Patent ID: 12191583

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG.1is a block diagram illustrating an electronic device101in a network environment100according to various embodiments.

Referring toFIG.1, the electronic device101in the network environment100may communicate with an electronic device102via a first network198(e.g., a short-range wireless communication network), or at least one of an electronic device104or a server108via a second network199(e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). According to an embodiment, the electronic device101may communicate with the electronic device104via the server108. According to an embodiment, the electronic device101may include a processor120, memory130, an input module150, a sound output module155, a display module160, an audio module170, a sensor module176, an interface177, a connecting terminal178, a haptic module179, a camera module180, a power management module188, a battery189, a communication module190, a subscriber identification module (SIM)196, or an antenna module197. In some embodiments, at least one of the components (e.g., the connecting terminal178) may be omitted from the electronic device101, or one or more other components may be added in the electronic device101. In some embodiments, some of the components (e.g., the sensor module176, the camera module180, or the antenna module197) may be implemented as a single component (e.g., the display module160).

The processor120may execute, for example, software (e.g., a program140) to control at least one other component (e.g., a hardware or software component) of the electronic device101coupled with the processor120, and may perform various data processing or computation. According to one embodiment, as at least part of the data processing or computation, the processor120may store a command or data received from another component (e.g., the sensor module176or the communication module190) in volatile memory132, process the command or the data stored in the volatile memory132, and store resulting data in non-volatile memory134. According to an embodiment, the processor120may include a main processor121(e.g., a central processing unit (CPU) or an application processor (AP)), or an auxiliary processor123(e.g., a graphics processing unit (GPU), a neural processing unit (NPU), an image signal processor (ISP), a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor (CP)) that is operable independently from, or in conjunction with, the main processor121. For example, when the electronic device101includes the main processor121and the auxiliary processor123, the auxiliary processor123may be adapted to consume less power than the main processor121, or to be specific to a specified function. The auxiliary processor123may be implemented as separate from, or as part of the main processor121.

The auxiliary processor123may control at least some of functions or states related to at least one component (e.g., the display module160, the sensor module176, or the communication module190) among the components of the electronic device101, instead of the main processor121while the main processor121is in an inactive (e.g., sleep) state, or together with the main processor121while the main processor121is in an active state (e.g., executing an application). According to an embodiment, the auxiliary processor123(e.g., an image signal processor or a communication processor) may be implemented as part of another component (e.g., the camera module180or the communication module190) functionally related to the auxiliary processor123. According to an embodiment, the auxiliary processor123(e.g., the neural processing unit) may include a hardware structure specified for artificial intelligence model processing. An artificial intelligence model may be generated by machine learning. Such learning may be performed, e.g., by the electronic device101where the artificial intelligence is performed or via a separate server (e.g., the server108). Learning algorithms may include, but are not limited to, e.g., supervised learning, unsupervised learning, semi-supervised learning, or reinforcement learning. The artificial intelligence model may include a plurality of artificial neural network layers. The artificial neural network may be a deep neural network (DNN), a convolutional neural network (CNN), a recurrent neural network (RNN), a restricted boltzmann machine (RBM), a deep belief network (DBN), a bidirectional recurrent deep neural network (BRDNN), deep Q-network or a combination of two or more thereof but is not limited thereto. The artificial intelligence model may, additionally or alternatively, include a software structure other than the hardware structure.

The memory130may store various data used by at least one component (e.g., the processor120or the sensor module176) of the electronic device101. The various data may include, for example, software (e.g., the program140) and input data or output data for a command related thereto. The memory130may include the volatile memory132or the non-volatile memory134.

The program140may be stored in the memory130as software, and may include, for example, an operating system (OS)142, middleware144, or an application146.

The input module150may receive a command or data to be used by another component (e.g., the processor120) of the electronic device101, from the outside (e.g., a user) of the electronic device101. The input module150may include, for example, a microphone, a mouse, a keyboard, a key (e.g., a button), or a digital pen (e.g., a stylus pen).

The sound output module155may output sound signals to the outside of the electronic device101. The sound output module155may include, for example, a speaker or a receiver. The speaker may be used for general purposes, such as playing multimedia or playing record. The receiver may be used for receiving incoming calls. According to an embodiment, the receiver may be implemented as separate from, or as part of the speaker.

The display module160may visually provide information to the outside (e.g., a user) of the electronic device101. The display module160may include, for example, a display, a hologram device, or a projector and control circuitry to control a corresponding one of the display, hologram device, and projector. According to an embodiment, the display module160may include a touch sensor adapted to detect a touch, or a pressure sensor adapted to measure the intensity of force incurred by the touch.

The audio module170may convert a sound into an electrical signal and vice versa. According to an embodiment, the audio module170may obtain the sound via the input module150, or output the sound via the sound output module155or a headphone of an external electronic device (e.g., an electronic device102) directly (e.g., wiredly) or wirelessly coupled with the electronic device101.

The sensor module176may detect an operational state (e.g., power or temperature) of the electronic device101or an environmental state (e.g., a state of a user) external to the electronic device101, and then generate an electrical signal or data value corresponding to the detected state. According to an embodiment, the sensor module176may include, for example, a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, an atmospheric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a proximity sensor, a color sensor, an infrared (IR) sensor, a biometric sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or an illuminance sensor.

The interface177may support one or more specified protocols to be used for the electronic device101to be coupled with the external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device102) directly (e.g., wiredly) or wirelessly. According to an embodiment, the interface177may include, for example, a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB) interface, a secure digital (SD) card interface, or an audio interface.

A connecting terminal178may include a connector via which the electronic device101may be physically connected with the external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device102). According to an embodiment, the connecting terminal178may include, for example, a HDMI connector, a USB connector, a SD card connector, or an audio connector (e.g., a headphone connector).

The haptic module179may convert an electrical signal into a mechanical stimulus (e.g., a vibration or a movement) or electrical stimulus which may be recognized by a user via his tactile sensation or kinesthetic sensation. According to an embodiment, the haptic module179may include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electric stimulator.

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

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

The battery189may supply power to at least one component of the electronic device101. According to an embodiment, the battery189may include, for example, a primary cell which is not rechargeable, a secondary cell which is rechargeable, or a fuel cell.

The communication module190may support establishing a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between the electronic device101and the external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device102, the electronic device104, or the server108) and performing communication via the established communication channel. The communication module190may include one or more communication processors that are operable independently from the processor120(e.g., the application processor (AP)) and supports a direct (e.g., wired) communication or a wireless communication. According to an embodiment, the communication module190may include a wireless communication module192(e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module194(e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication module or a power line communication (PLC) module). A corresponding one of these communication modules may communicate with the external electronic device via the first network198(e.g., a short-range communication network, such as Bluetooth™, wireless-fidelity (Wi-Fi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or the second network199(e.g., a long-range communication network, such as a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., LAN or wide area network (WAN)). These various types of communication modules may be implemented as a single component (e.g., a single chip), or may be implemented as multi components (e.g., multi chips) separate from each other. The wireless communication module192may identify and authenticate the electronic device101in a communication network, such as the first network198or the second network199, using subscriber information (e.g., international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI)) stored in the subscriber identification module196.

The wireless communication module192may support a 5G network, after a 4G network, and next-generation communication technology, e.g., new radio (NR) access technology. The NR access technology may support enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB), massive machine type communications (mMTC), or ultra-reliable and low-latency communications (URLLC). The wireless communication module192may support a high-frequency band (e.g., the mmWave band) to achieve, e.g., a high data transmission rate. The wireless communication module192may support various technologies for securing performance on a high-frequency band, such as, e.g., beamforming, massive multiple-input and multiple-output (massive MIMO), full dimensional MIMO (FD-MIMO), array antenna, analog beam-forming, or large scale antenna. The wireless communication module192may support various requirements specified in the electronic device101, an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device104), or a network system (e.g., the second network199). According to an embodiment, the wireless communication module192may support a peak data rate (e.g., 20 Gbps or more) for implementing eMBB, loss coverage (e.g., 164 dB or less) for implementing mMTC, or U-plane latency (e.g., 0.5 ms or less for each of downlink (DL) and uplink (UL), or a round trip of 1 ms or less) for implementing URLLC.

The antenna module197may transmit or receive a signal or power to or from the outside (e.g., the external electronic device) of the electronic device101. According to an embodiment, the antenna module197may include an antenna including a radiating element composed of a conductive material or a conductive pattern formed in or on a substrate (e.g., a printed circuit board (PCB)). According to an embodiment, the antenna module197may include a plurality of antennas (e.g., array antennas). In such a case, at least one antenna appropriate for a communication scheme used in the communication network, such as the first network198or the second network199, may be selected, for example, by the communication module190(e.g., the wireless communication module192) from the plurality of antennas. The signal or the power may then be transmitted or received between the communication module190and the external electronic device via the selected at least one antenna. According to an embodiment, another component (e.g., a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) other than the radiating element may be additionally formed as part of the antenna module197.

