Patent ID: 12192692

Throughout the drawings, like reference numerals will be understood to refer to like parts, components, and structures.

MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

The following description with reference to the accompanying drawings is provided to assist in a comprehensive understanding of various embodiments of the disclosure as defined by the claims and their equivalents. It includes various specific details to assist in that understanding but these are to be regarded as merely exemplary. Accordingly, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that various changes and modifications of the various embodiments described herein can be made without departing from the scope and spirit of the disclosure. In addition, descriptions of well-known functions and constructions may be omitted for clarity and conciseness.

The terms and words used in the following description and claims are not limited to the bibliographical meanings, but, are merely used by the inventor to enable a clear and consistent understanding of the disclosure. Accordingly, it should be apparent to those skilled in the art that the following description of various embodiments of the disclosure is provided for illustration purpose only and not for the purpose of limiting the disclosure as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

It is to be understood that the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to “a component surface” includes reference to one or more of such surfaces.

FIG.1is a block diagram illustrating an electronic device in a network environment according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

Referring toFIG.1, an electronic device101in a network environment100may communicate with an external electronic device102via a first network198(e.g., a short-range wireless communication network), or an external 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 external electronic device104via the server108. According to an embodiment, the electronic device101may include a processor120, a 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 a volatile memory132, process the command or the data stored in the volatile memory132, and store resulting data in a 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, for example, 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 (e.g., executing an application) state. 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 non-volatile memory134may include an internal memory136and an external memory138.

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 an external electronic device (e.g., an external electronic device102(e.g., a speaker or a headphone)) directly 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 external electronic device102) directly 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 external electronic device102). According to an embodiment, the connecting terminal178may include, for example, an HDMI connector, a USB connector, an 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 external electronic device102, the external 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 fifth-generation (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 or 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 external 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 module may include an antenna including a radiating element including 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 module190from 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, an 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 external 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 external devices 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 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 a third element.

As used in connection with various embodiments of the disclosure, 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).

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 or operations may be omitted, or one or more other components or operations 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, 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.2is a block diagram200illustrating an audio module according to an embodiment.

Referring toFIG.2, the audio module170may include, for example, an audio input interface210, an audio input mixer220, an analog-to-digital converter (ADC)230, an audio signal processor240, a digital-to-analog converter (DAC)250, an audio output mixer260, or an audio output interface270.

The audio input interface210may receive an audio signal corresponding to a sound obtained from the outside of the electronic device101via a microphone (e.g., a dynamic microphone, a condenser microphone, or a piezo microphone) that is configured as part of the input device150or separately from the electronic device101. For example, if an audio signal is obtained from the external electronic device102(e.g., a headset or a microphone), the audio input interface210may be connected with the external electronic device102directly via the connecting terminal178, or wirelessly (e.g., Bluetooth™ communication) via the wireless communication module192to receive the audio signal. According to an embodiment, the audio input interface210may receive a control signal (e.g., a volume adjustment signal received via an input button) related to the audio signal obtained from the external electronic device102. The audio input interface210may include a plurality of audio input channels and may receive a different audio signal via a corresponding one of the plurality of audio input channels, respectively. According to an embodiment, additionally or alternatively, the audio input interface210may receive an audio signal from another component (e.g., the processor120or the memory130) of the electronic device101.

The audio input mixer220may synthesize a plurality of inputted audio signals into at least one audio signal. For example, according to an embodiment, the audio input mixer220may synthesize a plurality of analog audio signals inputted via the audio input interface210into at least one analog audio signal.

The ADC230may convert an analog audio signal into a digital audio signal. For example, according to an embodiment, the ADC230may convert an analog audio signal received via the audio input interface210or, additionally or alternatively, an analog audio signal synthesized via the audio input mixer220into a digital audio signal.

The audio signal processor240may perform various processing on a digital audio signal received via the ADC230or a digital audio signal received from another component of the electronic device101. For example, according to an embodiment, the audio signal processor240may perform changing a sampling rate, applying one or more filters, interpolation processing, amplifying or attenuating a whole or partial frequency bandwidth, noise processing (e.g., attenuating noise or echoes), changing channels (e.g., switching between mono and stereo), mixing, or extracting a specified signal for one or more digital audio signals. According to an embodiment, one or more functions of the audio signal processor240may be implemented in the form of an equalizer.

