Electronic device comprising antenna

Abstract

This electronic device comprises: a wireless communication circuit; a distribution circuit connected to the wireless communication circuit; a frame defining at least a portion of a side surface of the electronic device, wherein the frame includes a conductive portion having a first feed point and a second feed point electrically connected to the distribution circuit; and a phase shifting circuit for connecting the distribution circuit to the first feed point of the conductive portion. The conductive portion includes a first portion between the first feed point and the second feed point, a second portion between the first feed point and one end of the conductive portion, the first feed point being distinguished from a ground of the electronic device, and a third portion between the second feed point and the other end of the conductive portion, the second feed point being distinguished from the ground of the electronic device. The conductive portion is configured to function as a radiator of an antenna through the first portion of the conductive portion, the second portion of the conductive portion, and the third portion of the conductive portion.

Description

Electronic device including an antenna

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an electronic device comprising an antenna.

[0002] An electronic device may be configured to communicate with an external electronic device using an antenna. The antenna may have directivity, exhibiting strong radiated power in a specific direction. The directivity of the antenna may be affected by the size of the ground of the electronic device. As the size of the ground increases, the directivity of the antenna improves, and the coverage of the antenna may become narrower.

[0003] The information described above may be provided as related art for the purpose of aiding understanding of the present disclosure. No claim or determination is made as to whether any of the foregoing may be applied as prior art in relation to the present disclosure.

[0004] An electronic device is disclosed. The electronic device may include a wireless communication circuit. The electronic device may include a distribution circuit connected to the wireless communication circuit. The electronic device may include a frame defining at least a portion of the side of the electronic device. The frame may include a conductive portion having a first feed point and a second feed point electrically connected to the distribution circuit. The electronic device may include a phase control unit connecting the distribution circuit and the first feed point of the conductive portion. The conductive portion may include a first portion between the first feed point and the second feed point, a second portion between the first feed point and one end of the conductive portion distinguished from the ground of the electronic device, and a third portion between the second feed point and the other end of the conductive portion distinguished from the ground of the electronic device. The conductive portion may be configured to function as a radiator of an antenna through the first portion of the conductive portion, the second portion of the conductive portion, and the third portion of the conductive portion.

[0005] An electronic device is disclosed. The electronic device may include a wireless communication circuit. The electronic device may include a distribution circuit connected to the wireless communication circuit. The electronic device may include a frame defining a side of the electronic device. The frame may include a first conductive portion comprising a first feed point electrically connected to the distribution circuit and a first flange portion spaced apart from the first feed point of the first conductive portion and electrically connected to the ground of the electronic device. The frame may include a second conductive portion comprising a second feed point spaced apart from the first conductive portion and electrically connected to the distribution circuit, and a second flange portion spaced apart from the second feed point of the second conductive portion and electrically connected to the ground of the electronic device. The electronic device may include a phase control unit connecting the distribution circuit and the first feed point of the first conductive portion. The first conductive portion and the second conductive portion may be configured to function as radiators of a folded dipole antenna through the portion of the first conductive portion between the first feed point of the first conductive portion and the first flange portion of the first conductive portion, and the portion of the second conductive portion between the second feed point of the second conductive portion and the second flange portion of the second conductive portion.

[0006] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device in a network environment according to various embodiments.

[0007] Figure 2 is a block diagram of an electronic device.

[0008] Figure 3 illustrates the interior of an electronic device.

[0009] FIG. 4 illustrates the ground path of an electronic device according to a comparative example.

[0010] FIG. 5 illustrates a ground path of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0011] Figure 6 shows a radiation pattern according to the difference between the first phase and the second phase.

[0012] Figures 7, 8, and 9 are graphs showing the phase difference according to the size of the bracket.

[0013] FIG. 10 shows the current distribution by the ground path formed from the second conductive part.

[0014] FIG. 11 shows the current distribution by the ground path formed from the third conductive part.

[0015] FIG. 12 shows the current distribution by the ground path formed from the first conductive part.

[0016] FIG. 13 illustrates a phase control unit including a phase shifter.

[0017] FIG. 14 illustrates a phase control unit that controls the phase by adjusting the length of the transmission line.

[0018] Figure 15 is a block diagram of an electronic device.

[0019] Figure 16 illustrates an electronic device.

[0020] FIG. 17a illustrates an example of a first state of an electronic device.

