> to <NUM>. As well, the measured results indicated a measured mutual coupling between any two antennas is below -<NUM> dB from <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM> to <NUM>. Because of the low correlation and low mutual coupling between different antennas, each of the antennas can function independently from the others, and this in turn improves wireless channel capacity represented by each of antennas <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM>(<NUM>)-<NUM>(<NUM>).

The exemplary 8X8 MIMO antenna array has high efficiency in some configurations. According to measured results illustrated in the example of <FIG>, with the battery <NUM> included in electronic device <NUM>, the 8X8 MIMO antenna array has a total efficiency above <NUM>% in most the frequency range from <NUM> to <NUM> (<NUM> RATs), and above <NUM>% at the frequency ranges from <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM> (<NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM> RAT bands).

As well, the 8X8 MIMO antenna array also has a good impedance matching with the output impedance of the transceiver circuit <NUM> of the electronic device <NUM> at the frequency ranges from <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, and <NUM> to <NUM>. According to measured results illustrated in the example of <FIG>, the 8x8 MIMO antenna array has scattering parameters SRx-Rx equal or substantially less than -<NUM> dB from <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, and <NUM> -<NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a first exemplary 10x10 MIMO antenna array. The antenna array includes antennas <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>(<NUM>)-<NUM>(<NUM>), which are securely placed on the back surface <NUM> of the support member <NUM>, for example by copper glue.

Antennas <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>(<NUM>)-<NUM>(<NUM>) in the example of <FIG> may be placed on the support member <NUM> at identical positions as and be arranged in substantially similar manners with antennas <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>(<NUM>)-<NUM>(<NUM>), respectively, of the exemplary 8X8 MIMO antenna array illustrated in <FIG>.

In addition, the 10x10 MIMO antenna array in <FIG> includes two additional antennas <NUM>(<NUM>) and <NUM>(<NUM>) on the back surface <NUM> of the two side portions 140c and 140d. As shown in <FIG>, antenna <NUM>(<NUM>) is securely placed on the back surface of the side portion 140d of the support member <NUM> between antennas <NUM>(<NUM>) and <NUM>(<NUM>), and antenna <NUM>(<NUM>) is securely placed on the back surface of the side portion 140c of the support member <NUM> between antennas <NUM>(<NUM>) and <NUM>(<NUM>). As illustrated in <FIG>, the feeding pin <NUM> of each of the antennas <NUM>(<NUM>)-<NUM>(<NUM>) is placed close to or on the inner surface <NUM> defined by corresponding side portions 140c and 140d of the support member <NUM>. Shorting pin <NUM> of each of the antennas <NUM>(<NUM>)-<NUM>(<NUM>) is placed close to or on the outer surface <NUM> defined by the corresponding side portions 140c and 140d of the support member <NUM>.

The distance between the end 602b of antenna <NUM>(<NUM>) and the end 602b of antenna <NUM>(<NUM>) is D97a, and the distance between the end 602b of antenna <NUM>(<NUM>) and the end 602b of antenna <NUM>(<NUM>) is D97b. In the example illustrated in <FIG>, D97a=D97b=<NUM>. The distance between the end 602a of antenna <NUM>(<NUM>), which is aligned with the end 604a of antenna <NUM>(<NUM>), and the end 602b of antenna <NUM>(<NUM>) is D98a, and the distance between the end 602a of antenna <NUM>(<NUM>), which is aligned with the end 604a of antenna <NUM>(<NUM>), and the end 602b of antenna <NUM>(<NUM>) is D98b. In the example illustrated in <FIG>, D98a=D98b=<NUM>. Similar to D91, D92, D93, D94, D95 and D96 illustrated in <FIG>, D97a, D97b, D98a, and D98b may be also be varied as long as any coupling between any two antennas of <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM>(<NUM>)-<NUM>(<NUM>) below a defined threshold level, for example, -<NUM> dB.

In the example of <FIG>, the aligned ends 602a and 604a of antennas <NUM>(<NUM>) and <NUM>(<NUM>) are pointed toward the top portion 140a of the support member <NUM> of the electronic device <NUM>. In some examples, the aligned ends 602a and 604a of at least one of the antennas <NUM>(<NUM>) and <NUM>(<NUM>) are pointed toward the bottom portion 140b of the support member <NUM> of the electronic device <NUM>.

Each of antennas <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM>(<NUM>)-<NUM>(<NUM>) are electrically connected to the transceiver circuit <NUM> on the PCB board <NUM>. Battery <NUM> supplies power to PCB <NUM> and transceiver circuit <NUM>.

In some example embodiments, antennas <NUM>(<NUM>), <NUM>(<NUM>), and <NUM>(<NUM>) are substantially symmetrical with antennas <NUM>(<NUM>), <NUM>(<NUM>), and <NUM>(<NUM>) with respect to the longitudinal central axis a-a of the electronic device <NUM>, as illustrate in the example of <FIG>.

In the example of <FIG>, the 10X10 MIMO antenna array supports frequency ranges from <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, and <NUM> -<NUM>, and therefore <NUM>-<NUM> RATs, at the same time. Similarly, the electronic device <NUM> with the 10X10 MIMO antenna array illustrated in <FIG> only needs <NUM> antennas to support <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM> RATs at the same time. As such, the 10X10 MIMO antenna array illustrated in <FIG> occupies less free space within the housing <NUM> and thus is more flexible to implement. Finally, as the arrangement of antennas <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>(<NUM>)-<NUM>(<NUM>) in <FIG> is based on the actual arrangement of the existing hardware and available free space in the housing <NUM> of electronic device <NUM>, the 10X10 MIMO antenna array can be conveniently implemented in electronic device <NUM> without modifying the existing hardware arrangement of electronic device <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a second exemplary 10x10 MIMO antenna array which includes antennas <NUM>(<NUM>)-<NUM>(<NUM>), <NUM>(<NUM>)-<NUM>(<NUM>), and <NUM>(<NUM>)-<NUM>(<NUM>) supported in housing <NUM>. Antennas <NUM>(<NUM>)-<NUM>(<NUM>), <NUM>(<NUM>)-<NUM>(<NUM>), and <NUM>(<NUM>)-<NUM>(<NUM>) may be securely placed on the back surface <NUM> of the support member <NUM>, for example, by copper glue.