The DAC250may convert a digital audio signal into an analog audio signal. For example, according to an embodiment, the DAC250may convert a digital audio signal processed by the audio signal processor240or a digital audio signal obtained from another component (e.g., the processor120or the memory130) of the electronic device101into an analog audio signal.

The audio output mixer260may synthesize a plurality of audio signals, which are to be outputted, into at least one audio signal. For example, according to an embodiment, the audio output mixer260may synthesize an analog audio signal converted by the DAC250and another analog audio signal (e.g., an analog audio signal received via the audio input interface210) into at least one analog audio signal.

The audio output interface270may output an analog audio signal converted by the DAC250or, additionally or alternatively, an analog audio signal synthesized by the audio output mixer260to the outside of the electronic device101via the sound output device155. The sound output device155may include, for example, a speaker, such as a dynamic driver or a balanced armature driver, or a receiver. According to an embodiment, the sound output device155may include a plurality of speakers. In such a case, the audio output interface270may output audio signals having a plurality of different channels (e.g., stereo channels or 5.1 channels) via at least some of the plurality of speakers. According to an embodiment, the audio output interface270may be connected with the external electronic device102(e.g., an external speaker or a headset) directly via the connecting terminal178or wirelessly via the wireless communication module192to output an audio signal.

According to an embodiment, the audio module170may generate, without separately including the audio input mixer220or the audio output mixer260, at least one digital audio signal by synthesizing a plurality of digital audio signals using at least one function of the audio signal processor240.

According to an embodiment, the audio module170may include an audio amplifier (not shown) (e.g., a speaker amplifying circuit) that is capable of amplifying an analog audio signal inputted via the audio input interface210or an audio signal that is to be outputted via the audio output interface270. According to an embodiment, the audio amplifier may be configured as a module separate from the audio module170.

FIG.3Ais a side view of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG.3Bis a top view of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

Referring toFIGS.3A and3B, an electronic device300(e.g., the electronic device100inFIG.1) may include a housing310for accommodating components of the electronic device300. For example, inside the housing310, sound components (e.g., the audio module170inFIG.2) and electronic components (e.g., the processor120, the power management module188, the battery189, or a wireless communication module192inFIG.1) may be arranged. The components of the electronic device300ofFIGS.3A and3Bmay be substantially the same as all or some of the components of the electronic device101ofFIG.1. Accordingly, a description of the same components may be omitted.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device300may include a wearable electronic device. For example, the electronic device300may be worn on a part of a body, for example, an ear or a head. According to an embodiment, the electronic device300may include an in-ear earset, an in-ear headset, or a hearing aid.

According to various embodiments, as illustrated inFIGS.3A and3B, the electronic device300may have an asymmetric shape. According to an embodiment, since the electronic device300is configured to have an asymmetric shape, the electronic device300may be ergonomically designed, and may be improved in user convenience. According to an embodiment, since the electronic device300is configured to have an asymmetric shape, the sound components (e.g., the audio module170inFIG.2) and electronic components (e.g., the processor120inFIG.1) inside the housing310may be arranged to improve sound performance.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device300may be wirelessly connected to an external electronic device (e.g., the external electronic device102ofFIG.1) to communicate with the external electronic device via the wireless communication module192. According to an embodiment, the electronic device300may function as an audio output interface (or, for example, the sound output module155inFIG.1) that outputs, to the outside, a sound signal received from the external electronic device102.

Additionally or alternatively, the electronic device300disclosed herein may function as an audio input interface (or the input module150inFIG.1) for receiving an audio signal corresponding to sound acquired from the outside of the electronic device300.

According to an embodiment, the electronic device300may communicate with and/or be controlled by the external electronic device102. The electronic device300may be an interaction-type electronic device that is paired with the external electronic device102, such as a smartphone, via a communication scheme, such as Bluetooth, by suing the wireless communication module192and converts data received from the external electronic device102to output sound or receives a user's voice and transmits the same to the external electronic device102.

According to an embodiment, the electronic device300may be wirelessly connected to the external electronic device102. For example, the electronic device300may communicate with the external electronic device102via a network (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network or a long-range wireless communication network). The network may include, but is not limited to, a mobile or cellular network, a local area network (LAN) (e.g., Bluetooth communication), a wireless local area network (WLAN), a wide area network (WAN), the Internet, or a small area network (SAN). According to an embodiment, the electronic device300may be connected to the external electronic device102in a wired manner by using a cable (not illustrated).

