Patent ID: 12191572

MODE FOR THE INVENTION

Description will now be given in detail according to exemplary embodiments disclosed herein, with reference to the accompanying drawings. For the sake of brief description with reference to the drawings, the same or equivalent components may be provided with the same or similar reference numbers, and description thereof will not be repeated. In general, a suffix such as “module” and “unit” may be used to refer to elements or components. Use of such a suffix herein is merely intended to facilitate description of the specification, and the suffix itself is not intended to give any special meaning or function. In describing the present disclosure, if a detailed explanation for a related known technology or construction is considered to unnecessarily divert the gist of the present disclosure, such explanation has been omitted but would be understood by those skilled in the art. The accompanying drawings are used to help easily understand the technical idea of the present disclosure and it should be understood that the idea of the present disclosure is not limited by the accompanying drawings. The idea of the present disclosure should be construed to extend to any alterations, equivalents and substitutes besides the accompanying drawings.

It will be understood that although the terms first, second, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are generally only used to distinguish one element from another.

It will be understood that when an element is referred to as being “connected with” another element, the element can be connected with the another element or intervening elements may also be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being “directly connected with” another element, there are no intervening elements present.

A singular representation may include a plural representation unless it represents a definitely different meaning from the context.

Terms such as “include” or “has” are used herein and should be understood that they are intended to indicate an existence of several components, functions or steps, disclosed in the specification, and it is also understood that greater or fewer components, functions, or steps may likewise be utilized.

An electronic device described herein may include a mobile phone, a smartphone, a laptop computer, a digital broadcasting terminal, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a portable multimedia player (PMP), a navigation system, a slate personal computer (PC), a tablet PC, an ultrabook, a wearable device, (e.g., a smartwatch, smart glasses, a head mounted display (HMD)), or the like.

By way of non-limiting example only, further description will be made with reference to particular types of mobile terminals. However, such teachings apply equally to other types of terminals, such as those types noted above. In addition, these teachings may also be applied to stationary terminals such as digital TV, desktop computers, digital signage, and the like.

FIG.1is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of a whole of a wireless audiovisual (AV) system including an image display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

As illustrated inFIG.1, an image display device100according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is connected to the wireless AV system (or a broadcasting network) and an Internet network. The image display device100may be, for example, a network TV, a smart TV, a hybrid broadcast broadband TV (HBBTV), or the like.

The image display device100may be wirelessly connected to the wireless AV system (or the broadcasting network) via a wireless interface or wirelessly or wiredly connected to the Internet network via an Internet interface. In relation to this, the image display device100may be configured to be connected to a server or another electronic device via a wireless communication system. As an example, the image display device100needs to provide an 802.11ay communication service operating in a millimeter wave (mmWave) band to transmit or receive large-capacity data at a high speed.

The mmWave band may be any frequency band in a range of 10 GHz to 300 GHz. In this disclosure, the mmWave band may include an 802.11ay band of a 60 GHz band. In addition, the mmWave band may include a 5G frequency band of a 28 GHz band or the 802.11ay band of the 60 GHz band. The 5G frequency band may be set to about 24 to 43 GHz band and the 802.11ay band may be set to 57 to 70 GHz or 57 to 63 GHz band, but are not limited thereto.

The image display device100may wirelessly transmit or receive data to/from an electronic device in a periphery of the image display device100, e.g., a set-top box or another electronic device via the wireless interface. As an example, the image display device100may transmit or receive wireless AV data to/from a set-top box or another electronic device, e.g., a mobile terminal arranged in front of or below the image display device100.

The image display device100includes, for example, a wireless interface101b, a section filter102b, an application information table (AIT) filter103b, an application data processing unit104b, a data processing unit111b, a media player106b, an Internet protocol processing unit107b, an Internet interface108b, and a runtime module109b.

Through a broadcast interface that is the wireless interface101b, AIT data, real-time broadcast content, application data, and a stream event are received. The real-time broadcast content may be referred to as linear audio/video (A/V) content.

The section filter102bperforms section filtering on four types of data received through the wireless interface101bto transmit the AIT data to the AIT filter103b, the linear A/V content to the data processing unit111b, and the stream events and the application data to the application data processing unit104b.

Non-linear A/V content and the application data are received through the Internet interface108b. The non-linear A/V content may be, for example, a content on demand (COD) application. The non-linear A/V content is transmitted to the media player106b, and the application data is transmitted to the runtime module109b.

Further, the runtime module109bincludes, for example, an application manager and a browser as illustrated inFIG.1. The application manager controls a life cycle of an interactive application using, for example, the AIT data. In addition, the browser performs, for example, a function of displaying and processing the interactive application.

Hereinafter, a communication module having an antenna for providing a wireless interface in an electronic device such as the above-described image display device is described in detail. In relation to this, the wireless interface for communication between electronic devices may be a WiFi wireless interface, but is not limited thereto. As an example, a wireless interface supporting the 802.11ay standard may be provided for high-speed data transmission between electronic devices.

The 802.11ay standard is a successor standard for raising a throughput for the 802.11ad standard to 20 Gbps or greater. An electronic device supporting an 802.11ay wireless interface may be configured to use a frequency band of about 57 to 64 GHz. The 802.11ay wireless interface may be configured to provide backward compatibility for an 802.11ad wireless interface. The electronic device providing the 802.11ay wireless interface may be configured to provide coexistence with a legacy device using the same band.

In relation to a wireless environment for the 802.11ay standard, it may be configured to provide a coverage of 10 meters or longer in an indoor environment, and 100 meters or longer in an outdoor environment with a line of sight (LOS) channel condition.

The electronic device supporting the 802.11ay wireless interface may be configured to provide visual reality (VR) headset connectivity, support server backups, and support cloud applications that require low latency.

An ultra-short range (USR) communication scenario, i.e., a near field communication scenario which is a use case of the 802.11ay wireless interface, is a model for fast large-capacity data exchange between two terminals. The USR communication scenario may be configured to require low power consumption of less than 400 mW, while providing a fast link setup within 100 msec, transaction time within 1 second, and a 10 Gbps data rate at a very close distance of less than 10 cm.

As the use case of the 802.11ay wireless interface, the 8K UHD Wireless Transfer at Smart Home Usage Model may be taken into account. In the Smart Home Usage Model, a wireless interface between a source device and a sync device may be taken into consideration to stream 8K UHD content at home. In relation to this, the source device may be one of a set-top box, a Blue-ray player, a tablet PC, and a smart phone and the sink device may be one of a smart TV and a display device, but are not limited thereto. In relation to this, the wireless interface may be configured to transmit uncompressed 8K UHD streaming data (60 fps, 24 bits per pixel, at least 4:2:2) with a coverage of less than 5 m between the source device and the sink device. To do so, the wireless interface may be configured such that data is transmitted between electronic devices at a speed of at least 28 Gbps.

In order to provide such a wireless interface, embodiments related to an array antenna operating in a mmWave band and an electronic device including the array antenna is described with reference to the accompanying drawings. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the present disclosure may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the spirit or essential characteristics thereof.

FIG.2illustrates a detailed configuration of electronic devices configured to support a wireless interface according to the present disclosure.FIG.2illustrates a block diagram of an access point110(generally, a first wireless node) and an access terminal120(generally, a second wireless node) in a wireless communication system. The access point110is a transmitting entity for downlink transmission and a receiving entity for uplink transmission. The access terminal120is a transmitting entity for uplink transmission and a receiving entity for downlink transmission. As used herein, the “transmitting entity” is an independently operating apparatus or device capable of transmitting data through a wireless channel, and the “receiving entity” is an independently operating apparatus or device capable of receiving data through a wireless channel.

Referring toFIGS.1and2, the set-top box (STB) ofFIG.1may be the access point110, and an electronic device, that is, the image display device100ofFIG.1may be the access terminal120, but are not limited thereto. Accordingly, it should be understood that the access point110may alternatively be an access terminal, and the access terminal120may alternatively be an access point.

To transmit data, the access point110includes a transmission (TX) data processor220, a frame builder222, a TX processor224, a plurality of transceivers226-1to226-N, and a plurality of antennas230-1to230-N. The access point110also includes a controller234configured to control operations of the access point110.

To transmit data, the access point110includes a transmission (TX) data processor220, a frame builder222, a TX processor224, a plurality of transceivers226-1to226-N, and a plurality of antennas230-1to230-N. The access point110also includes a controller234configured to control operations of the access point110.

During operation, the TX data processor220receives data (e.g., data bits) from a data source215, and processes the data for transmission. For example, the TX data processor220may encode data (e.g., data bits) into encoded data, and modulate the encoded data into data symbols. The TX data processor220may support different modulation and coding schemes (MCSs). For example, the TX data processor220may encode data at any one of a plurality of different coding rates (e.g., using low-density parity check (LDPC) encoding). In addition, the TX data processor220may modulate the encoded data using any one of a plurality of different modulation schemes including, but not limited to, BPSK, QPSK, 16QAM, 64QAM, 64APSK, 128APSK, 256QAM, and 256APSK.

The controller234may transmit, to the TX data processor220, a command for specifying an MCS to be used (e.g., based on channel conditions for downlink transmission). The TX data processor220may encode and modulate the data received from the data source215according to the specified MCS. It needs to be recognized that the TX data processor220may perform additional processing on the data, such as data scrambling and/or other processing. The TX data processor220outputs the data symbols to the frame builder222.

The frame builder222constructs a frame (also referred to as a packet) and inserts the data symbols into a data payload of the frame. The frame may include a preamble, a header, and a data payload The preamble may include a short training field (STF) sequence and a channel estimation (CE) sequence to assist the access terminal120in receiving the frame. The header may include information regarding data in a payload, such as a length of the data and an MCS used to encode and modulate the data. Based on this information, the access terminal120may demodulate and decode the data. The data in the payload may be partitioned among a plurality of blocks, and each block may contain a part of the data and a guard interval (GI) to assist the receiver in phase tracking. The frame builder222outputs the frame to the TX processor224.

The TX processor224processes the frame for transmission on downlink. For example, the TX processor224may support different transmission modes, e.g., an orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing (OFDM) transmission mode and a single-carrier (SC) transmission mode. In this example, the controller234may transmit, to the TX processor224, a command for specifying a transmission mode to be used, and the TX processor224may process the frame for transmission according to the specified transmission mode. The TX processor224may apply a spectrum mask to the frame so that a frequency configuration of a downlink signal complies with particular spectrum requirements.

The TX processor224may support multiple-input-multiple-output (MIMO) transmission. In these aspects, the access point110may include a plurality of antennas230-1to230-N and a plurality of transceivers226-1to226-N (e.g., one for each antenna). The TX processor224may perform spatial processing on incoming frames and provide a plurality of transmission frame streams to a plurality of antennas. The transceivers226-1to226-N receive and process (e.g., convert to analog, amplify, filter, and frequency up-convert) each of the transmission frame streams to generate transmission signals for transmission through the antennas230-1to230-N.

To transmit data, the access terminal120includes a TX data processor260, a frame builder262, a TX processor264, a plurality of transceivers266-1to266-M, and a plurality of antennas270-1to270-M (e.g., one antenna per transceiver). The access terminal120may transmit data to the access point110on uplink and/or transmit the data to another access terminal (e.g., for peer-to-peer communication). The access terminal120also includes a controller274configured to control operations of the access terminal120.

The transceivers266-1to266-M receive and process (e.g., convert to analog, amplify, filter, and frequency up-convert) an output from the TX processor264for transmission via one or more of the antennas270-1to270-M. For example, the transceiver266-1may up-convert the output from the TX processor264into a transmission signal having a frequency in a 60 GHz band. Accordingly, the antenna module described herein may be configured to perform a beamforming operation in the 60 GHz band, for example, in a band of about 57 to 63 GHz. In addition, the antenna module may be configured to support MIMO transmission while performing beamforming in the 60 GHz band.