[0021] FIG. 17b illustrates an example of a second state of an electronic device.

[0022] FIG. 17c illustrates an example of a third state of an electronic device.

[0023] FIG. 18a is a plan view of an electronic device with the flexible display removed.

[0024] FIG. 18b is a rear view of an electronic device with the rear cover and display removed.

[0025] FIGS. 19, FIGS. 20, and FIGS. 21 illustrate examples of foldable electronic devices.

[0026] FIG. 22 illustrates an electronic device comprising a single radiator.

[0027] FIG. 23 illustrates an electronic device comprising two radiators.

[0028] FIGS. 24 and 25 illustrate a circuit related to a radiator including two or more feed points.

[0029] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device in a network environment according to various embodiments.

[0030] Referring to FIG. 1, in a network environment (100), an electronic device (101) may communicate with an electronic device (102) through a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network) or with an electronic device (104) or a server (108) through a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may communicate with the electronic device (104) through a server (108). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a processor (120), memory (130), input module (150), sound output module (155), display module (160), audio module (170), sensor module (176), interface (177), connection terminal (178), haptic module (179), camera module (180), power management module (188), battery (189), communication module (190), subscriber identification module (196), or antenna module (197). In some embodiments, at least one of these components (e.g., connection terminal (178)) may be omitted from the electronic device (101), or one or more other components may be added. In some embodiments, some of these components (e.g., sensor module (176), camera module (180), or antenna module (197)) may be integrated into a single component (e.g., display module (160)).

[0031] The processor (120) can control at least one other component (e.g., a hardware or software component) of the electronic device (101) connected to the processor (120) by executing software (e.g., a program (140)), and can perform various data processing or operations. According to one embodiment, as at least part of the data processing or operations, the processor (120) can store commands or data received from other components (e.g., a sensor module (176) or a communication module (190)) in volatile memory (132), process the commands or data stored in volatile memory (132), and store the resulting data in non-volatile memory (134). According to one embodiment, the processor (120) may include a main processor (121) (e.g., a central processing unit or an application processor) or an auxiliary processor (123) that can operate independently or together with it (e.g., a graphics processing unit, a neural processing unit (NPU), an image signal processor, a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor). For example, if the electronic device (101) includes a main processor (121) and an auxiliary processor (123), the auxiliary processor (123) may be configured to use lower power than the main processor (121) or to be specialized for a designated function. The auxiliary processor (123) may be implemented separately from the main processor (121) or as part thereof.

[0032] The auxiliary processor (123) may control at least some of the functions or states associated with at least one component of the electronic device (101) (e.g., display module (160), sensor module (176), or communication module (190)) on behalf of the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an inactive (e.g., sleep) state, or together with the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an active (e.g., application execution) state. According to one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., image signal processor or communication processor) may be implemented as part of another functionally related component (e.g., camera module (180) or communication module (190)). According to one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., neural network processing unit) may include a hardware structure specialized for processing an artificial intelligence model. The artificial intelligence model may be generated through machine learning. Such learning may be performed, for example, on the electronic device (101) itself where the artificial intelligence is performed, or through a separate server (e.g., server (108)). The learning algorithm may include, for example, supervised learning, unsupervised learning, semi-supervised learning, or reinforcement learning, but is not limited to the examples described above. The artificial intelligence model may include a plurality of artificial neural network layers.An artificial neural network may be a deep neural network (DNN), a convolutional neural network (CNN), a recurrent neural network (RNN), a restricted Boltzmann machine (RBM), a deep belief network (DBN), a bidirectional recurrent deep neural network (BRDNN), a deep Q-network, or a combination of two or more of the above, but is not limited to the examples described above. In addition to the hardware structure, the artificial intelligence model may include a software structure, either additionally or substantially.

[0033] The memory (130) can store various data used by at least one component of the electronic device (101) (e.g., processor (120) or sensor module (176)). The data may include, for example, input data or output data for software (e.g., program (140)) and related commands. The memory (130) may include volatile memory (132) or non-volatile memory (134).

[0034] The program (140) may be stored as software in memory (130) and may include, for example, an operating system (142), middleware (144), or an application (146).

[0035] The input module (150) can receive commands or data to be used for a component of the electronic device (101) (e.g., processor (120)) from outside the electronic device (101) (e.g., user). The input module (150) may include, for example, a microphone, a mouse, a keyboard, a key (e.g., a button), or a digital pen (e.g., a stylus pen).