According to various embodiments, the antenna module197may form a mmWave antenna module. According to an embodiment, the mmWave antenna module may include a printed circuit board, a RFIC disposed on a first surface (e.g., the bottom surface) of the printed circuit board, or adjacent to the first surface and capable of supporting a designated high-frequency band (e.g., the mmWave band), and a plurality of antennas (e.g., array antennas) disposed on a second surface (e.g., the top or a side surface) of the printed circuit board, or adjacent to the second surface and capable of transmitting or receiving signals of the designated high-frequency band.

At least some of the above-described components may be coupled mutually and communicate signals (e.g., commands or data) therebetween via an inter-peripheral communication scheme (e.g., a bus, general purpose input and output (GPIO), serial peripheral interface (SPI), or mobile industry processor interface (MIPI)).

According to an embodiment, commands or data may be transmitted or received between the electronic device101and the external electronic device104via the server108coupled with the second network199. Each of the electronic devices102or104may be a device of a same type as, or a different type, from the electronic device101. According to an embodiment, all or some of operations to be executed at the electronic device101may be executed at one or more of the external electronic devices102,104, or108. For example, if the electronic device101should perform a function or a service automatically, or in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device101, instead of, or in addition to, executing the function or the service, may request the one or more external electronic devices to perform at least part of the function or the service. The one or more external electronic devices receiving the request may perform the at least part of the function or the service requested, or an additional function or an additional service related to the request, and transfer an outcome of the performing to the electronic device101. The electronic device101may provide the outcome, with or without further processing of the outcome, as at least part of a reply to the request. To that end, a cloud computing, distributed computing, mobile edge computing (MEC), or client-server computing technology may be used, for example. The electronic device101may provide ultra low-latency services using, e.g., distributed computing or mobile edge computing. In another embodiment, the external electronic device104may include an internet-of-things (IoT) device. The server108may be an intelligent server using machine learning and/or a neural network. According to an embodiment, the external electronic device104or the server108may be included in the second network199. The electronic device101may be applied to intelligent services (e.g., smart home, smart city, smart car, or healthcare) based on 5G communication technology or IoT-related technology.

The electronic device according to various embodiments may be one of various types of electronic devices. The electronic devices may include, for example, a portable communication device (e.g., a smartphone), a computer device, a portable multimedia device, a portable medical device, a camera, a wearable device, or a home appliance. According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the electronic devices are not limited to those described above.

It should be appreciated that various embodiments of the present disclosure and the terms used therein are not intended to limit the technological features set forth herein to particular embodiments and include various changes, equivalents, or replacements for a corresponding embodiment. With regard to the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used to refer to similar or related elements. It is to be understood that a singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of the things, unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise. As used herein, each of such phrases as “A or B,” “at least one of A and B,” “at least one of A or B,” “A, B, or C,” “at least one of A, B, and C,” and “at least one of A, B, or C,” may include any one of, or all possible combinations of the items enumerated together in a corresponding one of the phrases. As used herein, such terms as “1st” and “2nd,” or “first” and “second” may be used to simply distinguish a corresponding component from another, and does not limit the components in other aspect (e.g., importance or order). It is to be understood that if an element (e.g., a first element) is referred to, with or without the term “operatively” or “communicatively”, as “coupled with,” “coupled to,” “connected with,” or “connected to” another element (e.g., a second element), it means that the element may be coupled with the other element directly (e.g., wiredly), wirelessly, or via at least a third element.

As used in connection with various example embodiments, the term “module” may include a unit implemented in hardware, software, or firmware, and may interchangeably be used with other terms, for example, “logic,” “logic block,” “part,” or “circuitry”. A module may be a single integral component, or a minimum unit or part thereof, adapted to perform one or more functions. For example, according to an embodiment, the module may be implemented in a form of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

Various embodiments as set forth herein may be implemented as software (e.g., the program140) including one or more instructions that are stored in a storage medium (e.g., internal memory136or external memory138) that is readable by a machine (e.g., the electronic device101). For example, a processor (e.g., the processor120) of the machine (e.g., the electronic device101) may invoke at least one of the one or more instructions stored in the storage medium, and execute it, with or without using one or more other components under the control of the processor. This allows the machine to be operated to perform at least one function according to the at least one instruction invoked. The one or more instructions may include a code generated by a compiler or a code executable by an interpreter. The machine-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Wherein, the term “non-transitory” simply means that the storage medium is a tangible device, and does not include a signal (e.g., an electromagnetic wave), but this term does not differentiate between where data is semi-permanently stored in the storage medium and where the data is temporarily stored in the storage medium.

According to an embodiment, a method according to various example embodiments may be included and provided in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded as a product between a seller and a buyer. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable storage medium (e.g., compact disc read only memory (CD-ROM)), or be distributed (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) online via an application store (e.g., PlayStore™), or between two user devices (e.g., smart phones) directly. If distributed online, at least part of the computer program product may be temporarily generated or at least temporarily stored in the machine-readable storage medium, such as memory of the manufacturer's server, a server of the application store, or a relay server.

According to various embodiments, each component (e.g., a module or a program) of the above-described components may include a single entity or multiple entities, and some of the multiple entities may be separately disposed in different components. According to various embodiments, one or more of the above-described components may be omitted, or one or more other components may be added. Alternatively or additionally, a plurality of components (e.g., modules or programs) may be integrated into a single component. In such a case, according to various embodiments, the integrated component may still perform one or more functions of each of the plurality of components in the same or similar manner as they are performed by a corresponding one of the plurality of components before the integration. According to various embodiments, operations performed by the module, the program, or another component may be carried out sequentially, in parallel, repeatedly, or heuristically, or one or more of the operations may be executed in a different order or omitted, or one or more other operations may be added.

FIG.2Ais a perspective view illustrating a front surface of an electronic device in an unfolded state according to various example embodiments.FIG.2Bis a plan view illustrating a front surface of an electronic device in an unfolded state according to various example embodiments.FIG.2Cis a plan view illustrating a rear surface of an electronic device in an unfolded state according to various example embodiments.

FIG.3Ais a perspective view illustrating an electronic device in a folded state according to various example embodiments.FIG.3Bis a perspective view illustrating a front surface of an electronic device in an intermediate state according to various example embodiments.

An electronic device200(e.g., the electronic device101inFIG.1) shown inFIGS.2A to3Bmay include, for example, a foldable electronic device that is folded or unfolded in a longitudinal direction. Although an embodiment is described with respect to a foldable electronic device that is folded or unfolded in the longitudinal direction, the same may be applied to a foldable electronic device that is folded or unfolded in the transverse direction.

In an embodiment, although a foldable electronic device is described as an example, the disclosure is not limited to this example and may also be applied to electronic devices such as a bar type, a rollable type, a sliding type, a wearable type, a tablet PC, and/or a notebook PC.

With reference toFIGS.2A to3B, the electronic device200(e.g., the electronic device101inFIG.1) according to various example embodiments may include a pair of housings (e.g., a first housing210and a second housing220) (e.g., a foldable housing) that face each other and are folded based on a hinge module240(e.g., the hinge module240inFIG.2BorFIG.4). In some embodiments, the hinge module240(e.g., the hinge module240inFIG.2BorFIG.4) may be disposed in the x-axis direction and the negative x-axis direction (e.g., transverse direction) or disposed in the y-axis direction and the negative y-axis direction (e.g. longitudinal direction). In some embodiments, two or more hinge modules240may be arranged to be folded in the same direction or in different directions.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device200may include a flexible display230(e.g., a foldable display) disposed in an area formed by the pair of housings210and220. The first housing210and the second housing220are disposed on both sides (e.g., in the y-axis direction and the negative y-axis direction) about a folding axis (axis A) and may have a shape substantially symmetrical with respect to the folding axis (axis A). Depending on whether the electronic device200is in an unfolded (or flat) state, a folded state, or an intermediate state, an angle or distance between the first housing210and the second housing220may vary.

According to various embodiments, the pair of housings210and220may include the first housing210(e.g., a first housing structure) combined with a first side of the hinge module240(e.g., the hinge module240inFIG.2BorFIG.4) and the second housing220(e.g., a second housing structure) combined with a second side of the hinge module240. The first housing210may have a first surface211facing a first direction (e.g., a front (z-axis) direction), in the unfolded state, and a second surface212facing a second direction (e.g., a rear (negative z-axis) direction) opposite to the first direction. The second housing220may have a third surface221facing the first direction (e.g., the front (z-axis) direction), in the unfolded state, and a fourth surface222facing the second direction (e.g., the rear (negative z-axis) direction).

According to an embodiment, the electronic device200may be operated in such a way that the first surface211of the first housing210and the third surface221of the second housing220are facing substantially the same first direction (e.g., the z-axis direction) in the unfolded state and are facing each other in the folded state. The electronic device200may be operated in such a way that the second surface212of the first housing210and the fourth surface222of the second housing220are facing substantially the same second direction (e.g., the negative z-axis direction) in the unfolded state and are facing opposite directions in the folded state. For example, when the first and second housings210and220are in the folded state, the second surface212may face the first direction (e.g., the z-axis direction), and the fourth surface222may face the second direction (e.g., the negative z-axis direction).