In relation to this, the antennas270-1to270-M and the transceivers266-1to266-M may be implemented in an integrated form on a multi-layer circuit substrate. To do so, among the antennas270-1to270-M, an antenna configured to operate with vertical polarization may be vertically arranged inside the multi-layer circuit substrate.

To receive data, the access point110includes a reception (RX) processor242and an RX data processor244. During operation, the transceivers226-1to226-N receive a signal (e.g., from the access terminal120) and spatially process (e.g., frequency down-convert, amplify, filter, and digitally convert) the received signal.

The RX processor242receives outputs from the transceivers226-1through226-N and processes the outputs to recover data symbols. For example, the access point110may receive data from a frame (e.g., from the access terminal120). In this example, the RX processor242may detect a start of the frame using a short training field (STF) sequence in a preamble of the frame. The RX processor242may also use the STF for automatic gain control (AGC) adjustment. The RX processor242may also perform channel estimation (e.g., using a channel estimation (CE) sequence in the preamble of the frame), and perform channel equalization on the received signal based on the channel estimation.

The RX data processor244receives data symbols from the RX processor242and an indication of a corresponding MSC scheme from the controller234. The RX data processor244demodulates and decodes the data symbols, recovers the data according to the indicated MSC scheme, and stores and/or outputs the recovered data (e.g., data bits) to a data sink246for additional processing.

The access terminal120may transmit the data using an orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing (OFDM) transmission mode or a single-carrier (SC) transmission mode. In this case, the RX processor242may process the received signal according to a selected transmission mode. In addition, as described above, the TX processor264may support MIMO transmission. In this case, the access point110includes the antennas230-1to230-N and the transceivers226-1to226-N (e.g., one for each antenna). Accordingly, the antenna module described herein may be configured to perform a beamforming operation in the 60 GHz band, for example, in a band of about 57 to 63 GHz. In addition, the antenna module may be configured to support MIMO transmission while performing beamforming in the 60 GHz band.

In relation to this, the antennas230-1to230-M and the transceivers226-1to226-M may be implemented in an integrated form on a multi-layer circuit board. To do so, among the antennas230-1to230-M, an antenna configured to operate with vertical polarization may be vertically arranged inside the multi-layer circuit substrate.

Meanwhile, each transceiver receives and processes (e.g., frequency down-converts, amplifies, filters, and digitally converts) a signal from each antenna. The RX processor242may perform spatial processing on the outputs from the transceivers226-1to226-N to recover the data symbols.

The access point110also includes a memory236coupled to the controller234. The memory236may store commands that, when executed by the controller234, cause the controller234to perform one or more of the operations described herein. Similarly, the access terminal120also includes a memory276coupled to the controller274. The memory276may store commands that, when executed by the controller274, cause the controller274to perform one or more of the operations described herein.

The electronic device supporting the 802.11ay wireless interface described herein determines whether a communication medium may be used to communicate with another electronic device. To do so, the electronic device transmits a request-to-send (RTS)-TRN frame including an RTS part and a first beam training sequence. In relation to this,FIG.3Aillustrates an RTS frame and a clear-to-send (CTS) frame according to the present disclosure. In relation to this, a transmission device may use the RTA frame to determine whether a communication medium may be used to transmit one or more data frames to a destination device. In a response to receiving the RTS frame, the destination device transmits the CTS frame back to the transmission device when the communication medium may be used. In a response to receiving the CTS frame, the transmission device transmits one or more data frames to the destination device. In a response to successfully receiving the one or more data frames, the destination device transmits one or more acknowledgment (“ACK”) frames to the transmission device.

Referring to (a) ofFIG.3A, a frame300includes the RTS part including a frame control field310, a duration field312, a receiver address field314, a transmitter address field316, and a frame check sequence field318. To improve communication and reduce interference, the frame300further includes a beam training sequence field320for configuring respective antennas of the destination device and one or more neighboring devices.

Referring to (b) ofFIG.3A, a CTS frame350includes an CTS part containing a frame control field360, a duration field362, a receiver address field364, and a frame check sequence field366. To improve communication and reduce interference, a frame, i.e., is the CTS frame350further includes a beam training sequence field368for configuring respective antennas of the destination device and one or more neighboring devices.

The beam training sequence fields320and368may conform to a training (TRN) sequence according to the IEEE 802.11ad or 802.11ay standard. The transmission device may use the beam training sequence field368to configure an antenna of the transmission device for directional transmission to the destination device. The transmission device may use the beam training sequence field to configure respective antennas of the transmission and destination devices to prevent transmission interference at the destination device. In this case, the beam training sequence field may be used to configure respective antennas of the transmission and destination devices to generate an antenna radiation pattern with nulls targeting the destination device.

Accordingly, electronic devices supporting the 802.11ay wireless interface may provide an initial beam to have a low interference level with each other, using a beamforming pattern determined according to a beam training sequence. In relation to this,FIG.3Billustrates a block diagram of a communication system400according to an example of the present disclosure. As illustrated inFIG.3B, the first and second devices410and420may improve communication performance by matching directions of main beams with each other. To reduce interference with a third device430, the first and second devices410and420may provide a signal-null having a weak signal strength in a specific direction.

In relation to the provision of the main beams and the signal-null, a plurality of electronic devices described herein may be configured to perform beamforming through an array antenna. Referring toFIG.3B, some of the electronic devices may be configured to communicate with an array antenna of another electronic device through a single antenna. In relation to this, when communicating through a single antenna, a beam pattern is provided as an omnidirectional pattern.

FIG.3Billustrates that the first to third devices410to430perform beamforming and a fourth device440does not perform beamforming. However, performance of beamforming is not limited thereto Accordingly, three of the first to fourth devices410to440may be configured to perform beamforming, and the other may be configured not to perform beamforming.

As another example, only one of the first to fourth devices410to440may be configured to perform beamforming, and the other three devices may be configured not to perform beamforming. As another example, two of the first to fourth devices410to440may be configured to perform beamforming but the other two may be configured not to perform beamforming. As another example, all of the first to fourth devices410may be configured to perform beamforming.

Referring toFIGS.3A and3B, the first device410determines that the first device410is an intended receiving device for the CTS-TRN frame350, i.e., the CTS frame, based on an address indicated in the receiver address field364of the CTS-TRN frame350. In response to the determining as being the intended receiving device for the CTS-TRN frame350, the first device410may selectively use a beam training sequence in the beam training sequence field368of the received CTS-TRN frame350to configure an antenna of the first device410for directional transmission substantially targeting the second device420. That is, the antenna of the first device410is configured to generate an antenna radiation pattern having a primary lobe (e.g., a highest gain lobe) substantially targeting the second device420and non-primary lobes targeting other directions.

The second device420is already aware of a direction toward the first device410on a basis of the beam training sequence of the beam training sequence field320in the frame300, i.e., an RTS-TRN frame previously received by the second device420. Thus, the second device420may configure an antenna of the second device420for directional reception selectively targeting the first device410(e.g., a primary antenna radiation lobe). Therefore, while the antenna of the first device410is configured for the directional transmission to the second device420and the antenna of the second device420is configured for the directional reception from the first device410, the first device410transmits one or more data frames to the second device420. Accordingly, the first and second devices410and420perform directional transmission/reception DIR-TX/RX of one or more data frames through the primary lobe (the main beam).

The first and second devices410and420may partially modify a beam pattern of the third device430to reduce interference with the third device430due to the antenna radiation pattern having the non-primary lobes.

In relation to this, the third device430determines that the third device430is not the intended receiving device for the CTS-TRN frame350on a basis of an address indicated in the receiver address field364of the CTS-TRN frame350. In a response to the determining that the third device430is not the intended receiving device for the CTS-TRN frame350, the third device430uses the beam training sequence in the beam training sequence field368of the received CTS-TRN350and a sequence of the beam training sequence field320in the RTS-TRN frame300previously received, to configure the antenna of the third device430to generate antenna radiation patterns having nulls substantially targeting the second device420and the first device410, respectively. The nulls may be based on an estimated angle of arrival of the RTS-TRN frame300previously received, and the CTS-TRN frame350. In general, the third device430generates antenna radiation patterns having desired signal powers, rejections or gains targeting the first device410and the second device420, respectively (for example, to achieve an estimated interference in the first and second devices410and420to be equal to or less than a defined threshold (e.g., to acquire desired BER, SNR, SINR and/or other one or more communication properties)).

The third device430may configure an antenna transmission radiation pattern of the third device430by estimating antenna gains in directions toward the first and second devices410and420, estimating antenna reciprocity differences between the third device430and the first and second devices410and420(e.g., a transmission antenna gain minus a reception antenna gain), and respectively calculating the antenna gains and the antenna reciprocity differences throughout one or more sectors to determine estimated interferences corresponding to the first and second devices410and420.

The third device430transmits the RTS-TRN frame300intended for the fourth device440and to be received by the fourth device440. As long as the first and second devices410and420perform communication on a basis of durations indicated in the duration fields312and362of the RTS-TRN frame300and the CTS-TRN frame350, respectively, the third device430maintains an antenna configuration having nulls targeting the first and second devices410and420. Since the antenna of the third device430is configured to generate nulls targeting the first device410and the second device420, transmission of the RTS-TRN frame300by the third device430may generate reduced interference in the first device410and the second device420, respectively.

Accordingly, the electronic devices supporting the 802.11ay wireless interface disclosed herein may provide a signal null direction in a specific direction to reduce interference while matching main beam directions with each other using an array antenna. To do so, a plurality of the electronic devices may provide an initial beam direction through a beam training sequence and change a beam direction through a periodically updated beam training sequence.

As described above, for high-speed data communication between the electronic devices, beam directions should be configured to match each other. In addition, a loss of a radio signal transmitted to an antenna element needs to be minimized for high-speed data communication. To do so, an array antenna needs to be arranged in a multi-layer substrate on which a radio frequency integrated chip (RFIC) is arranged. In addition, for radiation efficiency, the array antenna needs to be arranged adjacent to a side area in the multi-layer substrate.

In addition, in order to adapt to a change in a wireless environment, a beam training sequence update between the electronic devices is needed. To update the beam training sequence, the RFIC needs to periodically transceive signals with a processor such as a modem. Therefore, to minimize update delay time, transception of a control signal between the RFIC and the modem needs to be performed within short time. To do so, a physical length of a connection path between the RFIC and the modem needs to be reduced. To do so, the modem may be arranged on a multi-layer substrate on which the array antenna and the RFIC are arranged. Alternatively, a connection length between the RFIC and the modem may be configured to be minimized in a structure in which the array antenna and the RFIC are arranged on the multi-layer substrate and the modem is arranged on a main substrate. In relation to this, a detailed structure will be described with reference toFIG.5C.

Hereinafter, an electronic device having an antenna operable in a mmWave band will be described. In relation to this,FIG.4illustrates an electronic device in which a plurality of antenna modules and a plurality of transceiver circuit modules are arranged, according to an embodiment. Referring toFIG.4, a home appliance in which the antenna modules and the transceiver circuit modules are arranged may be a television, but is not limited thereto. Accordingly, in the present disclosure, the home appliance in which the antenna modules and the transceiver circuit modules are arranged may include any home appliance or a display device each configured to support a communication service in a millimeter wave band.

Referring toFIG.4, an electronic device1000includes a plurality of antenna modules ANT1to ANT4and a plurality of transceiver circuit modules1210ato1210d. In relation to this, the transceiver circuit modules1210ato1210dmay correspond to a transceiver circuit1250described above. Alternatively, the transceiver circuit modules1210ato1210dmay be a partial configuration of the transceiver circuit1250or a partial configuration of a front-end module arranged between the antenna modules ANT1to ANT4and the transceiver circuit1250.