According to another embodiment, the electronic device300may not communicate with the external electronic device102. In this case, the electronic device300may be implemented not to be controlled via the external electronic device102, but to receive a signal corresponding to sound acquired from the outside according to the operation (or control) of components themselves included in the electronic device300and to output a sound signal to the outside. For example, the electronic device300may be a stand-alone type electronic device that plays back the music or moving images stored in a memory (e.g., the memory inFIG.1) by itself without communicating with the external electronic device102and outputs corresponding sound, or receives and processes user voice.

As an example of the electronic device300as an object of the disclosure, various drawings of the disclosure may illustrate a kernel-type in-ear earset that is mainly mounted in an external auditory meatus mainly from a pinna to an eardrum. However, it should be noted that the disclosure is not limited thereto. According to another embodiment, although not illustrated in the drawings, the electronic device300as an object of the disclosure may be an open-type earphone to be mounted on a pinna.

According to various embodiments, the housing310may include a plurality of components. For example, the housing310may include a first housing311and a second housing315connected to the first housing311. According to an embodiment, the first housing311and the second housing315may define at least a portion of the exterior of the electronic device300and define an internal space in which components of the electronic device300are accommodated. According to an embodiment, in a state in which a user wears the electronic device300, at least a portion of the second housing315comes into contact with or faces the user's body (e.g., an ear), and at least a portion of the housing311may face away from the user.

According to various embodiments, the housing310may include a microphone hole312. According to an embodiment, the microphone hole312may be interpreted as a through hole provided in the first housing311. According to an embodiment, sound outside the electronic device300may pass through the microphone hole312to be transmitted to a microphone module (e.g., a microphone module330inFIG.4D) located inside the electronic device300. According to an embodiment, the microphone hole312may include a plurality of microphone holes313and314. The microphone hole312may include a first microphone hole313and/or a second microphone hole314spaced apart from the first microphone hole313. According to an embodiment, the first microphone hole313may be disposed closer to a protrusion316, which will be described later, than the second microphone hole314. According to an embodiment, the first microphone hole313may be provided to communicate with a first connection passage (e.g., a first connection passage328inFIG.4B) to be described later, and the second microphone hole314may be provided to communicate with a second connection passage (e.g., a second connection passage329inFIG.4B) to be described later.

According to various embodiments, the housing310may include a protrusion316. According to an embodiment, at least a portion of the protrusion316may be inserted into the user's body (e.g., an ear). For example, the electronic device300may be inserted into and mounted in the user's body (e.g., an external auditory meatus or a pinna of the body) by using the protrusion316. According to an embodiment, the protrusion316may be configured as a portion of the housing310extending from the second housing315. According to an embodiment, an ear tip (not shown) may be additionally mounted on the protrusion316, and the electronic device300may be in close contact with the user's ear by using the ear tip. According to an embodiment, the protrusion316may include at least one recess (not illustrated), and sound output from a speaker module (e.g., the audio module170inFIG.2) arranged inside the electronic device300may be emitted to the outside of the electronic device300via the recess located in the protrusion316.

FIG.4Ais a side view of an electronic device in which a first housing is excluded according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG.4Bis a top view of an electronic device in which a first housing is excluded according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG.4Cis a side view of an electronic device in which a first housing is excluded according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG.4Dis a cross-sectional view of an electronic device, taken along line A-A′ inFIG.4B, in which the first housing is excluded according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

Referring toFIGS.4A,4B,4C, and4D, the electronic device300may include a second housing315and a support member320. Some or all of the components of the electronic device300and the second housing315ofFIGS.4A,4B,4C, and4D may be the same as those of the electronic device300and the second housing315ofFIGS.3A and3B. Accordingly, a description of the same components may be omitted.

According to various embodiments, the support member320may be disposed within the housing (e.g., the housing310inFIG.3A). For example, at least a portion of the support member320may be surrounded by the housing310(e.g., the first housing311and/or the second housing315inFIG.3A). According to an embodiment, the support member320may include a first support member320-1and a second support member320-2.

According to various embodiments, the support member320may be used as an antenna carrier on which a conductive pattern325may be disposed. According to an embodiment, at least a portion of the support member320(e.g., the first support member320-1) may be integrated with the first housing (e.g., the first housing311inFIG.3A). The first support member320-1may be connected to the first housing311through insert injection molding or double shot injection molding. According to an embodiment, the first housing311may be coupled to the second housing315in the state of being connected to the first support member320-1.

According to an embodiment, a battery321may be disposed inside the support member320. The battery321may supply power required to drive the wearable electronic device300.