According to various embodiments, the first housing210may include a first side frame213forming at least in part the exterior of the electronic device200, and a first rear cover214combined with the first side frame213and forming at least a portion of the second surface212of the electronic device200. The first side frame213may have a third side surface213c, a second side surface213bextending from one end of the third side surface213c, and a first side surface213aextending from the other end of the third side surface213c. The first side frame213may be formed in a quadrangular (e.g., square or rectangular) shape through the third side surface213c, the second side surface213b, and the first side surface213a.

Although in an embodiment the third side surface213c, the second side surface213b, and the first side surface213aare provided with ordinal numbers and reference numbers for convenience of description, such ordinal numbers and reference numbers of the third, second, and first side surfaces213c,213b, and213amay be variously changed in other embodiments.

According to various embodiments, the second housing220may include a second side frame223forming at least in part the exterior of the electronic device200, and a second rear cover224combined with the second side frame223and forming at least a portion of the fourth surface222of the electronic device200. The second side frame223may have a sixth side surface223c, a fifth side surface223bextending from one end of the sixth side surface223c, and a fourth side surface223aextending from the other end of the sixth side surface223c. The second side frame223may be formed in a quadrangular (e.g., square or rectangular) shape through the sixth side surface223c, the fifth side surface223b, and the fourth side surface223a.

Although in an embodiment the sixth side surface223c, the fifth side surface223b, and the fourth side surface223aare provided with ordinal numbers and reference numbers for convenience of description, such ordinal numbers and reference numbers of the sixth, fifth, and fourth side surfaces223c,223b, and223amay be variously changed in other embodiments.

According to various embodiments, the pair of housings210and220is not limited to the illustrated shape and combination and may be implemented in any other shape or by a combination and/or coupling of other parts. For example, the first side frame213may be integrally formed with the first rear cover214, and the second side frame223may be integrally formed with the second rear cover224.

According to various embodiments, in the unfolded state of the electronic device200, the second side surface213bof the first side frame213and the fifth side surface223bof the second side frame223may be connected substantially without a gap. In the unfolded state of the electronic device200, the first side213aof the first side frame213and the fourth side223aof the second side frame223may be connected substantially without a gap. According to an embodiment, in the unfolded state of the electronic device200, the length of the second side surface213bplus the fifth side surface223bmay be greater than the length of the third side surface213cand/or the sixth side surface223c. In the electronic device200, the length of the first side surface213aplus the fourth side surface223amay be greater than the length of the third side surface213cand/or the sixth side surface223c.

According to various embodiments, the first side frame213and/or the second side frame223may include a metal or a polymer. In an embodiment, the first side frame213may include at least one conductive portion2010,2020, and2030(e.g., antenna radiators) electrically segmented through at least one segmenting portion2001,2002,2003,2004,2005, and2006formed of a polymer. In another embodiment, the second side frame223may include at least one segmenting portion and at least one conductive portion formed at positions corresponding to the at least one segmenting portion2001,2002,2003,2004,2005, and2006and the at least one conductive portion2010,2020, and2030. In this case, the at least one conductive portion2010,2020, and2030formed in the first side frame213may be used as at least one antenna operating in at least one designated band (e.g., legacy band) by being electrically connected to a wireless communication module (e.g., the wireless communication module192inFIG.1) disposed on a printed circuit board (e.g., the first substrate assembly261inFIG.4) of the electronic device200. Each segmenting portion may be, for example and without limitation, at least one opening and/or at least one slit.

According to various embodiments, the first rear cover214and/or the second rear cover224may be formed by, for example, at least one or combination of coated or colored glass, ceramic, polymer, or metal (e.g., aluminum, stainless steel (STS), or magnesium).

According to various embodiments, the flexible display230may be disposed to extend from the first surface211of the first housing210to at least a portion of the third surface221of the second housing220across the hinge module240(e.g., the hinge module240inFIG.2B). For example, the flexible display230may include a first flat area230asubstantially corresponding to the first surface211, a second flat area230bcorresponding to the second surface221, and a folding area230c(e.g., a bending area) that connects the first and second flat areas230aand230band corresponds to the hinge module240(e.g., the hinge module240inFIG.2BorFIG.4).

According to an embodiment, the flexible display230may include an unbreakable (UB) type OLED display (e.g., curved display). However, the flexible display230is not limited to the above and may include a flat type display of an on-cell touch active matrix organic light-emitting diode (on-cell touch AMOLED (OCTA)) type.

According to various embodiments, in the flexible display230, an edge (e.g., an outer surface) of the first flat area230amay be disposed on an inner surface of the first housing210. In the flexible display230, an edge (e.g., an outer surface) of the second flat area230bmay be disposed on an inner surface of the second housing220. The edge of the flexible display230may be protected through a protective cap (not shown) disposed in an area corresponding to the hinge module240(e.g., the hinge module240inFIG.2BorFIG.4). The protective cap (not shown) may be selectively used or omitted according to the specifications of the electronic device200.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device200may include a hinge housing241(e.g., a hinge cover). The hinge housing241supports the hinge module240(e.g., the hinge module240inFIG.2BorFIG.4) and may be disposed to be exposed to the outside in the folded state of the electronic device200and accommodated in a first space (e.g., an internal space of the first housing210) and a second space (e.g., an internal space of the second housing220) in the unfolded state so as to be substantially invisible from the outside. In some embodiments, the flexible display230may be disposed to extend from at least a portion of the second surface212to at least a portion of the fourth surface222. In this case, the electronic device200may be folded so that the flexible display230can be visually exposed to the outside (e.g., out-folding scheme).

According to various embodiments, the electronic device200may include a sub-display232disposed separately from the flexible display230. The sub-display232is disposed to be visually exposed at least in part on the second surface212of the first housing210and may display the state information of the flexible display230in the folded state of the electronic device200. The sub-display232may be disposed to be visible from the outside through at least a portion of the first rear cover214. In some embodiments, the sub-display232may be disposed on the fourth surface222of the second housing220. In this case, the sub-display232may be disposed to be visible from the outside through at least a portion of the second rear cover224.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device200may include at least one of an input device203(e.g., a microphone), sound output devices201and202, a sensor module204, camera devices205and208, a key input device206, and a connector port207. In the illustrated embodiment, although each of the input device203(e.g., the microphone), the sound output devices201and202, the sensor module204, the camera devices205and208, the key input device206, and the connector port207is indicated as a hole or shape formed in the first housing210or the second housing220, it may be defined as including a substantial electronic component (e.g., the input device comprising input circuitry, the sound output device comprising circuitry, the sensor module comprising at least one sensor, and/or the camera device comprising at least one camera) disposed inside the electronic device200and operating through the hole or shape.

According to various embodiments, the input device203may include at least one microphone disposed in the second housing220. In some embodiments, the input device203may include a plurality of microphones disposed to detect the direction of sound. In some embodiments, the plurality of microphones may be disposed at designated locations in the first housing210and/or the second housing220. The sound output devices201and202may include speakers. The sound output devices201and202may include a call receiver201disposed in the first housing210and a speaker202disposed in the second housing220. In some embodiments, the input device203, the sound output devices201and202, and the connector port207may be disposed in a space provided in the first housing210and/or the second housing220of the electronic device200and exposed to the outside through at least one hole formed in the first housing210and/or the second housing220. The at least one connector port207may be used to transmit and receive power and/or data to and from an external electronic device. In some embodiments, the at least one connector port (e.g., an ear jack hole) may accommodate a connector (e.g., an ear jack) for transmitting and receiving an audio signal to and from an external electronic device. In some embodiments, holes formed in the first housing210and/or the second housing220may be commonly used for the input device203and the sound output devices201and202. In some embodiments, the sound output devices201and202may include a speaker (e.g., a piezo speaker) operating without holes formed in the first housing210and/or the second housing220.

According to various embodiments, the sensor module204(e.g., the sensor module176inFIG.1) may create an electrical signal or data value corresponding to an internal operating state or external environmental state of the electronic device200. For example, the sensor module204may detect the external environment through the first surface211of the first housing210. In some embodiments, the electronic device200may further include at least one sensor module disposed to detect the external environment through the second surface212of the first housing210. The sensor module204(e.g., an illuminance sensor) may be disposed under the flexible display230to detect the external environment through the flexible display230. The sensor module204may include at least one of a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a color sensor, an infrared (IR) sensor, a biometric sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, an illuminance sensor, a proximity sensor, a fingerprint sensor, or an ultrasonic sensor.

According to various embodiments, the camera devices205and208may include a first camera device205(e.g., a front camera device) disposed on the first surface211of the first housing210, and a second camera device208disposed on the second surface212of the first housing210. The electronic device200may further include a flash209disposed near the second camera device208. The camera device205and208may include one or more lenses, an image sensor, and/or an image signal processor. The flash209may include, for example, a light emitting diode or a xenon lamp. The camera devices205and208may be disposed such that two or more lenses (e.g., a wide-angle lens, an ultra-wide-angle lens, or a telephoto lens) and image sensors are located on one surface (e.g., the first surface211, the second surface212, the third surface221, or the fourth surface222) of the foldable electronic device200. In some embodiments, the camera devices205and208may include lenses and/or an image sensor for time of flight (TOF).

