Patent ID: 12249840

With regard to description of the drawings, identical or similar reference numerals may be used to refer to identical or similar components.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Hereinafter, various example embodiments of the disclosure may be described with reference to accompanying drawings. Those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that modifications, equivalents, and/or alternatives on the various example embodiments described herein can be variously made without departing from the scope and spirit of the disclosure.

FIG.1is a front perspective view of an electronic device according to various embodiments.FIG.2is a rear perspective view of the electronic device according to various embodiments.

Referring toFIGS.1and2, the electronic device100may include a housing110that includes a first surface (or, a front surface)110A, a second surface (or, a rear surface)110B, and a side surface110C surrounding a space between the first surface110A and the second surface110B.

In another embodiment (not illustrated), the housing110may refer to a structure that forms some of the first surface110A, the second surface110B, and the side surface110C.

In an embodiment, the first surface110A may be formed by a front plate102(e.g., a front plate120ofFIG.3), at least a portion of which is substantially transparent. For example, the front plate102may include a glass plate including various coating layers, or a polymer plate.

In an embodiment, the second surface110B may be formed by a back plate111(e.g., a back plate180ofFIG.3) that is substantially opaque. The back plate111may be formed of, for example, coated or colored glass, ceramic, polymer, metal (e.g., aluminum, stainless steel (STS), or magnesium), or a combination of at least two of the aforementioned materials. The side surface110C may be formed by a side bezel structure118(e.g., a frame structure141ofFIG.3) that is coupled with the front plate102and the back plate111and that contains metal and/or polymer.

In an embodiment, the back plate111and the side bezel structure118may be integrally formed with each other and may contain the same material (e.g., a metallic material such as aluminum).

In the illustrated embodiment, the front plate102may include two first areas110D that curvedly and seamlessly extend from partial areas of the first surface110A toward the back plate111. The first areas110D may be located at opposite long edges of the front plate102.

In the illustrated embodiment, the back plate111may include two second areas110E that curvedly and seamlessly extend from partial areas of the second surface110B toward the front plate102. The second areas110E may be located at opposite long edges of the back plate111.

In an embodiment, the front plate102(or, the back plate111) may include only one of the first areas110D (or, the second areas110E). Furthermore, in an embodiment, the front plate102(or, the back plate111) may not include a part of the first areas110D (or, the second areas110E).

In an embodiment, when viewed from a side of the electronic device100, the side bezel structure118may have a first thickness (or, width) at sides (e.g., short sides) not including the first areas110D or the second areas110E and may have a second thickness at sides (e.g., long sides) including the first areas110D or the second areas110E, the second thickness being smaller than the first thickness. In various embodiments, the side bezel structure118may be integrally formed with the back plate111.

In an embodiment, the electronic device100may include at least one of a display101(e.g., a display130ofFIG.3), audio modules103,104, and107, a sensor module (not illustrated), a second sensor module106, camera modules105and112, key input devices117, a light emitting element (not illustrated), and/or a connector hole108. In an embodiment, at least one component (e.g., the key input devices117or the light emitting element (not illustrated)) among the aforementioned components may be omitted from the electronic device100, or other component(s) may be additionally included in the electronic device100.

In an embodiment, the display101may be exposed through at least a portion of the front plate102. For example, at least a portion of the display101may be exposed through the front plate102that includes the first surface110A and the first areas110D of the side surface110C.

In an embodiment, the shape of the display101may be formed to be substantially the same as the shape of the adjacent outside edge of the front plate102. In an embodiment (not illustrated), to expand the area by which the display101is exposed, the gap between the periphery of the display101and the periphery of the front plate102may be substantially constant.

In an embodiment, a surface of the housing110(or, the front plate102) may include a screen display area through which the display101is visually exposed and on which contents are displayed through pixels. For example, the screen display area may include the first surface110A and the first areas110D of the side surface.

In an embodiment (not illustrated), the display101may include, or may be disposed adjacent to, touch detection circuitry, a pressure sensor for measuring the intensity (pressure) of a touch, and/or a digitizer for detecting a stylus pen of a magnetic field type.

In an embodiment, the screen display area110A and110D may include a sensing area110F and/or a camera area110G.

In an embodiment, the sensing area110F may at least partially overlap the screen display area110A and110D. The sensing area110F may refer to an area that displays contents likewise to the other areas of the screen display area110A and110D and through which an input signal related to the second sensor module106additionally passes.

In an embodiment, at least a portion of the second sensor module106may be disposed under the screen display area110A and110D. The second sensor module106may form the sensing area110F in at least a portion of the screen display area110A and110D. The second sensor module106may be configured to receive an input signal passing through the sensing area110F and generate an electrical signal based on the received input signal. For example, the input signal may have a specified physical quantity (e.g., heat, light, temperature, sound, pressure, or ultrasonic waves). For example, the input signal may include a signal related to biometric information (e.g., a fingerprint) of a user.

For example, the second sensor module106may include an optical fingerprint sensor configured to receive light. For example, the second sensor module106may be configured to receive an optical signal that is emitted from a pixel included in the display101and reflected by a fingerprint of the user's finger and that passes through the sensing area110F.

For example, the second sensor module106may include an ultrasonic fingerprint sensor configured to transmit and receive ultrasonic waves. For example, the second sensor module106may include a transmitting module that transmits ultrasonic waves toward a fingerprint of the user's finger and a receiving module that receives the ultrasonic waves that are reflected by the finger and that pass through the sensing area110F.