The antenna modules ANT1to ANT4may be configured as an array antenna in which a plurality of antenna elements are arranged. A number of elements of the antenna modules ANT1to ANT4is not limited to two, three, four, or the like as illustrated in the drawing. For example, the number of the elements of the antenna modules ANT1to ANT4may extend to 2, 4, 8, 16, or the like. In addition, the elements of the antenna modules ANT1to ANT4may be selected in a same number or in different numbers. The plurality of antenna modules ANT1to ANT4may be arranged in different areas in a display, or in a lower portion or on a side surface of the electronic device. The plurality of antenna modules ANT1to ANT4may be arranged in an upper portion, a left portion, a lower portion, or a right portion of the display. However, an arrangement structure thereof is not limited thereto. As another example, the antenna modules ANT1to ANT4may be arranged in an upper left portion, an upper right portion, a lower left portion, or a lower right portion of the display.

The antenna modules ANT1to ANT4may be configured to transmit or receive a signal in a specific direction in any frequency band. For example, the antenna modules ANT1to ANT4may operate in any one of a 28 GHz band, a 39 GHz band, and a 64 GHz band.

The electronic device may maintain a connection state with different entities through two or more of the antenna modules ANT1to ANT4, or perform a data transmitting or receiving operation to maintain the connections state described above. In relation to this, the electronic device corresponding to a display device may transmit or receive data with a first entity through a first antenna module, i.e., the antenna module ANT1. Also, the electronic device may transmit or receive data with a second entity through a second antenna module, i.e., the antenna module ANT2. As an example, the electronic device may transmit or receive data with a mobile terminal UE through the first antenna module ANT1. The electronic device may transmit or receive data with a control device such as a set-top box or an access point (AP) through the second antenna module ANT2.

Data may be transmitted or received with another entity through other antenna modules, e.g., the antenna modules ANT3and ANT4, i.e., third and fourth antenna modules. As another example, dual connection or MIMO may be performed through at least one of the first and second entities both previously connected via the third antenna module ANT3and the fourth antenna module ANT4.

Mobile terminals UE1and UE2may be arranged on a front surface area of the electronic device, and configured to communicate with the first antenna module ANT1. The set-top box (STB) or the access point AP may be arranged in a lower portion of the electronic device, and configured to communicate with the second antenna module ANT2, but is not limited thereto. As another example, the second antenna module ANT2may include both a first antenna radiating toward a lower region and a second antenna radiating toward a front area. Accordingly, the second antenna module ANT2may communicate with the set-top box (STB) or the access point AP through the first antenna, and with one of the mobile terminals UE1and UE2through the second antenna.

One of the mobile terminals UE1and UE2may be configured to perform MIMO with the electronic device. As an example, the mobile terminal UE1may be configured to perform MIMO while performing beamforming with the electronic device. As described above, the electronic device corresponding to the image display device may perform high-speed communication with another electronic device or the set-top box STB through a WiFi wireless interface. As an example, the electronic device may perform high-speed communication in a 60 GHz band with another electronic device or the set-top box STB through the 802.11ay wireless interface.

The transceiver circuit modules1210ato1210dmay operate to process a transmission signal and a reception signal in an RF frequency band. Here, the RF frequency band may be any frequency band of a millimeter band, such as a 28 GHz band, a 39 GHz band, and a 64 GHz band, as described above. The transceiver circuit modules1210ato1210dmay be referred to as RF sub-modules1210ato1210d. In this case, a number of the RF sub-modules1210ato1210dis not limited to four, and may be changed to an arbitrary number of two or more according to applications.

In addition, the RF sub-modules1210ato1210dmay include an up-conversion module and a down-conversion module both configured to convert a signal in the RF frequency band into a signal in an IF (intermediate frequency) band or convert a signal in the IF frequency band into a signal in the RF frequency band. To this end, the up-conversion module and the down-conversion module may include a local oscillator (LO) capable of performing up-frequency conversion and down-frequency conversion. Local Oscillator).

One of the plurality of RF sub-modules1210ato1210d, i.e., the transceiver circuit modules may transmit a signal may be transmitted to another transceiver circuit module adjacent thereto. Accordingly, a configuration may be such that the signal is transmitted to all of the transceiver circuit modules1210ato1210dat least once.

To do so, a data transfer path having a loop structure may be added. In relation to this, the RF sub-modules1210band1210cadjacent to each other may bidirectionally transmit a signal through a transmission path P2having the loop structure.

Alternatively, a data transfer path having a feedback structure may be added. In relation to this, at least one sub-module1210cmay transmit a signal to the remaining sub-modules1210a,1210b, and1210dunidirectionally through the data transfer path having the feedback structure.

The plurality of RF sub-modules may include first to fourth RF sub-modules1210ato1210d. In relation to this, a signal from the first RF sub-module1210amay be transmitted to the RF sub-module1210band the fourth RF sub-module1210dboth adjacent thereto. In addition, the second RF sub-module1210band the fourth RF sub-module1210dmay transmit the signal to the third RF sub-module1210cadjacent thereto. In this case, when bidirectional transmission between the second RF sub-module1210band the third RF sub-module1210cmay be performed as shown inFIG.4, this may be referred to as a loop structure. On the other hand, when only omnidirectional transmission may be performed between the second RF sub-module1210band the third RF sub-module1210c, this may be referred to as a feedback structure. In the feedback structure, at least two signals may be transmitted to the third RF sub-module1210c.

However, a structure is not limited thereto, and a baseband module may be included only in a specific module among the first to fourth RF sub-modules1210ato1210ddepending on applications. Alternatively, depending on applications, the baseband module may not be included in the first to fourth RF sub-modules1210ato1210d, but may be configured as a separate control unit, that is, a baseband processor1400. For example, a control signal may be transmitted only by a separate control unit, that is, the baseband processor1400.

Hereinafter, a specific configuration and function of the electronic device illustrated inFIG.1and including the wireless interface ofFIG.2are to be described. Transmission or reception of data between electronic devices needs to be performed using a communication service in a mmWave band therebetween. In relation to this, a wireless audio-video (AV) service and/or high-speed data transmission may be provided using the 802.11ay wireless interface as a mmWave wireless interface. This is not limited to the 802.11ay wireless interface, and any wireless interface of a 60 GHz band may be adopted. In relation to this, a 5G or 6G wireless interface using a 28 GHz band or a 60 GHz band may be used for high-speed data transmission between electronic devices.

There is such a problem that a specific solution for transmitting an image with a resolution of 4K or higher is not presented, with respect to an antenna and an RFIC configured to provide a wireless interface in an electronic device such as an image display device. In particular, transmitting or receiving wireless AV data with another electronic device needs to be performed by taking into account a situation in which an electronic device such as an image display device is arranged on a wall of a building or on a table. To do so, it is needed to present a specific configuration for arrangement regions of the antenna and the RFIC in the image display device, and a structure of the antenna.

In this regard,FIG.5Aillustrates a configuration in which a multi-layer circuit substrate in which an array antenna module is arranged is connected to an RFIC, according to the present disclosure. Specifically, in relation to the present disclosure, a structure of an AIP (antenna in package) module and an antenna module structure implemented on a flexible substrate are illustrated.

Referring to (a) ofFIG.5A, the AIP module is configured as an RFIC-PCB-antenna integrated type for mmWave band communication. In relation to this, an array antenna module1100-1may be configured integrally with a multi-layer PCB, that is, a multi-layer substrate as illustrated in (a) ofFIG.5A. Accordingly, the array antenna module1100-1configured integrally with the multi-layer substrate may be referred to as an AIP module. Specifically, the array antenna module1100-1may be arranged in one side area of the multi-layer substrate. In relation to this, a first beam B1may be provided on a side area of the multi-layer substrate using the array antenna module1100-1arranged on one side area of the multi-layer substrate.

On the other hand, referring to (b) ofFIG.5A, an array antenna module1100-2may be arranged on the multi-layer substrate. The arrangement of the array antenna module1100-2is not limited to the structure of (b) ofFIG.5A, but may be arranged on any layer in the multi-layer substrate. In relation to this, a second beam B2may be provided on a front surface region of the multi-layer substrate using the array antenna module1100-2arranged on any layer of the multi-layer substrate. In relation to this, in a case of the AIP module, i.e., an array antenna module provided integrally with the multi-layer substrate, an array antenna may be arranged on a same printed circuit board (PCB) to minimize a distance between the RFIC and an antenna.

The antenna of the AIP module may be implemented using a multi-layer PCB manufacturing process, and radiate a signal in a vertical/side direction of the PCB. In relation to this, double polarization may be implemented using a patch antenna or a dipole/monopole antenna. Accordingly, the first array antenna1100-1shown in (a) ofFIG.5Amay be arranged on the side area of the multi-layer substrate, and the second array antenna1100-2shown in (b) ofFIG.5Amay be arranged on the side area of the multi-layer substrate. Therefore, the first beam B1may be generated through the first array antenna1100-1, and the second beam B2may be generated through the second array antenna1100-2.

The first array antenna1100-1and the second array antenna1100-2may be configured to have same polarization. Alternatively, the first array antenna1100-1and the second array antenna1100-2may be configured to have orthogonal polarization. In relation to this, the first array antenna1100-1may operate as a vertical polarization antenna and also operate as a horizontally polarized antenna. For example, the first array antenna1100-1may be a monopole antenna having vertical polarization, and the second array antenna may be a patch antenna having horizontal polarization.

FIG.5Bis a conceptual diagram illustrating antenna structures having different radiation directions.

Referring to (a) ofFIG.5Aand (a) ofFIG.5B, a radiation direction of the antenna module arranged in the side area of the multi-layer substrate corresponds to a side direction. In relation to this, the antenna implemented on the flexible substrate may be configured as a radiating element such as a dipole/monopole antenna. That is, antennas implemented on the flexible substrate may be end-fire antenna elements.

In relation to this. end-fire radiation may be implemented by an antenna radiating in a horizontal direction with the substrate. Such an end-fire antenna may be implemented as a dipole/monopole antenna, a Yagi-dipole antenna, a Vivaldi antenna, a substrate integrated waveguide (SIW) horn antenna, or the like. In relation to this, the Yagi-dipole antenna and the Vivaldi antenna have horizontal polarization characteristics. One of the antenna modules arranged in the image display device described herein needs a vertical polarization antenna. Accordingly, there is a need to present an antenna structure capable of minimizing an antenna exposure area while operating as a vertical polarization antenna.

Referring to (b) ofFIG.5Aand (a) ofFIG.5B, a radiation direction of the antenna module arranged in the front area of the multi-layer substrate corresponds to a front direction. In relation to this, an antenna arranged in the AIP module may be configured as a radiating element such as a patch antenna. That is, the antenna arranged in the AIP module may be a broadside antenna element radiating in the broadside direction.

The multi-layer substrate having the array antenna arranged therein may be provided integrally with the main substrate or may be configured to be combined with the main substrate as a modular type by a connector. In relation to this,FIG.5Cillustrates a combination structure between a multi-layer substrate and a main substrate. Referring to (a) ofFIG.5C, a structure in which an RFIC1250and a modem1400are integrally provided on a multi-layer substrate1010is shown. The modem1400may be referred to as the baseband processor1400. Accordingly, the multi-layer substrate1010is integrally provided integrally with the main substrate. The integrated structure may be applied to a structure in which only one array antenna module is arranged in the electronic device.

On the other hand, the multi-layer substrate1010and the main substrate1020may be configured to be combined with each other as a modular type by a connector. Referring to (b) ofFIG.5C, in relation to this, the multi-layer substrate1010may be configured to interface with the main substrate1020through a connector. In this case, the RFIC1250may be arranged on the multi-layer substrate1010, and the modem1400may be arranged on the main substrate1020. Accordingly, the multi-layer substrate1010may be provided as a substrate separate from the main substrate1020and configured to be combined with the main substrate1020through a connector.

Such a modular structure may be applied to a structure in which a plurality of array antenna modules are arranged in the electronic device. Referring to (b) ofFIG.5C, the multi-layer substrate1010and a second multi-layer substrate1010bmay be configured to interface with the main substrate1020through connector connection. The modem1400arranged on the main substrate1020is configured to be electrically coupled to RFICs1250and1250barranged on the multi-layer substrate1010and the second multi-layer substrate1020, respectively.