According to an embodiment, a connection passage327may be provided or disposed in the first support member320-1. The connection passage327is an empty space defined in the support member320, and at least a portion of the connection passage327may serve as a microphone chamber. According to an embodiment, the support member320may include a second support member320-2(e.g., an inner housing) that supports at least a portion of a component (e.g., the battery321) of the electronic device300. According to an embodiment, the first support member320-1may be connected to the second support member320-2. According to another embodiment, the first support member320-1may be integrated with the second support member320-2.

According to various embodiments, the conductive pattern325may be disposed on the support member320. According to an embodiment, the conductive pattern325may be disposed on the first support member320-1. According to an embodiment, some or all of the components of the conductive pattern325may be the same as those of the antenna module197ofFIG.1. According to an embodiment, the conductive pattern325may be a laser direct structuring antenna formed on the support member320(e.g., the first support member320-1). For example, the support member320(e.g., the first support member320-1) may include a thermoplastic resin (e.g., polycarbonate) and a pattern provided on the thermoplastic resin by using a laser. The conductive pattern325may include a metal (e.g., copper (Cu) and/or nickel (Ni)) disposed on or plated on the pattern provided on the support member320(e.g., the first support member320-1).

According to various embodiments, the conductive pattern325may be disposed on the surface of the support member320. According to an embodiment, the conductive pattern325may be disposed on the surface of the first support member320-1. According to an embodiment, the conductive pattern325may be disposed to face the first housing (e.g., the first housing311inFIG.3A). According to an embodiment, at least a portion of the conductive pattern325may be disposed between a first connection passage328corresponding to the position of the first microphone hole (e.g., the first microphone hole313ofFIG.3A) and a second connection passage329corresponding to the position of the second microphone hole (e.g., the second microphone hole314inFIG.3A). According to an embodiment, the conductive pattern325may be disposed adjacent to the second connection passage329. For example, the conductive pattern325may be disposed to at least partially surround the second connection passage329. According to an embodiment, the conductive pattern325may be disposed to be spaced apart from the first connection passage328.

According to various embodiments, the support member320may include a connection passage327. According to an embodiment, the connection passage327may receive sound outside the electronic device300from a microphone hole (e.g., the microphone hole312inFIG.3A). For example, the sound or vibration outside the electronic device300may be transmitted to the microphone module330through the microphone hole312and the connection passage327. The microphone module330may include a first microphone module330-1and a second microphone module330-2. According to an embodiment, the sound or vibration outside the electronic device300may be transmitted to the first microphone module330-1or the second microphone module330-2. According to an embodiment, the connection passage327is an empty space defined in the support member320, and may include a microphone path and/or a microphone chamber. For example, the connection passage327may provide a microphone path for transmitting external sound to the microphone module330, and at least a portion of the microphone path may be constituted with a microphone chamber including a space of a predetermined volume size or more.

According to various embodiments, the support member320may include a connection passage327. According to an embodiment, the connection passage327may be connected to a microphone hole (e.g., the microphone hole312inFIG.3A). According to an embodiment, the connection passage327may face at least a portion of the microphone hole312. According to an embodiment, the sound outside the electronic device300may be transmitted to the microphone module330through the microphone hole312and the connection passage327. According to an embodiment, the connection passage327may be interpreted as a structure spatially connected to the microphone hole312.

According to an embodiment, the connection passage327may include one or more connection passages328and329. For example, the connection passage327may include a first connection passage328facing at least a portion of the first microphone hole (e.g., the first microphone hole313inFIG.3A) and/or a second connection passage329spaced apart from the first connection passage328and facing at least a portion of the second microphone hole (e.g., the second microphone hole314inFIG.3A). The first connection passage328may be interpreted as a first microphone chamber by extending toward the first microphone hole313, and the second connection passage329may be interpreted as a second microphone chamber by extending toward the second microphone hole314.

FIG.5Ais a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating an electronic device illustrated inFIG.4Daccording to an embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG.5Bis an exploded perspective view of an electronic device, which is viewed from above according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG.5Cis an exploded perspective view schematically illustrating an electronic, which is viewed from below according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

The first housing311, the first support member320-1, and the conductive pattern325illustrated inFIGS.5A,5B, and5Cmay be the same as or similar to the first housing311, the first support member320-1, and the conductive pattern325illustrated inFIGS.3A,3B,4A,4B,4C, and4D. Accordingly, a description of the same components may be omitted.