In an embodiment, the camera area may at least partially overlap the screen display area110A and110D. The camera area110G may refer to an area (e.g., a transmissive area) that displays contents likewise to the other areas of the screen display area110A and110D and through which an optical signal related to the first sensor module105additionally passes. For example, the camera area110G may be configured to display contents likewise to the other areas of the screen display area110A and110D when the first camera module105does not operate. In an embodiment, the camera area110G of the display101may be formed to be a transmissive area having a specified transmittance. For example, the transmissive area may have a transmittance of about 20% to about 40%. The transmissive area may include an area having a lower pixel density and/or wiring density than a surrounding area.

In an embodiment, the first camera module105may be at least partially disposed under the screen display area110A and110D and may be configured to receive light passing through the camera area110G. For example, the light received by the first camera module105may include light reflected by or emitted from an object. The first camera module105may be configured to generate an image-related electrical signal based on the received light. The first camera module105may not be exposed on a surface (e.g., the front surface110A) of the electronic device100. For example, the first camera module105may be hidden by contents displayed on the camera area110G. For example, the optical axis of a lens included in the first camera module105may be disposed to pass through the camera area110G included in the display101.

In an embodiment, the second camera module112may include a plurality of camera modules (e.g., a dual camera, a triple camera, or a quad camera). However, the second camera module112is not necessarily limited to including the plurality of camera modules and may include one camera module.

In an embodiment, the first camera module105and/or the second camera module112may include one or more lenses, an image sensor, and/or an image signal processor. A flash113may include, for example, a light emitting diode or a xenon lamp. In an embodiment, two or more lenses (an infrared camera lens, a wide angle lens, and a telephoto lens) and image sensors may be disposed in the housing to face toward one surface (e.g., the second surface110B) of the electronic device100.

In an embodiment, the sensor module (not illustrated) may generate an electrical signal or a data value that corresponds to an operational state inside the electronic device100or an environmental state external to the electronic device100. In an embodiment, the sensor module (not illustrated) may be disposed on at least a portion of the first surface110A, the second surface110B, or the side surface110C (e.g., the first areas110D and/or the second areas110E) of the housing110.

In various embodiments, the sensor module and/or the second sensor module106may include at least one of a proximity sensor, an HRM sensor, a fingerprint sensor, a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, an atmospheric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a color sensor, an infrared (IR) sensor, a biosensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or an illuminance sensor. In various embodiments (not illustrated), the fingerprint sensor may be disposed on the second surface110B.

In an embodiment, the audio modules103,104, and107may include the microphone holes103and104and the speaker hole107.

In an embodiment, the microphone holes103and104may include the first microphone hole103formed in a partial area of the side surface110C and the microphone hole104formed in a partial area of the second surface110B. Microphones for obtaining external sounds may be disposed in the housing110to correspond to the microphone holes103and104. The microphones may each include a plurality of microphones to detect the direction of a sound. In an embodiment, the second microphone hole104formed in the partial area of the second surface110B may be disposed adjacent to the camera modules105and112. For example, the second microphone hole104may obtain sounds when the camera modules105and112are executed, or may obtain sounds when other functions are executed.

In an embodiment, the speaker hole107may include a receiver hole for telephone call (not illustrated). The speaker hole107may be formed in a portion of the side surface110C of the electronic device100. In an embodiment, the speaker hole107, together with the microphone hole103, may be implemented as a single hole. Although not illustrated, the receiver hole for telephone call (not illustrated) may be formed in another portion of the side surface110C. For example, the receiver hole for telephone call (not illustrated) may be formed in another portion (e.g., a portion facing the +Y-axis direction) of the side surface110C that faces the portion (e.g., a portion facing the −Y-axis direction) of the side surface110C in which the speaker hole107is formed.

In an embodiment, the electronic device100may include a speaker fluidly connected with the speaker hole107. In an embodiment, the speaker may include a piezoelectric speaker that does not have the speaker hole107.

In an embodiment, the key input devices117may be disposed on the side surface110C (e.g., the first areas110D and/or the second areas110E) of the housing110. In an embodiment, the electronic device100may not include all or some of the key input devices117, and the key input devices117not included may be implemented in a different form, such as a soft key, on the display101. In an embodiment, the key input devices may include the second sensor module106that forms the sensing area110F included in the screen display area110A and110D.

In an embodiment, the connector hole108may accommodate a connector. The connector hole108may be disposed in the side surface110C of the housing110. For example, the connector hole108may be disposed in the side surface110cso as to be adjacent to at least a part of the audio modules (e.g., the microphone hole103and the speaker hole107). In an embodiment, the electronic device100may include the first connector hole108capable of accommodating a connector (e.g., a USB connector) for transmitting/receiving power and/or data with an external electronic device, and/or a second connector hole (not illustrated) capable of accommodating a connector (e.g., an earphone jack) for transmitting/receiving audio signals with an external electronic device.

In an embodiment, the electronic device100may include the light emitting element (not illustrated). For example, the light emitting element (not illustrated) may be disposed on the first surface110A of the housing110. The light emitting element (not illustrated) may provide state information of the electronic device100in the form of light. In an embodiment, the light emitting element (not illustrated) may provide a light source that operates in conjunction with operation of the first camera module105. For example, the light emitting element (not illustrated) may include an LED, an IR LED, and/or a xenon lamp.

FIG.3is an exploded perspective view of the electronic device according to various embodiments.

Referring toFIG.3, the electronic device100may include the front plate120(e.g., the front plate102ofFIG.1), the display130(e.g., the display101ofFIG.1), a support member140(e.g., a bracket), a first circuit board200, a second circuit board151, a third circuit board152, a battery154, and the back plate180(e.g., the back plate111ofFIG.2). In various embodiments, at least one of the aforementioned components may be omitted from the electronic device100, or other component(s) may be additionally included in the electronic device100. At least one of the components of the electronic device100may be identical or similar to at least one of the components of the electronic device100ofFIG.1orFIG.2, and repetitive descriptions will hereinafter be omitted.