When the AIP module is arranged in a lower portion of the electronic device such as the image display device, communication needs to be performed with other communication modules arranged in a lower direction and a front direction. In relation to this,FIG.6is a conceptual diagram illustrating a plurality of communication modules arranged in a lower portion of the image display device, a configuration of the communication modules, and communication between the communication modules and other communication modules arranged in a front direction from the image display device. Referring to (a) ofFIG.6, different communication modules1100-1and1100-2may be disposed in a lower portion of the image display device100. Referring to (b) ofFIG.6, the image display device100may perform communication with a communication module1100barranged below the image display device100through the antenna module1100. Communication may be performed with the second communication module1100carranged in front of the image display device100through the antenna module1100of the image display device100. In addition, communication may be performed with the third communication module1100darranged by a side of the image display device100through the antenna module1100of the image display device100.

In relation to this, the communication module1100bmay be a set-top box or an access point (AP) configured to transmit AV data to the image display apparatus100through the 802.11ay wireless interface at a high speed, but is limited thereto. The second communication module1100cmay be any electronic device configured to transceive data to/from the image display device100at a high speed through the 802.11ay wireless interface. To perform wireless communication with the communication modules1100b,1100c, and1100darranged in front of, below, and by a side of the image display device100, respectively, the antenna module1100having a plurality of array antennas provide beams in different directions. Specifically, the antenna module1100may provide beams in a front direction B1, a lower direction B2, and a side direction B3through different array antennas, respectively.

In the AIP module structure as illustrated in (a) ofFIG.5A, an antenna height may increase according to an RFIC driving circuit and a heat dissipation structure. Also, depending on a type of an antenna that is being used, an antenna height may increase in the AIP module structure as shown in (a) ofFIG.5A. On the other hand, in the antenna module structure implemented in a side area of the multi-layer substrate as illustrated in (b) ofFIG.5A, an antenna may be implemented in a low-profile shape.

Hereinafter, a detailed configuration of an antenna module ofFIGS.5A to5Cwhich may be arranged inside or on a side surface of the electronic device ofFIGS.4and6, in the electronic device ofFIGS.1to2and in a configuration ofFIGS.3A and3B, is described.

A communication module including an antenna may be provided so that the electronic device such as the image display device may perform communication with a neighboring electronic device. Recently, as a display area of the image display device is enlarged, an arrangement space of the communication module including the antenna is reduced. Accordingly, there is an increasing need for arranging an antenna in a multi-layer circuit board on which the communication module is implemented.

A WiFi wireless interface may be taken into account, as an interface for a communication service between electronic devices. When using such a WiFi wireless interface, a mmWave band may be used for high-speed data transmission between electronic devices. In particular, high-speed data transmission between electronic devices may be performed using a wireless interface such as the 802.11ay wireless interface.

In relation to this, an array antenna capable of operating in a mmWave band may be mounted in the antenna module. However, electronic components such as an antenna and a transceiver circuit arranged in such an antenna module are configured to be electrically connected to each other. To do so, a transceiver circuit may be operably coupled to the antenna module, and the antenna module may be configured as a multi-layer substrate.

Antenna elements of the antenna module in a form of a multi-layer substrate may radiate a radio signal in one side direction of the antenna module. However, this side direction radiation structure has a problem such that a specific antenna structure capable of increasing a gain of the antenna element has not been provided.

The present disclosure is directed to solving the aforementioned problems and other drawbacks. Another aspect of the present disclosure is to provide a broadband antenna module operating in a mmWave band, and an electronic device including the broadband antenna module.

Another aspect of the present disclosure is to enhance an antenna gain by enhancing directivity of an antenna element operating in a mmWave band.

Another aspect of the present disclosure is to enhance an antenna gain by enhancing efficiency of an antenna element operating in a mmWave band.

Another aspect of the present disclosure is to enhance an antenna gain in a desired direction using a dielectric and an air gap in a mmWave band.

Another aspect of the present disclosure is to perform wireless communication with various peripheral electronic devices in several directions by arranging antenna modules in difference positions below an electronic device.

An antenna module operating in a millimeter wave band described herein, and an electronic device including the antenna module are to be described. To do so, a configuration and structure of an electronic device operating as an image display device (a display device) is to be described in detail. In relation to this,FIG.7Aillustrates an outer configuration of a display device having a display panel described herein.FIG.7Bis a perspective view of each configuration of the display device ofFIG.7A.

Hereinafter, an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) panel is described as an example of a display panel. However, the display panel that may be applied to the present disclosure is not limited to the OLED panel, but may be a plasma display panel (PDP), a field emission display (FED), or a liquid crystal display (LCD).

Referring toFIG.7A, the display device100may include a first long side LS1, a second long side LS2facing the first long side LS1, a first short side SS1adjacent to the first long side LS1and the second long side LS2, and a second short side SS2facing the first short side SS1.

In the display device100, an area of the first short side SS1may be referred to as a first side area, and an area of the second short side SS2may be referred to as a second side area facing the first side area. In the display device100, an area of the first long side LS1may be referred to as a third side area adjacent to the first and second side areas and located between the first and second side areas. An area of the second long side LS2may be referred to as a fourth side area adjacent to the first and second side areas, located between the first and second side areas, and facing the third side area.

Hereinafter, a first direction DR1may be a direction parallel with the first and second longs sides LS1and LS2of the display panel110, and a second direction DR2may be a direction parallel with the first and second short sides SS1and SS2of the display panel110. The third direction DR3may be a direction perpendicular to the first direction DR1and/or the second direction DR2.

From another viewpoint, a portion on which the display device100displays an image may be referred to as a front side or a front surface. When the display device100displays an image, a portion from which an image cannot be viewed may be referred to as a rear side or a rear surface. When the display device100is viewed from the front side or the front surface, a portion of the first long side LS1may be referred to as an upper side or an upper surface, and a portion of the second long side LS2may be referred to as a lower side or a lower surface. When the display device100is viewed from the front side or the front surface, a portion of the first short side SS1may be referred to as a right side or a right surface, and a portion of the second short side SS2may be referred to as a left side or a left surface.

The first long side LS1, the second long side LS2, the first short side SS1, and the second short side SS2may be referred to edges of the display device100. In addition, points at which the first long side LS1, the second long side LS2, the first short side SS1, and the second short side SS2converge may be referred to as corners. For example, a point at which the first long side LS1and the first short side SS1converge may be a first corner C1, a point at which the first long side LS1and the second short side SS2converge may be a second corner C2, a point at which the second short side SS2and the second long side LS2converge may be a third corner C3, and a point at which the second long side LS2and the first short side SS1converge may be a fourth corner C4.

A direction from the first short side SS1to the second short side SS2or a direction from the second short side SS2to the first short side SS1may be referred to as a left-right direction LR or a horizontal direction, i.e., the first direction DR1. A direction from the first long side LS1to the second long side LS2or a direction from the second long side LS2to the first long side LS1may be referred to as an upper-lower direction UD or a vertical direction, i.e., the second direction DR2. A direction from the front surface to the rear surface or a direction from the rear surface to the front surface may be referred to as a front-rear direction, i.e., the third direction DR3or a thickness direction FB. The front-rear direction DR3may be a direction vertical to a left-right direction DR1and/or an upper-lower direction DR2.

Referring toFIG.7B, the display panel110may be provided on the front surface of the display device100and display an image. The display panel110may display an image as a plurality of pixels output red, green and blue (RGB) colors in correspondence with a timing for each pixel. The display panel110may be divided into an active area in which an image is displayed, and a de-active area in which an image is not displayed.

The display panel110may be a flat panel having a small thickness. For example, the display panel100may be an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) panel. An active matrix type organic light-emitting display panel includes a self-emissive organic light-emitting diode (hereinafter referred to as OLED), and has an advantage such as a high response speed, high light-emitting efficiency, great brightness, and a large viewing angle.

The main frame130may be arranged in a rear of the display panel110. The main frame130may be combined with the display panel110. To combine the main frame130with the display panel110, the main frame130and/or another structure adjacent to the main frame130may include a protruding portion, a sliding portion, a coupling portion, etc. The main frame130may include a bottom frame131. The bottom frame131may be arranged in a lower portion of the main frame130. The bottom frame131may be separate from or combined with the main frame130. The main frame130and the bottom frame131may cover a part of a front surface and a side surface of the display panel110.

An inner frame150may be arranged in a rear of the display panel110. The inner frame150may be arranged between the display panel110and the main frame130. A front surface of the main frame150may face the display panel110. Another front surface of the main frame150may be coupled to the display panel130. The inner plate150may face a support plate170mounted on a rear surface of the display panel110. The inner plate150may be connected to or combined with the support plate170through a combining member190. The combining member190may combine the inner plate150with the support plate170. The combining member190may be provided on or fixed to a rear surface of the support plate170and a front surface of the inner plate150.

A display device described herein may include a plurality of frames combined with a display panel. In relation to this,FIG.8Ais a side view illustrating a combination of an inner frame and a support frame both combined with a display panel and a main frame of an electronic device described herein.FIG.8Bis a side view illustrating a combination of a support frame and a combining member both combining an inner frame with a main frame of the electronic device described herein.

FIGS.8A and8Bschematically illustrate a portion of the display device taken along line A-A′ ofFIG.7A.

Edges LSB1and LSE1and a boundary provided on the first long side LS1of the main frame130may be refracted at least once. For example, after the edges LSB1and LSE1of the main frame130may be bent toward a front side F of the main frame130, and then, bent toward inside of the main frame130at an angle of 90° (degrees). An eleventh wall LSB1of the first long side LS1may be bent from a body130aof the main frame130at 90 degrees. A twelfth wall LSE1of the first long side LS1may be bent from the eleventh wall LSB1of the first long side LS1toward inside of the main frame130at 90 degrees to face a body130bof the main frame130. A first combining member190amay be combined with a second combining member190b. The first combining member190amay face or be in contact with the inner plate150. The second combining member190bmay face or be in contact with the support plate170.

When the display panel110is inserted into the main frame130, an extension region93aof the first combining member190amay be arranged between an extension region93bof the second combining member190band the inner plate150.

One surface of the extension region93aof the first combining member190amay face or be in contact with the inner plate150. Another surface of the extension region93aof the first combining member190amay be spaced apart from the inner plate170. The another surface of the extension region93aof the first combining member190amay face or be in contact with another surface of the extension region93bof the second combining member190b. When the display panel110is inserted into the main frame130, the extension region93bof the second combining member190bmay be arranged between the extension region93aof the first combining member190aand the support plate170.

One surface of the extension region93bof the second member190bmay face or be in contact with the support plate170. The another surface of the extension region93bof the second combining member190bmay be spaced apart from the inner plate150. The another surface of the extension region93bof the second combining member190bmay face or be in contact with the another surface of the extension region93aof the first combining member190a. That is, the first combining member190amay be combined with the second combining member190busing a hook method. Thus, the display panel110may maintain a constant space with the main frame130. A phenomenon in which a central portion of the display panel110is leaned toward a front surface may be prevented.

In addition, the inner plate150may include a plurality of bead shapes. The bead shapes may protrude toward the display panel110. The inner plate150includes a plurality of bead shapes B to constantly maintain a space between the display panel110and the main frame130and ensure rigidity.

An antenna module may be provided in a main frame of an image display device having the aforementioned configuration and structure, i.e., an electronic device to perform wireless communication with a peripheral electronic device. In relation to this,FIG.9Ais one side view of an antenna module according to the present disclosure.FIG.9Billustrates a side view and another side view of an antenna module in which an antenna substrate provided with antenna elements according to the present disclosure is arranged.

Dielectrics arranged in an outer portion, among a plurality of dielectrics in the antenna module disclosed herein, may be configured as main frames provided on a front surface and a side surface of the electronic device. In relation to this,FIGS.10A to10Cillustrate a configuration of an antenna module that may be arranged in a main frame according to the present disclosure.FIG.10Aillustrates a structure in which the antenna module1100is provided integrally with a front surface portion132of the main frame130. Referring toFIG.10A, a beamforming radio signal B1radiated through the antenna module1100is radiated toward a front direction of the electronic device to perform wireless communication with an electronic device arranged in a front direction.