[0036] The sound output module (155) can output a sound signal to the outside of the electronic device (101). The sound output module (155) may include, for example, a speaker or a receiver. The speaker may be used for general purposes, such as multimedia playback or recording playback. The receiver may be used to receive incoming calls. According to one embodiment, the receiver may be implemented separately from the speaker or as part thereof.

[0037] The display module (160) can visually provide information to an external (e.g., user) of the electronic device (101). The display module (160) may include, for example, a display, a holographic device, or a projector and a control circuit for controlling said device. According to one embodiment, the display module (160) may include a touch sensor configured to detect a touch, or a pressure sensor configured to measure the intensity of the force generated by said touch.

[0038] The audio module (170) can convert sound into an electrical signal or, conversely, convert an electrical signal into sound. According to one embodiment, the audio module (170) can acquire sound through the input module (150) or output sound through the sound output module (155) or an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102)) (e.g., speaker or headphones) connected directly or wirelessly to the electronic device (101).

[0039] The sensor module (176) can detect the operating state of the electronic device (101) (e.g., power or temperature) or the external environmental state (e.g., user state) and generate an electrical signal or data value corresponding to the detected state. According to one embodiment, the sensor module (176) may include, for example, a gesture sensor, a gyroscope sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an accelerometer sensor, a grip sensor, a proximity sensor, a color sensor, an IR (infrared) sensor, a biosensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or an illuminance sensor.

[0040] The interface (177) may support one or more specified protocols that can be used for the electronic device (101) to be connected directly or wirelessly to an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102)). According to one embodiment, the interface (177) may include, for example, a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB) interface, an SD card interface, or an audio interface.

[0041] The connection terminal (178) may include a connector through which the electronic device (101) can be physically connected to an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102)). According to one embodiment, the connection terminal (178) may include, for example, an HDMI connector, a USB connector, an SD card connector, or an audio connector (e.g., a headphone connector).

[0042] The haptic module (179) can convert an electrical signal into a mechanical stimulus (e.g., vibration or movement) or an electrical stimulus that the user can perceive through tactile or kinesthetic senses. According to one embodiment, the haptic module (179) may include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electric stimulation device.

[0043] The camera module (180) can capture still images and video. According to one embodiment, the camera module (180) may include one or more lenses, image sensors, image signal processors, or flashes.

[0044] The power management module (188) can manage power supplied to the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the power management module (188) can be implemented, for example, as at least part of a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

[0045] The battery (189) can supply power to at least one component of the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the battery (189) may include, for example, a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable secondary battery, or a fuel cell.

[0046] The communication module (190) can support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between an electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102), electronic device (104), or server (108)), and the performance of communication through the established communication channel. The communication module (190) may include one or more communication processors that operate independently of the processor (120) (e.g., application processor) and support direct (e.g., wired) communication or wireless communication. According to one embodiment, the communication module (190) may include a wireless communication module (192) (e.g., cellular communication module, short-range wireless communication module, or GNSS (global navigation satellite system) communication module) or a wired communication module (194) (e.g., LAN (local area network) communication module, or power line communication module). The corresponding communication module among these communication modules can communicate with an external electronic device (104) through a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, WiFi (wireless fidelity) direct, or IrDA (infrared data association)) or a second network (199) (e.g., a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN). These various types of communication modules may be integrated into a single component (e.g., a single chip) or implemented as multiple separate components (e.g., multiple chips). The wireless communication module (192) can identify or authenticate the electronic device (101) within a communication network such as the first network (198) or the second network (199) using subscriber information (e.g., International Mobile Subscriber Identifier (IMSI)) stored in the subscriber identification module (196).

[0047] The wireless communication module (192) can support 5G networks and next-generation communication technologies following 4G networks, for example, new radio access technology. NR access technology can support high-speed transmission of high-capacity data (enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB)), minimization of terminal power and connection of multiple terminals (massive machine type communications (mMTC)), or high reliability and low latency (ultra-reliable and low-latency communications (URLLC)). The wireless communication module (192) can support a high-frequency band (e.g., mmWave band) to achieve a high data transmission rate, for example. The wireless communication module (192) can support various technologies for securing performance in the high-frequency band, such as beamforming, massive MIMO (multiple-input and multiple-output), full-dimensional MIMO (FD-MIMO), array antenna, analog beam-forming, or large-scale antenna. The wireless communication module (192) can support various requirements specified in the electronic device (101), external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (104)), or network system (e.g., second network (199)). According to one embodiment, the wireless communication module (192) may support a Peak data rate (e.g., 20 Gbps or more) for eMBB realization, loss coverage (e.g., 164 dB or less) for mMTC realization, or U-plane latency (e.g., downlink (DL) and uplink (UL) each 0.5 ms or less, or round trip 1 ms or less) for URLLC realization.