In various embodiments, the front plate120, the back plate180, and a frame structure141of the support member140may form the housing (e.g., the housing110ofFIGS.1and2). In various embodiments, the front plate120and the display130may be referred to as the display module. For example, the front plate120may include at least one layer included in the display module.

In an embodiment, the support member (e.g., a support)140may include the frame structure (e.g., a frame)141and a plate structure (e.g., a plate)142. In an embodiment, the frame structure141may be formed to surround the periphery of the plate structure142. For example, the frame structure141may form a portion of the housing (e.g., the housing110ofFIG.1). For example, the frame structure141may surround the space between the front plate120and the back plate180and may form a portion of a surface (e.g., the side surface) of the electronic device100. For example, the frame structure141may be formed to connect the periphery of the front plate120and the periphery of the back plate180. In an embodiment, the plate structure142may be a structure on which various structures included in the electronic device are disposed. For example, the display130, the first circuit board200, the second circuit board151, and the third circuit board152may be disposed on the plate structure142.

In an embodiment, the plate structure142of the support member140may include a first surface140aat least partially facing the display130and a second surface140bat least partially facing the back plate180. For example, the first surface140amay be a surface facing the +z-axis direction, and the second surface140bmay be a surface facing the −z-axis direction. In an embodiment, an opening145penetrating the first surface140aand the second surface140bmay be formed in the plate structure142. In an embodiment, at least a portion of the display130may be located on the first surface140aof the plate structure142. In an embodiment, at least a portion of each of the first circuit board200, the second circuit board151, and the third circuit board152may be located on the second surface140bof the plate structure142. In an embodiment, the battery154may be disposed in the opening145of the plate structure142.

In an embodiment, the plate structure142may include a first portion142-1on one side of the opening145and a second portion142-2on an opposite side of the opening145. For example, the first portion142-1may be located in the +y-axis direction with respect to the opening145, and the second portion142-2may be located in the −y-axis direction with respect to the opening145. For example, at least a portion of the second circuit board151may be disposed on the first portion142-1. For example, at least a portion of the third circuit board152may be disposed on the second portion142-2.

In an embodiment, the battery154, which is a device for supplying power to at least one component of the electronic device100, may include, for example, a primary cell that is not rechargeable, a secondary cell that is rechargeable, or a fuel cell. In an embodiment, the battery154may be disposed in the opening145of the plate structure142.

In an embodiment, when the support member140(e.g., the first surface140aof the plate structure142) is viewed from above, the battery154may be formed in a size smaller than or substantially the same as the size of the opening145. For example, when the battery is viewed in the +z-axis direction, the battery154may be formed so as not to overlap the support member140. For example, when viewed in the +z-axis direction, the battery154may not be supported by the first portion142-1, the second portion142-2, and the frame structure141that are around the opening145.

In an embodiment, when the support member140(e.g., the second surface140bof the plate structure142) is viewed from above, the battery154may be formed in a size smaller than or substantially the same as the size of the opening145. For example, when the battery is viewed in the −z-axis direction, the battery154may be formed so as not to overlap the support member140. For example, when viewed in the −z-axis direction, the battery154may not be supported by the first portion142-1, the second portion142-2, and the frame structure141that are around the opening145.

In an embodiment, the battery154may be attached to the surface of the first circuit board200that faces the +z direction. For example, the battery154may be fixed to the inside of the opening145through the first circuit board200.

In an embodiment, the first circuit board200may be disposed to at least partially cover the opening145of the plate structure142. In an embodiment, the first circuit board200may electrically connect the second circuit board151and the third circuit board152. For example, a conductive pattern for electrically connecting the second circuit board151and the third circuit board152may be formed on the first circuit board200.

In an embodiment, when viewed in the +z-axis or −z-axis direction, the first circuit board200may be formed to be at least partially larger than the opening145. For example, the first circuit board200may be formed to be longer in the y-axis directions than the opening145and/or may be formed to be longer in the x-axis directions than the opening145. For example, the first circuit board200may be coupled by the frame structure141and/or at least one of the first portion142-1or the second portion142-2around the opening145.

In an embodiment, a fixing bracket230may be coupled to an edge of the first circuit board200. The fixing bracket230may be coupled to the frame structure141or the first portion142-1or the second portion142-2of the plate structure142. Accordingly, the first circuit board200may be fixedly coupled to the support member140. For example, the fixing bracket230may be disposed at the edges of the first circuit board200that face the +y-axis/−y-axis directions.

In an embodiment, an antenna pattern may be formed on the first circuit board200. For example, the antenna pattern may be formed on the surface of the first circuit board200that faces toward the back plate180. The antenna pattern may include, for example, a near field communication (NFC) antenna, a wireless charging antenna, an ultra wide band (UWB) antenna, and/or a magnetic secure transmission (MST) antenna. For example, the antenna pattern may be configured to perform short-range communication with an external device or wirelessly transmit and receive power required for charging.

In an embodiment, a processor, memory, and/or an interface may be disposed on the second circuit board151and the third circuit board152. The processor may include, for example, one or more of a central processing unit, an application processor, a graphic processing unit, an image signal processor, a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor. In an embodiment, the interface may include, for example, a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB) interface, an SD card interface, and/or an audio interface. For example, the interface may electrically or physically connect the electronic device100with an external electronic device and may include a USB connector, an SD card/MMC connector, or an audio connector.

