Patent ID: 12218410

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE DISCLOSURE

Hereinafter, various embodiments of the present disclosure are described with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, it should be understood that there is no intent to limit the present disclosure to the particular forms disclosed herein; rather, the present disclosure is intended to be construed to cover various modifications, equivalents, and/or alternatives of embodiments of the present disclosure. In the description of the accompanying drawings, similar reference numerals may be used to designate similar elements.

As used herein, the expressions “have”, “may have”, “include”, or “may include” refer to the existence of a corresponding feature (e.g., numeral, function, operation, or element such as a component), and do not exclude one or more additional features.

In the present disclosure, the expressions “A or B”, “at least one of A and/or B”, and “one or more of A and/or B” may include all possible combinations of the items listed. For example, the expressions “A or B”, “at least one of A and B”, and “at least one of A or B” refer to all of (1) including at least one A, (2) including at least one B, and (3) including all of at least one A and at least one B.

The expressions “a first”, “a second”, “the first”, or “the second” used in various embodiments of the present disclosure may modify various components regardless of the order and/or the importance of the components but are not intended to limit the corresponding components. For example, a first user device and a second user device indicate different user devices although both of them are user devices. For example, a first element may be referred to as a second element, and similarly, a second element may be referred to as a first element without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

It should be understood that when an element (e.g., a first element) is referred to as being (operatively or communicatively) “connected,” or “coupled,” to another element (e.g., a second element), the element may be directly connected or directly coupled to the other element or any other element (e.g., a third element) may be interposer between them. In contrast, it may be understood that when an element (e.g., a first element) is referred to as being “directly connected,” or “directly coupled” to another element (e.g., a second element), there is no element (e.g., a third element) interposed between them.

The expression “configured to” used in the present disclosure may be used interchangeably with the expressions, for example, “suitable for”, “having the capacity to”, “designed to”, “adapted to”, “made to”, and “capable of” according to the situation. The term “configured to” may not necessarily imply “specifically designed to” in hardware. Alternatively, in some situations, the expression “device configured to” may indicate that the device, together with other devices or components, “is able to”. For example, the expression “processor adapted (or configured) to perform A, B, and C” may indicate a dedicated processor (e.g., an embedded processor) only for performing the corresponding operations or a general purpose processor (e.g., a central processing unit (CPU) or an application processor (AP)) that can perform the corresponding operations by executing one or more software programs stored in a memory device.

The terms used herein are merely used for the purpose of describing particular embodiments but are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. A singular expression may include a plural expression unless they are definitely different in a context. Unless defined otherwise, all terms used herein, have the same meanings as those commonly understood by a person skilled in the art to which the present disclosure pertains. Such terms as those defined in a generally used dictionary may be interpreted to have the meanings equal to the contextual meanings in the relevant field of art, and are not intended to be interpreted to have ideal or excessively formal meanings unless clearly defined in the present disclosure. In some cases, even the terms defined in the present disclosure are not intended to be interpreted to exclude embodiments of the present disclosure.

An electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure may include at least one of, for example, a smart phone, a tablet personal computer (PC), a mobile phone, a video phone, an electronic book reader (e-book reader), a desktop PC, a laptop PC, a netbook computer, a workstation, a server, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a portable multimedia player (PMP), a moving picture experts group (MPEG-1) audio layer-3 (MP3) player, a mobile medical device, a camera, and a wearable device. According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, the wearable device may include at least one of an accessory type (e.g., a watch, a ring, a bracelet, an anklet, a necklace, glasses, a contact lens, or a head-mounted device (HMD)), a fabric or clothing integrated type (e.g., electronic clothing), a body-mounted type (e.g., a skin pad, or tattoo), and a bio-implantable type (e.g., an implantable circuit).

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the electronic device may be a home appliance. A home appliance may include at least one of, for example, a television, a digital video disk (DVD) player, an audio player, a refrigerator, an air conditioner, a vacuum cleaner, an oven, a microwave oven, a washing machine, an air cleaner, a set-top box, a home automation control panel, a security control panel, a TV box (e.g., Samsung HomeSync®, Apple TV®, or Google TV™), a game console (e.g., Xbox® and PlayStation®), an electronic dictionary, an electronic key, a camcorder, and an electronic photo frame.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the electronic device may include at least one of various medical devices (e.g., various portable medical measuring devices (a blood glucose monitoring device, a heart rate monitoring device, a blood pressure measuring device, a body temperature measuring device, etc.), a magnetic resonance angiography (MRA), a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), a computed tomography (CT) machine, and an ultrasonic machine), a navigation device, a global positioning system (GPS) receiver, an event data recorder (EDR), a flight data recorder (FDR), a vehicle infotainment device, an electronic device for a ship (e.g., a navigation device for a ship, and a gyro-compass), avionics, security devices, an automotive head unit, a robot for home or industry, an automated teller machine (ATM), point of sales (POS) device in a shop, or an Internet of Things (IoT) device (e.g., a light bulb, various sensors, electric or gas meter, a sprinkler device, a fire alarm, a thermostat, a streetlamp, a toaster, sporting goods, a hot water tank, a heater, a boiler, etc.).

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device may include at least one of a part of furniture or a building/structure, an electronic board, an electronic signature receiving device, a projector, and various types of measuring instruments (e.g., a water meter, an electric meter, a gas meter, and a radio wave meter). An electronic device may be a combination of one or more of the aforementioned various devices. An electronic device may also be a flexible device. Further, an electronic device is not intended to be limited to the aforementioned devices, but may include an electronic device to be developed in the future.

Hereinafter, an electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure is described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the present disclosure, the term “user” may indicate a person using an electronic device or a device (e.g., an artificial intelligence electronic device) using an electronic device.

FIG.1is a front view of a high-frequency transmission line according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, in which a PCB300in an electronic device is used for the high-frequency transmission line. The electronic device may be a smart phone or a wearable device.

Referring toFIG.1, the electronic device may include a housing corresponding to a case; a printed circuit unit including at least one PCB300in the housing; and an electrical path350passing over or through the printed circuit board300.

The PCB300according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may be a first PCB310and a second PCB320. For example, the first PCB310may be a main board on which electronic components included in the electronic device are mounted, the main board being capable of transmitting signals between the electronic components, and the second PCB320may be a sub-board that transmits signals generated by the electronic components. The sub-board may further include the electronic components.

The PCB300according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may be provided with a circuit of a terminal, which may be, for example, at least one of an AP, a communication processor (CP), a memory, and an RF transceiver, and may include a signal line (for example, an RF signal line).

The first and second PCBs310and320according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may be formed of a plurality of layers, and the plurality of layers may include one or more conductive layers306inFIG.2described below and one or more insulation layers303.

The first PCB310inFIG.1according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may be a rigid PCB. The first PCB310may be electrically connected to the second PCB320through a connector370. The connector370may include a ground pad390and a signal pad391of the first PCB310and a ground pad392and a signal pad393of the second PCB320. The ground pad390of the first PCB310and the ground pad392of the second PCB320may be connected together by soldering. The signal pad391of the first PCB310and the signal pad393of the second PCB320may be connected together by soldering. The second PCB320may include an interconnection pad394. An antenna contact member (for example, a C-clip) or an RF component (for example, a matching circuit) may be mounted on the interconnection pad394.

The second PCB320according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may be connected to the first PCB310and may include an FPCB330or a rigid PCB340. The FPCB330and the rigid PCB340of the second PCB320may be integrated with each other. For example, a first FPCB331, a first rigid printed circuit board341, a second flexible printed circuit board332, and a second rigid PCB342may be arranged in sequence. The second rigid PCB342may include an antenna connector and a universal serial bus (USB) connector, for example.

The second PCB320according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may have the electrical path350therein through which electrical signals can be transmitted. The electrical path350may be connected with the first PCB310through the FPCB330and the rigid PCB340, which are integrated with each other.

The electrical path350according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may extend from a first electrical component230inFIG.10described below to a second electrical component240and may be disposed on or in the PCB300inFIG.1. The electrical path350may be implemented as a transmission line of a side-guarded micro-strip-line type or a strip-line type, where the transmission line is shielded by a ground line360in order to transmit a high-frequency signal, which may be, for example, an RF signal.