[0048] An antenna module (197) can transmit a signal or power to or from an external source (e.g., an external electronic device). According to one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include an antenna comprising a radiator made of a conductor or a conductive pattern formed on a substrate (e.g., a PCB). According to one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna). In this case, at least one antenna suitable for a communication method used in a communication network, such as a first network (198) or a second network (199), may be selected from the plurality of antennas, for example, by a communication module (190). A signal or power may be transmitted or received between the communication module (190) and an external electronic device through the selected at least one antenna. According to some embodiments, in addition to the radiator, other components (e.g., a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) may be additionally formed as part of the antenna module (197).

[0049] According to one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may form a mmWave antenna module. According to one embodiment, the mmWave antenna module may include a printed circuit board, an RFIC disposed on or adjacent to a first surface (e.g., bottom surface) of the printed circuit board and capable of supporting a specified high frequency band (e.g., mmWave band), and a plurality of antennas (e.g., array antennas) disposed on or adjacent to a second surface (e.g., top surface or side surface) of the printed circuit board and capable of transmitting or receiving a signal of the specified high frequency band.

[0050] At least some of the above components can be connected to each other via a communication method between peripheral devices (e.g., bus, GPIO (general purpose input and output), SPI (serial peripheral interface), or MIPI (mobile industry processor interface)) and exchange signals (e.g., commands or data) with each other.

[0051] According to one embodiment, commands or data may be transmitted or received between the electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (104) through a server (108) connected to a second network (199). Each of the external electronic devices (102, or 104) may be the same or a different type of device as the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, all or part of the operations performed on the electronic device (101) may be performed on one or more of the external electronic devices (102, 104, or 108). For example, if the electronic device (101) needs to perform a function or service automatically or in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device (101) may request one or more external electronic devices to perform at least part of the function or service instead of performing the function or service itself or additionally. One or more external electronic devices that receive the above request may execute at least part of the requested function or service, or additional function or service related to the request, and transmit the result of the execution to the electronic device (101). The electronic device (101) may provide the result as is or additionally processed as at least part of the response to the request. For this purpose, for example, cloud computing, distributed computing, mobile edge computing (MEC), or client-server computing technology may be used. The electronic device (101) may provide ultra-low latency services using, for example, distributed computing or mobile edge computing. In another embodiment, the external electronic device (104) may include an Internet of Things (IoT) device. The server (108) may be an intelligent server using machine learning and / or neural networks. According to one embodiment, the external electronic device (104) or the server (108) may be included within a second network (199).The electronic device (101) can be applied to intelligent services (e.g., smart home, smart city, smart car, or healthcare) based on 5G communication technology and IoT-related technology.

[0052] An electronic device (101) according to one embodiment may be configured to communicate with an external electronic device using an antenna (e.g., an antenna module (197) of FIG. 1). The antenna may have directivity, which exhibits strong radiated power in a specific direction. An antenna with high directivity may have high communication efficiency in a specific direction, but may have narrow coverage due to a narrow beam width. The directivity of the antenna may be affected by the size of the ground. As the size of the ground increases, the directivity of the antenna improves, and the coverage of the antenna may become narrower.

[0053] An electronic device (101) according to one embodiment may use an antenna (e.g., a folded dipole antenna) to improve coverage when it includes a large size ground. A folded dipole antenna can have a wide bandwidth through high input impedance. An electronic device (101) using an antenna (e.g., a folded dipole antenna) is described below.

[0054] Figure 2 is a block diagram of an electronic device.

[0055] Referring to FIG. 2, the electronic device (101) may include at least one processor (e.g., processor (120) of FIG. 1), a wireless communication circuit (e.g., wireless communication module (192) of FIG. 1), a distribution circuit (220), and an antenna radiator (203).