In an embodiment, the memory may include, for example, volatile memory or nonvolatile memory.

FIG.4is a cross-sectional view of the electronic device according to various embodiments.FIG.4is a sectional view taken along line A-A illustrated inFIG.2.

Referring toFIG.4, the battery154may be disposed in the opening145of the support member140. The support member140may include the frame structure141that is disposed between the front plate120and the back plate180and that forms a portion of a surface of the electronic device100. For example, the frame structure141may support the display130, the periphery of the front plate120, and the periphery of the back plate180.

In an embodiment, the opening145of the support member140may be substantially formed through the support member140in the z-axis directions. For example, referring toFIG.4, the opening145may be formed in a size larger than or substantially the same as the size of the battery154. For example, when viewed on the section illustrated inFIG.4, the opening145may be defined between the frame structures141of the support member140.

In an embodiment, the battery154may be formed so as not to overlap the support member140when viewed in the z-axis directions. That is, the support member140may not extend between the battery154and the back plate180and between the battery154and the front plate120. In an embodiment, the battery154may be attached to one surface of the first circuit board200.

In an embodiment, the first circuit board200may be disposed between the battery154and the back plate180. In various embodiments, when viewed in the x-axis directions and/or the y-axis directions, the first circuit board200may be formed to be larger than the battery154. The first circuit board200may be fixed to the structures of the support member140(e.g., the frame structure141, and the first portion142-1and the second portion142-2of the plate structure142) and may support the battery154such that the battery154is located in the opening145.

According to an embodiment, as the battery154is supported by the first circuit board200and is not supported by the support member140, the space between the battery154and the display130may be reduced, and the overall thickness of the electronic device100may be decreased. The electronic device100according to an embodiment may be configured such that a portion of the battery154is disposed in the space occupied by the support member140. Accordingly, the electronic device100may include the battery154having a relatively large size (e.g., thickness) without an increase in thickness.

FIG.5is a diagram illustrating the first circuit board and the fixing bracket of the electronic device according to various embodiments.FIG.6is an exploded perspective view illustrating the first circuit board and the fixing bracket of the electronic device according to various embodiments.

Referring toFIG.5, the first circuit board200may include a rigid-flexible printed circuit board (RFPCB) that is at least partially flexible. For example, the first circuit board200may include a rigid area201on which a charging coil is disposed or a charging coil pattern211is formed and flexible areas202and203(e.g., the shaded portions in the drawing) that flexibly extend from the rigid area201to a second circuit board (e.g., the second circuit board151ofFIG.3) or a third circuit board (e.g., the third circuit board152ofFIG.3). For example, the flexible areas202and203may include the first flexible area202extending from the rigid area201to the second circuit board and the second flexible area203extending from the rigid area201to the third circuit board.

In an embodiment, the first flexible area202may extend in the y-axis direction from the rigid area201, and the second flexible area203may extend in the −y-axis direction from the rigid area201.

In an embodiment, the first circuit board200may include a plurality of conductive patterns. For example, the plurality of conductive patterns may include a charging coil pattern211related to wireless charging of the battery154, an antenna pattern214related to a communication function of the electronic device100, a first conductive pattern212connecting the second circuit board (e.g., the second circuit board151ofFIG.3) and the third circuit board (e.g., the third circuit board152ofFIG.3), and a second conductive pattern213related to the display (e.g., the display130ofFIG.3).

However, the first conductive pattern212and the second conductive pattern213illustrated in the drawings are merely illustrative, and the positions, shapes, and structures of the first conductive pattern212and the second conductive pattern213are not limited to those illustrated in the drawings.

For example, the charging coil pattern211may be formed on the rigid area201of the first circuit board200. The charging coil pattern211may be configured to interact with a coil located outside the electronic device100to supply power to the battery154. Power applied through the charging coil pattern211may be directly supplied to the battery154, or may be supplied to the battery154through the second circuit board151or the third circuit board152. In various embodiments, the charging coil pattern211may be replaced with a charging module separately provided to be disposed on the first circuit board200.

For example, the antenna pattern214may include a near field communication (NFC) antenna and/or a magnetic secure transmission (MST) antenna. The antenna pattern214may be electrically connected to a communication module disposed on the second circuit board (e.g., the second circuit board151ofFIG.3) and/or the third circuit board (e.g., the third circuit board152ofFIG.3). For example, the antenna pattern214may be connected with the communication module through a conductive pattern extending through the first flexible area202and a conductive pattern extending through the second flexible area203.

For example, the first conductive pattern212may electrically connect an interface module (e.g., a USB input/output module) and/or an LTE antenna pattern disposed on the third circuit board (e.g., the third circuit board152ofFIG.3) and a processor disposed on the second circuit board (e.g., the second circuit board151ofFIG.3). For example, the first conductive pattern212may extend from the first flexible area202to the second flexible area203through the rigid area201.

For example, the second conductive pattern213may be configured to electrically connect a display driver IC (e.g., a display driver IC138ofFIG.3) located on the rear surface of the display (e.g., the display130ofFIG.3) and the second circuit board (e.g., the second circuit board151ofFIG.3) and/or the third circuit board (e.g., the third circuit board152ofFIG.3). For example, the second conductive pattern213may electrically connect the third circuit board152to which the display driver IC138is connected and the second circuit board151on which the processor is disposed. For example, the second conductive pattern213may extend to at least a part of the second flexible area203, the rigid area201, and the first flexible area202.

In various embodiments, the first circuit board200may further include a third conductive pattern (not illustrated) that is related to a 5G antenna module. For example, the 5G antenna module may be located in a recess formed on the frame structure (e.g., the frame structure141ofFIG.3) of the support member (e.g., the support member140ofFIG.3), and the recess may be formed adjacent to the opening145of the support member140. The third conductive pattern (not illustrated) may electrically connect the 5G antenna module and the processor disposed on the second circuit board151or the third circuit board152.