The electrical path350according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, which is disposed on or in the second PCB320, may receive a high-frequency signal through the connector370and may forward the received signal to antenna radiators231and232inFIG.10described below. Furthermore, a plurality of electrical paths350inFIG.1may be provided, and a ground line360may be disposed between the electrical paths350so that the electrical paths350can independently transmit the high-frequency signal without mutually affecting the characteristics thereof.

The ground line360according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may be disposed adjacent to the electrical path350, and conductive vias305may be arranged in a portion of the area of a ground line360(a). Accordingly, the electrical path350can pass through the PCB300without making contact with the conductive vias305.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the connector370for connecting the electrical path350may be disposed between the first and second PCBs310and320in order to transmit a high-frequency signal therebetween. The connector370may include a soldering pad, a zip-type connector, or a B-to-B-type connector. A rigid PCB may be employed for the connector370, and, for example, a B-to-B-type connector may be mounted on the rigid printed circuit board, or a soldering pad may be located on the rigid PCB. Furthermore, for example, the pin map of a transmission line included in the connector370may be implemented in the sequence of a ground, an RF signal, and a ground.

Hereinafter, the plurality of layers and the conductive vias305of the PCB300is described in detail.

FIG.2is a partial sectional view of the plurality of layers of the PCB ofFIG.1, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, whereFIG.2is taken along line B-B′ ofFIG.1. Hereinafter, the PCB is described as the second PCB320. However, the following description may be applied to second printed circuit boards420,520,620, and720in other embodiments, which will be described below.

Referring toFIG.2, the second printed circuit board320according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may be formed of a plurality of layers, each including at least one conductive layer306, at least one first insulation layer302, and at least one second insulation layer303. The conductive layer306and the first insulation layer302may be included in a flexible copper clad laminated (FCCL) layer. Further, the first insulation layer302may include polyamide.

The conductive layers306according to an embodiment of the present disclosure are arranged in the stacking direction, and the first insulation layer302is disposed on the rear or front surface of each conductive layer306. The individual layers may be alternately arranged. One or more conductive vias305may be formed to electrically connect the conductive layers306.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the second insulation layer303is provided between the conductive layers306to prevent the conductive layers306from being electrically connected together through contact therebetween. For example, the plurality of second insulation layers303disposed between the plurality of conductive layers306may function to insulate the layers and may include a resin and a glass fabric.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a plurality of electronic components may be disposed on and electrically connected to the conductive layers306. The electronic components may be electrically connected to the antenna radiators231and232inFIG.10described below provided in the electronic device. For example, the electronic components may include an antenna clip, a connector, and a switch device.

Without being limited thereto, however, various materials capable of passing electricity therethrough, other than metal, may be applied to the conductive layers306inFIG.2.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the conductive layers306may be electrically connected to any of a plurality of signal lines and ground lines.

The conductive layers306according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may be provided, on the top and bottom thereof, with a protective layer301capable of protecting the conductive layers306. The protective layers301may be formed of an insulating coating material, such as solder resist, and, for example, a photo imagable solder resist ink (PSR ink) may be used for the solder resist. The PSR ink may be left on a product because it provides insulation and protection even after a component is mounted. Accordingly, the protective layers301coated on the exterior of the conductive layers306can prevent a short circuit, a connection, corrosion, and contamination of a circuit during a manufacturing process and can protect the conductive layers306from external shock, humidity, and chemical substances after the manufacturing process.

The conductive vias305according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, which electrically connect the conductive layers306, may include a first conductive via305(a) capable of electrically connecting all the layers and a second conductive via305(b) capable of electrically connecting adjacent layers. For example, the first conductive via305(a) may be formed by computerized numerical control (CNC) hole machining and copper plating, and the second conductive via305(b) may be formed by laser hole machining and copper plating.

The conductive vias305according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a region that forms a predetermined pattern within the PCB300. The conductive vias305may be configured to make contact with at least one of the conductive layers306and to pass through at least one of the multiple layers.

A pattern cover layer304according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may be disposed in a single layer on the bottom or top of the conductive layers306while surrounding a pattern and thus can protect the internal pattern. For example, the pattern cover layer304may be formed of polyimide (PI) and an adhesive.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, rigid PCBs380and382and a FPCB381may be integrated with one another. The FPCB381may not include the second insulation layer303, but may include the pattern cover layer304instead of the protective layer301.

FIG.3is a sectional view of an interlayer configuration of a plurality of layers of the PCB ofFIG.1, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, whereFIG.3is taken along line B-B′ ofFIG.1.

Referring toFIG.3, the second PCB320may include the first FPCB331, the first rigid PCB341, and the second FPCB332, which are integrally connected together.

Further, the second PCB320may include first to fourth ground pattern layers371,372,373, and374that are connected by the conductive vias305in order to form a ground. The entirety of the first and second ground pattern layers371and372forms a ground. Only a part of the second and third ground pattern layers372and373forms a ground. According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, there may be a layer having no ground layer.

Signal line patterns364not connected to the ground may be provided. These signal line patterns364may be used as RF signal lines.

The ground pattern layers according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may be connected by the first conductive via305(a) capable of electrically connecting all of the layers and the second conductive via305(b) capable of electrically connecting adjacent layers. For example, all or some of the ground pattern layers may be connected using the first conductive via305(a) passing through all of the layers. For example, the first to fourth ground pattern layers371,372,373, and374may be connected by the first conductive via305(a). The adjacent ground pattern layers may be connected to each other by the second conductive via305(b). For example, the first and second ground pattern layers371and372may be connected to each other by the second conductive via305(b).

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a PCB (for example, the PCB300ofFIG.1) may include the first PCB310and the second PCB320including a rigid PCB and a FPCB. In this case, the PCB is described as the PCB300ofFIG.1as an example, but may be applied to the PCBs400,500,600, and700ofFIGS.4,5,6A,6B,6C,7A,7B, and7C.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the high-frequency transmission line provided by the PCB in the electronic device may be configured such that the FPCB330having advantages of reducing a material cost and ensuring a mounting space can substitute for a coaxial cable.

For example, the first and second FPCBs331and332may be used between the second rigid PCB342and the first PCB310in order to transmit a high-frequency signal from the second rigid PCB342to the first PCB310.

In another example, in order to eliminate loss that occurs when a high-frequency signal is transmitted using the FPCB330, the first rigid PCB341may be disposed between the first and second FPCB331and332, and the ground pattern layers may be connected by the conductive vias305.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, in order to mitigate an increase in line loss, the electronic device may further include a section containing the first rigid PCB341in the middle of the FPCB330. If the FPCB330has a length of 10 mm or more, the transmission line in the section may cause a great line loss. For example, the transmission line may have a change in the strip line characteristics due to the inductance generated by the ground lines360disposed on the opposite sides thereof, and thus the line loss generated by the electrical path350may increase markedly.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the electronic device may have the one or more vias305arranged on the first rigid PCB341. When the grounds are connected by the conductive vias305arranged on the first rigid PCB341, the inductance generated by the ground lines360can be reduced, for example, by virtue of the interlayer ground connection on the ground lines360, thereby reducing adverse effects, such as line loss. Furthermore, an all-ground layer (ground line) is disposed between the layers providing the second PCB320, and the entire ground line360may be connected to the all-ground layer through the conductive vias305, whereby it is possible to have a much greater line loss reduction effect.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a rigid PCB may be disposed between the FPCBs, thereby preventing the layers from being separated or twisted as described above. In the case where the existing FPCBs are installed on a drive unit, the layers of the FPCBs may be separated or twisted. Even in this case, there may be a change in the characteristics of a strip line, which may cause line loss in the transmission line or other adverse property changes.

However, an electronic device having the aforementioned arrangement is advantageous in that the side effects mentioned above are not exhibited even when the FPCBs move, whereby it is possible to reduce line loss in the transmission line and to alleviate other adverse characteristics.

In addition, in the case where a transmission line has a greater length, it is possible to solve shortcomings, such as line loss, by additionally placing rigid PCBs in several positions on the FPCBs and using a connection between the ground line360, other ground pattern layers363, and the conductive vias305. This is described below in greater detail with reference toFIG.4.