According to various embodiments, the key input device206(e.g., a key button) may be disposed on the first side surface213aof the first side frame213of the first housing210. In some embodiments, the key input device206may be disposed on at least one of the other side surfaces213band213cof the first housing210and/or the side surfaces223a,223b, and223cof the second housing220. In some embodiments, the electronic device200may not include some or all of the key input devices206, and these key input devices not included may be implemented in any other form such as soft keys on the flexible display230. In some embodiments, the key input device206may be implemented using a pressure sensor included in the flexible display230.

According to various embodiments, a certain camera device (e.g., the first camera device205) of the camera devices205and208, or the sensor module204may be disposed to be exposed through the flexible display230. For example, the first camera device205or the sensor module204may be disposed to be in contact with the external environment through an opening (e.g., a through-hole) formed at least in part in the flexible display230in the internal space of the foldable electronic device200. Some sensor modules204may be disposed to perform their functions without being visually exposed through the flexible display230in the internal space of the electronic device200. In this case, a region of the flexible display230facing the sensor module may not need an opening.

With reference toFIG.3B, the electronic device200may be operated to maintain an intermediate folded state through the hinge module240(e.g., the hinge module240inFIG.2BorFIG.4). In this case, the electronic device200may control the flexible display230to display different contents in a display area (e.g., a first flat area230a) corresponding to the first surface211and a display area (e.g., a second flat area230b) corresponding to the third surface221. The electronic device200may be operated to a substantially unfolded state (e.g., the unfolded state inFIG.2A) and/or a substantially folded state (e.g., the folded state inFIG.3A) from a certain inflection angle (e.g., an angle between the first and second housings210and220in the intermediate folded state) through the hinge module240. For example, when a pressure is applied in the unfolding direction (direction B) in a state of being unfolded at such an inflection angle, the electronic device200may be operated to be in the unfolded state (e.g., the unfolded state inFIG.2A) through the hinge module240. For example, when a pressure is applied in a folding direction (direction C) in a state of being unfolded at such an inflection angle, the electronic device200may be operated to be in the folded state (e.g., the folded state inFIG.3A) through the hinge module240. The electronic device200may be operated to maintain the folded or unfolded state at various angles through the hinge module240.

FIG.4is an exploded perspective view of an electronic device (e.g., a foldable electronic device) according to various example embodiments.

With reference toFIG.4, the electronic device200(e.g., the electronic device101inFIG.1) may include the first side frame213of the first housing210, the second side frame223of the second housing220, and the hinge module240(e.g., the hinge module240inFIG.2B) rotatably connecting the first and second side frames213and223.

According to an embodiment, the electronic device200may include a first support plate2131extending at least in part from the first side frame213of the first housing210, and a second support plate2231extending at least in part from the second side frame223of the second housing220. The first support plate2131may be integrally formed with the first side frame213or structurally combined with the first side frame213. The second support plate2231may be integrally formed with the second side frame223or structurally combined with the second side frame223. The electronic device200may include the flexible display230disposed to be supported by the first support plate2131and the second support plate2231.

According to an embodiment, the electronic device200may include a first rear cover214combined with the first side frame213of the first housing210and providing a first space between it and the first support plate2131, and a second rear cover224combined with the second side frame223of the second housing220and providing a second space between it and the second support plate2231. In some embodiments, the first side frame213and the first rear cover214may be integrally formed. In some embodiments, the second side frame223and the second rear cover224may be integrally formed.

According to an embodiment, the electronic device200may include the first housing210(e.g., the first housing210inFIG.2A) provided through the first side frame213, the first support plate2131, and the first rear cover214. The electronic device200may include the second housing220(e.g., the second housing220inFIG.2A) provided through the second side frame223, the second support plate2231, and the second rear cover224. The electronic device200may include the sub-display232disposed to be visible from the outside through at least a portion of the first rear cover214.

According to an embodiment, the electronic device200may include a first substrate assembly261(e.g., a main printed circuit board), a camera assembly263, a first battery271, and/or a first bracket251, which are disposed in a first space between the first side frame213and the first rear cover214.

According to an embodiment, the camera assembly263may include a plurality of camera devices (e.g., the camera devices205and208inFIGS.2A and3A) and may be electrically connected to the first substrate assembly261. The first bracket251may provide a support structure for supporting the first substrate assembly261and/or the camera assembly263.

According to an embodiment, the electronic device200may include a second substrate assembly262(e.g., a sub printed circuit board), an antenna290(e.g., a coil member), a second battery272, and/or a second bracket252, which are disposed in a second space between, directly or indirectly, the second side frame223and the second rear cover224.

According to an embodiment, the electronic device200may include a wiring member280(e.g., a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB)) disposed to extend from the first substrate assembly261to a plurality of electronic components (e.g., the second board assembly262, the second battery272, and/or the antenna290) disposed between, directly or indirectly, the second side frame223and the second rear cover224across the hinge module240, and providing an electrical connection. The antenna290may include a near field communication (NFC) antenna, a wireless charging antenna, and/or a magnetic secure transmission (MST) antenna. The antenna290may, for example, perform short-range communication with an external device or wirelessly transmit/receive power required for charging.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device200may include the hinge housing241(e.g., the hinge cover) that supports or covers the hinge module240and is disposed to be exposed to the outside in the folded state (e.g., the folded state inFIG.3A) of the electronic device200and accommodated in the first space and/or the second space in the unfolded state (e.g., the unfolded state inFIG.2A) so as to be substantially invisible from the outside.

FIG.5Ais a diagram schematically illustrating a part of an electronic device including a first electronic component according to various example embodiments.FIG.5Bis a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating a B-B′ part of the electronic device shown inFIG.5Aaccording to various example embodiments.FIG.5Cis a diagram schematically illustrating a constitution of a matching circuit of an electronic device according to various example embodiments.

In an embodiment,FIG.5Ais a diagram illustrating, as viewed from the negative z-axis direction, a case where the first substrate assembly261is disposed on one surface (e.g., the negative z-axis direction) of the first support plate2131of the first housing210shown inFIG.4according to various example embodiments.FIG.5Bis a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating, as viewed from one direction (e.g., the negative y-axis direction), the B-B′ part of the electronic device200shown inFIG.5A.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device200disclosed below may include the embodiments of the electronic devices101and200illustrated inFIGS.1to4. In the description of the electronic device200disclosed below, the same reference numbers are given to some components substantially identical with those of the embodiments illustrated inFIGS.1to4, and duplicate descriptions of their functions may be omitted.

According to various embodiments, even if the components substantially identical with those of the above-described embodiment illustrated inFIGS.1to4perform substantially the same functions, the names and reference numbers of some components may be changed. For example, the first housing210may be defined as a housing210. The first support plate2131may be defined as a support plate2131. The first substrate assembly261may be defined as a printed circuit board (PCB)261.

According to an embodiment, although the following embodiment related to the electronic device200will describe a foldable type electronic device, the disclosure is not limited to the above and may also be applied to electronic devices such as a bar type, a rollable type, a sliding type, a wearable type, a tablet PC, and/or a notebook PC.

With reference toFIGS.5A to5C, the housing210of the electronic device200according to an embodiment may have the first side surface213a, the second side surface213b, and the third side surface213c. The first side surface213amay extend in the negative y-axis direction from a first portion (e.g., the negative x-axis direction) of the third side surface213c, and the second side surface213bmay extend in the negative y-axis direction from a second portion (e.g., the x-axis direction) of the third side surface213c.

According to an embodiment, the first side surface213amay include a first conductive portion2010(e.g., an antenna radiator) formed using a first segmenting portion2001and a second segmenting portion2002. For example, the first conductive portion2010may be disposed between, directly or indirectly, the first segmenting portion2001and the second segmenting portion2002. In an embodiment, the first conductive portion2010may include a first feeding point501inward. For example, the first feeding point501may be a portion protruding from the inside of the first side surface213ain the x-axis direction. In an embodiment, the first conductive portion2010may be electrically connected, directly or indirectly, to a first wireless communication circuit510(e.g., the wireless communication module192inFIG.1) disposed on the printed circuit board261through the first feeding point501, thereby operating as an antenna. In an embodiment, the first conductive portion2010may partially have a hole (h) in which a first electronic component560is operatively combined.

According to an embodiment, the second side surface213bmay include a second conductive portion2020(e.g., an antenna radiator) formed using a third segmenting portion2003and a fourth segmenting portion2004. For example, the second conductive portion2020may be disposed between, directly or indirectly, the third segmenting portion2003and the fourth segmenting portion2004. In an embodiment, the second conductive portion2020may include a second feeding point502inward. For example, the second feeding point502may be a portion protruding from the inside of the second side surface213bin the negative x-axis direction. In another embodiment, the second conductive portion2020may be electrically connected, directly or indirectly, to a second wireless communication circuit512(e.g., the second wireless communication circuit512inFIG.10) disposed on the printed circuit board261through the second feeding point502, thereby operating as an antenna.