FIG.10Billustrates a structure in which the antenna module1100is provided integrally with a side surface portion133of the main frame130and attached to the inner frame170.FIG.10Cillustrates a structure in which the antenna module1100is provided integrally with the side surface portion133of the main frame130and attached to the support frame150. Referring toFIGS.10B and10C, beamforming radio signals B2and B3radiated through the antenna module1100are radiated toward a lower direction of the electronic device to perform wireless communication with an electronic device arranged in a lower direction.

Referring toFIGS.7A to10C, the electronic device1000disclosed herein may be configured to include the display110, the main frame130, and the antenna module1100.

The display110may be arranged on a front surface of the electronic device and configured to display information. The main frame130may be arranged along a peripheral region of the display110arranged on the front surface, and arranged to extend along side and rear surface regions of the electronic device. The main frame130may be arranged to include a front surface region (a front surface portion)132, a side surface region (a side surface portion)133, and a rear surface region (a rear surface portion)134.

The antenna module1100is arranged in an inner space of the main frame130, and configured to radiate a radio signal in a front direction or a lower direction of the electronic device through the main frame130. In relation to this, a part of an outer structure of the antenna module1100may be implemented as the main frame130. Thus, to configure such that a thickness (width) of the outer structure of the antenna module1100has an optimum value, a thickness (width) of the main frame130in a corresponding area may be provided to be different from that in other areas.

The antenna module1100may be configured to include the antenna substrate1010, a first dielectric layer1011, a second dielectric layer1012, and an air gap layer1010a.

As an antenna element is arranged on the antenna substrate1010as illustrated inFIG.5C, the antenna substrate1010may be implemented as the multi-layer substrate1010on which a transceiver circuit such as the RFIC1250is arranged. The antenna substrate1010may be configured such that a plurality of antenna elements are arranged thereon.

The first dielectric layer1011may be arranged to be apart from one side surface of the antenna substrate1010in a first direction toward which the antenna elements radiate signals. The first dielectric layer1012may be arranged to be apart from the first dielectric layer1011in the first direction. Since the first dielectric layer1011and the second dielectric layer1012provide a partial appearance of the antenna module1100, the first dielectric layer1011and the second dielectric layer1012may be referred to as a first dielectric portion1011and a second dielectric portion1012, respectively. The air gap layer1010amay be configured to be arranged between the first dielectric layer1011and the second dielectric layer1012.

The first dielectric layer1011may be provided to have a first width W1in the first direction, and the second dielectric layer1012may be provided to have a second width W2in the first direction. The air gap layer1010amay be provided to have a particular gap G in the first direction.

As such, the first dielectric layer1011, the second dielectric layer1012, and the air gap layer1010aarranged therebetween may improve antenna performance, particularly, an antenna gain. A structure of the first dielectric layer1011—the air gap layer1010a—the second dielectric layer1012may be referred to as a dielectric-air gap-dielectric (DAD) structure. Through this DAD structure, antenna performance, particularly, an antenna gain may be improved. Hereinafter, a principle of improving antenna performance through the DAD structure is to be described.

In relation to this,FIG.11Aillustrates a DAD structure arranged in a direction in which an electromagnetic wave proceeds through an antenna element.FIG.11Billustrates an antenna operation mechanism according to electric field distributions in different areas. In addition, FIC.11C illustrates an electromagnetic wave propagation direction according to a boundary surface of a dielectric, and an antenna operation mechanism resulting therefrom.

Referring toFIG.11A. antenna performance, particularly, an antenna gains may be improved using two dielectric layers such as the first and second dielectric layers1011and1012and the air gap layer1010aarranged therebetween. Referring toFIGS.9A to11A, when the antenna element1110radiates an electromagnetic wave in a particular direction, an electromagnetic wave (a radio signal) passes through a plurality of layers in an order of a dielectric+an air gap+a dielectric (DAD). As described, a structure of the first dielectric layer1011—the air gap layer1010a—the second dielectric layer1012, through which a radio signal passes, may be referred to as a dielectric-air gap-dielectric (DAD) structure. In this case, antenna performance (an antenna gain) in a direction toward which a radio signal proceeds may be enhanced using a DAD structure arranged in a front radiation region of the antenna element1110.

Referring toFIGS.9A to11B, the first dielectric layer1011is located in a near field region of an antenna. Accordingly, since a first electric field distribution Ef1does not correspond to a plane wave, an end point P0and an intermediate point P1of the first electric field distribution Ef1are not provided in a vertical direction.

Since the end point P0does not pass a dielectric layer, an electromagnetic wave may proceed at a speed of v0. However, the electromagnetic wave may proceed at the intermediate point P1at a speed of v1due to the dielectric layer. In relation to this, since v0>v1, when the electromagnetic wave passes the first dielectric layer1011, a second electric field distribution Ef2becomes close to a plane wave.

In the air gap layer1010a, since the electromagnetic wave proceeds at a same speed at the end point P0and the intermediate point P1, a radio signal propagates in a form of a same electric field distribution as the second electric field distribution Ef2. However, when the electromagnetic passes through the second dielectric layer1012, a point at which the end point P0and the intermediate point1012are arranged in a same vertical position is present due to a speed difference. Thus, a second width W2of the second dielectric layer1012may be set so that the end point P0and the intermediate point P1are arranged in a same vertical position. Accordingly, a third electric field distribution Ef3of the electromagnetic wave that have passed through the second dielectric layer1012becomes a plane wave. Therefore, when an electromagnetic wave having passed through the second dielectric layer1012is received, a radio signal having a same phase at the end point P0and the intermediate point P1is received. Accordingly, as the radio signal having passed through the second dielectric layer1012is received without a signal loss that may be caused by a phase difference, an antenna gain may be improved.

The first electric field Ef1may be changed to the second electric distribution Ef2similar to a plane wave by providing the first dielectric layer1011to have the first width W1. As the air gap layer1010ais provided between the first dielectric layer1011and the second dielectric layer1012, the second electric field distribution Ef2is maintained in correspondence with a certain space, and thus, performance deterioration due to a drastic change in an electric field distribution may be prevented. As the second electric distribution Ef2is maintained in correspondence with a certain space, a bandwidth decrease due to a drastic change in an electric field distribution may be prevented. In addition, by providing the second dielectric layer1012to have the second width W2, the second electric field Ef2may be provided as the third electric distribution Ef3having a complete form of a plane wave.

As illustrated inFIGS.11A to11C, a third dielectric layer may be further arranged between the first dielectric layer1011and the second dielectric layer1012. In other words, another dielectric layer, i.e., the third dielectric layer may be further arranged in between the air gap layer1010a.

A third effective permittivity of the third dielectric may be set to have a lower value than that of a first permittivity of the first dielectric1011and a second permittivity of the second dielectric1012. In this case, the air gap layer1010amay include a first air gap layer and a second air gap layer. The first air gap layer may be provided between the first dielectric layer1011and the third dielectric layer. The second air gap layer may be provided between the third dielectric layer and the second dielectric layer1012.

Referring toFIGS.9A to11C, the first and second dielectric layers1011and1012of the antenna module1011having a DAD structure are connected to each other via a dielectric to thereby provide a dielectric cavity1010C. In detail, the first and second dielectric layers1011and1012may be connected to each other through first to fourth side surfaces SS1to SS4constituting a side surface region of the antenna module. Accordingly, the first dielectric layer1011and the second dielectric layer1012may constitute a hexahedron structure having an air gap layer implemented therein.

The third dielectric layer may be arranged between the first dielectric layer1011and the second dielectric layer1012. Referring toFIGS.9A to11C, the third dielectric layer may be connected to the first to fourth side surfaces SS1to SS4of the hexahedron structure. As described above, the third effective permittivity of the third dielectric layer may be set to have a lower value than that of the first permittivity of the first dielectric layer1011and a second permittivity of the second dielectric layer1012.

The first dielectric layer1011may constitute a rear surface of the hexahedron structure, and the second dielectric layer1011may constitute a front surface of the hexahedron structure. A radio signal radiated through antenna elements may provide directivity toward a front direction through the dielectric cavity1010ccorresponding to the hexahedron structure.

Dielectric boundary surfaces of an upper surface1010U and a lower surface1010L of the dielectric cavity1010C provided as a hexahedron structure are configured to reflect an electromagnetic wave radiated from an antenna. That is, the dielectric boundary surfaces of the upper surface1010U and the lower surface1010L of the dielectric cavity1010C may function to reflect a radio signal. Accordingly, a radio signal diverging from a first direction, i.e., a front direction in which the electromagnetic wave proceeds may be reflected in the first direction to thereby improve an antenna gain.

As an example, permittivities of the upper surface1010U and the lower surface1010L of the dielectric cavity1010C may be set to a value greater than that of a permittivity of another surface of the dielectric cavity1010C. As another example, metal patterns may be provided to be apart from each other to have a certain space therebetween in a form of a plurality of matrices to reflect a radio signal onto the upper surface1010U and the lower surface1010L of the dielectric cavity1010C.

Hereinafter, an electric field distribution provided in a DAD structure disclosed herein is described in detail. In relation to this,FIG.12illustrates a comparison of changes in electric field distributions according to whether or not a DAD structure is present. (a) ofFIG.12illustrates an electric field distribution, i.e., an electric field strength when an end-fire antenna is provided on an antenna substrate. On the other hand, (b) ofFIG.12illustrates an electric field distribution, i.e., an electric field strength when an end-fire antenna is provided on an antenna substrate and a DAD structure is provided in a direction toward which a signal is radiated.

Referring to (a) ofFIG.12, three regions in which an electric field strength is greater at a left side are provided. It may be checked that in a portion nearer a left region corresponding to a near field region, an in-phase electric field distribution is configured to have a curved surface form, and thus, does not constitute a plane wave. In addition, since a region having a third greatest electric field strength includes a curved surface form, it may be checked that a plane wave is not provided.

Referring toFIGS.9A to11C, and (b) ofFIG.12, when a DAD structure is applied to an end-fire antenna, the region having the third greatest electric field strength may be a region in which the air gap layer1010ais arranged. In this case, it may be checked that the second electric field distribution Ef2in the region in which the air gap layer1010ais arranged is similar nearly to a plane wave. In addition, as an electromagnetic wave passes through the second dielectric layer1012, it may be checked that the third electric field distribution Ef3constitutes a plane wave having a flat surface form instead of a curved surface form.

Referring toFIGS.9A to11C, the dielectric cavity1010C including the first and second dielectric layers1011and1012of an antenna module having a DAD structure disclosed herein, i.e., a dielectric structure may be configured to have a form of an instrument injection molding. The dielectric cavity1010C including the first and second dielectric layers1011and1012, i.e., the dielectric structure may include a material such as plastic, etc. Permittivities of the first and second dielectric layers1011and1012and the first to fourth side surfaces SS1to SS4may be changed according to applications. A third permittivity of the third dielectric layer between the first and second dielectric layers1011and1012may be set to be lower than permittivity of another dielectric layer.

The first dielectric layer1011arranged in a region near the antenna element1110may be configured to surround the antenna substrate1010so that the antenna substrate1010is fixedly arranged inside the dielectric cavity1010C.

The antenna element1110may include a plurality of dipole array antennas1110-1and1110-2. A number of antenna elements constituting the dipole array antennas1110-1and1110-2may be two, but is not limited thereto. Accordingly, the number of the antenna elements constituting an array antenna may be expanded to two, four, six, eight, or the like. Accordingly, the array antenna may be configured as a 1×2, 1×4, 1×6, or 1×8 array antenna.

A ground provided on any layer of a multi-layer substrate in the antenna substrate1010functions as a reflector of the antenna element1110. Accordingly, an electromagnetic wave may be guided in a particular direction to be radiated toward a direction in which a DAD structure is arranged as illustrated inFIG.11C.