[0056] At least one processor (120) may include processing circuitry. At least one processor (120) may include, but is not limited to, an application processor (AP, e.g., a central processing unit (CPU)) and / or a communication processor (CP, e.g., a modem). At least one processor (120) may include a graphics processing unit (e.g., a GPU), a neural processing unit (NPU) (e.g., an artificial intelligence (AI) chip), a wireless-fidelity (Wi-Fi) chip, a Bluetooth chip. TM It may include a chip, a GPS (global positioning system) chip, a near field communication (NFC) chip, connectivity chips, a sensor controller, a touch controller, a finger-print sensor controller, a display drive integrated circuit (DDI), an audio CODEC chip, a universal serial bus (USB) controller, a camera controller, an image processing IC, a microprocessor unit (MPU), a system on chip (SoC), an IC, or a similar circuit.

[0057] The electronic device (101) may include a wireless communication circuit (192). The wireless communication circuit (192) may include an RF transceiver (211) (radio frequency transceiver) and an RFFE (RF front end) circuit (212).

[0058] At least one processor (120) can generate a baseband signal. At least one processor (120) can control an RF transceiver (211) to process the generated baseband signal. At least one processor (120) can control the RF transceiver (211) so that a transmission signal is transmitted through an antenna radiator (203). At least one processor (120) can control the RF transceiver (211) so that the transmission signal is transmitted in a frequency band capable of communicating with an external electronic device.

[0059] The RF transceiver (211) may be implemented as part of a single chip (e.g., an RFIC chip) or a single package. The RF transceiver (211) may include a digital-to-analog converter (DAC) for converting a digital signal into an analog signal. The RF transceiver (211) may include a mixer and an oscillator (e.g., a local oscillator (LO)) for up-conversion. The RF transceiver (211) may convert a baseband signal generated by at least one processor (120) into an RF signal. The RF transceiver (211) may include an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) for converting an analog signal into a digital signal. The RF transceiver (211) may include a mixer and an oscillator for down-conversion. The RF transceiver (211) can convert an RF signal received from an antenna radiator (203) into a baseband signal so that it can be processed by at least one processor (120).

[0060] The RFFE circuit (212) may include a plurality of components electrically connected between the RF transceiver (211) and the antenna radiator (203). For example, the RFFE circuit (212) may include components such as a coupler, a PA (power amplifier), a LNA (low noise amplifier), a switch circuit, and / or a duplexer, but is not limited thereto.

[0061] A wireless communication circuit (192) may be configured to communicate with an external electronic device using an antenna radiator (203). According to one embodiment, the antenna radiator (203) may include a feed point to which a feed signal from the wireless communication circuit (192) is provided, and a ground point connected to the ground of the electronic device (101) (e.g., bracket (340) in FIG. 3).

[0062] An antenna radiator (203), as a physical component of the antenna, may be configured to be fed from a wireless communication circuit (192) to radiate or / or receive electromagnetic waves. An antenna radiator (203) may be configured to radiate RF signals to the outside of the electronic device (101) based on the feed from the wireless communication circuit (192). The electronic device (101) may include various types of antenna radiators (203). As described below, the antenna radiator (203) may correspond to a conductive portion (e.g., a first conductive portion (310) in FIG. 3) forming part of a frame that at least partially defines the lateral side of the electronic device (101). The conductive portion (310) may include a feed point (e.g., a first feed point (311) and / or a second feed point (312)) that receives power. A wireless communication circuit (192) can be configured to communicate with an external electronic device by supplying power to a power point of a conductive part (310). When power is supplied to a power point of the conductive part (310), current (e.g., radiation current) can flow along the conductive part (310). The current forms electromagnetic waves around the conductive part (310), and RF (radio frequency) signals can be radiated or received through the electromagnetic waves. The current can flow to ground through a ground point of the conductive part (310) that is electrically connected to the ground of the electronic device (101).

[0063] The size of the ground may affect the radiation pattern of the antenna including the conductive portion (310). For example, as the size of the ground increases, the length of the path of the current flowing along the ground (ground path) may increase. An increase in the length of the ground path may increase the directivity of the radiation pattern of the antenna. For example, as the size of the ground increases, the radiation angle of the electromagnetic waves decreases, and the radiation pattern is concentrated in a specific direction, thereby increasing the directivity of the radiation pattern. As the directivity of the antenna increases, more electromagnetic waves are radiated in a specific direction, so the intensity of the electromagnetic waves radiated in the specific direction may be improved, but the intensity of the electromagnetic waves radiated in directions different from the specific direction may be degraded.