FIG.4is a front view of a high-frequency transmission line according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, in which a PCB in an electronic device is used for the high-frequency transmission line. An electronic device may be a smart phone or a wearable device.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device may include a housing corresponding to a case; a printed circuit unit including at least one PCB400in the housing; and an electrical path450passing over or through the PCB400.

Referring toFIG.4, the PCB400according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a second PCB420, a third PCB411, and a fourth PCB412. For example, the third PCB411may be a main board on which electronic components included in an electronic device are mounted, the main board being capable of transmitting signals between the electronic components. Furthermore, for example, the fourth PCB412may be a main board on which electronic components included in an electronic device are mounted, the main board being capable of transmitting signals between the electronic components. Moreover, for example, the second PCB420may be a sub-board that transmits signals generated by electronic components. The sub-board may further include the electronic components.

The PCB400according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may be provided with a circuit of a terminal, which may be, for example, at least one of an AP, a CP, a memory, and an RF transceiver, and may include a signal line (for example, an RF signal line).

The second to fourth PCBs420,411, and412according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may be formed of a plurality of layers, and the plurality of layers may include one or more conductive layers and one or more insulation layers.

The third and fourth PCBs411and412according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may be a rigid PCB. The third or fourth PCB411and412may be electrically connected to the second PCB410through a connector470.

The third PCB411may be disposed on one end of the second PCB420, and the fourth PCB412may be disposed on an opposite end of the second PCB420. Hereinafter, the third and fourth printed circuit boards411and412are described as third and fourth rigid PCBs411and412, respectively.

The third rigid PCB411according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may be connected with the second PCB420, and a first connector471may be disposed to transmit a high-frequency signal through the electrical path450. The first connector471may include a soldering pad, a zip-type connector, or a B-to-B-type connector. A rigid PCB may be employed for the first connector471, and, for example, a B-to-B-type connector may be mounted on the rigid PCB, or a soldering pad may be located on the rigid PCB. Furthermore, for example, the pin map of a transmission line included in the first connector471may be implemented in the sequence of a ground, an RF signal, and a ground.

The first connector471according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a ground pad490and a signal pad491of the third rigid PCB411and a ground pad492and a signal pad493of the second PCB420. The ground pad490of the third rigid PCB411and the ground pad492of the second PCB420may be connected together by soldering. The signal pad491of the third rigid PCB411and the signal pad493of the second PCB420may be connected by soldering.

The fourth rigid PCB412according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may be connected to the second PCB420, and a second connector472may be disposed to transmit a high-frequency signal through the electrical path450. The second connector472may include a soldering pad, a zip-type connector, or a B-to-B-type connector. A rigid PCB may be employed for the second connector472, and, for example, a B-to-B-type connector may be mounted on the rigid PCB, or a soldering pad may be located on the rigid PCB. Furthermore, for example, the pin map of a transmission line included in the first connector472may be implemented in the sequence of a ground, an RF signal, and a ground.

The second connector472according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a ground pad495and a signal pad496of the fourth rigid PCB412and a ground pad497and a signal pad498of the second PCB420. The ground pad495of the fourth rigid PCB412and the ground pad497of the second PCB420may be connected by soldering. The signal pad496of the fourth rigid PCB412and the signal pad498of the second PCB420may be connected by soldering. The second PCB420may include an interconnection pad494. An antenna contact member (for example, a C-clip) or an RF component (for example, a matching circuit) may be mounted on the interconnection pad494.

The second PCB420according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may be disposed between the third rigid PCB411and the fourth rigid PCB412, and may include an FPCB430or a rigid PCB440. The flexible printed circuit board430and the rigid PCB440of the second PCB420may be integrated with each other. For example, a first FPCB431, the first rigid PCB440, and a second flexible PCB432may be arranged in sequence. The first rigid PCB440may include an antenna connector and a USB connector, for example.

The electrical path450according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may extend from a first electrical component including an antenna radiator to a second electrical component including a communication circuit, and may be disposed on or in the PCB400. The electrical path450may be implemented to be a transmission line of a side-guarded micro-strip-line type or a strip-line type, the transmission line being shielded by a ground line in order to transmit a high-frequency signal, which may be, for example, an RF signal.

The electrical path450according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, which is disposed on or in the second PCB420, may receive a high-frequency signal through the connector470and may forward the received signal to antenna radiators231and232inFIG.10described below. Furthermore, a plurality of electrical paths450inFIG.4may be provided, and a ground line460may be disposed between the electrical paths450so that the electrical paths450can independently transmit a high-frequency signal without mutually affecting the characteristics thereof.

The ground line460according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may be disposed adjacent to the electrical path450, and conductive vias405may be arranged in a portion of the area of the ground line460. Accordingly, the electrical path450can pass through the PCB400without making contact with the conductive vias405.

A plurality of layers of the PCB400and the conductive vias405are the same as those in the above-described embodiment with reference toFIGS.1to3, and therefore descriptions thereof are omitted here.

FIG.5is a front view of a high-frequency transmission line according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, where a PCB in an electronic device is used for the high-frequency transmission line. The electronic device may be a smart phone or a wearable device.

Referring toFIG.5, an electronic device may include a housing corresponding to a case; a printed circuit unit including at least one PCB500in the housing; and an electrical path550passing over or through the PCB500.

The PCB500according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a first PCB510and a second PCB520. For example, the first PCB510may be a main board on which electronic components included in an electronic device are mounted, the main board being capable of transmitting signals between the electronic components, and the second PCB520may be a sub-board on which the electronic components are mounted, the sub-board being capable of transmitting signals generated by the electronic components. The sub-board may further include the electronic components.

The PCB500according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may be provided with a circuit of a terminal, which may be, for example, at least one of an AP, a CP, a memory, and an RF transceiver, and may include a signal line (for example, an RF signal line).

The first and second PCBs510and520according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may be formed of a plurality of layers, and the plurality of layers may include one or more conductive layers and one or more insulation layers.

The first PCB510according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may be a rigid PCB. The first PCB520may be electrically connected to the second PCB510through a connection unit570. The first PCB510may be connected to the second PCB520, and the connector570may be disposed to transmit a high-frequency signal through the electrical path550. The connector570may include a soldering pad, a zip-type connector, or a B-to-B-type connector. A rigid PCB may be employed for the connector570, and, for example, a B-to-B-type connector may be mounted on the rigid PCB, or a soldering pad may be located on the rigid PCB.

The connector570according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a ground pad590and a signal pad591of the first PCB510and a ground pad592and a signal pad593of the second PCB520. The ground pad590of the first PCB510and the ground pad592of the second PCB520may be connected by soldering. The signal pad591of the first PCB510and the signal pad593of the second PCB520may be connected together by soldering. The second PCB520may include an interconnection pad594. An antenna contact member (for example, a C-clip) or an RF component (for example, a matching circuit) may be mounted on the interconnection pad594.

The second PCB520according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include an FPCB530and a rigid PCB540that are integrated with each other. For example, the second PCB520may include a first FPCB531, a first rigid PCB541, and a second FPCB532, which are arranged in sequence. The second FPCB532may include an antenna connector and a USB connector. Unlike in an embodiment described above with reference toFIG.1, the second FPCB532inFIG.5is configured to perform the function of the second rigid PCB342inFIG.1as well.

The electrical path550inFIG.5according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may extend from a first electrical component including an antenna radiator to a second electrical component including a communication circuit, and may be disposed on or in the PCB500. The electrical path550may be implemented to be a transmission line of a side-guarded micro-strip-line type or a strip-line type, the transmission line being shielded by a ground line in order to transmit a high-frequency signal, which may be, for example, an RF signal.

The electrical path550according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, which is disposed on or in the second PCB520, may receive a high-frequency signal through the connector570and may forward the received signal to an antenna radiator. Furthermore, a plurality of electrical paths550may be provided, and a ground line560may be disposed between the electrical paths550so that the electrical paths550can independently transmit the high-frequency signal without mutually affecting the characteristics thereof.

The ground line560according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may be disposed adjacent to the electrical path550, and conductive vias505may be arranged in a portion of the area of the ground line560. Accordingly, the electrical path550can pass through the PCB500without making contact with the conductive vias505.