The second dielectric layer1012may constitute an outer appearance of an instrument corresponding to the dielectric cavity1010C, i.e., a dielectric structure. A width of the air gap layer1010a, i.e., the gap G may be provided to have a thickness greater than the first width W1of the first dielectric layer1011. According to embodiments, a width of the air gap layer1010a, i.e., the gap G may be provided to have a thickness greater than the second width W2of the second dielectric layer1012, but is not limited thereto.

In relation to this, since the first dielectric layer1011is arranged near the antenna element1110, a thickness of the first dielectric layer1011may be set to have a value equal to or greater than a first lower limit value to improve an antenna gain. However, when a thickness of the first dielectric layer1011is set to a value equal to or greater than a first upper limit value, antenna efficiency may deteriorate due to a dielectric loss.

Meanwhile, since the second dielectric layer1012is arranged further apart from the antenna element1110compared to the first dielectric layer1011, an effect of the second dielectric layer1012on antenna performance may be less compared to the first dielectric layer1011. However, a thickness of the second dielectric layer1012may be set to a value equal to or greater than a second lower limit value to provide an electric field distribution having a complete form of a plane wave. A thickness of the second dielectric layer1012may be set to a value equal to or less than a second upper limit value to maintain a whole size of the antenna module within a certain range. As a thickness of a particular dielectric layer including the second dielectric layer1012increases, a higher order mode may occur. Accordingly, a thickness of the second dielectric layer1012may be set to a value equal to or less than the second upper limit value so that antenna efficiency does not decrease due to occurrence of the higher order mode.

In relation to this,FIGS.13A and13Cillustrate widths and peak gains of a first dielectric layer, an air gap layer, and a second dielectric layer.FIG.13Aillustrates the first width W1and a peak gain of the first dielectric layer1011.FIG.13Billustrates a second width W2and a peak gain of the second dielectric layer1012.FIG.13Cillustrates the gap G and a peak gain of the air gap layer1010a.

Referring toFIGS.9A to11C and13A, the first width W1of the first dielectric layer1011may be set to a value equal to or greater than a first threshold value (or a first lower limit value) of a wavelength corresponding to an operating frequency of the antenna element1110. Referring toFIGS.9A to11C and13A, the second width W2of the second dielectric layer1012may be set to a value equal to or less than a second threshold value (or a second upper limit value) of a wavelength corresponding to an operating frequency of the antenna element1110.

As described above, a thickness of the first dielectric layer1011adjacent to the antenna element1110in a DAD structure may be defined as the first width W1. A thickness of the second dielectric layer1012spaced apart from the antenna element1110may be defined as the second width W2. A thickness of the air gap layer1010aprovided between the first and second dielectric layers1011and1012may be defined as a particular gap G. Threshold value for stably implementing antenna performance using the DAD structure are present. In the present disclosure, threshold values of W1, W2, and G are set.

According to embodiments, with reference to an antenna operating at a center frequency of 63.5 GHz, when a dipole antenna is implemented as an array antenna, the threshold values of W1, W2, and G may be set. Alternatively, when one single antenna element is arranged, the threshold values of W1, W2, and G may be set.

FIGS.13A to13Cshow simulation results with respect to one antenna element constituting an array antenna. This is because even when a signal is applied to all of the plurality of antenna elements1110-1and1110-2, and thus, the antenna elements operate as an array antenna, a similar change in antenna gain characteristics according a thickness change is shown.

Referring toFIGS.9A to11C and13A, an antenna gain change according to a change in the first width W1of the first dielectric layer1011is shown. When the first width W1, i.e., a thickness of the first dielectric layer1011decreases, an antenna gain decreases. When an antenna gain is 7 dBi, the first width W1is 0.65 mm. Since a wavelength λ0is about 4.7 mm at 63.5 GHz, a first threshold value of the first width W1=0.14λ0.

Referring toFIGS.9A to11C and13B, an antenna gain change according to a change in the second width W2of the second dielectric layer1012is shown. When the second width W2, i.e., a thickness of the second dielectric layer1012increases, an antenna gain decreases. When an antenna gain is 7 dBi, the second width W2is 2.85 mm. Since a wavelength λ0is about 4.7 mm at 63.5 GHz, a threshold value of the second width W2=0.61λ0.

Referring toFIGS.9A to11C and13C, an antenna gain change according to a change in the air gap layer1010ais shown. When a particular gap G, i.e., a thickness of the air gap layer1010adecreases, an antenna gain decreases. When an antenna gain is 7 dBi, the gap G is 1.37 mm. Since a wavelength λ0is about 4.7 mm at 63.5 GHz, the particular gap G=0.29λ0.

Referring toFIGS.9A to11CandFIGS.13A to13C, the first width W1of the first dielectric layer1011may be set to a value equal to or greater than 0.14 times a value of a wavelength corresponding to an operating frequency of the antenna element. The second width W2of the second dielectric layer1012may be set to a value equal to or less than 0.61 times a wavelength corresponding to an operating frequency of the antenna element. The particular gap G of the air gap layer1010amay be set to a value equal to or greater than 0.29 times a value of a wavelength corresponding to an operating frequency of the antenna element.

An antenna module having a DAD structure disclosed herein may be implemented using a main frame of an electronic device (a display device). Referring toFIG.9B, an antenna module having a DAD structure may be arranged in a region R including a front lower portion, a side lower portion, and a rear lower portion of a main frame. In relation to this,FIGS.14A and14Billustrate an arrangement structure of an antenna module having a DAD structure in which a part of a main frame combined with a display panel is used as a second dielectric layer.

FIG.14Aillustrates a configuration in which the antenna module1100having a DAD structure is combined with a front surface region132(a front surface portion) of the main frame130. In the antenna module1100having a DAD structure, a part of the front surface region132(the front surface portion) of the main frame130may be used as the second dielectric layer.FIG.14Billustrates a configuration in which the antenna module1100having a DAD structure is combined with a side surface region133(a side surface portion) of the main frame130. In the antenna module1100having a DAD structure, a part of the side surface region133(a side surface portion) of the main frame130may be used as the second dielectric layer.

An antenna module having such a DAD structure may be arranged to be combined with at least one from among the front surface region132(a front surface portion), the side surface region133(the side surface portion)133, and the rear surface region134(a rear surface portion). In relation to this,FIGS.15A to15Cillustrate arrangement structures of a DAD antenna module according to various embodiments.

FIG.15Aillustrates a first structure in which the antenna module1100having a DAD structure is provided integrally with the front surface portion132(a front surface portion) of the main frame130.FIG.15Billustrates a second structure in which the antenna module1100having a DAD structure is provided integrally with the side surface portion133(a side surface portion) of the main frame130and combined with the inner frame170.FIG.15Cillustrates a third structure in which the antenna module1100having a DAD structure is provided integrally with the side surface portion133(the side surface portion) of the main frame130and combined with the support frame150.

Referring toFIGS.7A to11C and14A to15C, the main frame130may constitute an outermost dielectric layer of a DAD antenna structure. In relation to this, the first dielectric layer1011may constitute a first surface FS1of the antenna module1110. The second dielectric layer1012may be implemented as a main frame130combined with a second surface FS2of the antenna module1110. The air gap layer1010amay be provided as a space from a first surface FS1, i.e., a front surface of the antenna module1100to the main frame130.

The antenna module1100and the main frame130are connected to each other on a side surface region to constitute a hexahedron structure, i.e., the dielectric cavity1010C as illustrated inFIGS.9B,14A, and14B. That is, the first dielectric layer1011and the main frame130are connected to each other through the first to fourth side surfaces SS1to SS4constituting a side surface region of the antenna module1100to constitute the hexahedron structure1010C having the air gap layer1010aimplemented therein.

The hexahedron structure1010C may be assumed as an empty structure arranged on a front surface of the antenna element1100. In relation to this, the first dielectric layer1011constitutes a rear surface of the hexahedron structure1010C, and the main frame130may constitute a front surface of the hexahedron structure1010C. Accordingly, a radio signal radiated through the antenna elements1110may provide directivity toward a front direction through the dielectric cavity1010ccorresponding to the hexahedron structure including the main frame130.

Referring toFIGS.14A to15A, the second dielectric portion1012of the antenna module1100may be provided integrally with the front surface portion132of the main frame130. Accordingly, a beamforming signal radiated through the antenna elements1110is radiated toward a front direction through the front surface portion132of the main frame130.

In relation to this, in the antenna module1100, an outermost dielectric may be provided by the front surface portion132of the main frame130without the second dielectric portion. In this case, a second width W2of a DAD antenna structure is determined as a width of the front surface portion132of the main frame130. Alternatively, in the antenna module1100, an outermost dielectric may be provided by combining the second dielectric portion1012with the front surface portion132of the main frame130. In this case, the second width W2of a DAD antenna structure is determined by a sum of a width of the front surface portion132of the main frame130and a width of the second dielectric portion1012.

Referring toFIGS.14B,15B,15C, the second dielectric portion1012of the antenna module1100may be provided integrally with the side surface portion133of the main frame130. Accordingly, a beamforming signal radiated through the antenna elements1110may be radiated toward a side direction through the side surface portion133of the main frame130.

In relation to this, in the antenna module1100, an outermost dielectric may be provided by the side surface portion133of the main frame130without the second dielectric portion. In this case, the second width W2of a DAD antenna structure is determined by a width of the side surface portion133of the main frame130. Alternatively, the antenna module1100may be provided with an outermost dielectric by combining the second dielectric portion1012with the side surface portion133of the main frame130. In this case, the second width W2of a DAD antenna structure is determined by a sum of a width of the side surface portion133of the main frame130and a width of the second dielectric portion1012.

Referring toFIG.15B, the antenna module1100may be attached to a side surface portion133of the main frame130and the inner frame170. In relation to this, the second dielectric portion1012of the antenna module1100may be provided integrally with the side surface portion133of the main frame130. The antenna module1100may be combined with the inner frame attached to a rear surface of a display110and the side surface portion133of the main frame130. Accordingly, a beamforming signal radiated through the antenna elements1100may be radiated through the side surface portion133of the main frame130. In addition, the antenna module1100may be fixedly arranged inside an electronic device by the side surface portion133of the main frame130and the inner frame170.

Referring toFIG.15C, the antenna module1100may be attached to the side surface portion133of the main frame130and the support frame150. In relation to this, the second dielectric portion1012of the antenna module1100may be provided integrally with the side surface portion133of the main frame130. The antenna module1100may be combined with the support frame150attached to the rear surface portion134of the main frame130and the side surface portion133of the main frame130. Accordingly, a beamforming signal radiated through the antenna elements1100may be radiated through the side surface portion133of the main frame130. In addition, the antenna module1100may be fixedly arranged inside the electronic device by the side surface portion133of the main frame130and the support frame150.

Referring toFIGS.14A and14B, the antenna module1100may be combined with the rear surface of the display110through a joint portion1010J. An example of the joint portion1010J may be a screw for fixing a DAD antenna structure, and may include a plastic or metal material. Like the screw, the joint portion1010J is arranged between a side antenna, i.e., the antenna element1110-1located at an uppermost portion and the display110not to block or interfere with a proceeding direction of an electromagnetic wave radiated from an antenna. Like a screw, the joint portion1010J may operate as a director configured to transmit an electromagnetic wave generated from the antenna elements1110toward a side surface of a multi-layer substrate, i.e., a front surface of the electronic device.

Referring toFIG.14A, the antenna module1100may be connected through the joint portion1010J at a point in one side surface region in which the first and second dielectric layers1011and1012of the antenna module1100are connected to each other. In relation to this, the antenna module1100may be combined with the side surface portion133of the main frame130, the display110, or the inner frame170.

Referring toFIG.14B, the antenna module1100may be connected to the inner frame170arranged on the rear surface of the display110through the joint portion1010J at a point in one side surface region in which the first and second dielectric layers1011and1012of the antenna module1100are connected to each other. Referring toFIG.15C, a structure shown inFIG.14Bmay be configured such that the antenna module1100is combined with the support frame150arranged on the rear surface portion134of the main frame130through the joint portion1010J.