Antennas <NUM> (<NUM>), <NUM> (<NUM>), and <NUM>(<NUM>)-<NUM>(<NUM>) in <FIG> may be placed on the support member <NUM> at identical positions as and be arranged in substantially similar manners with antennas <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>(<NUM>)-<NUM>(<NUM>), respectively, of the first exemplary 10X10 MIMO antenna array illustrated in <FIG>.

Unlike the first exemplary 10X10 MIMO antenna array, the second exemplary 10x10 MIMO antenna array illustrated in <FIG> does not include antennas <NUM> and <NUM>, but includes two additional antennas <NUM>(<NUM>) and <NUM>(<NUM>).

As shown in <FIG>, antenna <NUM>(<NUM>) is placed on the back surface <NUM> of the bottom right corner defined by the bottom portion 140b and the side portion 140c of the support member <NUM>. As illustrated in <FIG>, the feeding pin <NUM> of antenna <NUM>(<NUM>) is placed close to or on the inner surface <NUM> defined by the bottom portion 140b of the support member <NUM>. Shorting pin <NUM> of antenna <NUM>(<NUM>) is placed close to or on the outer surface <NUM> defined by the bottom portion 140b of the support member <NUM>. The distance between the ends 404a of antennas <NUM>(<NUM>) and <NUM>(<NUM>) is D99a, for example, D99a=<NUM>.

As well, antenna <NUM>(<NUM>) is placed on the back surface <NUM> of the top right corner defined by the top portion 140a and the side portion 140c of the support member <NUM>. The feeding pin <NUM> of antenna <NUM>(<NUM>) is placed close to or on the inner surface <NUM> defined by the top portion 140a of the support member <NUM>. Shorting pin <NUM> of antenna <NUM>(<NUM>) is placed close to or on the outer surface <NUM> defined by the top portion 140a of the support member <NUM>. The distance between the ends 504a of antennas <NUM>(<NUM>) and <NUM>(<NUM>) is D99b, for example, D99b=<NUM>.

Each of the antennas <NUM>(<NUM>)-<NUM>(<NUM>), <NUM>(<NUM>)-<NUM>(<NUM>), and <NUM>(<NUM>)-<NUM>(<NUM>) is electrically connected to the transceiver circuit <NUM> on the PCB board <NUM> in the manner discussed previously. Battery <NUM> supplies power to PCB <NUM> and transceiver circuit <NUM>.

In some example embodiments, antennas <NUM>(<NUM>), <NUM>(<NUM>), <NUM>(<NUM>), <NUM>(<NUM>), and <NUM>(<NUM>) are substantially symmetrical with antennas <NUM>(<NUM>), <NUM>(<NUM>), <NUM>(<NUM>), <NUM>(<NUM>), and <NUM>(<NUM>), respectively, with respect to the longitude central axis a-a of the electronic device <NUM>.

In the example of <FIG>, antennas <NUM>(<NUM>)-<NUM>(<NUM>), <NUM>(<NUM>)-<NUM>(<NUM>), and <NUM>(<NUM>)-<NUM>(<NUM>) secured to the housing <NUM> are all have a frequency range of <NUM>-<NUM>, antennas <NUM>(<NUM>)-<NUM>(<NUM>) are substantially identical to each other, antennas <NUM>(<NUM>)-<NUM>(<NUM>) are substantially identical to each other, and antennas <NUM>(<NUM>)-<NUM>(<NUM>) are substantially identical to each other.

Accordingly, the second exemplary 10X10 MIMO antenna array illustrated in <FIG> supports frequency ranges from <NUM> -<NUM>. As the arrangement of antennas <NUM>(<NUM>)-<NUM>(<NUM>), <NUM>(<NUM>)-<NUM>(<NUM>), and <NUM>(<NUM>)-<NUM>(<NUM>) in <FIG> is based on the actual arrangement of the existing hardware and available free space in the housing <NUM> of electronic device <NUM>, the second exemplary 10X10 MIMO antenna array can be conveniently implemented in electronic device <NUM> without modifying the existing hardware arrangement of electronic device <NUM>.

The present disclosure may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the subject matter of the claims. The described example embodiments are to be considered in all respects as being only illustrative and not restrictive. Selected features from one or more of the above-described embodiments may be combined to create alternative embodiments not explicitly described, features suitable for such combinations being understood within the scope of this disclosure.

Claim 1:
An electronic device (<NUM>) comprising:
a radio frequency, RF, communications circuit; and
a multiple input multiple output, MIMO, antenna array including
a first plurality of antennas (<NUM>, <NUM>) connected to the RF communications circuit, and
a second plurality of antennas (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) connected to the RF communications circuit,
wherein the first plurality of antennas (<NUM>, <NUM>) is configured to operate in same frequency ranges of <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, and <NUM> - <NUM>; and
wherein the second plurality of antennas (<NUM>,<NUM>,<NUM>) is configured to operate in a same frequency range of <NUM> - <NUM>, but not configured to operate in frequency ranges of <NUM> - <NUM>, <NUM> - <NUM>.