According to an embodiment, the third side surface213cmay include a third conductive portion2030(e.g., an antenna radiator) formed using a fifth segmenting portion2005and a sixth segmenting portion2006. For example, the third conductive portion2030may be disposed between, directly or indirectly, the fifth segmenting portion2005and the sixth segmenting portion2006. In an embodiment, the third conductive portion2030may include a third feeding point503inward. For example, the third feeding point503may be a portion protruding from the inside of the third side surface213cin the negative y-axis direction. In another embodiment, the third conductive portion2030may be electrically connected, directly or indirectly, to a third wireless communication circuit513(e.g., the third wireless communication circuit513inFIG.13) disposed on the printed circuit board261through the third feeding point503, thereby operating as an antenna.

According to various embodiments, the first segmenting portion2001, the second segmenting portion2002, the third segmenting portion2003, the fourth segmenting portion2004, the fifth segmenting portion2005, and/or the sixth segmenting portion2006may be formed in the form of a slit and/or opening. The first segmenting portion2001, the second segmenting portion2002, the third segmenting portion2003, the fourth segmenting portion2004, the fifth segmenting portion2005, and/or the sixth segmenting portion2006may be filled with a non-conductive material. The non-conductive material may prevent, or reduce the likelihood of, foreign substances from entering the electronic device200from the outside. The non-conductive material which may fill one or more segmenting portion(s) may include, for example, a dielectric (e.g., an insulator) including at least one of polycarbonate, polyimide, plastic, polymer, or ceramic, for example and without limitation.

With reference toFIGS.5A to5C, the electronic device200according to an embodiment may include the printed circuit board261disposed inside, and/or at least partially inside, the housing210and including a ground G.

According to various embodiments, the printed circuit board261may be disposed on one surface (e.g., the negative z-axis direction) of the support plate2131of the housing210. In an embodiment, the printed circuit board261may include a first wireless communication circuit510, a matching circuit520, a processor530, and/or a connector540. The first electronic component560may be disposed at least in part between, directly or indirectly, the printed circuit board261and the first conductive portion2010. For example, the first electronic component560may be disposed adjacent, directly or indirectly, to the first conductive portion2010.

According to an embodiment, the first wireless communication circuit510may be electrically connected, directly or indirectly, to the first feeding point501disposed on the first conductive portion2010. The first wireless communication circuit510may be electrically connected, directly or indirectly, to the processor530(e.g., the processor120inFIG.1). The first wireless communication circuit510may support the first conductive portion2010to transmit and/or receive a wireless signal. The first wireless communication circuit510may be electrically connected to the first feeding point501and/or the first conductive portion2010by using, for example, a conductive member (e.g., a C-clip).

According to an embodiment, the matching circuit520may be electrically connected to the processor530or the first wireless communication circuit510. For example, the matching circuit520may operate under the control of the processor530or the first wireless communication circuit510. Using at least one switch522and at least one passive element524, the matching circuit520may connect or block an electrical signal inputted to the ground G through an electrical path526. Using the electrical path526and the connector540, the matching circuit520may be electrically connected to the first conductive connection member550. Each conductive member herein comprises electrically conductive material. The matching circuit520may be electrically connected to the ground G. The matching circuit520may be configured to electrically connect or electrically disconnect the first conductive connection member550and the ground G under the control of the processor530or the first wireless communication circuit510.

According to various embodiments, the matching circuit520may include at least one switch522and at least one passive element524(e.g., a first element 1, a second element 2, a third element 3, and/or a fourth element 4). The at least one switch522may be selectively connected to one of the at least one passive element524, that is, the first element 1, the second element 2, the third element 3, or the fourth element 4. In an embodiment, the at least one switch522may be electrically connected to the ground G of the printed circuit board261through the first element 1 to the fourth element 4. The ground G may be electrically connected to the connector540and/or the first conductive connection member550through one of the at least one passive element524selected using the at least one switch522. In an embodiment, the at least one passive element524may include a resistor, an inductor, and/or a capacitor. The matching circuit520may control an electrical signal between the connector540and the ground G under the control of the processor530.

According to various embodiments, as shown inFIG.5C, the matching circuit520may include the at least one switch522and the at least one passive element524(D1, D2, . . . , Dn, open) having different element values and electrically connected to or electrically disconnected from the electrical path526by the at least one switch522. The at least one passive element524(e.g., lumped elements) may include a capacitor having various capacitance values and/or an inductor having various inductance values. The at least one switch522may selectively connect an element having a specified element value (e.g., a matching value) to the electrical path526under the control of the processor530. In an embodiment, the at least one switch522may include a micro-electro mechanical systems (MEMS) switch. The MEMS switch performs a mechanical switching operation by means of an internal metal plate and thus has a complete turn on/off characteristic, thereby not substantially affecting a change in the radiation characteristic of the antenna. In some embodiments, the at least one switch522may include a single pole single throw (SPST) switch, a single pole double throw (SPDT) switch, or a switch having three or more throws.

According to an embodiment, the processor530may be electrically connected to the first wireless communication circuit510and/or the matching circuit520. The processor530may control the first wireless communication circuit510and the matching circuit520. The processor530may include a communication processor and/or a radio frequency IC (RFIC).

According to an embodiment, the connector540may electrically connect a portion of the printed circuit board261and the first conductive connection member550. The connector540may be connected to the matching circuit520through the electrical path526. Using the connector540, the electrical path526may be electrically connected to the first conductive connection member550. Using the at least one switch522and the at least one passive element524of the matching circuit520, the electrical path526may be electrically connected to the ground G.

According to an embodiment, an electrical signal delivered through the connector540may be transmitted to the first electronic component560through the first conductive connection member550. A first end of the first conductive connection member550may be connected to the connector540, and a second end of the first conductive connection member550may be connected to a PCB565of the first electronic component560. The first conductive connection member550may include one of a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB), a thin film antenna (TFA), an FPCB type antenna, a conductive plate, or steel use stainless (SUS).

According to an embodiment, the first electronic component560may be disposed in the hole (h) partially formed in the first conductive portion2010. The first electronic component560and the first conductive portion2010may be disposed in a coupling structure. In case that at least a part of the first conductive portion2010operates as an antenna radiator, the first electronic component560may generate coupling with the first conductive portion2010. In an embodiment, the antenna including at least a part of the first conductive portion2010may adjust the resonance frequency by the at least one passive element524included in the matching circuit520connected to the first conductive connection member550.

According to various embodiments, the first electronic component560may include the PCB565. In another example, the first electronic component560may include a key input device (e.g., the key input device206inFIGS.2A to3B). For example, the first electronic component560may include a power button, a fingerprint key (e.g., a fingerprint sensor), or a volume control button. In this case, the first conductive connection member550may be a conductive path through which a signal inputted through the key input device is delivered to the processor530.

FIG.6Ais a diagram illustrating radiation efficiency of an electronic device according to an embodiment and radiation efficiency of an electronic device according to a comparative example.FIG.6Bis a diagram illustrating a reflection coefficient of an electronic device according to an example embodiment of the disclosure and a reflection coefficient of an electronic device according to a comparative example.

In the electronic device200according to various example embodiments, the at least one switch522of the matching circuit520may be connected, directly or indirectly, to the first element 1 (e.g., an inductor) and/or the second element 2 (e.g., an inductor) of the at least one passive element524. In case that at least a part of the first conductive portion2010operates as an antenna radiator, coupling between the first conductive portion2010and the first electronic component560may occur, and the resonance frequency may be adjusted depending on a connection state between the at least one passive element524(e.g., the first element 1 or the second element 2) included in the matching circuit520and the electrical path526.

The electronic device according to a comparative example does not include the matching circuit520and is in a state where the first conductive connection member550is not electrically connected to the ground G.

With reference toFIG.6A, it can be seen that, in the electronic device200according to various example embodiments, the radiation efficiency P1in case that the at least one switch522of the matching circuit520is connected, directly or indirectly, to the first element 1 (e.g., an inductor) of the at least one passive element524and the radiation efficiency P2in case that the at least one switch522of the matching circuit520is connected, directly or indirectly, to the second element 2 (e.g., an inductor) of the at least one passive element524are improved in a band of about 1900 MHz to 2200 MHz, compared to the radiation efficiency G1of the electronic device according to the comparative example.

With reference toFIG.6B, it can be seen that, in the electronic device200according to various example embodiments, the reflection coefficient P3in case that the at least one switch522of the matching circuit520is connected, directly or indirectly, to the first element 1 (e.g., an inductor) of the at least one passive element524and the reflection coefficient P4in case that the at least one switch522of the matching circuit520is connected to the second element 2 (e.g., an inductor) of the at least one passive element524satisfy a reflection coefficient of −6 dB in a band of about 2000 MHz to 2300 MHz, substantially similar to the reflection coefficient G2of the electronic device according to the comparative example.

FIG.7Ais a diagram illustrating radiation efficiency of an electronic device according to various example embodiments and radiation efficiency of an electronic device according to a comparative example.FIG.7Bis a diagram illustrating a reflection coefficient of an electronic device according to various example embodiments and a reflection coefficient of an electronic device according to a comparative example.

In the electronic device200according to various example embodiments, the at least one switch522of the matching circuit520may be connected, directly or indirectly, to the first element 1 (e.g., a capacitor) or the second element 2 (e.g., a capacitor) of the at least one passive element524. In case that at least a part of the first conductive portion2010operates as an antenna radiator, coupling between the first conductive portion2010and the first electronic component560may occur, and the resonance frequency may be adjusted depending on a connection state between the at least one passive element524(e.g., the first element 1 or the second element 2) included in the matching circuit520and the electrical path526.