A front radiation structure and a rear radiation structure disclosed herein may be implemented simultaneously by arranging a plurality of antenna modules in an electronic device. In relation to this,FIG.16illustrates a configuration in which a plurality of antenna modules are arranged in an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring toFIGS.14A to16, the antenna module1100may be configured to include a first antenna module1100-1and a second antenna module1100-2.

The first antenna module1100-1may be configured such that the second dielectric portion1012is provided integrally with the front surface portion132of the main frame130. The first antenna module1100-1may be configured such that a first beamforming signal B1provided through a first array antenna may be radiated through the front surface portion132of the main frame130. The first array antenna may be an end-fire array antenna (e.g., a dipole array antenna) configured to radiate the first beamforming signal B1toward a side surface region of the multi-layer substrate1010, i.e., the first surface portion132of the main frame130.

The second antenna module1100-2may be configured such that the second dielectric portion1012is provided integrally with the side surface portion133of the main frame130. The first antenna module1100-1may be configured such that a second beamforming signal B2provided through a second array antenna may be radiated through the side surface portion133of the main frame130. The second array antenna may be an end-fire array antenna (e.g., a dipole array antenna) configured to radiate the second beamforming signal B2toward a side surface region of the multi-layer substrate1010, i.e., the first surface portion133of the main frame130.

The second antenna1100-2is illustrates as being combined with the support frame150arranged in the rear surface portion134of the main frame130, but is not limited to this combination structure. As illustrated inFIG.15B, the second antenna module1100-2ofFIG.16may be combined with the inner frame170arranged on the rear surface of the display110.

A DAD antenna structure disclosed herein may be changed to various structures according to applications. In relation to this,FIG.17Aillustrates a structure in which a first dielectric layer is provided as a dielectric lens structure.FIG.17Aillustrates a structure in which the first dielectric layer is configured as a dielectric lens1011ato be convex in a first direction (a first direction) and provided in the antenna module1100. The first dielectric layer is provided to have a convex form to be the dielectric lens1011a. Accordingly, the dielectric lens1011ais partially enlarged into an internal area of the air gap layer1010ato have a convex form. The air gap layer1010ais provided to be concave from upper and lower ends to a center of a side surface. A structure shown inFIG.17Aand including a dielectric lens-air gap-dielectric structure may be referred to as a dielectric lens-air gap-dielectric (DLAD) structure.

As described above, the dielectric lens1011aprovided to be convex may concentrate an electromagnetic wave into the air gap layer1010a. Thus, more electromagnetic waves may be concentrated into the dielectric cavity1010C to further improve an antenna gain.

According to applications, a shape of a dielectric lens is not limited to a shape convex in a front direction, and may be implemented as a shape concave in the front direction. Accordingly, a dielectric lens provided to be concave may be configured to have a form in which an electromagnetic wave is less concentrated in the air gap layer1010aand diverges. However, the diverging electromagnetic wave may be reflected onto upper and lower portions of the dielectric cavity1010C to be concentrated in a front direction.

FIG.17Billustrates various embodiments of the dielectric lens structure ofFIG.17A. Referring to (a) ofFIG.17B, the first dielectric layer is provided to have a structure of a single dielectric lens1011awhich is convex in the first direction. Referring to (b) ofFIG.17B, the first dielectric layer is provided to have a plurality of dielectric lens grating structures1011bwhich is convex in the first direction. The dielectric lens grating structures1011bmay improve a side-lobe level (SLL) of an antenna radiation pattern. In addition, the dielectric lens grating structures1011bmay constantly maintain a radiation pattern in a wideband frequency range.

FIG.17Cillustrate an electric field distribution of an antenna module having a dielectric lens-air gap-dielectric (DLAD) structure. Referring toFIGS.17A and17C, due to the electric lens1011a, an electric field distribution is higher in a region R1of the dielectric lens1011aand a region R2of the air gap layer1010a, compared to the DAD structure of (a) ofFIG.12. Due to the dielectric lens1011a, the second electric field distribution Ef2in the region R2of the air gap layer1010ais provided to be less spread, compared to the DAD structure. Accordingly, it may be checked that the second electric field Ef2in the region R2of the air gap layer1010ais further concentrated into the dielectric cavity1010C.

The second dielectric layer1012may be provided to have a flat surface structure. According to applications, the second dielectric layer1012may be implemented to have a shape convex in the front direction or a shape concave in the front direction. In relation to this, the first dielectric layers1011,1011a, and1011bmay be provided as a first curved surface portion having a first curvature of a first shape. The second dielectric layer1012may be provided as a flat surface structure or a second curved surface portion having a second curvature of a second shape. Accordingly, the first dielectric layers1011,1011a, and1011band/or the second dielectric layer1012may improve directivity toward a front direction of the antenna module1100.

Hereinafter, an antenna structure that may improve directivity according to various embodiments of the present disclosure is described. In relation to this,FIG.18illustrates dielectric-air gap structures arranged on front surfaces of antenna elements having improved directivity according to various embodiments. (a) ofFIG.18illustrates a dielectric-air gap-dielectric (DAD) structure. (b) ofFIG.18illustrates a dielectric lens-air gap-dielectric (DLAD) structure. (c) ofFIG.18illustrates a dielectric-triangular air gap-dielectric (DTAD) structure. (d) ofFIG.18illustrates a dielectric slot-air gap-dielectric (DAD) structure.

Referring to (a) ofFIG.18, the DAD structure is a structure in which the air gap layer1010ais provided between the first dielectric layer1011and the second dielectric layer on a front surface. Referring toFIG.9Band (a) ofFIG.18, the first dielectric layer1011and the second dielectric layer1012may be configured to be connected to each other by a dielectric constituting the first to fourth side surfaces SS1to SS4. The DAD structure shown in (a) ofFIG.18may be provided as a DADAD structure by adding a dielectric layer to inside of the air gap layer1010a.

Referring toFIG.17Aand (b) ofFIG.18, the DLAD structure may be provided such that a surface has a concave or convex form by varying a thickness of the first dielectric layers1011,1011a, and1011bor the second dielectric layer1012to thereby further improve an antenna gain.

Referring to (c) ofFIG.18, the DTAD structure may be configured such that a plurality of dielectrics, i.e., the first and second dielectrics1011and1012care not parallel with each other. Accordingly, a form of the air gap layer1010ais not limited to a rectangle, but may have a shape of a triangle or any quadrangle.

Referring toFIG.9Aand (c) ofFIG.18, the first dielectric layer1011and the second dielectric layer1012cmay be configured to be connected to each other on a side surface.

The second dielectric layer1012cmay be arranged to be inclined at a certain angle with respect to the first dielectric layer1011to thereby change a direction of a radio signal radiated through the second dielectric layer1012cof the antenna module1100by a certain angle. As an example, a direction of a radio signal radiated through the second dielectric layer1012cmay be changed by an inclination angle of the second dielectric layer1012cin a direction vertical to the second dielectric layer1012c.

The first and second dielectric layers1011and1012cmay be configured to be connected to each other at a point at a lower end or on a second surface SS by a separate dielectric. In relation to this, the front surface portion132of the main frame130ofFIGS.14A to15Cmay be provided to be inclined at a certain angle.

Referring to (d) ofFIG.18, in the DSAD structure, a slot region SR may be arranged on the first dielectric layer1011adjacent to an antenna element. The DSAD structure may be configured such that the slot region SR is arranged on the first dielectric layer1011dadjacent to the antenna element to thereby prevent antenna performance from being distorted by a reflection loss and mutual coupling of antennas. In relation to this, a location of a slot may be provided between the antenna elements1110-1and1110-2ofFIG.9Aor provided to cover upper portions of the antenna elements1110-1and1110-2.

When the slot region SR is provided between the antenna elements1110-1and1110-2, a level of interference between the antenna elements1110-1and1110-2may be reduced. The slot region SR may be provided to cover the upper regions of the antenna elements1110-1and1110-2. Accordingly, most electromagnetic waves radiated through the antenna elements1110-1and1110-2are reflected on the first and second side surfaces SS1and SS2in upper and lower portions to be guided. Accordingly, an electromagnetic wave may be guided through the slot region SR and the first and second side surfaces SS1and SS2of the first dielectric layer1011and the second dielectric layer1012to enhance antenna gains.

An antenna gain of a single antenna element is improved through an antenna structure having improved directivity disclosed herein. Accordingly, a number of antenna elements in an array antenna may be reduced. As the number of the antenna elements is reduced, a whole size of an antenna module is reduced. In relation to this, 1×4 and 1×8 array antennas may be implemented as 1×2 and 1×4 array antennas, respectively. Accordingly, the number of antenna elements in an array antenna may be reduced to a half level.

In relation to this,FIG.19Aillustrates antenna gain characteristics according to various antenna structures.FIG.19Aillustrates a value of a gain for each frequency according to the presence or absence and a configuration of a multi-layer structure in a 1×2 array antenna.

Referring toFIG.19A, i) an antenna structure without a multi-layer dielectric structure (antenna only) has an antenna gain equal to or less than 8 dBi at a center frequency of 63.5 GHz. On the other hand, in the ii) DSAD, iii) DAD, and iv) DLAD structures, an antenna gain has a maximum value equal to or greater than 13 dBi at a center frequency of 63.5 GHz. Accordingly, an antenna gain may be improved by 5 dBi or greater at maximum through a multi-layer dielectric structure in which an air gap is provided. Antenna gains in various multi-layer dielectric structures are in an order such that ii) DSAD<iii) DAD<iv) DLAD.

FIG.19Billustrates a comparison of antenna radiation patterns of i) an antenna structure without a multi-layer dielectric structure (antenna-only) and iv) an antenna structure having a DLAD structure. Referring toFIG.19B, antenna directivity is improved in a front direction toward which an electromagnetic wave proceeds iv) through the DLAD structure. Directivity is further improved in a front direction in the DLAD structure, compared to other structures such as a DSAD or DAD structure, and thus, a flat-top radiation pattern is implemented. Due to the flat-top radiation pattern, directivity is improved within a certain range of angles with reference to a direction of 90 degrees, a side direction of a multi-layer substrate, i.e., a front direction of an electronic device. In addition, since a radiation level outside a certain range of angles is reduced due to the flat-top radiation pattern, a radiation level is decreased, thereby reducing an interference level.

The antenna module1100having improved directivity disclosed herein may be electrically connected to the transceiver circuit1250. In relation to this,FIG.20illustrates a configuration in which antenna elements in an antenna module having a DAD structure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may be controlled through a transceiver circuit.

Referring toFIGS.5C,9A,14A to16, and20, the antenna module1100may further include the transceiver circuit1250. The antenna module1100may be arranged on a rear surface of the multi-layer substrate1010, but is not limited thereto. The antenna module1100may be electrically connected to the antenna elements1110-1and1110-2and configured to apply a radio frequency (RF) signal. The transceiver circuit1250may be configured to apply signals having different phases to the antenna elements1110-1and1110-2. To do so, a phase control element such as a phase shifter (PS) may be electrically connected to each of the antenna elements1110-1and1110-2. Accordingly, the transceiver circuit1250may apply a signal to the antenna elements1110-1and1110-2to radiate a beamforming radio signal through the antenna module1100.

The antenna substrate1010may be configured as the multi-layer substrate1010including a plurality of dielectric layers and a conductive layer. The antenna elements1110-1and1110-2may be arranged on or inside the multi-layer substrate1010and configured to radiate a beamforming signal through a side surface of the multi-layer substrate1010.

The antenna module1100may be configured to include the antenna modules1100-1and1100-2that may be arranged in different regions of an electronic device, The first antenna module1100-1may be configured to generate a first beam B1in a front direction of the electronic device. The second antenna module1100-2may be configured to generate a second beam B2in a side direction of the electronic device.