[0064] For example, in the case of a tablet device or a foldable electronic device (101) including multiple housing parts, a relatively large size ground may be included. Since the antenna of the tablet device or foldable electronic device (101) having a relatively large size ground may have high directivity in a specific direction, the effective isotropic radiated power (EIRP) of the antenna for said specific direction may be high, but the coverage for other directions may be low. If the directivity due to the large size ground is too high, the coverage of the antenna is reduced, and the specifications for the communication performance of the electronic device (101) may not be satisfied. For example, in the case of Band 48 (e.g., N48 or B48) defined by 3GPP (3rd generation partnership project), the limit for the directivity of the antenna is relatively low (e.g., about 4 dB to about 5 dB), so an electronic device (101) including a large size ground may find it difficult to satisfy said limit.

[0065] An electronic device (101) including a ground having a relatively large size may be configured to feed signals having different phases to a first feed point (311) and a second feed point (312) of a conductive part (310) respectively in order to reduce the directivity of an antenna including a conductive part (310). The conductive part (310) may be configured to function as a radiator of an antenna (e.g., a folded dipole antenna) based on a signal provided to the first feed point (311) (e.g., a first signal) and a signal provided to the second feed point (312) (e.g., a second signal). The first signal may have a first phase, and the second signal may have a second signal different from the first phase. In the present disclosure, for convenience of explanation, a signal provided from a wireless communication circuit (192) to a first feed point (311) of a conductive part (310) may be referred to as a first signal, and a signal provided from a wireless communication circuit (192) to a second feed point (312) of a conductive part (310) may be referred to as a second signal, but the first signal and the second signal do not represent different signals.

[0066] The electronic device (101) may include a distribution circuit (220) and a phase control unit (230).

[0067] A signal provided from a wireless communication circuit (192) can be branched through a distribution circuit (220). The distribution circuit (220) may be a 3-port passive component. For example, the three ports of the distribution circuit (220) may provide a transmission line having a characteristic impedance of 50 ohms. A signal input through the first port (221) (e.g., a transmission signal) may be distributed to have equal power and output to the second port (222) and the third port (223), respectively. Signals input to the second port (222) and the third port (223) (e.g., a reception signal) may be combined into a single signal and output to the first port (221). The distribution circuit (220) may be referred to as a power divider, a splitter, a power branch circuitry, and / or a coupler.

[0068] The distribution circuit (220) may be configured to electrically connect the wireless communication circuit (192) and the conductive part (310). For example, the first port (221) of the distribution circuit (220) may be electrically connected to the wireless communication circuit (192) (e.g., RFFE circuit (212)). The second port (222) of the distribution circuit (220) may be electrically connected to the first feed point (311) of the conductive part (310). The third port (223) of the distribution circuit (220) may be electrically connected to the second feed point (312) of the conductive part (310). A signal provided from a wireless communication circuit (192) is input to a first port (221), branched through a distribution circuit (220), output to a second port (222) and a third port (223), and then provided to a first power supply point (311) and a second power supply point (312) of a conductive part (310).

[0069] The phase control unit (230) may be configured to control the phase by changing the propagation time of the signal through adjusting the length of the transmission line for the signal provided from the wireless communication circuit (192) to the feed point of the antenna radiator (203) (e.g., conductive part (310)), or to cause a phase difference using a lump element, etc. Specific examples of the phase control unit (230) will be described later.

[0070] A phase control unit (230) may be connected between a distribution circuit (220) and a conductive part (310). For example, the phase control unit (230) may include a first phase control unit (231) and / or a second phase control unit (232). The first phase control unit (231) may connect a second port (222) of the distribution circuit (220) to a first power supply point (311) of the conductive part (310). The second phase control unit (232) may connect a third port (223) of the distribution circuit (220) to a second power supply point (312) of the conductive part (310). The electronic device (101) may include at least one of the first phase control unit (231) or the second phase control unit (232). For example, the electronic device (101) may include both the first phase control unit (231) and the second phase control unit (232), or only one of the first phase control unit (231) or the second phase control unit (232).