Referring toFIGS.5and6, the electronic device100may further include the fixing bracket230. The fixing bracket230may couple the first circuit board200and the support member (e.g., the support member140ofFIG.3).

In an embodiment, the fixing bracket230may include a first fixing bracket230-1coupled to a first edge of the first circuit board200and a second fixing bracket230-2coupled to a second edge of the first circuit board200. For example, the first edge and the second edge may be edges of the first circuit board200that face the y-axis directions.

For example, referring toFIGS.6and7together, the first fixing bracket230-1may be coupled to the first portion142-1of the plate structure142of the support member140, and the second fixing bracket230-2may be coupled to the second portion142-2of the plate structure142of the support member140. In an embodiment, the first circuit board200may be disposed to cover the opening145. In an embodiment, the fixing bracket230may include an attachment portion231attached to the first circuit board200and a coupling portion232coupled to the support member140. The attachment portion231may be attached to a third surface200bof the first circuit board200. For example, the attachment portion231may be attached to the third surface200bof the first circuit board200through a double-sided tape. The third surface200bof the first circuit board200may be a surface facing away from a fourth surface200aon which a conductive pattern, such as an antenna pattern, is formed. For example, the attachment portion231of the first fixing bracket230-1may be attached to a first edge of the third surface200bof the first circuit board200, and the attachment portion231of the second fixing bracket230-2may be attached to a second edge of the third surface200bof the first circuit board200. In various embodiments, a plurality of attachment portions231may be formed, and the coupling portion232may be formed between adjacent attachment portions. In an embodiment, the coupling portion232may have a screw hole into which a screw is inserted to enable screw coupling.

In an embodiment, the fixing bracket230may extend in the x-axis directions and may be coupled to opposite edges of the first circuit board200that face the y-axis directions. The coupling portion232of the fixing bracket230may include a second coupling portion232bcoupled to the frame structure (e.g., the frame structure141ofFIG.6) and a first coupling portion232acoupled to the plate structure (e.g., the plate structure142ofFIG.6). For example, the second coupling portion232bmay be formed on a portion extending longer in the x-axis direction than the first circuit board200.

FIG.7is a diagram illustrating the support member of the electronic device when viewed from above according to various embodiments.

In an embodiment, the first circuit board200may be formed to be larger than the opening145to cover the opening145of the support member140. For example, the first circuit board200, when viewed in the x-axis directions or the y-axis directions, may extend longer than the opening145. For example, when the support member140is viewed from above, the first circuit board200may be disposed to at least partially overlap at least one of the first portion142-1, the second portion142-2, and/or the frame structure141of the support member140. For example, referring to the drawing, the first circuit board200may be disposed such that the first edge overlaps the first portion142-1, the second edge overlaps the second portion142-2, and other portions overlap the frame structure141.

In an embodiment, the first coupling portion232aof the first fixing bracket230-1may be coupled to the first portion142-1, and the second coupling portion232bof the first fixing bracket230-1may be coupled to the frame structure141. As the first fixing bracket230-1is coupled to the frame structure141and the first portion142-1, the torsional rigidity of the first circuit board200and the support member140may be reinforced. For example, the first fixing bracket230-1may extend longer in the x-axis directions than the opening145to at least partially overlap the frame structure141. The second coupling portion232bmay be formed on the extending portion.

In an embodiment, the first coupling portion232aof the second fixing bracket230-2may be coupled to the second portion142-2, and the second coupling portion232bof the second fixing bracket230-2may be coupled to the frame structure141. As the second fixing bracket230-2is coupled to the frame structure141and the second portion142-2, the torsional rigidity of the first circuit board200and the support member140may be reinforced. For example, the second fixing bracket230-2may extend longer in the x-axis directions than the opening145to at least partially overlap the frame structure141. The second coupling portion232bmay be formed on the extending portion.

In an embodiment, the first circuit board200may be disposed such that the first flexible area202at least partially overlaps the first portion142-1of the support member140and the second flexible area203at least partially overlaps the second portion142-2of the support member140. For example, the first flexible area202may extend to the first portion142-1so as to be connected to the second circuit board (e.g., the second circuit board151ofFIG.3) disposed on the first portion142-1. For example, the second flexible area203may extend to the second portion142-2so as to be connected to the third circuit board (e.g., the third circuit board152ofFIG.3) disposed on the second portion142-2.

In an embodiment, the rigid area201of the first circuit board200and the fixing bracket230may reinforce the rigidity of the support member140having the opening145formed therein.

In various embodiments, the fixing bracket230may be formed to at least partially cross the opening145. In various embodiments, the fixing bracket230may be coupled with the support member140in the x-axis direction and the y-axis direction. For example, the fixing bracket230may be coupled to the frame structure141in the x-axis direction and may be coupled to the first portion142-1or the second portion142-2in the y-axis direction. Accordingly, the bending rigidity and the torsional rigidity of the electronic device100may be improved.

In various embodiments, the fixing bracket230may be formed of a material capable of providing a predetermined (e.g., specified) strength. For example, the fixing bracket230may contain SUS.

In various embodiments, the shape and/or structure of the fixing bracket230is not limited to that illustrated in the drawing, and the fixing bracket230may include various shapes and/or structures. For example, the fixing bracket230may further include a third fixing bracket extending in the y-axis directions.