According to various embodiments, the configuration of the second microphone module330-2to be described later may be applied to the first microphone module (e.g., the first microphone module330-1inFIG.4D). Accordingly, like the configuration in which the second microphone module330-1includes the (2-1)thmicrophone module (e.g., the (2-1)thmicrophone module330-21inFIG.5A) and the (2-2)thmicrophone module (e.g., the (2-2)thmicrophone module330-21inFIG.6A), the first microphone module330-1may include the same configuration as that of the second microphone module. Alternatively, the first microphone module330-1may include an additional microphone module (not illustrated) or may be disposed at another position.

According to various embodiments, the first support member320-1, the conductive pattern325, the first portion325-1, the second portion325-2, the (2-1)thmicrophone module330-21, a printed circuit board340, the first electrode341-1, the second electrode341-2, the gasket350, and a shunt member360may be disposed inside the first housing311.

According to various embodiments, the conductive pattern325may be disposed on the outer surface of the first support member320-1(the surface facing the inside of the first housing311). According to an embodiment, the conductive pattern325may be disposed between the first support member320-1and the first housing311. The conductive pattern325may be disposed on the outer surface of the first support member320-1in various shapes.

According to various embodiments, the conductive pattern325may include a first portion325-1and a second portion325-2. The first portion325-1and the second portion325-2of the conductive pattern325may extend along the outer surface of the first support member320-1or may be disposed toward the bottom surface of the first support member320-1(the −Z-axis direction) through a hole (a via (not illustrated)) provided in the first support member320-1. According to an embodiment, the first portion325-1may be disposed to be electrically connected to the first electrode341-1provided on the printed circuit board340. The second portion325-2may be disposed to be electrically connected to the second electrode341-2provided on the printed circuit board340. According to an embodiment, the second portion325-2may be electrically connected to the gasket350, and the gasket350may be electrically connected to the second electrode341-2. According to an embodiment, the second portion325-2may be electrically connected to the second electrode341-2via the gasket350. According to another embodiment, the second portion325-2may be disposed to be spaced apart from the second electrode341-2by a predetermined distance. Since the second portion325-2and the second electrode341-2are disposed to be spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance, the second portion325-2and the second electrode341-2may act as a capacitor.

According to various embodiments, the gasket350may be disposed between the first support member320-1and the printed circuit board340. The gasket350may be disposed to correspond to the position of the second portion325-2disposed on the first support member320-1. A hole may be provided in at least a portion of the gasket350, and the position of the hole provided in the gasket350may correspond to the second connection passage329of the first support member320-1. The position of the hole provided in the gasket350may correspond to the position of a connection hole342provided in the printed circuit board340. The gasket350may be made of a material capable of absorbing an impact. According to an embodiment, the gasket350may be made of a conductive material to electrically interconnect the second portion325-2disposed on the first support member320-1and the second electrode341-2disposed on the printed circuit board340.

According to various embodiments, the printed circuit board340may be disposed under the first support member320-1(the −Z-axis direction). The first electrode341-1and the second electrode341-2may be disposed on the printed circuit board340.

According to various embodiments, the first electrode341-1may be electrically connected to the first portion325-1of the conductive pattern325. The communication module (e.g., the communication module190inFIG.1) of the printed circuit board340may apply a radio frequency (RF) signal to the first electrode341-1. An RF signal may be applied to the conductive pattern325via the first portion325-1and the first electrode341-1. According to an embodiment, the first portion325-1may function as a feeding portion of the conductive pattern325. The first electrode341-1may be implemented in the form of a c-clip or a pogo pin.

According to various embodiments, the (2-1)thmicrophone module330-21may be disposed on the printed circuit board340. For example, the (2-1)thmicrophone module330-21may be the second microphone module330-2ofFIG.4D. According to an embodiment, the (2-1)thmicrophone module330-21may be disposed under the printed circuit board340(in the −Z-axis direction). According to an embodiment, the (2-1)thmicrophone module330-21may be disposed under the second area340-2of the printed circuit board340(in the −Z axis direction). The (2-1)thmicrophone module330-21may be disposed at a position corresponding to the connection hole342provided in the printed circuit board340. At least a portion of the (2-1)thmicrophone module330-21may be disposed to be electrically connected to the second electrode341-2disposed on the printed circuit board340. According to an embodiment, the second electrode341-2may be electrically connected to a ground portion of the printed circuit board340. The second portion325-2of the conductive pattern325may be electrically connected to a ground portion of the (2-1)thmicrophone module330-21. According to an embodiment, the second area340-2of the printed circuit board340may include a ground portion, and the ground portion of the (2-1)thmicrophone module330-21and the second electrode341-2may be electrically connected to the ground portion of the printed circuit board340. The second portion325-2may function as a ground portion of the conductive pattern325. The first portion325-1of the conductive pattern325may serve as a feeding portion to which an RF signal is applied, and since the second portion325-2of the conductive pattern325is electrically connected to a ground portion (the ground portion of the printed circuit board340or the ground portion of the (2-1)thmicrophone module330-21), the conductive pattern325may function as a planar inverted f antenna (PIFA).