The electronic device according to a comparative example does not include the matching circuit520and is in a state where the first conductive connection member550is not electrically connected to the ground G.

With reference toFIG.7A, it can be seen that, in the electronic device200according to various example embodiments, the radiation efficiency P5in case that the at least one switch522of the matching circuit520is connected, directly or indirectly, to the first element 1 (e.g., a capacitor) of the at least one passive element524and the radiation efficiency P6in case that the at least one switch522of the matching circuit520is connected to the second element 2 (e.g., a capacitor) of the at least one passive element524are improved in a band of about 3300 MHz to 4200 MHz, compared to the radiation efficiency G3of the electronic device according to the comparative example.

With reference toFIG.7B, it can be seen that, in the electronic device200according to various example embodiments, the reflection coefficient P7in case that the at least one switch522of the matching circuit520is connected, directly or indirectly, to the first element 1 (e.g., a capacitor) of the at least one passive element524and the reflection coefficient P7in case that the at least one switch522of the matching circuit520is connected to the second element 2 (e.g., a capacitor) of the at least one passive element524satisfy a reflection coefficient of −10 dB in a band of about 3000 MHz to 3900 MHz, substantially similar to the reflection coefficient G4of the electronic device according to the comparative example.

FIG.8is a diagram illustrating a conductive connection member of an electronic device according to various example embodiments.FIG.9is a perspective view schematically illustrating a part C of the electronic device shown inFIG.8, as viewed from one direction, according to various example embodiments.

In an embodiment,FIG.9is a schematic perspective view illustrating, as viewed between the negative x-axis direction and the negative y-axis direction and from the negative z-axis direction, the part C of the electronic device200shown inFIG.8according to various example embodiments.

With reference toFIGS.8and9, the first conductive connection member550of the electronic device200according to various example embodiments may include an extension portion555. According to an embodiment, the extension portion555of the first conductive connection member550may have a length and/or shape determined based on the resonance frequency of the antenna using at least a part of the first conductive portion2010as an antenna radiator. In an embodiment, the extension portion555of the first conductive connection member550may be formed in a curved shape. In an embodiment, the extension portion555is illustrated in a curved shape, but it may be formed in a variety of other shapes. In an embodiment, a first end of the first conductive connection member550may be connected to the connector540, and a second end of the first conductive connection member550may be connected to the PCB565of the first electronic component560.

According to an embodiment, the extension portion555of the first conductive connection member550may adjust an electrical length of the antenna using at least a part of the first conductive portion2010as an antenna radiator. By adjusting the electrical length of the antenna that uses at least a part of the first conductive portion2010as an antenna radiator through the extension portion555of the first conductive connection member550and also tuning the resonance frequency of the antenna through the matching circuit520, it is possible to improve the radiation performance of the antenna.

FIG.10is a diagram schematically illustrating a part of an electronic device including an antenna module according to various example embodiments. Each antenna module herein includes at least one antenna.

According to various embodiments, the embodiments related to the electronic device200illustrated inFIGS.1to5C,8and9may be applied to the electronic device200illustrated inFIG.10. For example, the first electronic component560illustrated inFIG.5Amay be applied together with an antenna module1000illustrated inFIG.10. In the description of the electronic device200disclosed below, the same reference numbers are given to some components substantially identical with those of the embodiments illustrated inFIGS.5A to5C,8and9, and duplicate descriptions of their functions may be omitted.

With reference toFIG.10, the housing210of the electronic device200according to an embodiment may have the first side surface213a, the second side surface213b, and the third side surface213c. The first side surface213amay extend in the negative y-axis direction from a first portion (e.g., the negative x-axis direction) of the third side surface213c, and the second side surface213bmay extend in the negative y-axis direction from a second portion (e.g., the x-axis direction) of the third side surface213c.

According to an embodiment, the first side surface213amay include the first conductive portion2010(e.g., an antenna radiator) formed using the first segmenting portion2001and the second segmenting portion2002. For example, the first conductive portion2010may be disposed between at least the first segmenting portion2001and the second segmenting portion2002. In an embodiment, the first conductive portion2010may include the first feeding point501inward. For example, the first feeding point501may be a portion protruding from the inside of the first side surface213ain the x-axis direction. In an embodiment, the first conductive portion2010may be electrically connected to the first wireless communication circuit510(e.g., the first wireless communication circuit510inFIG.5A) disposed on the printed circuit board261through the first feeding point501, thereby operating as an antenna. In an embodiment, the first conductive portion2010may partially have a hole (h) in which the first electronic component560is operatively combined.

According to an embodiment, the second side surface213bmay include the second conductive portion2020(e.g., an antenna radiator) formed using the third segmenting portion2003and the fourth segmenting portion2004. For example, the second conductive portion2020may be disposed between at least the third segmenting portion2003and the fourth segmenting portion2004. In an embodiment, the second conductive portion2020may include the second feeding point502inward. For example, the second feeding point502may be a portion protruding from the inside of the second side surface213bin the negative x-axis direction. In an embodiment, the second conductive portion2020may be electrically connected to the second wireless communication circuit512(e.g., the wireless communication module192, comprising communication circuitry, inFIG.1) disposed on the printed circuit board261through the second feeding point502, thereby operating as an antenna.

According to an embodiment, the third side surface213cmay include the third conductive portion2030(e.g., an antenna radiator) formed using the fifth segmenting portion2005and the sixth segmenting portion2006. For example, the third conductive portion2030may be disposed between at least the fifth segmenting portion2005and the sixth segmenting portion2006. In an embodiment, the third conductive portion2030may include the third feeding point503inward. For example, the third feeding point503may be a portion protruding from the inside of the third side surface213cin the negative y-axis direction. In another embodiment, the third conductive portion2030may be electrically connected to the third wireless communication circuit513(e.g., the third wireless communication circuit513inFIG.13) disposed on the printed circuit board261through the third feeding point503, thereby operating as an antenna.

According to various embodiments, the printed circuit board261may include a second wireless communication circuit512, the matching circuit520, and/or the processor530. The antenna module1000, comprising at least one antenna, may be disposed between at least the printed circuit board261and the second conductive portion2020. For example, the antenna module1000may be disposed adjacent to the second conductive portion2020.

According to an embodiment, the second wireless communication circuit512may be electrically connected to the second feeding point502disposed on the second conductive portion2020. The second wireless communication circuit512may be electrically connected to the processor530(e.g., the processor120inFIG.1). The second wireless communication circuit512may support the second conductive portion2020to transmit and/or receive a wireless signal. The second wireless communication circuit512may be electrically connected to the second feeding point502and/or the second conductive portion2020by using, for example, a conductive member (e.g., a C-clip).

According to an embodiment, the matching circuit520may be electrically connected to the processor530or the second wireless communication circuit512. The matching circuit520may operate under the control of the processor530or the second wireless communication circuit512. Using the at least one switch522and the at least one passive element524, the matching circuit520may connect or block an electrical signal inputted to the ground G through an electrical path526. Using the electrical path526, the matching circuit520may be electrically connected to the second conductive connection member552. The matching circuit520may be electrically connected to the ground G. The matching circuit520may be configured to electrically connect or electrically disconnect the second conductive connection member552and the ground G under the control of the processor530or the second wireless communication circuit512.

According to various embodiments, the matching circuit520may include the at least one switch522and the at least one passive electrical element524(e.g., the first element 1, the second element 2, the third element 3, and/or the fourth element 4). In an embodiment, the at least one switch522may be selectively connected to one of the at least one passive element524, that is, the first element 1, the second element 2, the third element 3, and/or the fourth element 4. In an embodiment, the at least one switch522may be electrically connected to the ground G of the printed circuit board261through the first element 1 to the fourth element 4. The ground G may be electrically connected to the second conductive connection member552through one of the at least one passive element524selected using the at least one switch522. In an embodiment, the at least one passive element524may include, for example, a resistor, an inductor, and/or a capacitor. Under the control of the processor530or the second wireless communication circuit512, the matching circuit520may change the electrical length between the second conductive connection member552and the antenna module1000. The matching circuit520may include the embodiments illustrated inFIG.5C.

According to an embodiment, the processor530may be electrically connected to the second wireless communication circuit512and the matching circuit520. The processor530may control the second wireless communication circuit512and the matching circuit520. The processor530may include a communication processor and/or a radio frequency IC (RFIC).

According to an embodiment, the second conductive connection member552may transmit an electrical signal under the control of the processor530to the antenna module1000. A first end of the second conductive connection member552may be connected to the electrical path526, and a second end may be connected to the antenna module1000. According to an embodiment, the second conductive connection member552may include the extension portion555illustrated inFIGS.8and9.