A plurality of layers of the PCB500and the conductive vias505are the same as those in an above-described embodiment with reference toFIGS.1to3, and therefore descriptions thereof are omitted here.

FIGS.6A,6B, and6Care front views of conductive vias according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the conductive vias being arranged in electronic device PCBs.FIGS.6A,6B, and6Cillustrate various forms of PCBs.

Referring toFIG.6A, a second PCB620according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include an FPCB630and a rigid PCB640, which are integrated with each other. For example, the second PCB620may include a first FPCB631, the first rigid PCB640, and a second FPCB632, which are arranged in sequence.

An electrical path650according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may be disposed on or in the second PCB620and may be implemented to be a transmission line of a side-guarded micro-strip-line type or a strip-line type in order to transmit a high-frequency signal.

The electrical path650according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, which is disposed on or in the second PCB620, may receive a high-frequency signal through a connector and may forward the received signal to an antenna radiator. Furthermore, a plurality of electrical paths650may be provided, and a ground line660may be disposed between the electrical paths650so that the electrical paths650can independently transmit the high-frequency signal without mutually affecting the characteristics thereof.

The ground lines660according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may be disposed adjacent to the electrical path650and may be connected with one or more conductive layers through conductive vias605(c) in the PCB. Since the conductive vias605(c) are arranged in one ground line660, the electrical path650may pass through the PCB without making contact with the conductive vias605(c).

The electrical path650according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is disposed to pass through the flexible PCB630and the rigid PCB640, and thus the ground lines660disposed on opposite sides of the electrical path650may also be disposed to pass through the FPCB630and the rigid PCB640. While two ground lines660are provided inFIG.6A, the number of ground lines660may be diversely varied so as to avoid contact with the electrical path650, without being limited thereto.

For example, the first ground line660(a) disposed on the left side may have a greater width than the second ground line660(b) disposed on the right side, and the plurality of conductive vias605(c) may be formed in the region where the rigid PCB640and the ground line660(a) cross each other. The second ground line660(b) may not include the conductive vias605(c) since the second ground line660(b) has a lesser width than the first ground line660(a).

The PCB is illustrated as having the conductive vias605(c) arranged in the first ground line660(a) having a great width. The conductive vias605(c) arranged in the first ground line660(a) may include vias passing through all layers. Ground patterns in all or some of the layers and the ground line on a side of the electrical path may be connected by the conductive vias605(c) passing through all the layers.

Referring toFIG.6B, ground lines660may be separately disposed on opposite sides of an electrical path650in the second PCB620and may be formed to pass through the flexible PCB and the rigid PCB along the lengthwise direction of the electrical path650. While the two ground lines660are provided inFIG.6B, the number of ground lines660may be diversely varied so as to avoid contact with the electrical path650, without being limited thereto.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the first ground line660(a) disposed on the left side may have a greater width than the second ground line660(b) disposed on the right side, and a plurality of conductive vias605(c) may be formed in the region where the first ground line660(a) and the rigid PCB640cross each other. The second ground line660(b) on the right side may not include the conductive vias605(c) having the size since the second ground line660(b) has a lesser width than the first ground line660(a). Instead, the second ground line660(b) on the right side may have conductive vias605(d) having a lesser size than the conductive vias605(c).

For example, the rigid PCB640formed of a plurality of layers may include the third conductive vias605(c) passing through all of the layers in the PCB and the fourth conductive vias605(d) passing through some of the layers. The third conductive vias605(c) may have a greater hole size than the fourth conductive vias605(d) passing through some of the layers, and may be arranged in the ground line660(a) having a great width. However, the fourth conductive vias605(d) may be arranged in the second ground line660(b) having a lesser width and disposed on the right side, since the fourth conductive vias605(d) have a lesser hole size than the third conductive vias605(c). Even when the ground lines660are connected with a ground in a different layer through some conductive vias605, it is possible to reduce line loss.

Referring toFIG.6C, ground lines660may be separately disposed on opposite sides of an electrical path650and may be formed in the lengthwise direction of the electrical path650. While two ground lines660are provided inFIG.6C, the number of ground lines660may be diversely varied so as to avoid contact with the electrical path650, without being limited thereto.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the first ground line660(a) disposed on the left side may have a lesser width than the second ground line660(b) disposed on the right side, and a plurality of conductive vias605(d) may be formed in the region where the second ground line660(b) and the rigid PCB640cross each other. The second ground line660(b) on the right side has a greater width than the first ground line660(a), but is too narrow to have the great conductive vias605(c). Instead, the conductive vias605(d) having a lesser width may be arranged in the second ground line660(b) on the right side.

Therefore, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the second ground line660(b) having a lesser width and disposed on the right side may electrically connect the PCB using the fourth conductive vias605(d) passing through some layers. Even when the ground lines660are connected with a ground in a different layer through some of the fourth conductive vias605(d), it is possible to reduce line loss.

FIGS.7A,7B, and7Care top views illustrating conductive vias arranged in PCBs according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.FIGS.7A,7B, and7Cillustrate various forms of PCBs.

Referring toFIG.7A, a second PCB720may include a plurality of FPCBs and/or a plurality of rigid PCBs. For example, the second PCB720may be configured such that FPCBs730and rigid PCBs740are alternately disposed and are integrated with each other.

The FPCBs730according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a first FPCB731, a second FPCB732, and a third FPCB733. The rigid PCBs740may include a first rigid PCB741and a fifth rigid PCB742.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, at least two rigid PCBs740may be provided between the FPCBs730. For example, the second PCB720may include the first FPCB731, the first rigid PCB741, the second FPCB732, the fifth rigid PCB742, and the third FPCB733, which are arranged in sequence.

The first and fifth rigid PCBs741and742may be disposed to be spaced apart from each other and may include a plurality of conductive vias705(c) and ground lines760.

An electrical path750according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may be disposed on or in the second PCB720and may be implemented to be a transmission line of a side-guarded micro-strip-line type or a strip-line type in order to transmit a high-frequency signal.

The electrical path750according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, which is disposed on or in the second PCB720, may receive a high-frequency signal through a connector and may forward the received signal to an antenna radiator.

Furthermore, a plurality of electrical paths750may be provided, and the ground line760may be disposed between the electrical paths750so that the electrical paths750can independently transmit the high-frequency signal without mutually affecting the characteristics thereof.

The ground lines760according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may be disposed adjacent to the electrical path750and may be connected with one or more conductive layers through the conductive vias705(c) in the PCB720.

The ground lines760according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may be formed to pass through the FPCB730and the rigid PCBs740along the lengthwise direction of the electrical path750. While two ground lines760are provided in the present disclosure, the number of ground lines760may be diversely varied so as to avoid contact with the electrical path750, without being limited thereto.

For example, the first ground line760(a) disposed on the left side of the first and fifth rigid PCBs741and742may have a greater width than the second ground line760(b) disposed on the right side, and the plurality of conductive vias705(c) may be formed in the regions where the first ground line760(a) crosses the first and fifth rigid PCBs741and742. In another example, the second ground line760(b) on the right side may not include the conductive vias705(c) having the size since the second ground line760(b) has a lesser width than the first ground line760(a). The PCB is illustrated as having the conductive vias705(c) arranged in the first ground line760(a) having a great width.

Referring toFIG.7B, the second PCB720may include the FPCBs730and the rigid PCBs740that are integrated with each other. For example, the second PCB720may be configured such that the FPCBs730and the rigid PCBs740are alternately disposed and are integrated with each other.

The second PCB720according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include the first FPCB731, the first rigid PCB741, the second FPCB732, the fifth rigid PCB742, and the third FPCB733, which are arranged in sequence.

Ground lines760according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may be separately disposed on opposite sides of the electrical path750and may be formed along the lengthwise direction of the electrical path750. While two ground lines760are provided in theFIG.7B, the number of ground lines760may be diversely varied so as to avoid contact with the electrical path750, without being limited thereto.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the first ground line760(a) disposed on the left side of the first and fifth rigid PCBs741and742may have a greater width than the second ground line760(b) disposed on the right side, and a plurality of conductive vias705(c) may be formed in the regions where the first ground line760(a) crosses the rigid PCBs740. However, the second ground line760(b) on the right side may not include the conductive vias705(c) having the size since the second ground line760(b) has a lesser width than the first ground line760(a). Instead, the second ground line760(b) on the right side may have conductive vias705(d) having a lesser size than the conductive vias705(c).