In various embodiments, a second antenna pattern (not illustrated) may be formed on a portion of the frame structure141that is adjacent to the second portion142-2of the plate structure142or the third circuit board152. The second antenna pattern may be related to LTE communication. In this case, the second antenna pattern may be connected to the processor or the communication module on the second circuit board151through a conductive pattern (e.g., the first conductive pattern212) included in the first circuit board200.

In various embodiments, an ultra wide band (UWB) antenna216may be disposed on the plate structure142. For example, referring to the drawing, the UWB antenna216may be disposed on the first portion142-1. The UWB antenna216may be connected to the processor or the communication module through a conductive pattern (e.g., the first conductive pattern212) and the first flexible area202that are included in the first circuit board200.

FIG.8is a perspective view illustrating the first circuit board, the fixing bracket, and the battery of the electronic device according to various embodiments.FIG.9is an exploded perspective view illustrating the first circuit board, the fixing bracket, and the battery of the electronic device according to various embodiments.

In an embodiment, the battery154may be at least partially attached to the rear surface of the first circuit board200. For example, the battery154may be disposed on the rear surface (e.g., the third surface200b) of the rigid area201of the first circuit board200. The battery154may be formed to be smaller than the first circuit board200. For example, the battery154may have a smaller length in the y-axis direction than the first circuit board200when viewed in the y-axis direction and may have a length less than or equal to that of the first circuit board200in the x-axis direction when viewed in the x-axis direction.

In an embodiment, the first fixing bracket230-1and the second fixing bracket230-2may be disposed on areas to which the battery154is not attached. For example, when the first circuit board200is viewed from above, the first fixing bracket230-1and the second fixing bracket230-2may be located in the +y/−y-axis directions with respect to the battery154.

Referring toFIG.8, the rigid area201of the first circuit board200may include a first edge portion P1that is an edge facing the y-axis direction and a second edge portion P2that is an edge facing the −y-axis direction. The first edge portion P1may include a portion extending longer in the y-axis direction than the battery154when the first circuit board200is viewed from above (e.g., when the first circuit board200is viewed in the z-axis direction). The second edge portion P2may include a portion extending longer in the −y-axis direction than the battery154when the first circuit board200is viewed from above (e.g., when the first circuit board200is viewed in the z-axis direction). Referring toFIG.8, the first fixing bracket230-1may be attached to the first edge portion P1, and the second fixing bracket230-2may be attached to the second edge portion P2. Referring toFIG.8, the first flexible area202may extend from the first edge portion P1of the rigid area201in the y-axis direction and may be connected to the second circuit board (e.g., the second circuit board151ofFIG.3). The second flexible area203may extend from the second edge portion P2of the rigid area201in the −y-axis direction and may be connected to the third circuit board (e.g., the third circuit board152ofFIG.3).

Referring toFIG.9, an adhesive member (e.g., an adhesive, an adhesive layer or an adhesive sheet)250may be disposed between the first circuit board200and the battery154. The adhesive member250may have an adhesive material applied thereto, or may include a double-sided tape. For example, the adhesive member250may be smaller than the battery154, but may have an area by which the battery154and the first circuit board200are firmly attached to each other.

In various embodiments, the electronic device100may further include a graphite sheet (not shown) disposed on the third surface200bof the first circuit board200. The graphite sheet may be configured to dissipate heat generated from the first circuit board and the battery. For example, the graphite sheet may be located between the battery154and the first circuit board200. For example, the graphite sheet may efficiently radiate heat generated from the battery154and the first circuit board200to the support member.

In an embodiment, the battery154may further include a connecting member (e.g., connector)158for power transmission/reception. The connecting member158may be connected to the first circuit board200, or may be connected to the second circuit board151. For example, for connection with the second circuit board (e.g., the second circuit board151ofFIG.3), the connecting member158may extend in the y-axis direction in which the second circuit board151is located. In an embodiment, the battery154may be supplied with power received through the charging coil pattern211. For example, the battery154may be supplied with the received power as the connecting member158is directly connected to the first circuit board200. Alternatively, the battery154may be supplied with power through the connecting member158connected to the second circuit board151. For example, in a wireless charging process, the battery154may receive power received from the charging coil pattern211through the connecting member158and transmitted to the second circuit board (e.g., the second circuit board151ofFIG.3).

FIGS.10A and10Bare views illustrating a first circuit board and a support member of an electronic device according to various embodiments.FIG.10Ais a partial perspective view illustrating a portion of the electronic device.FIG.10Bis a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A inFIG.10A.

Referring toFIG.10A, a frame structure141of the support member140may be formed to surround an opening145in which a battery154is accommodated. A rib148protruding in the z-axis direction may be formed on the frame structure141. The rib148may extend in the y-axis direction. The rib148may be formed on a partial area of the frame structure141that corresponds to the opening145. For example, the rib148may extend in the long-side direction of the electronic device100(e.g., the y-axis direction).

Referring toFIG.10A, the rib148is illustrated as being formed on one side of the battery154. However, without being necessarily limited thereto, in various embodiments, the rib148may be formed on opposite sides of the battery154.

Referring toFIG.10B, the battery154may be formed so as not to overlap the support member140when the battery154is viewed in the z-axis direction. For example, the opening145may be formed to be larger than the battery154. For example, the surface of the battery154that faces the −z-axis direction may directly face a display130as a whole.

Referring toFIG.10B, a back plate180may be attached to the frame structure141through an adhesive member149. In an embodiment, the rib148may protrude into the space between the adhesive member149and the first circuit board200. For example, the rib148may be configured to at least partially face or make contact with the back plate180in the z-axis direction. In an embodiment, the rib148may be formed on a portion of the frame structure141that is adjacent to the opening145. As the rib148protrudes from the frame structure141in the z-axis direction, the thickness of the frame structure141adjacent to the opening145may be increased. The frame structure141having the increased thickness may further reinforce the rigidity of the electronic device100. For example, the rib148may reinforce the torsional rigidity of the electronic device100.