According to an embodiment, the antenna module1000(e.g., the antenna module197inFIG.1) may be disposed at least in part between the printed circuit board261and the second conductive portion2020. The antenna module1000and the second conductive portion2020may be disposed in a coupling structure. In case that at least a part of the second conductive portion2020operates as an antenna radiator, the antenna module1000may generate coupling with the second conductive portion2020. In an embodiment, the antenna including at least a part of the second conductive portion2020may adjust the resonance frequency by the at least one passive element524included in the matching circuit520connected to the second conductive connection member552. In various embodiments, the antenna module1000may transmit and receive a wireless signal of a first frequency band (e.g., about 3 GHz to 300 GHz). The antenna including at least a part of the second conductive portion2020may transmit and receive a wireless signal of a second frequency band (e.g., about 500 MHz to 6 GHz). The antenna module1000may include the mmWave antenna module.

FIG.11is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of an antenna module included in an electronic device according to various example embodiments.

InFIG.11, (a) is a perspective view illustrating the antenna module1000as viewed between the negative z-axis and the x-axis, and (b) is a perspective view illustrating the antenna module1000as viewed between the negative z-axis and the negative x-axis. InFIG.11, (c) is a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion X-X′ of the antenna module1000.

With reference to (a) to (c) ofFIG.11, the antenna module1000may include a PCB1110, an antenna array1130, a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)1152, or a power management integrated circuit (PMIC)1154. Optionally, the antenna module1000, comprising at least one antenna, may further include a shielding member1190which may comprise conductive material. In various embodiments, at least one of the above-mentioned components may be omitted, or at least two of the above-mentioned components may be integrally formed.

According to an embodiment, the PCB1110of the antenna module1000may include a plurality of conductive layers and a plurality of non-conductive layers alternately stacked with the conductive layers. The PCB1110may provide an electrical connection between the PCB1110and/or various electronic components disposed outside by using wirings formed in the conductive layers and related conductive vias.

According to an embodiment, the antenna array1130may include a plurality of antenna elements1132,1134,1136, and1138(e.g., one or more conductive patches) disposed to form a directional beam. The antenna elements1132,1134,1136, and1138may be formed on a first surface of the PCB1110as shown. According to another embodiment, the antenna array1130may be formed inside the PCB1110. According to some embodiments, the antenna array1130may include a plurality of antenna arrays (e.g., at least one of a dipole antenna array and/or a patch antenna array) having the same shape or different shapes and/or different types.

According to an embodiment, the RFIC1152may be disposed in another area (e.g., a second surface opposite to the first surface) of the PCB1110, which is spaced apart from the antenna array1130. The RFIC1152may be configured to process a signal of a selected frequency band, which is transmitted/received through the antenna array1130. In an embodiment, upon transmission, the RFIC1152may convert a baseband signal obtained from a communication processor (not shown) into an RF signal of a designated band. Upon reception, the RFIC1152may convert an RF signal received through the antenna array1130into a baseband signal and transmit it to the communication processor.

According to another embodiment, upon transmission, the RFIC1152may up-convert an IF signal (e.g., about 9 GHz to about 11 GHz) obtained from an intermediate frequency integrated circuit (IFIC) into an RF signal of a selected band. Upon reception, the RFIC1152may down-convert an RF signal obtained through the antenna array1130, convert it into an IF signal, and transmit it to the IFIC.

According to an embodiment, the PMIC1154may be disposed in another area (e.g., the second surface) of the PCB1110, which is spaced apart from the antenna array1130. The PMIC1154may be supplied with voltage from a main printed circuit board (e.g., the printed circuit board261) and provide required power to various components (e.g., the RFIC1152) on the antenna module1000.

According to an embodiment, the shielding member1190may be disposed on a portion (e.g., the second surface) of the PCB1110to electromagnetically shield at least one of the RFIC1152or the PMIC1154. The shielding member1190may include, for example, a shield can.

Although not shown, in various embodiments, the antenna module1000may be electrically connected to another printed circuit board (e.g., the printed circuit board261) through a module interface comprising interface circuitry. The module interface may include a connection member, for example, a coaxial cable connector, a board-to-board connector, an interposer, or a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB).

FIG.12is a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating a Y-Y′ part of the antenna module shown in (a) ofFIG.11.

With reference toFIG.12, the PCB1110of the antenna module1000may include an antenna layer1111and a network layer1113. The antenna layer1111may include at least one dielectric layer1137-1, an antenna element1136(e.g., at least one conductive patch) formed on the outer surface of or inside the dielectric layer1137-1, and/or a feeding part1125. The feeding part1125may include a feeding point1127and/or a feeding line1129(e.g., a signal line(s)).

According to an embodiment, the network layer1113may include at least one dielectric layer1137-2, at least one ground layer1133formed on the outer surface of or inside the dielectric layer1137-2, at least one conductive via1135, and/or a transmission line1123.

According to an embodiment, the RFIC1152may be electrically connected to the network layer1113using, for example, first and second solder bumps1140-1and1140-2. In other embodiments, various connection structures (e.g., soldering or BGA) may be used instead of the solder bumps. Using the first solder bump1140-1, the transmission line1123, and the feeding part1125(e.g., the feeding line1129and the feeding point1127), the RFIC1152may be electrically connected to the antenna element1136. Using the second solder bump1140-2and the conductive via1135, the RFIC1152may be electrically connected to the ground layer1133.

FIG.13is a diagram schematically illustrating a part of an electronic device including a second electronic component according to various example embodiments.

According to various embodiments, the embodiments related to the electronic device200illustrated inFIGS.1to5C,8,9and10may be applied to the electronic device200illustrated inFIG.13. For example, the first electronic component560illustrated inFIG.5Aand the antenna module1000illustrated inFIG.10may be applied together with a second electronic component1300illustrated inFIG.13. In the description of the electronic device200disclosed below, the same reference numbers are given to some components substantially identical with those of the embodiments illustrated inFIGS.5A to5C,8,9and10, and duplicate descriptions of their functions may be omitted.

With reference toFIG.13, the housing210of the electronic device200according to an embodiment may have the first side surface213a, the second side surface213b, and the third side surface213c. The first side surface213amay extend in the negative y-axis direction from a first portion (e.g., the negative x-axis direction) of the third side surface213c, and the second side surface213bmay extend in the negative y-axis direction from a second portion (e.g., the x-axis direction) of the third side surface213c.

Each embodiment herein may be used in combination with any other embodiment described herein.

According to an embodiment, the first side surface213amay include the first conductive portion2010(e.g., an antenna radiator) formed using the first segmenting portion2001and the second segmenting portion2002. For example, the first conductive portion2010may be disposed between the first segmenting portion2001and the second segmenting portion2002. In an embodiment, the first conductive portion2010may include the first feeding point501inward. For example, the first feeding point501may be a portion protruding from the inside of the first side surface213ain the x-axis direction. In an embodiment, the first conductive portion2010may be electrically connected to the first wireless communication circuit510(e.g., the first wireless communication circuit510inFIG.5A) disposed on the printed circuit board261through the first feeding point501, thereby operating as an antenna. In an embodiment, the first conductive portion2010may partially have a hole (h) in which the first electronic component560is operatively combined.

According to an embodiment, the second side surface213bmay include the second conductive portion2020(e.g., an antenna radiator) formed using the third segmenting portion2003and the fourth segmenting portion2004. For example, the second conductive portion2020may be disposed between the third segmenting portion2003and the fourth segmenting portion2004. In an embodiment, the second conductive portion2020may include the second feeding point502inward. For example, the second feeding point502may be a portion protruding from the inside of the second side surface213bin the negative x-axis direction. In an embodiment, the second conductive portion2020may be electrically connected to the second wireless communication circuit512(e.g., the second wireless communication circuit512inFIG.10) disposed on the printed circuit board261through the second feeding point502, thereby operating as an antenna(s).

According to an embodiment, the third side surface213cmay include the third conductive portion2030(e.g., an antenna radiator) formed using the fifth segmenting portion2005and the sixth segmenting portion2006. For example, the third conductive portion2030may be disposed between the fifth segmenting portion2005and the sixth segmenting portion2006. In an embodiment, the third conductive portion2030may include the third feeding point503inward. For example, the third feeding point503may be a portion protruding from the inside of the third side surface213cin the negative y-axis direction. In another embodiment, the third conductive portion2030may be electrically connected to the third wireless communication circuit513(e.g., the wireless communication module192inFIG.1) disposed on the printed circuit board261through the third feeding point503, thereby operating as an antenna.

According to various embodiments, the printed circuit board261may include a third wireless communication circuit513, the matching circuit520, the processor530, and/or the connector540. A second electronic component1300may be disposed at least in part between the printed circuit board261and the third conductive portion2030. For example, the second electronic component1300may be disposed adjacent, directly or indirectly, to the third conductive portion2030.

According to an embodiment, the third wireless communication circuit513may be electrically connected to the third feeding point503disposed on the third conductive portion2030. The third wireless communication circuit513may be electrically connected to the processor530(e.g., the processor120inFIG.1). The third wireless communication circuit513may support the third conductive portion2030to transmit and/or receive a wireless signal. The third wireless communication circuit513may be electrically connected to the third feeding point503and/or the third conductive portion2030by using, for example, a conductive member (e.g., a C-clip).