According to various embodiments, the printed circuit board340may include a first area340-1and a second area340-2. The first area340-1may mean at least a portion of the printed circuit board340, and the second area340-2may include at least another portion of the printed circuit board340.

According to various embodiments, the first electrode341-1may be disposed in the first area340-1, and the second electrode341-2may be disposed in the second area340-2. The first electrode341-1and the second electrode341-2may be disposed between the printed circuit board340and the first support member320-1.

According to various embodiments, the first area340-1and the second area340-2may be electrically separated from each other. The first area340-1and the second area340-2may each include a ground. According to an embodiment, the first area340-1and the second area340-2may be electrically connected to each other by the shunt member360. The shunt member360may include an inductor and/or a capacitor.

FIG.6Ais a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating an electronic device illustrated inFIG.4Daccording to an embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG.6Bis an exploded perspective view of an electronic device, which is viewed from above according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG.6Cis an exploded perspective view schematically illustrating an electronic, which is viewed from below according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

The first housing311, the first support member320-1, the conductive pattern325, the first portion325-1, the second portion325-2, the printed circuit board340, the first electrode341-1, the second electrode341-2, the gasket350, and the shunt member360illustrated inFIGS.6A,6B, and6Cmay be the same as or similar to the first housing311, the first support member320-1, the conductive pattern325, the first portion325-1, the second portion325-2, the printed circuit board340, the first electrode341-1, the second electrode341-2, the gasket350, and the shunt member360illustrated inFIGS.5A,5B, and5C. Accordingly, a description of the same configuration may be omitted.

According to various embodiments, the first support member320-1, the conductive pattern325, the first portion325-1, the second portion325-2, the (2-2)thmicrophone module330-22, the printed circuit board340, the first electrode341-1, the second electrode341-2, the gasket350, and the shunt member360may be disposed inside the first housing311.

According to various embodiments, the conductive pattern325may be disposed on the outer surface of the first support member320-1(the surface facing the inside of the first housing311). According to an embodiment, the conductive pattern325may be disposed between the first support member320-1and the first housing311. The conductive pattern325may be disposed on the outer surface of the first support member320-1in various shapes.

According to various embodiments, the conductive pattern325may include a first portion325-1and a second portion325-2. The first portion325-1and the second portion325-2of the conductive pattern325may extend along the outer surface of the first support member320-1or may be disposed on the bottom surface of the first support member320-1(the −Z-axis direction) through a hole (a via (not illustrated)) provided in the first support member320-1. According to an embodiment, the first portion325-1may be disposed to be electrically connected to the first electrode341-1provided on the printed circuit board340. The second portion325-2may be disposed to be electrically connected to the second electrode341-2provided on the printed circuit board340. According to an embodiment, the second portion325-2may be electrically connected to the gasket350, and the gasket350may be electrically connected to the (2-2)thmicrophone module330-22. The (2-2)thmicrophone module330-22may be electrically connected to the second electrode341-2. According to an embodiment, the second portion325-2may be electrically connected to the second electrode341-2via the gasket350and/or the (2-2)thmicrophone module330-22. According to another embodiment, the second portion325-2may be disposed to be spaced apart from the (2-2)thmicrophone module330-22by a predetermined distance. According to an embodiment, the second portion325-2and the (2-2)thmicrophone module330-22may be spaced apart from each other by a predetermined interval, and the gasket350may be disposed between the second portion325-2and the (2-2)thmicrophone module330-22. According to another embodiment, the second portion325-2and the (2-2)thmicrophone module330-22may be spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance, so that the second portion325-2and the (2-2)thmicrophone module330-22may act as a capacitor.