For example, the rigid PCBs740formed of a plurality of layers may include the third conductive vias705(c) passing through all the layers in the PCB and the fourth conductive vias705(d) passing through some of the layers. The third conductive vias705(c) may have a greater hole size than the fourth conductive vias705(d) passing through some of the layers, and may be arranged in the ground line760(a) having a great width. However, the fourth conductive vias705(d) may be arranged in the second ground line760(b) having a lesser width and disposed on the right side, since the fourth conductive vias705(d) have a lesser hole size than the third conductive vias705(c). Even when the ground lines760are connected with a ground in a different layer through some conductive vias705, it is possible to reduce a line loss.

Referring toFIG.7C, the second PCB720may include the FPCBs730and the rigid PCBs740that are alternately disposed and are integrated with each other. In this embodiment, at least two rigid PCBs740may be provided between the FPCBs730. For example, the second PCB720may include the first FPCB731, the second FPCB732, the first rigid PCB741, the fifth rigid PCB742, and the third FPCB733, which are arranged in sequence.

Ground lines760according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may be separately disposed on opposite sides of the electrical path750and may be formed along the lengthwise direction of the electrical path750. While two ground lines760are provided in the present disclosure, the number of ground lines760may be diversely varied so as to avoid contact with the electrical path750, without being limited thereto.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the first ground line760(a) disposed on the left side of the first and fifth rigid PCBs741and742may have a lesser width than the second ground line760(b) disposed on the right side, and a plurality of conductive vias705(d) may be formed in the regions where the second ground line760(b) crosses the rigid PCBs740. The second ground line760(b) on the right side has a greater width than the first ground line760(a), but is too narrow to have the great conductive vias705(c). Instead, the conductive vias705(d) having a lesser width may be arranged in the second ground line760(b) on the right side.

Therefore, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, even when the ground lines760are connected to a ground in a different layer through some of the fourth conductive vias705(d) arranged in the second ground line760(b), it is possible to reduce a line loss.

FIG.8is a perspective view of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The electronic device10may be a smart phone or a wearable device. The electronic device10may be an electronic device that includes the PCBs described above with reference toFIGS.1to7.

Referring toFIG.8, a display101may be mounted on the front107of the electronic device10. A speaker device102for receiving a counterpart's speech may be provided on the upper side of the display101. A microphone device103for transmitting the speech of a user of the electronic device10to the counterpart may be provided on the lower side of the display101.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, one or more components for performing various functions of the electronic device10may be arranged around the speaker device102. For example, the one or more arranged components may include at least one sensor module104. The sensor module104may include, for example, at least one of an illuminance sensor (e.g., an optical sensor), a proximity sensor, an infrared sensor, and an ultrasonic sensor. The components may also include a camera device105. The components may also include a light emitting diode (LED) indicator106for informing a user of status information of the electronic device10.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the electronic device10may include a metal bezel110(for example, capable of serving as at least a part of a metal housing). The metal bezel110may be disposed along the outer periphery of the electronic device10and may extend to at least one area of the back of the electronic device10, the at least one area being connected to the outer periphery. The metal bezel110may define the thickness of the electronic device10along the outer periphery of the electronic device10and may be formed in a loop shape. Without being limited thereto, however, the metal bezel110may also be formed in such a manner that the metal bezel contributes to at least part of the thickness of the electronic device10. The metal bezel110may also be disposed only in at least one area of the outer periphery of the electronic device10. The metal bezel110may include one or more cut-off portions115and116. Unit bezel parts separated by the cut-off portions115and116may be used as an antenna radiator that operates in at least one frequency band.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the metal bezel110may have a loop shape along the outer periphery of the electronic device and may be disposed to contribute to the entirety or a part of the thickness of the electronic device10. When the electronic device10is viewed from the front, the metal bezel110may include a right bezel part111, a left bezel part112, an upper bezel part113, and a lower bezel part114. In this case, the lower bezel part114described above may serve as a unit bezel part formed by a pair of cut-off portions116.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a main antenna device may be disposed in the lower region (an antenna region of a main part) of the electronic device10. The lower bezel part114may be used as a main antenna radiator by virtue of the pair of cut-off portions116. The lower bezel part114may serve as an antenna radiator that operates in at least two operating frequency bands depending on the feeding position. For example, the lower bezel part114may be a part of an antenna that supports a low band (LB) and a high/middle band (H/MB), or a part of an antenna that supports an H/MB.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the antenna device of the present disclosure is simply for illustrative purpose, and the aforementioned functions of the lower bezel part114may be performed by the upper bezel part113separated by the other cut-off portions115, or may be performed by the upper and lower bezel parts.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, an antenna region of a diversity part may be used as an antenna for diversity/multiple input multiple output (MIMO). For example, the upper bezel part113may be a part of a diversity antenna that supports LB and H/MB.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, at least one of the right and left bezel parts111and112may be supplied with electrical power to operate as an antenna. For example, the right or left bezel part111or112may be a part of an antenna that supports an H/MB band or LB and H/MB bands. For example, an antenna including the right or left bezel part111or112included in the antenna region of the main part may operate as a main antenna. An antenna including the right or left bezel part111or112included in the antenna region of the diversity part may operate as a diversity antenna. Hereinafter, the configuration of an antenna is described in detail.

FIG.9is a schematic of an antenna arrangement in an electronic device10according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The electronic device10may be a smart phone or a wearable device. The electronic device10may be an electronic device that includes the PCBs described above with reference toFIGS.1to7.

The electronic device10according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a plurality of antenna radiators230. For example, the electronic device10may include first and second antennas231and232of a main part210and third and fourth antennas233and234of a diversity part220.

The first antenna231may support LB and H/MB bands, and the second antenna232may support an H/MB band. According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, an LB band has a relatively great wavelength so that an antenna may have a relatively great size, and there may be a mounting space limitation by adding an antenna supporting multiple LBs to the main part210of the terminal. Therefore, only one antenna may be configured to support an LB band.

In the case where the electronic device10additionally has the diversity part220according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the electronic device10may include the third and fourth antennas233and234. In order to enhance correlation/isolation characteristics, the antenna radiators230of the main part210may be included in the lower end portion of the terminal, and the antenna radiators230of the diversity part220may be included in the upper end portion of the terminal. For example, in the case where the antenna radiators230of the main part210are included in the lower end portion of the terminal, and the antenna radiators230of the diversity part220are included in the upper end portion of the terminal, it is possible to ensure an antenna separation distance available in the terminal even when a plurality of LB band antennas are included.

By virtue of the structure described above, the electronic device10can receive signals using four antennas in an H/MB band and can receive signals using two antennas in an LB band. That is, 4th order diversity/MIMO can be performed in an H/MB band, and 2nd order diversity/MIMO can be performed in an LB band.

FIG.10illustrates an antenna device and a PCB of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring toFIG.10, a main RF circuit in the main part210may supply electrical power to the first and second antennas231and232connected thereto through the connector370and the second PCB320using RF signal lines. The second PCB320may include the first FPCB331, the first rigid PCB341, the second FPCB332, and the second rigid PCB342. A ground may be removed from an antenna feeding part or from the surroundings of an antenna in order to enhance antenna characteristics.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the metal bezel110may include the right bezel part111, the left bezel part112, the upper bezel part113, and the lower bezel part114when viewed from the front. The upper bezel part113may be maintained separately from the right and left bezel parts111and112by a pair of cut-off portions that are formed with a predetermined interval therebetween. The lower bezel part114may be maintained separately from the right and left bezel parts111and112by a pair of cut-off portions that are formed with a predetermined interval therebetween. The pair of cut-off portions may be formed of a dielectric material. The pair of cut-off portions may be formed by double-injection molding or insert molding a synthetic resin into the metal bezel. Without being limited thereto, however, various types of electrical insulating materials may be applied to the pair of cut-off portions.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a first feeding piece may be integrally formed with the lower bezel part114and may be supplied with electrical power by a first feeding part of the PCB. The first feeding piece of the lower bezel part114may be connected to the first feeding part of the PCB merely by installing the PCB in the electronic device, or may be electrically connected to the first feeding part by a separate electrical connection member (e.g., a C-clip, etc.).