FIG.11is a diagram illustrating an opening and a side-key insertion space of an electronic device according to various embodiments.

Referring toFIG.11, a frame structure141may have the side-key insertion space147into which a side key (e.g., the side key117ofFIG.1) is inserted. The side-key insertion space147may be formed in a portion of the frame structure141that extends in the y-axis direction. The side-key insertion space147may extend in the y-axis direction to correspond to the shape of the side key. For example, the side-key insertion space147may have the form of a recess or opening recessed in the z-axis direction.

In an embodiment, the frame structure141may include the portion extending in the y-axis direction. For example, the portion141yextending in the y-axis direction may include a first area141y-1connected to a plate structure142of a support member140and a second area141y-2that forms the opening145. For example, the second area141y-2may surround the opening145together with the plate structure142of the support member140. For example, the first area141y-1may include a portion adjacent to the first circuit board200.

In an embodiment, the side-key insertion space147may be formed in at least a portion of the first area141y-1. For example, the side-key insertion space147may not extend to the second area141y-2. For example, when viewed in the x-axis direction, the opening145and the side-key insertion space147may not overlap each other.

For example, in the case where the side-key insertion space147extends to the second area141y-2and the opening145and the side-key insertion space147partially overlap each other, the overlapping portion may degrade the rigidity of the electronic device100. For example, the overlapping portion may have a reduced metal volume, compared to another portion of the frame structure141. As the electronic device100according to an embodiment is configured such that the side-key insertion space147is formed in the first area141y-1and the opening145is formed in the second area141y-2, a metal portion of the frame structure141may have a predetermined (e.g., specified) volume, and the rigidity of the electronic device100may be secured.

FIGS.12A and12Bare views illustrating a first circuit board and a support member of an electronic device according to various embodiments.FIG.12Ais a partial exploded perspective view illustrating the first circuit board and the support member.FIG.12Bis a perspective view illustrating the first circuit board.FIG.13is a cross-sectional view of the electronic device taken along line A-A inFIG.12Aaccording to various embodiments.

Referring toFIGS.12A and12B, the electronic device100may include a first fixing bracket230-1, a second fixing bracket230-2, and one or more hooks240for coupling the first circuit board200and the support member140. For example, the first fixing bracket230-1may be coupled to the edge of the first circuit board200that faces the y-axis direction, and the second fixing bracket230-2may be coupled to the edge of the first circuit board200that faces the −y-axis direction.

In an embodiment, the one or more hooks240may be coupled to the edges of the first circuit board200that face the x-axis directions. For example, the hooks240may include a first hook241coupled to the edge facing the x-axis direction and a second hook242coupled to the edge facing the −x-axis direction. For example, a plurality of first hooks241and a plurality of second hooks242may be formed. For example, the plurality of first hooks241may be spaced apart from each other in the y-axis direction. The plurality of second hooks242may be spaced apart from each other in the y-axis direction.

In an embodiment, the hooks240may include a first area240asurface-coupled to the first circuit board200and a second area240bextending from the first area240ain the z-axis direction. For example, the first area240amay be coupled to the first circuit board200through, for example, a screw, a tape, or surface mounting (SMD). For example, an opening2401may be formed in the second area240b.

Referring toFIG.13, an inside surface of a frame structure141may include an area at least partially facing a battery154. A protrusion146protruding toward the battery154may be formed on the inside surface of the frame structure141. For example, the protrusion146may protrude in the x-axis direction. The protrusion146may be at least partially inserted into the opening2401formed in the second area240bof the hook240. The opening2401may be formed through the second area240bof the hook240in the x-axis direction. In various embodiments, a plurality of protrusions146may be formed to correspond to the number of hooks240and the number of openings2401.

The electronic device100according to an embodiment may include the plurality of hooks240for coupling the edges of the first circuit board200facing the x-axis directions to the frame structure141and the fixing brackets230-1and230-2for coupling the edges of the first circuit board200facing the y-axis directions to the frame structure141and the plate structure142and may thus secure a predetermined (e.g., specified) rigidity.

An electronic device according to example embodiments of the disclosure may include: a front plate that forms a front surface of the electronic device, a back plate that forms a rear surface of the electronic device, a support located between the front plate and the back plate and including a first surface facing the front plate and a second surface facing the back plate, the support having an opening formed through the first surface and the second surface, a display at least partially disposed on the first surface of the support, a first circuit board, at least a portion of which is disposed on the second surface of the support, the first circuit board including a rigid area at least partially covering the opening, and a battery disposed in the opening of the support member and having a size smaller than or substantially the same as a size of the opening when the first surface or the second surface \of the support is viewed from above, and the battery may be at least partially attached to the rigid area.

In various example embodiments, the second surface of the support may include a first portion located on one side of the opening and a second portion located on an opposite side of the opening, wherein the first circuit board may at least partially extend to each of the first portion and the second portion.

In various example embodiments, the first circuit board may include a wireless charging module including wireless charging circuitry or a wireless charging coil pattern at least partially disposed on the rigid area and configured to charge the battery.

In various example embodiments, the first circuit board may include a first flexible area extending from the rigid area to the first portion and a second flexible area extending from the rigid area to the second portion.

In various example embodiments, the electronic device may further include: a second circuit board disposed on the first portion of the support and a third circuit board disposed on the second portion of the support. The second circuit board may be electrically connected to the first circuit board through the first flexible area, and the third circuit board may be electrically connected to the first circuit board through the second flexible area.