According to various embodiments, the gasket350may be disposed between the first support member320-1and the printed circuit board340. The gasket350may be disposed to correspond to the position of the second portion325-2disposed on the first support member320-1. A hole may be provided in at least a portion of the gasket350, and the position of the hole provided in the gasket350may correspond to the position of the first connection passage328and/or the position of the second connection passage329. The gasket350may be made of a material capable of absorbing an impact. According to an embodiment, the gasket350may be made of a conductive material to electrically interconnect the second portion325-2disposed on the first support member320-1and the (2-2)thmicrophone module330-22. According to an embodiment, although not illustrated, the first microphone module330-1may be disposed to be in contact with the gasket350.

According to various embodiments, the printed circuit board340may be disposed under the first support member320-1(the −Z-axis direction). The first electrode341-1and the second electrode341-2may be disposed on the printed circuit board340.

According to various embodiments, the first electrode341-1may be electrically connected to the first portion325-1of the conductive pattern325. The communication module (e.g., the communication module190inFIG.1) of the printed circuit board340may apply a radio frequency (RF) signal to the first electrode341-1. An RF signal may be applied to the conductive pattern325via the first portion325-1and the first electrode341-1. According to an embodiment, the first portion325-1may function as a feeding portion of the conductive pattern325. The first electrode341-1may be implemented in the form of a c-clip or a pogo pin.

According to various embodiments, the (2-2)thmicrophone module330-22may be disposed on the printed circuit board340. For example, the (2-2)thmicrophone module330-22may be the second microphone module330-2ofFIG.4D. According to an embodiment, the (2-2)thmicrophone module330-22may be disposed on the printed circuit board340(in the +Z-axis direction). According to an embodiment, the (2-2)thmicrophone module330-22may be disposed one the second area340-2of the printed circuit board340(in the +Z axis direction). At least a portion of the (2-2)thmicrophone module330-22may be disposed to be electrically connected to the second electrode341-2disposed on the printed circuit board340. According to an embodiment, the outer surface of the (2-2)thmicrophone module330-22may be disposed to be electrically connected to the second electrode341-2. The outer surface of the (2-2)thmicrophone module330-22may be electrically connected to a ground portion of the printed circuit board340to function as a ground portion. According to an embodiment, the second portion325-2of the conductive pattern325may be connected to the second electrode341-2via the (2-2)thmicrophone module330-22and/or the gasket350. As described above, since the second portion325-2, the (2-2)thsecond microphone module330-22, and the second electrode341-2are electrically connected to each other, the second portion325-2may function as a ground portion of the pattern325. Since the first portion325-1of the conductive pattern325is connected to a feeding portion and the second portion325-2of the conductive pattern325is connected to a ground portion (the ground portion of the printed circuit board340or the ground portion of the (2-2)thmicrophone module330-22), the conductive pattern325may function as a planar inverted f antenna (PIFA).

According to various embodiments, the printed circuit board340may include a first area340-1and a second area340-2. The first area340-1and the second area340-2may each include a ground.

According to various embodiments, the first electrode341-1may be disposed in the first area340-1, and the second electrode341-2may be disposed in the second area340-2.

According to various embodiments, the first area340-1and the second area340-2may be electrically separated from each other. According to an embodiment, the first area340-1and the second area340-2may be electrically connected to each other by the shunt member360. The shunt member360may include an inductor and/or a capacitor.

An electronic device (e.g., the electronic device300inFIG.3A) according to various embodiments of the disclosure may include a housing (e.g., the housing310inFIG.3A), a support member (e.g., the support member320inFIG.4A) disposed inside the housing and forming a connection passage (e.g., the connection passage327inFIG.4A), a printed circuit board (e.g., the printed circuit board340inFIG.5B) disposed adjacent to the support member and including a first area (e.g., the first area340-1inFIG.5B) and a second area (e.g., the second area340-2inFIG.5B) spaced apart from the first area, and a conductive pattern (e.g., the conductive pattern325inFIG.5B) disposed on the support member and including a first portion (e.g., the first portion325-1inFIG.5C) and a second portion (e.g., the second portion325-2inFIG.5C), wherein the first portion may be electrically connected to a first electrode (e.g., the first electrode341-1inFIG.5B) disposed in the first area, the second portion may be electrically connected to a second electrode (e.g., the second electrode341-2inFIG.5B) disposed in the second area, and the first area and the second area may be electrically connected to each other via a shunt member (e.g., the shunt member360inFIG.5B).