According to an embodiment, the matching circuit520may be electrically connected to the processor530or the third wireless communication circuit513. For example, the matching circuit520may operate under the control of the processor530or the third wireless communication circuit513. Using the at least one switch522and the at least one passive electrical/conductive element524, the matching circuit520may connect or block an electrical signal inputted to the ground G through an electrical path526. Using the electrical path526, the matching circuit520may be electrically connected to the third conductive connection member553. The matching circuit520may be electrically connected to the ground G. The matching circuit520may be configured to electrically connect or electrically disconnect the third conductive connection member553and the ground G under the control of the processor530or the third wireless communication circuit513.

According to various embodiments, the matching circuit520may include the at least one switch522and the at least one passive element524(e.g., the first element 1, the second element 2, the third element 3, and/or the fourth element 4). The at least one switch522may be selectively connected to one of the at least one passive element524, that is, the first element 1, the second element 2, the third element 3, or the fourth element 4. In an embodiment, the at least one switch522may be electrically connected to the ground G of the printed circuit board261through the first element 1 to the fourth element 4. The ground G may be electrically connected to the connector540and/or the third conductive connection member553through one of the at least one passive element524selected using the at least one switch522. In an embodiment, the at least one passive electrical element524may include a resistor, an inductor, and/or a capacitor, for example and without limitation. Under the control of the processor530, the matching circuit520may control an electrical signal between the connector540and the ground G. The matching circuit520may include the embodiments illustrated inFIG.5C.

According to an embodiment, the processor530may be electrically connected to the third wireless communication circuit513and/or the matching circuit520. The processor530may control the third wireless communication circuit513and the matching circuit520. The processor530may include a communication processor and/or a radio frequency IC (RFIC).

According to an embodiment, the connector540may electrically connect a portion of the printed circuit board261and the third conductive connection member553. The connector540may be connected to the matching circuit520through the electrical path526. Using the connector540, the electrical path526may be electrically connected to the third conductive connection member553. Using the at least one switch522and the at least one passive element524of the matching circuit520, the electrical path526may be electrically connected to the ground G.

According to an embodiment, an electrical signal delivered through the connector540under the control of the processor530may be transmitted to the second electronic component1300through the third conductive connection member553. A first end of the third conductive connection member553may be connected to the connector540, and a second end may be connected to the second electronic component1300. The third conductive connection member553may include the extension portion555illustrated inFIGS.8and9.

According to an embodiment, the second electronic component1300may be disposed at least in part between the printed circuit board261and the third conductive portion2030. The second electronic component1300and the third conductive portion2030may be disposed in a coupling structure. In case that at least a part of the third conductive portion2030operates as an antenna radiator, the second electronic component1300may generate coupling with the third conductive portion2030. In an embodiment, the antenna including at least a part of the third conductive portion2030may adjust the resonance frequency by the at least one passive element524included in the matching circuit520connected to the third conductive connection member553.

According to various embodiments, the second electronic component1300may include a sound output module (e.g., the sound output module155, including circuitry, inFIG.1) such as a speaker or a receiver, or a camera module (e.g., the camera module180, including at least one camera, inFIG.1).

According to various example embodiments, an electronic device101or200may include a housing210including a first side surface213a, a first conductive portion2010disposed between a first segmenting portion2001and a second segmenting portion2002formed in the first side surface213a, and including a first feeding point501, a printed circuit board261disposed inside the housing210and including a ground G, a first electronic component560disposed adjacent, directly or indirectly, to the first conductive portion2010, a first conductive connection member550electrically connected, directly or indirectly, to the first electronic component560, a first wireless communication circuit510electrically connected, directly or indirectly, to the first feeding point501, a processor530electrically connected, directly or indirectly, to the first wireless communication circuit510, and a matching circuit520electrically connected to the first conductive connection member550and the ground G, and configured to electrically connect and/or disconnect the first conductive connection member550and the ground G under control of the processor530. Each “processor” herein comprises processing circuitry.

According to various embodiments, the first electronic component560and the first conductive portion2010may be disposed in a coupling structure.

According to various embodiments, an antenna including at least a part of the first conductive portion2010may be configured to have a resonance frequency adjusted according to at least one passive element included in the matching circuit.

According to various embodiments, the matching circuit520may be electrically connected to the first conductive connection member550through an electrical path526and/or a connector540.

According to various embodiments, the matching circuit520may include at least one switch522, and at least one passive element524selectively connected to the at least one switch and having different element values.

According to various embodiments, the at least one passive electrical element524may include a resistor, an inductor, and/or a capacitor.

According to various embodiments, the matching circuit520may be configured to adjust a matching value under control of the processor530or the first wireless communication circuit.

According to various embodiments, the first electronic component560may include one of a power button, a fingerprint key, or a volume control button.

According to various embodiments, the first conductive connection member550may include an extension portion555having a specified length and/or shape.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device101or200may further include a second side surface213bforming a part of the housing210, a second conductive portion2020disposed between a third segmenting portion2003and a fourth segmenting portion2004formed in the second side surface213b, and including a second feeding point502, an antenna module1000disposed adjacent, directly or indirectly, to the second conductive portion2020, a second conductive connection member552electrically connected to the antenna module1000, and a second wireless communication circuit512electrically connected to the second feeding point502and the processor530, wherein the matching circuit520may be configured to electrically connect and/or disconnect the second conductive connection member552and the ground G under control of the processor530.

According to various embodiments, the antenna module1000and the second conductive portion2020may be disposed in a coupling structure.

According to various embodiments, the antenna module1000may be configured to operate in a first frequency band, and the second conductive portion2020may be configured to operate in a second frequency band.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device101or200may further include a third side surface213cforming a part of the housing210, a third conductive portion2030disposed between a fifth segmenting portion2005and a sixth segmenting portion2006formed in the third side surface213c, and including a third feeding point503, a second electronic component1300disposed adjacent, directly or indirectly, to the third conductive portion2030, a third conductive connection member553electrically connected to the second electronic component1300, and a third wireless communication circuit513electrically connected to the third feeding point503and the processor530, wherein the matching circuit520may be configured to electrically connect and/or disconnect the third conductive connection member553and the ground G under control of the processor530.

According to various embodiments, the second electronic component1300and the third conductive portion2030may be disposed in a coupling structure.

According to various embodiments, the second electronic component1300may include a sound output module (e.g., the sound output module155inFIG.1) or a camera module (e.g., the camera module180inFIG.1).

According to various example embodiments, an electronic device101or200may include a housing210including a first side surface213aand a second side surface213b, a first conductive portion2010disposed between a first segmenting portion2001and a second segmenting portion2002formed in the first side surface213a, and including a first feeding point501, a second conductive portion2020disposed between a third segmenting portion2003and a fourth segmenting portion2004formed in the second side surface213b, and including a second feeding point502, a printed circuit board261disposed at least partially inside the housing210and including a ground G, a first electronic component560disposed adjacent to, directly or indirectly, the first conductive portion2010, an antenna module1000disposed adjacent to, directly or indirectly, the second conductive portion2020, a first conductive connection member550electrically connected to the first electronic component560, a second conductive connection member552electrically connected to the antenna module1000, a first wireless communication circuit510electrically connected to the first feeding point501, a second wireless communication circuit512electrically connected to the second feeding point502, a processor530electrically connected to the first wireless communication circuit510and the second wireless communication circuit512, and a matching circuit520electrically connected to the first conductive connection member550and the ground G and/or to the second conductive connection member552and the ground G, and configured to electrically connect or disconnect the first conductive connection member550and the ground G and/or the second conductive connection member552and the ground G under control of the processor530.

According to various embodiments, the first electronic component560and the first conductive portion2010may be disposed in a coupling structure, and the antenna module1000and the second conductive portion2020may be disposed in a coupling structure.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device101or200may further include a third side surface213cforming a part of the housing210, a third conductive portion2030disposed between a fifth segmenting portion2005and a sixth segmenting portion2006formed in the third side surface213c, and including a third feeding point503, a second electronic component1300disposed adjacent, directly or indirectly, to the third conductive portion2030, a third conductive connection member553electrically connected to the second electronic component1300, and a third wireless communication circuit513electrically connected to the third feeding point503and the processor530, wherein the matching circuit520may be configured to electrically connect or disconnect the third conductive connection member553and the ground G under control of the processor530.

According to various embodiments, the second electronic component1300and the third conductive portion2030may be disposed in a coupling structure.

According to various embodiments, the first electronic component560may include one of a power button, a fingerprint key, or a volume control button, and the second electronic component1300may include a sound output module (e.g., the sound output module155inFIG.1) or a camera module (e.g., the camera module180inFIG.1).

In the foregoing, the disclosure has been described with reference to various example embodiments, but it is evident that changes and modifications made by a person ordinarily skilled in the art to which the disclosure belongs without departing from the technical spirit of the disclosure f all within the scope of the disclosure. While the above has been illustrated and described with reference to various example embodiments, it will be understood that the various example embodiments are intended to be illustrative, not limiting. It will be further understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and detail may be made with out departing from the true spirit and full scope of the disclosure, including the appended claims and their equivalents. It will also be understood that any embodiment(s) described herein may be used in conjunction with any other embodiment(s) described herein.