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a first feeding pad may be disposed on the PCB and may be electrically connected to the first feeding piece of the lower bezel part114. A first electrical path (e.g., an interconnection wire line) may be formed from the first feeding pad to the first feeding part. The first feeding piece may be integrally formed with the lower bezel part114and may be supplied with electrical power by the first feeding part of the PCB. The first feeding piece of the lower bezel part114may be connected to the first feeding part of the PCB merely by installing the PCB in the electronic device, or may be electrically connected to the first feeding part by a separate electrical connection member (e.g., a C-clip, etc.).

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the first feeding pad may be disposed on the PCB and may be electrically connected to the first feeding piece of the lower bezel part114. The first electrical path (e.g., an interconnection wire line) may be formed from the first feeding pad to the first feeding part.

The lower bezel part may be a portion of the first antenna231of the main part210that supports an LB or H/MB band. The left and right bezel parts112and111may also be supplied with electrical power by the same method. The left and right bezel parts112and111may be portions of the second antenna231of the main part210that supports an LB or H/MB band.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a first electrical connection piece may be integrally formed with the lower bezel part114so as to be located at a position separate from the first feeding piece by a predetermined distance, and may be grounded to a first ground part of the PCB. The first electrical connection piece of the lower bezel part114may be grounded to the first ground part of the PCB merely by installing the PCB in the electronic device, or may be electrically connected to the first ground part by a separate electrical connection member (e.g., a C-clip, etc.).

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a first ground pad may be disposed on the PCB and may be electrically connected to the first electrical connection piece of the lower bezel part114. A second electrical path (e.g., an interconnection wire line) may be formed from the first ground pad to the first ground part.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a second feeding piece may be integrally formed with the lower bezel part114and may be supplied with electrical power by a first feeding part of the PCB. The second feeding piece of the lower bezel part114may be connected to a second feeding part of the PCB merely by installing the PCB in the electronic device, or may be electrically connected to the second feeding part by a separate electrical connection member (e.g., a C-clip, etc.).

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a second feeding pad may be disposed on the PCB and may be electrically connected to the second feeding piece of the lower bezel part114. A third electrical path (e.g., an interconnection wire line) may be formed from the second feeding pad to the second feeding part. The lower bezel part114may be a portion of the second antenna232of the main part210that supports an LB or H/MB band.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a second electrical connection piece may be integrally formed with the right bezel part111so as to be located at a position separate from the cut-off portions by a predetermined distance, and may be grounded to a second ground part of the PCB. The second electrical connection piece of the right bezel part111may be grounded to a second ground part of the PCB merely by installing the PCB in the electronic device, or may be electrically connected to the second ground part by a separate electrical connection member (e.g., a C-clip, etc.).

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a second ground pad may be disposed on the PCB and may be electrically connected to the second electrical connection piece of the right bezel part111. A fourth electrical path (e.g., an interconnection wire line) may be formed from the second ground pad to the second ground part.

For example, the feeding parts, the feeding pads, the ground parts, and the ground pads of the main part210may be disposed on the second PCB320. The main part210and an RF circuit of the diversity part220may be disposed on the first PCB (main PCB)310. The first and second PCBs may be connected by an FPCB. The first and second PCBs may be integrated with each other.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the second rigid PCB342included in the second PCB320may be disposed at a lower vertical position than the first PCB (main PCB)310. Accordingly, components included in the second rigid PCB342may be additionally spaced apart from the antenna. Further, relatively thick components, such as a USB connector and a speaker, can also be disposed on the second rigid PCB342.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a transmitted or received signal of the RF circuit of the main part210may be forwarded to the first and second feeding parts of the second PCB320.

The diversity part220may include the third and fourth antennas233and234. The third antenna233may include a part of the upper bezel part113, and the fourth antenna234may include the left or right bezel part112or111.

The third antenna233may support LB and H/MB bands, and the fourth antenna234may support an H/MB band. Feeding parts, feeding pads, ground parts, and ground pads of the diversity part220may be disposed on the first PCB (main PCB)310. Electrical paths connecting the feeding parts and the feeding pads and electrical paths connecting the ground parts and the ground pads in the diversity part220may be disposed on the first PCB (main PCB)310.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, when the main part210uses the right bezel part111as the second antenna232for the purpose of signal separation between the antennas, the diversity part220may use the opposite left bezel part112as the fourth antenna234. Alternately, when the main part210uses the left bezel part112as the second antenna232, the diversity part220may use the opposite right bezel part111as the fourth antenna234.

FIG.11is an illustration of a signal transmission using the second PCB320according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The second PCB320may be the same as the second PCBs320,420, and520described above with reference toFIGS.1to7.

Referring toFIG.11, the second PCB320may include the FPCB330and the rigid PCB340, which are integrated with each other. The second PCB320may include the first FPCB331, the second FPCB332, the first rigid PCB341, and the second rigid PCB342.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the electrical path350for transmitting a high-frequency signal may also transmit signals other than RF signals using the second PCB320. The other signals may include, for example, a USB signal, an ear-jack signal, a microphone (MIC) signal, a speaker signal, and a touch key signal.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, an antenna contact to which an RF signal is connected, and a USB connector, an ear-jack connector, a microphone (MIC) connector, and a speaker contact to which the other signals are connected may be disposed on the second rigid PCB342. For example, RF signals may be transmitted through two electrical paths350: the first electrical path351and the second electrical path352. The ground line360may be disposed between the first and second electrical paths351and352to prevent the first and second electrical paths351and352from mutually affecting the characteristics thereof. The conductive vias305may be arranged in the region where the ground line360and the first rigid PCB341cross each other, and may be connected to a ground in a different layer. A rigid PCB connected to the rear end of the second rigid PCB342may be various types of modules of the electronic device, and may function as a touch key, for example.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a first connector342(a) connected to the first electrical path351may be a first antenna contact, a first USB connector, a first ear-jack connector, a first MIC connector, or a first speaker contact, and a second connector342(b) connected to the second electrical path352may be a second antenna contact, a second USB connector, a second ear-jack connector, a second MIC connector, and a second speaker contact.

FIGS.12and13are enlarged views of a first FPCB and a first rigid PCB. The second PCB320may be one of the second PCBs320,420,520,620, and720described above with reference toFIGS.1to7.

Referring toFIGS.12and13, a high-frequency signal may be connected from a B-to-B-type connector A of the connector370to antenna (ANT) feeding B and C by a micro strip line or a strip line on the FPCB. Further, the ground lines306may exist on the left and right sides of the electrical path350through which an RF signal is transmitted on the connector, and may be formed parallel to the electrical path350along the lengthwise direction of the electrical path350so as to be connected to the ANT feeding B and C. In addition, the conductive vias305may be formed in the ground lines306. Conductive vias307lesser in size than the conductive vias305may be formed on the right side of the electrical path351so as to prevent contact between the ground lines and a signal line on one side.

An electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a housing; a PCB disposed in the housing, the PCB including a plurality of layers that include one or more conductive layers and one or more insulation layers; a first electrical component formed to be at least a part of the housing or disposed in the housing; a second electrical component disposed above or near the PCB in the housing, the second electrical component being separated from the first electronic component; and at least one electrical path extending from the first electrical component to the second electronic component, wherein at least a portion of the electrical path runs on or inside the PCB, wherein the PCB may include a region including a pattern of conductive vias, each of the vias extending through at least a part of the plurality of layers to contact at least one of the one or more conductive layers, and wherein the electrical path may run through the region without making contact with the conductive vias.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the first electrical component may include an antenna radiator and the second electrical component may include a communication circuit.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the antenna radiator may form at least one part of the housing.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the pattern of the conductive vias may be aligned in one or more rows or columns along the electrical path when viewed from above the region of the PCB.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the PCB may include an FPCB as at least a part thereof, where the FPCB may transmit a signal through the electrical path.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the PCB may include a first PCB; and a second PCB connected to the first PCB through a connector, where the second PCB includes at least one FPCB and at least one rigid PCB, and where the electrical path may transmit a high-frequency signal through the connector and may pass over or through the second PCB.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the electronic device may further include a ground line disposed around the electrical path so as to be adjacent thereto, where the ground line may be connected to the one or more conductive layers through the conductive vias in the rigid PCB.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the second PCB may include a first FPCB connected to the first PCB through a communication circuit; a second PCB disposed to face the first flexible PCB with a separation distance therebetween; and a first rigid PCB disposed between the first and second FPCBs, where the first rigid PCB includes the pattern of the conductive vias.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the electronic device may further include a second rigid PCB connected to the second FPCB, wherein a part of the antenna radiator that forms at least one portion of the housing may be disposed on the second rigid PCB.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, at least one of the plurality of layers may form a ground pattern in the ground line of the second PCB, where the entire line of the ground pattern includes a ground.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the conductive vias of the first rigid PCB may include a first conductive via passing through all of the plurality of layers; and a second conductive via passing through some of the plurality of layers, and where the first conductive via may connect the ground pattern disposed on all or some of the layers and the ground line.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a plurality of ground lines may be formed on the rigid PCB so as to be spaced apart from the electrical path, and may have different widths.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the conductive vias formed along the width of the ground line may include a third conductive via having a first hole size; and a fourth via having a second hole size that differs from the first hole size.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a space for mounting an electronic component may be formed on or in the rigid PCB of the second PCB.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the connector may be disposed on one side of the first or second PCB, where the electrical path passing over or through the second PCB may be connected to the first PCB.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the connector may include a first connector disposed on one end of the first FPCB of the second PCB; and a second connector disposed on one end of the second FPCB of the second PCB.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the electronic device may include a plurality of electrical paths and a plurality of antenna radiators, wherein the electrical paths may be connected to the respective antenna radiators corresponding thereto, and the ground line may be disposed between the plurality of electrical paths.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the first PCB may include at least a part of the first electrical component and may be connected to the antenna radiator, and the second PCB may have the second electrical component disposed thereon.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the FPCB and the rigid PCB of the second PCB may be integrated with each other.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the region of the PCB may be a rigid PCB region, and the electronic device may include a first FPCB region disposed between the first electrical component and the region; and a second FPCB region disposed between the second electrical component and the region.

An electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a first PCB; a second PCB connected with the first PCB through a connector and including at least one FPCB and at least one rigid PCB that are integrated with each other, where the flexible and rigid PCBs include a plurality of layers; an electrical path that transmits a high-frequency signal through the connector and passes over or through the second PCB; and at least one conductive via disposed in the rigid PCB to connect grounds between the plurality of layers.

FIG.14is a block diagram of an electronic device10, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, in a network environment11.

Referring toFIG.14, the electronic device10may include a bus180, a processor120, a memory130, an input/output interface150, a display160, and a communication interface170. The electronic device10may omit at least one of the elements, or may further include other elements.

The bus180may include, for example, a circuit that interconnects the elements120to170and delivers communication (for example, a control message and/or data) between the elements.

The processor120may include one or more of a CPU, an AP, and a CP. For example, the processor120may carry out operations or data processing relating to the control and/or communication of at least one other element of the electronic device10.

The memory130may include a volatile and/or non-volatile memory. For example, the memory130may store instructions or data relevant to at least one other element120to170of the electronic device10. The memory130may store software and/or a program140. The program140may include, for example, a kernel141, middleware143, an application programming interface (API)145, and/or application programs (or applications)147. At least some of the kernel141, the middleware143, and the API145may be referred to as an operating system (OS).

For example, the kernel141may control or manage system resources (for example, the bus180, the processor120, and the memory130) that are used to execute operations or functions implemented by the other programs (for example, the middleware143, the API145, and the applications147). Furthermore, the kernel141may provide an interface by which the middleware143, the API145, or the applications147access the individual elements of the electronic device10to control or manage the system resources.

For example, the middleware143may serve as an intermediary to allow the API145or the applications147to exchange data with the kernel141through communication.

Furthermore, the middleware143may process one or more task requests received from the applications147according to the priorities of the requests. For example, the middleware143may assign, to at least one of the applications147, a priority to use the system resources (for example, the bus180, the processor120, and the memory130) of the electronic device10. For example, the middleware143may perform scheduling or loading balancing on the one or more task requests by processing the one or more task requests according to the priority assigned to the at least one of the applications.

The API145is, for example, an interface by which the applications147control functions provided by the kernel141or the middleware143, and the API145may include at least one interface or function (for example, an instruction) for file control, window control, image processing, or text control, for example.

The input/output interface150may serve as, for example, an interface that can forward instructions or data input from a user or an external device to the other element(s)120to170of the electronic device10. Furthermore, the input/output interface150may output instructions or data received from the other element(s) of the electronic device10to the user or the external device.

Examples of the display160may include a liquid crystal display (LCD), an LED display, an organic LED (OLED) display, a microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) display, and an electronic paper display. For example, the display160may display various types of content (for example, text, images, videos, icons, or symbols) for a user. The display160may include a touch screen, and may receive, for example, a touch, gesture, a proximity input, or a hovering input using an electronic pen or a part of a user's body.

For example, the communication interface170may establish communication between the electronic device10and a first external electronic device12, a second external electronic device14, or a server16. For example, the communication interface170may be connected to a network162through wireless or wired communication to communicate with the second external electronic device14or the server16.

The wireless communication may use, for example, at least one of long term evolution (LTE), LTE-advanced (LTE-A), code division multiple access (CDMA), wideband CDMA (WCDMA), universal mobile telecommunications system (UMTS), wireless broadband (WiBro), and global system for mobile communications (GSM), for example, as a cellular communication protocol. Furthermore, the wireless communication may include short range communication164, for example. The short range communication164may include, for example, at least one of wireless fidelity (WiFi), Bluetooth (BT), near field communication (NFC), and global navigation satellite system (GNSS). Depending on the service area and the bandwidth, the GNSS may include, for example, at least one of a global positioning system (GPS), a global navigation satellite system (Glonass), a Beidou navigation satellite system (Beidou), and a European global satellite-based navigation system (Galileo). Hereinafter, “GPS” may be interchangeably used with “GNSS.” The wired communication may include, for example, at least one of a USB, a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), recommended standard 232 (RS-232), and a plain old telephone service (POTS). The network162may include at least one of a communication network such as a computer network (e.g., a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN)), the Internet, and a telephone network.

Each of the first and second external electronic devices12and14may be of the same or a different type from the electronic device10. According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the server16may include a group of one or more servers. All or some of the operations executed in the electronic device10may be executed in the electronic device102, the electronic device104, or the server16. When the electronic device10must perform a function or service automatically or in response to a request, the electronic device10may request the electronic device12, the electronic device14, or the server16to perform at least some functions relating thereto, instead of or in addition to performing the function or service by itself. The electronic device102, the electronic device104, or the server106may execute the requested function or additional functions and then deliver the result to the electronic apparatus10. The electronic device10may provide a received result as is, or may further process the received result to provide the requested function or service. To this end, for example, cloud computing, distributed computing, or client-server computing technology may be used.

The electronic device10, which is described below in greater detail, may be one of a wearable device, a notebook computer, a net-book computer, a smart phone, a tablet PC, a Galaxy tab, an i-Pad, and a wireless charging device mentioned above. In this embodiment, the electronic device10may be a smart phone.

The wireless charging device, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, refers to a device that recharges the electronic device by wirelessly transmitting and receiving power in a short range.

In addition, the display160of the electronic device10may increase in size and may implement a luxurious design by minimizing the bezel area thereof, or may be implemented to be flexible, convex, or concave.

Namely, the peripheral portion of the display160may be bent to allow a view area to extend to the lateral portion. As the view area of the display160is bent to extend to the lateral, the view area may be enlarged, a separate screen may be used on the lateral portion, or a luxurious design may be implemented. In other words, the display160may include a first view area and second view areas on opposite sides of the first view area.

FIG.15is a block diagram of an electronic device1901according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The electronic device1901may include, for example, the entirety or a part of the electronic device10described above with reference toFIG.14. The electronic device1901inFIG.15may include at least one processor (e.g., an AP)1910, a communication module1920, a subscriber identification module card1924, a memory1930, a sensor module1940, an input device1950, a display1960, an interface1970, an audio module1980, a camera module1991, a power management module1995, a battery1996, an indicator1997, and a motor1998.