In various example embodiments, the first circuit board may include a plurality of conductive patterns, and the plurality of conductive patterns may include a first conductive pattern formed on at least a part of the rigid area, the first flexible area, and the second flexible area to electrically connect the second circuit board and the third circuit board, a second conductive pattern electrically connected with a display driver integrated circuit (IC) of the display, and an antenna pattern electrically connected with a communication module including communication circuitry.

In various example embodiments, the electronic device may further include a fixing bracket coupling the support and the first circuit board, wherein the fixing bracket may extend to at least partially cross the opening.

In various example embodiments, the fixing bracket may include a coupling portion coupled to the support and an attachment portion attached to the first circuit board, and when the first circuit board is viewed from above, the coupling portion of the fixing bracket may overlap the support and the attachment portion may overlap the first circuit board.

In various example embodiments, the support may include a plate having the opening formed therein and a frame surrounding the plate and forms a surface of the electronic device together with the front plate and the back plate, and the coupling portion of the fixing bracket may include a first coupling portion coupled to the frame and a second coupling portion coupled to the plate.

In various example embodiments, the electronic device may further include an adhesive disposed between the first circuit board and the battery.

In various example embodiments, the electronic device may further include a heat radiating sheet disposed between the first circuit board and the battery and configured to transfer heat generated from the battery and the first circuit board to the support.

An electronic device according to example embodiments of the disclosure may include: a front plate that forms a front surface of the electronic device, a back plate that forms a rear surface of the electronic device, a support located between the front plate and the back plate and having an opening formed therein, a battery disposed in the opening, a first circuit board disposed on the support to at least partially cover the opening and attached to the battery, and a fixing bracket fixing the first circuit board to the support. The support may include a first portion located in a first direction from the opening and a second portion located in a second direction opposite to the first direction, and the fixing bracket may extend in a third direction substantially perpendicular to the first direction and the second direction to at least partially cross the opening.

In various example embodiments, the battery may have a size smaller than or substantially the same as a size of the opening when the support is viewed from above.

In various example embodiments, when the first circuit board is viewed from above, the fixing bracket may include a portion that extends longer in the third direction than the first circuit board.

In various example embodiments, the fixing bracket may include a first fixing bracket coupled to the first portion of the support and the first circuit board and a second fixing bracket coupled to the second portion of the support and the first circuit board.

In various example embodiments, the first circuit board may include a rigid area. When the first circuit board is viewed from above, the rigid area may include a first edge portion extending longer in the first direction than the battery and a second edge portion extending longer in the second direction than the battery. The first fixing bracket may include a first attachment area attached to the first edge portion and a first coupling portion—coupled to the first portion, and the second fixing bracket may include a second attachment area attached to the second edge portion and a second coupling portion coupled to the second portion.

In various example embodiments, the electronic device may further include a second circuit board disposed on the first portion and a third circuit board disposed on the second portion. The first circuit board may include a first flexible area extending from the first edge portion of the rigid area to the second circuit board and a second flexible area extending from the second edge portion of the rigid area to the third circuit board.

In various example embodiments, the support may include a plate including the first portion and the second portion and having the opening formed therein and a frame surrounding the plate structure and forming a surface of the electronic device together with the front plate and the back plate, and the fixing bracket may include a third coupling portion coupled to the frame.

In various example embodiments, the electronic device may further include an adhesive disposed between the first circuit board and the battery.

In various example embodiments, the first circuit board200may include a plurality of conductive patterns, and the plurality of conductive patterns may include a first conductive pattern formed on at least a part of the rigid area, the first flexible area, and the second flexible area to electrically connect the second circuit board and the third circuit board, a second conductive pattern electrically connected with a display driver integrated circuit (IC), and an antenna pattern electrically connected with a communication module comprising communication circuitry.

It should be appreciated that various embodiments of the 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), the element may be coupled with the other element directly (e.g., wiredly), wirelessly, or via a third element.

According to the situation, the expression “adapted to or configured to” used in this disclosure may be used interchangeably with, for example, the expression “suitable for”, “having the capacity to”, “adapted to”, “made to”, “capable of”, or “designed to” in hardware or software. The expression “a device configured to” may refer, for example, to the device being “capable of” operating together with another device or other components. For example, a “processor set to (or configured to) perform A, B, and C” may refer, for example, to a dedicated processor (e.g., an embedded processor) for performing corresponding operations or a generic-purpose processor (e.g., a CPU or an AP) that performs corresponding operations by executing one or more programs stored in a memory device (e.g., the memory130).

As used in connection with various embodiments of the disclosure, the term “module” may include a unit implemented in hardware, software, or firmware, or any combination thereof, 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. The “module” may be implemented mechanically or electronically and may include, for example, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) chip, field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), or a programmable-logic device for performing some operations, which are known or will be developed.

At least a part of an apparatus (e.g., modules or functions thereof) or a method (e.g., operations) according to various embodiments may be implemented by instructions stored in non-transitory computer-readable storage media (e.g., the memory130) in the form of a program module. The instructions, when executed by a processor (e.g., the processor120), may cause the processor to perform functions corresponding to the instructions. The non-transitory computer-readable storage media may include a hard disk, a floppy disk, a magnetic media (e.g., a magnetic tape), an optical media (e.g., CD-ROM, DVD, magneto-optical media (e.g., a floptical disk)), an embedded memory, and the like. The instructions may include a code made by a compiler or a code executable by an interpreter.

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.

While the disclosure 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 without 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 of the embodiment(s) described herein may be used in conjunction with any other embodiment(s) described herein.