[0071] By the phase adjustment unit (230), the first phase of the signal provided to the first feed point (311) of the conductive part (310) may be different from the second phase of the signal provided to the second feed point (312) of the conductive part (310). The difference between the first phase and the second phase may be determined based on the size of the ground. Due to the phase difference, the flow of current formed in the longitudinal direction of the ground may be reduced. The reduction in the flow of current may reduce the directivity of the antenna including the conductive part (310) and improve coverage.

[0072] The electronic device (101) may include a printed circuit board (240). The printed circuit board (240) may include a plurality of conductive layers and a plurality of non-conductive layers stacked alternately with said plurality of conductive layers. The printed circuit board (240) may provide electrical connections between various electronic components using wiring and conductive vias formed in the plurality of conductive layers. The aforementioned at least one processor (120), wireless communication circuit (192), distribution circuit (220), and phase control unit (230) may be disposed on the printed circuit board (240). The electronic device (101) may include antenna contacts (251, 252) that electrically connect the printed circuit board (240) and the conductive portion (310). For example, the antenna contacts (251, 252) may include a c-clip or a conductive pin, but are not limited thereto. For example, the electronic device (101) may include a first antenna contact (251) that electrically connects a first feed point (311) of a printed circuit board (240) and a conductive part (310), and a second antenna contact (252) that electrically connects a second feed point (312) of a printed circuit board (240) and a conductive part (310).

[0073] Hereinafter, a specific structure of an electronic device (101) including a conductive part (310) is described. The aforementioned conductive part (310) may correspond to a first conductive part (e.g., the first conductive part (310) of FIG. 3) described later.

[0074] Figure 3 illustrates the interior of an electronic device.

[0075] Referring to FIG. 3, the electronic device (101) may include a bracket (340) and a frame (301).

[0076] According to one embodiment, the bracket (340) may support components placed inside the electronic device (101). For example, a printed circuit board (240) may be placed on the bracket (340) and supported by the bracket (340). The bracket (340) may be configured to be electrically connected to the negative terminal of the battery of the electronic device (101) (e.g., battery (189) of FIG. 1) to function as the ground of the electronic device (101). For example, current provided to the load may pass through the load and flow to the bracket (340). The bracket (340) may be referred to as a supporting member or supporting part in terms of supporting the components of the electronic device (101).

[0077] According to one embodiment, the frame (301) may define at least a portion of the lateral side of the electronic device (101). The frame (301) defining the lateral side of the electronic device (101) may be exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101). The frame (301) may be positioned to surround at least a portion of the lateral side of the bracket (340). An injection portion (302) formed of a non-conductive material may be positioned between the frame (301) and the bracket (340).

[0078] According to one embodiment, the frame (301) may include conductive portions. The conductive portions may define one side of the electronic device (101) by forming a part of the frame (301). For example, the conductive portions may define at least a part of the upper side (e.g., the side in the +y direction) of the electronic device (101). At least a part of the conductive portions may be configured to function as an antenna radiator by being fed by a wireless communication circuit (192).

[0079] According to one embodiment, the conductive parts may include a first conductive part (310), a second conductive part (320), and / or a third conductive part (330). For example, the first conductive part (310) may be positioned between the second conductive part (320) and the third conductive part (330). For example, the second conductive part (320) may be positioned on one side (e.g., the -x direction) of the first conductive part (310), and the third conductive part (330) may be positioned on the other side (e.g., the +x direction) of the first conductive part (310).

[0080] According to one embodiment, the conductive parts may be physically separated by non-conductive parts. For example, a first non-conductive part (351) may be positioned between one end (313) of the first conductive part (310) and the second conductive part (320). For example, a second non-conductive part (352) may be positioned between the other end (314) of the first conductive part (310) and the third conductive part (330). The one end (313) and the other end (314) may be opposite each other.

[0081] According to one embodiment, the first conductive portion (310) may be configured to function as an antenna radiator (e.g., the antenna radiator (203) of FIG. 2). The first conductive portion (310) may include a first feed point (311) and a second feed point (312) that are electrically connected to a distribution circuit (220). For example, the first feed point (311) may be electrically connected to a second port (222) of the distribution circuit (220), and the third feed point (321) may be electrically connected to a third port (223) of the distribution circuit (220). Within the first conductive portion (310), the first feed point (311) may be spaced apart from the second feed point (312). For example, the distribution circuit (220) and the first feed point (311) can be electrically connected through a first antenna contact (251) that electrically connects the first feed point (311) of the first conductive part (310) and the printed circuit board (240). For example, the distribution circuit (220) and the second feed point (312) can be electrically connected through a second antenna contact (252) that electrically connects the second feed point (312) of the first conductive part (310) and the printed circuit board (240).