The processor1910may operate, for example, an OS or an application program to control a plurality of hardware or software elements connected to the processor1910and to perform various types of data processing and operations. The processor1910may be implemented to be a system on chip (SoC), for example. According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the processor1910may further include a graphics processing unit (GPU) and/or an image signal processor. The processor1910may also include at least some (for example, a cellular module1921) of the elements illustrated inFIG.15. The processor1910may load, in a volatile memory, instructions or data received from at least one of the other elements (for example, a non-volatile memory) to process the loaded instructions or data, and may store various types of data in the non-volatile memory.

The configuration of the communication module1920may be the same as or similar to that of the communication interface170ofFIG.14. The communication module1920may include, for example, a cellular module1921, a WiFi module1923, a BT module1925, a GNSS module1927(for example, a GPS module, a Glonass module, a Beidou module, or a Galileo module), an NFC module1928, and an RF module1929.

The cellular module1921may provide, for example, a voice call, a video call, a text message service, or an Internet service through a communication network. According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the cellular module1921may identify and authenticate the electronic device1901in a communication network using the subscriber identification module card (SIM card)1924. The cellular module1921may perform at least some of the functions that the processor1910can provide. The cellular module1921may include a CP.

The WiFi module1923, the BT module1925, the GNSS module1927, and the NFC module1928may each include, for example, a processor for processing data transmitted and received through the corresponding module. According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, at least some (for example, two or more) of the cellular module1921, the WiFi module1923, the BT module1925, the GNSS module1927, and the NFC module1928may be included in one integrated circuit (IC) or IC package.

The RF module1929may transmit and receive, for example, a communication signal (for example, an RF signal). The RF module1929may include, for example, a transceiver, a power amplifier module (PAM), a frequency filter, a low noise amplifier (LNA), or an antenna. At least one of the cellular module1921, the WiFi module1923, the BT module1925, the GNSS module1927, and the NFC module1928may transmit and receive an RF signal through a separate RF module.

The subscriber identification module card1924may include, for example, an embedded SIM, and may include unique identification information (for example, an integrated circuit card identifier (ICCID)) or subscriber information (for example, an international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI)).

The memory1930(for example, the memory130inFIG.14) may include, for example, an internal memory1932or an external memory1934. The internal memory1932may include, for example, at least one of a volatile memory (for example, a dynamic random access memory (DRAM), a static RAM (SRAM), or a synchronous DRAM (SDRAM)) and a non-volatile memory (for example, a one-time programmable read only memory (OTPROM), a programmable ROM (PROM), an erasable and programmable ROM (EPROM), an electrically erasable PROM (EEPROM), a mask ROM, a flash ROM, a flash memory (for example, a NAND flash memory or a NOR flash memory), a hard disc drive, or a solid state drive (SSD)).

The external memory1934may further include a flash drive, which may be, for example, a compact flash (CF) drive, a secure digital (SD) memory card, a micro SD (Micro-SD) memory card, a mini SD (Mini-SD) memory card, an extreme digital (xD) memory card, a multi-media card (MMC), or a memory stick. The external memory1934may be functionally and/or physically connected to the electronic device1901through various interfaces.

For example, the sensor module1940may measure a physical quantity, or may sense an operating state of the electronic device1901, to convert the measured or sensed information into an electrical signal. The sensor module1940may include, for example, at least one of a gesture sensor1940A, a gyro sensor1940B, an atmospheric pressure sensor1940C, a magnetic sensor1940D, an acceleration sensor1940E, a grip sensor1940F, a proximity sensor1940G, a color sensor1940H (for example, a red, green, blue (RGB) sensor), a biometric sensor1940I, a temperature/humidity sensor1940J, an illuminance sensor1940K, and a ultraviolet (UV) light sensor1940M. Additionally or alternatively, the sensor module1940may include, for example, an electronic nose (E-nose) sensor, an electromyography (EMG) sensor, an electroencephalogram (EEG) sensor, an electrocardiogram (ECG) sensor, an infrared (IR) sensor, an iris sensor, and/or a fingerprint sensor. The sensor module1940may further include a control circuit for controlling one or more sensors included therein. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the electronic device1901may further include a processor configured to control the sensor module1940as a part of the processor1910or separately from the processor1910to control the sensor module1940while the processor1910is in a reduced power or sleep state.

The input device1950may include, for example, a touch panel1952, a (digital) pen sensor1954, a key1956, or an ultrasonic input device1958. The touch panel1952may use, for example, at least one of a capacitive type panel, a resistive type panel, an infrared type panel, and an ultrasonic type panel. Furthermore, the touch panel1952may further include a control circuit. The touch panel1952may further include a tactile layer to provide a tactile reaction to a user.

The (digital) pen sensor1954may include, for example, a recognition sheet that is a part of, or separate from, the touch panel. The key1956may include, for example, a physical button, an optical key, or a keypad. The ultrasonic input device1958may sense ultrasonic waves generated by an input tool through a microphone1988and may identify data corresponding to the sensed ultrasonic waves.

The display1960(for example, the display160inFIG.14) may include a panel1962, a hologram device1964, or a projector1966. The panel1962may have a configuration that is the same as, or similar to, that of the display160illustrated inFIG.1. The panel1962inFIG.15may be implemented to be, for example, flexible, transparent, or wearable. The panel1962, together with the touch panel1952, may be implemented to be one module. The hologram device1964may show a three-dimensional image in the air by using an interference of light. The projector1966may project light onto a screen to display an image. The screen may be located, for example, inside or outside of the electronic device1901. According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the display1960may further include a control circuit for controlling the panel1962, the hologram device1964, and the projector1966.

The interface1970may include, for example, an HDMI1972, a USB1974, an optical interface1976, or a D-subminiature (D-sub) connector1978. The interface1970may be included, for example, in the communication interface170illustrated inFIG.3. Additionally or alternatively, the interface1970inFIG.15may include, for example, a mobile high-definition link (MHL) interface, an SD card/MMC interface, or an Infrared Data Association (IrDA) standard interface.

For example, the audio module1980may convert a sound into an electrical signal, and vice versa. At least some elements of the audio module1980may be included, for example, in the input/output interface145illustrated inFIG.1. The audio module1980inFIG.15may process sound information that is input or output, for example, through a speaker1982, a receiver1984, an earphone1986, or the microphone1988.

The camera module1991is a device that can photograph a still image and a dynamic image. According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the camera module1991may include one or more image sensors (for example, a front sensor or a rear sensor), a lens, an image sensor processor (ISP), or a flash (for example, an LED or a xenon lamp).

The power management module1995may manage, for example, power of the electronic device1901. According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the power management module1995may include a power management IC (PMIC), a charger IC, or a battery gauge. The PMIC may use a wired and/or wireless charging method. Examples of the wireless charging method may include a magnetic resonance method, a magnetic induction method, and an electromagnetic wave method. An additional circuit (for example, a coil loop, a resonance circuit, or a rectifier) for wireless charging may be further included. The battery gauge may measure, for example, a residual amount of the battery1996and a voltage, current, or temperature while charging. The battery1996may include, for example, a rechargeable battery and/or a solar battery.

The indicator1997may indicate a particular state (for example, a booting state, a message state, or a charging state) of the electronic device1901or a part thereof (for example, the processor1910). The motor1998may convert an electrical signal into a mechanical vibration and may generate a vibration or a haptic effect. The electronic device1901may include a processing unit (for example, a GPU) for supporting mobile TV. The processing unit for supporting mobile TV may process media data according to a standard, such as digital multimedia broadcasting (DMB), digital video broadcasting (DVB), or MediaFlo™.

Each of the above-described component elements of hardware according to the present disclosure may be configured with one or more components, and the names of the corresponding component elements may vary based on the type of electronic device. The electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure may include at least one of the aforementioned elements. Some elements may be omitted or other additional elements may be further included in the electronic device. In addition, some of the hardware components according to various embodiments may be combined into one entity, which may perform functions identical to those of the relevant components before the combination.

While the present disclosure has been shown and described with reference to certain embodiments thereof, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the camera lens module according to the present disclosure is not limited to these embodiments, and various changes in form and details may be made therein without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.