According to various embodiments, the shunt member may include at least one of an inductor or a capacitor.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device may further include a gasket (e.g., the gasket350inFIG.5B) disposed between the first portion and the second electrode.

According to various embodiments, the gasket and a microphone module (e.g., the (2-1)thmicrophone module330-21inFIG.5Bor the (2-2)thmicrophone module330-22inFIG.6B) may be disposed adjacent to the connection passage.

According to various embodiments, the second portion, the gasket, the second electrode, and the microphone module may be electrically connected to each other.

According to various embodiments, the microphone module (e.g., the (2-2)thmicrophone module330-22inFIG.6B) may be disposed on the printed circuit board and may be electrically connected to the second electrode.

According to various embodiments, the microphone module (e.g., the (2-1)thmicrophone module330-21inFIG.5B) may be disposed under the printed circuit board and may be electrically connected to the second electrode.

According to various embodiments, the second area may be provided with a connection hole (e.g., the connection hole342inFIG.5B), and the microphone module may be disposed to correspond to the position of the connection hole.

According to various embodiments, the first electrode may include a c-clip or a pogo pin.

According to various embodiments, at least one of a portion of the first area or a portion of the second area includes a ground.

An electronic device (e.g., the electronic device300inFIG.3A) according to various embodiments of the disclosure may include a housing (e.g., the housing310inFIG.3A), a support member (e.g., the support member320inFIG.4A) disposed in the housing, a printed circuit board (e.g., the printed circuit board340inFIG.5B) disposed adjacent to the support member and including a first area (e.g., first area340-1inFIG.5B) and a second area (e.g., the second area340-2inFIG.5B) spaced apart from the first area, a conductive pattern (e.g., the conductive pattern inFIG.5B) disposed adjacent to the support member and including a first portion (e.g., the first portion325-1inFIG.5C) and a second portion (e.g., the second portion325-2inFIG.5C), and a microphone module (e.g., the (2-1)thmicrophone module330-21inFIG.5Bor the (2-2)thmicrophone module330-22inFIG.6B) disposed in the second area, wherein the first portion may be electrically connected to a first electrode (e.g., the first electrode341-1inFIG.5B) disposed in the first area, and the second portion may be electrically connected to a second electrode (e.g., the second electrode341-2inFIG.5B) disposed in the second area, and the second electrode may be disposed adjacent to the microphone module.

According to various embodiments, the support member may be provided with a connection passage (e.g., the connection passage327inFIG.4A), and the connection passage may be disposed adjacent to the second electrode.

According to various embodiments, the first area and the second area may be connected to each other via a shunt member (e.g., the shunt member360inFIG.5B).

According to various embodiments, the shunt member may include at least one of an inductor or a capacitor.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device may further include a gasket (e.g., the gasket350inFIG.5B) disposed between the first portion and the second electrode.

According to various embodiments, the gasket and the microphone module may be disposed adjacent to the connection passage.

According to various embodiments, the second portion, the gasket, the second electrode, and the microphone module may be electrically connected to each other.

According to various embodiments, the microphone module may be disposed on the printed circuit board and may be electrically connected to the second electrode.

According to various embodiments, the microphone module may be disposed under the printed circuit board and may be electrically connected to the second electrode.

According to various embodiments, at least one of a portion of the first area or a portion of the second area may include a ground.

According to various embodiments, the housing may include a protrusion, and at least a portion of the protrusion may be formed to be inserted into an ear of a user.

According to various embodiments, the housing may include a first housing and a second housing connected to the first housing, and the shunt member may be disposed inside the first housing.

In the foregoing detailed description of this document, specific embodiments have been described. However, it will be evident to a person ordinarily skilled in the art that various modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the disclosure.

EXPLANATION OF REFERENCE NUMERALS

300: electronic device,310: housing,311: first housing,312: microphone hole,313: first microphone hole,314: second microphone hole,315: second housing,316: protrusion,320: support member,320-1: first support member,320-2: second support member,321: battery,325: conductive pattern,325-1: first portion,325-2: second portion,327: connection passage,328: first connection passage,329: second connection passage,330: microphone module,330-1: first microphone module,330-2: second microphone module,330-21: (2-1)thmicrophone module,330-22: (2-2)thmicrophone module,340: printed circuit board,340-1: first area,340-2: second area,341-1: first electrode,341-2: second electrode,342: connection hole,350: gasket,360: shunt member.

While the disclosure has been shown and described with reference to various embodiments thereof, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and details may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.