Transceiver circuits1250and1250bmay apply a first or second signal to the first or second array antenna1110aor1110bto radiate a first or second beamforming signal B1or B2through the antenna module1100-1or1100-2. The transceiver circuit1250or1250bmay be operably coupled to the baseband processor1400. The baseband processor1400corresponding to a modem may apply signals through the first or second transceiver circuit.

An electronic device equipped with an antenna module having improved directivity according to an aspect of the present disclosure has been described above. Hereinafter, an antenna module having improved directivity according to another aspect of the present disclosure is to be described. Hereinafter, only some main features of the antenna module having improved directivity will be described. This description may be combined with the aforementioned structure and features of the electronic device including the antenna module.

Referring toFIGS.5A to20, the antenna module1100implemented as a multi-layer substrate may include the antenna substrate1010, the first dielectric layers1011,1011a,1011b, and1011d, and the second dielectric layers1012and1012c. The antenna module1100may be configured to further include the air gap layer1010aarranged between the first dielectric layers1011,1011a,1011b, and1011d, and the second dielectric layers1012and1012c.

The antenna substrate1010may be configured such that a plurality of antenna elements are arranged thereon. The first dielectric layers1011,1011a,1011b, and1011dmay be configured to be apart from one side surface of the antenna substrate1010in a first direction (a front direction) toward which the antenna elements1110,1110-1, and1110-2radiate a signal to have elements arranged thereon. The second dielectric layer1012and1012cmay be arranged to be apart from the first dielectric layer1011,1011a,1011b, and1011din the first direction.

The first dielectric layers1011,1011a,1011b, and1011dmay be provided to have a first width W1in the first direction. An average thickness of the first dielectric layers1011aand1011bmay be provided to have the first width W1in the first direction. The second dielectric layers1012and1012cmay be provided to have a second width W2in the first direction. The air gap layer1010amay be provided to have a particular gap G in the first direction. The gap G in the air gap layer1010abetween the first dielectric lenses1011aand1011band the second dielectric layers1012and1012cmay be determined by taking into account an average thickness of the air gap layer1010a.

The first dielectric layers1011,1011a,1011b, and1011dand the second dielectric layer1012and1012cmay be connected to each other through the first to fourth side surfaces SS1to SS4constituting a side surface region of the antenna module1100. The first dielectric layers1011,1011a,1011b, and1011dand the second dielectric layer1012and1012cmay constitute a hexahedron structure having an air gap layer implemented therein, i.e., the dielectric cavity1010C.

The first dielectric layers1011,1011a,1011b, and1011dmay constitute a rear surface of the hexahedron structure1010C, and the second dielectric layer1012and1012cmay constitute a front surface of the hexahedron structure1010C. Accordingly, the hexahedron structure1010C may be configured to be arranged on an existing antenna module. As another example, an external mechanical structure of the antenna module1100may be provided integrally to include the hexahedron structure1010C. A radio signal radiated through the antenna elements1110-1and1110-2may have directivity toward a front direction through the dielectric cavity1010C corresponding to a hexahedron structure.

An antenna module including a multi-layer dielectric structure having improved directivity disclosed herein may be configured as an array antenna. In relation to this,FIG.21Aillustrates a structure in which the antenna module1100including a first type antenna and a second type antenna provided as an array antenna is arranged in the electronic device1000.FIG.21Bis a magnified view of a plurality of array antenna modules.

Referring toFIGS.1to21B, an array antenna may include the first array antenna module1100-1and the second array antenna module1100-2arranged apart from the first array antenna module1100-1by a certain distance in a first horizontal direction. Array antenna modules are not limited to two array antenna modules. Three or more array antenna modules may be implemented as illustrated inFIG.21B. Accordingly, the array antenna may be configured to include the first to third array antenna modules1100-1to1100-3. As an example, at least one of first to third array antenna module1100-1to1100-3may be arranged on a side surface of the antenna module1100and configured to provide a beam in a side direction B3.

As another example, at least one of the first array antenna module1100-1and the third array antenna module1100-3may be arranged on a front surface of the antenna module1100and configured to provide a beam in a front direction B1. In relation to this, first and second beams may be provided in the front direction B1using the first array antenna module1100-1and the second array antenna module1100-2, respectively.

The processor1400corresponding to the modem ofFIGS.5C and9may control to provide the first beam and the second beam in the first direction and the second direction using the first and second array antenna modules1100-1and1100-2, respectively. That is, the processor1400may provide the first beam from a horizontal direction toward the first direction using the first array antenna module1100-1. In addition, the processor1400may provide the second beam from the horizontal direction toward the second direction using the second array antenna module1100-2. In relation to this, the processor1400may perform MIMO using the first beam in the first direction and the second beam in the second direction.

In addition, the array antenna radiating a signal in a lower direction may be also configured as a plurality of array antenna modules. In relation to this, the array antenna module1100ofFIGS.14B,15B, and15Cmay be also configured as a plurality of array antenna modules spaced apart by a certain interval in a horizontal direction.

The processor1400may provide a third beam in a third direction using the first and second array antenna modules1100-1and1100-2. In relation to this, the processor1400may control the transceiver circuit1250to synthesize signals received through the first and second array antenna modules1100-1and1100-2. Also, the processor1400may control the signals transmitted to the first and second array antenna modules1100-1and1100-2through the transceiver circuit1250to be distributed to each antenna element. The processor1400may perform beamforming using a third beam having a beam width smaller than beam widths of the first beam and the second beam.

The processor1400may perform MIMO using the first beam in the first direction and the second beam in the second direction, and perform beamforming using the third beam having a beam width smaller than beam widths of the first and second beams. In relation to this, when quality of the first signal and the second signal received from another electronic device in a periphery of the electronic device is equal to or less than a threshold, beamforming may be performed using the third beam.

A number of elements of the array antenna is not limited to two, three, four, or the like as illustrated in the drawing. For example, the number of the elements of the array antenna may be expanded to 4, 8, 16, or the like. In an antenna module including a multi-layer antenna structure having enhanced directivity disclosed herein, the number of antenna elements in an array antenna may be reduced to a half or less. As an example, in an antenna module including a multi-layer antenna structure having enhanced directivity disclosed herein, a previous 1×4 or 1×8 antenna may be may be implemented as a 1×2 or 1×4 array antenna.

FIG.22illustrates antenna modules combined to have different combination structures at a particular position in the electronic device. Referring to (a) ofFIG.22, the antenna module1100may be arranged in a lower region of a display151to be substantially horizontal with the display151. Accordingly, the beam B1may be generated in a lower direction of the electronic device through a monopole radiator. Another beam, i.e., the second beam B2may be generated in a front direction of the electronic device through a patch antenna.

Referring to (b) ofFIG.22, the antenna module1100may be arranged in a lower region of the display151to be substantially vertical to the display151. Accordingly, the beam B2may be generated in a front direction of the electronic device through the monopole radiator. Another beam B1, i.e., the first beam B1may be generated in a lower direction of the electronic device through the patch antenna.

Referring to (c) ofFIG.22, the antenna module1100may be arranged in a rear case1001corresponding to a mechanical structure. The antenna module1100may be arranged substantially parallel to the display151in the rear case1001. Accordingly, the beam B2may be generated in a lower direction of the electronic device through a monopole radiator. Another beam, i.e., a third beam B3may be generated in a rear direction of the electronic device through the patch antenna.

Referring toFIGS.1to22, the array antenna modules1100-1to1100-3implemented on the multi-layered substrate1010according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is described.

The array antenna modules1100-1to1100-3may include the antenna substrate1010, the first dielectric layers1011,1011a,1011b, and1011d, and the second dielectric layers1012and1012c. The array antenna modules1100-1to1100-3may further include the air gap layer1010aarranged between the first dielectric layers1011,1011a,1011b, and1011dand the second dielectric layers1012and1012c.

The antenna substrate1010may be configured such that a plurality of antenna elements are arranged thereon. The first dielectric layers1011,1011a,1011b, and1011dmay be configured to be apart from one side surface of the antenna substrate1010in a first direction (a front direction) toward which the antenna elements1110,1110-1, and1110-2radiate a signal to have elements arranged thereon. The second dielectric layer1012and1012cmay be arranged to be apart from the first dielectric layer1011,1011a,1011b, and1011din the first direction.

The first dielectric layers1011,1011a,1011b, and1011dmay be provided to have a first width W1in the first direction. An average thickness of the first dielectric layers1011aand1011bmay be provided to have the first width W1in the first direction. The second dielectric layers1012and1012cmay be provided to have a second width W2in the first direction. The air gap layer1010amay be provided to have a particular gap G in the first direction. The gap G in the air gap layer1010abetween the first dielectric lenses1011aand1011band the second dielectric layers1012and1012cmay be determined by taking into account an average thickness of the air gap layer1010a.

The first dielectric layers1011,1011a,1011b, and1011dand the second dielectric layers1012and1012cmay be connected to each other through the first to fourth side surfaces SS1to SS4constituting a side surface region of the array antenna modules1100-1100-3. The first dielectric layers1011,1011a,1011b, and1011dand the second dielectric layer1012and1012cmay constitute a hexahedron structure having an air gap layer implemented therein, i.e., the dielectric cavity1010C.

The first dielectric layers1011,1011a,1011b, and1011dmay constitute a rear surface of the hexahedron structure1010C, and the second dielectric layer1012and1012cmay constitute a front surface of the hexahedron structure1010C. Accordingly, the hexahedron structure1010C may be configured to be arranged on an existing antenna module. As another example, an external mechanical structure of the array antenna modules1100-1to1100-3may be provided integrally to include the hexahedron structure1010C. A radio signal radiated through the antenna elements1110-1and1110-2may have directivity toward a front direction through the dielectric cavity1010C corresponding to a hexahedron structure.

An antenna module in a multi-layer dielectric structure having enhanced directivity and an electronic device including the antenna module have been described above. Hereinafter, technical effects of an antenna module implemented as a multi-layer substrate disclosed herein, and an electronic device including the antenna module are to be described.

According to embodiments, a wideband antenna module adopting a dielectric module structure to which a multi-layer dielectric structure operating in a millimeter wave band is applied, and an electric device including the wideband antenna module may be provided.

According to embodiments, in designing a multi-layer antenna structure in a millimeter wave band, a dielectric module structure to which a multi-layer dielectric structure is applied is implemented to improve directivity of an antenna element to thereby improve an antenna gain.

According to embodiments, in designing a multi-layer antenna structure in a millimeter wave band, an air gap is implemented to enhance efficiency of an antenna element to thereby improve an antenna gain.

According to embodiments, an antenna module to which a dielectric module structure is applied may be arranged in different positions below an electronic device to thereby perform wireless communication with various peripheral electronic devices in several directions.

Further scope of applicability of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description. It should be understood, however, that the detailed description and specific examples, such as the preferred embodiment of the disclosure, are given by way of illustration only, since various changes and modifications within the spirit and scope of the disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

Further scope of applicability of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description. It should be understood, however, that the detailed description and specific examples, such as the preferred embodiment of the disclosure, are given by way of illustration only, since various changes and modifications within the spirit and scope of the disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art. In relation to the present disclosure described above, designing and driving of an antenna operating in a millimeter waver band and an electronic device controlling the antenna may be implemented as computer-readable codes on a medium having a program recorded thereon.

The computer-readable medium includes all kinds of recording devices in which data readable by a computer system is stored. Examples of the computer-readable medium include a hard disk drive (HDD), a solid-state disk (SSD), a silicon disk drive (SDD), a ROM, a RAM, a CD-ROM, a magnetic tape, a floppy disk, an optical data storage device and the like, and may also be implemented in the form of a carrier wave (e.g., transmission over the Internet). The computer may include the control unit of the terminal. The above detailed description should not be limitedly construed in all aspects and should be considered as illustrative. The scope of the present disclosure should be determined by reasonable interpretation of the appended claims, and all changes within the scope of equivalents of the present disclosure are included in the scope of the present disclosure.