[0082] An electronic device (101) according to one embodiment may include a phase control unit (230) connected between a distribution circuit (220) and a first power supply point (311) of a first conductive part (310), and / or connected between a distribution circuit (220) and a second power supply point (312) of a first conductive part (310). For example, the electronic device (101) may include a first phase control unit (231) connected between the distribution circuit (220) and the first power supply point (311), and / or a second phase control unit (232) connected between the distribution circuit (220) and the second power supply point (312).

[0083] According to one embodiment, the first conductive portion (310) may include a first portion (310a), a second portion (310b), and a third portion (310c). For example, the first portion (310a) of the first conductive portion (310) may be defined as part of the first conductive portion (310) between the first power supply point (311) and the second power supply point (312). The second portion (310b) of the first conductive portion (310) may be defined as part of the first conductive portion (310) between the first end (313) closer to the first power supply point (311) and the first power supply point (311), among the two ends (313, 314) of the first conductive portion (310). The third part (310c) can be defined as a part of the first conductive part (310) between the other end (314) of the first conductive part (310) that is closer to the second feed point (312) and the second feed point (312) among the two ends (313, 314) of the first conductive part (310). For example, the first part (310a) may form part of the first conductive part (310) between the first power supply point (311) and the second power supply point (312), the second part (310b) may form part of the first conductive part (310) between one end (313) of the first conductive part (310) and the first power supply point (311), and the third part (310c) may form part of the first conductive part (310) between the other end (314) of the first conductive part (310) and the second power supply point (312).

[0084] According to one embodiment, the second part (310b) of the first conductive part (310) and the third part (310c) of the first conductive part (310) can be physically distinguished from the ground area (e.g., bracket (240)) of the electronic device (101) by the first conductive part (310), the second conductive part (320), and the third conductive part (330). For example, the second part (310b) of the first conductive part (310) and the third part (310c) of the first conductive part (310) are not electrically connected to the ground layer of the bracket (340) configured to function as the ground of the electronic device (101) or the printed circuit board (240) electrically connected to the bracket (340), and can be physically distinguished from the bracket (340) or the ground layer by the first conductive part (310), the second conductive part (320), and the third conductive part (330). The first part (310a) of the first conductive part (310) between the first feed point (311) and the second feed point (312) can be electrically connected to the ground layer of the bracket (340) or the printed circuit board (240).

[0085] According to one embodiment, the first conductive portion (310) may be configured to function as a radiator of an antenna (e.g., a folded dipole antenna) through the first portion (310a), the second portion (310b), and the third portion (310c). A folded dipole antenna is an antenna that forms a loop by connecting the two ends of a dipole antenna. The first portion (310a) of the first conductive portion (310) and the bracket (340) (or the ground layer of the printed circuit board (240)) may form a loop.

[0086] According to one embodiment, an antenna comprising a first conductive portion (310) may be configured to transmit and / or receive an RF signal on a specified frequency band. For example, the frequency of the RF signal transmitted and / or received through the antenna comprising the first conductive portion (310) may correspond to band 48 (e.g., about 3550 MHz to about 3700 MHz). To function as an antenna radiator of the antenna, the distance between the first feed point (311) and the second feed point (312) may correspond to about half the wavelength corresponding to the operating frequency of the antenna. The distance between the first feed point (311) and the second feed point (312) may correspond to the length of the first portion (310a) of the first conductive portion (310).

[0087] According to one embodiment, so that the first conductive portion (310) can function as a radiator of the antenna, the second portion (310b) of the first conductive portion (310) and the third portion (310c) of the first conductive portion (310) may be physically separated from the ground area of ​​the electronic device (101) (e.g., bracket (230). For example, when the first feed point (311) and the second feed point (312) are fed, the second portion (310b) and the third portion (310c) may not be electrically connected to the ground layer of the bracket (340) and / or the printed circuit board (240) so that current can flow along the first portion (310a) of the first conductive portion (310) between the first feed point (311) and the second feed point (312). If the second portion (310b) and the When the third part (310c) is electrically connected to ground, the current may flow from the first feed point (311) to ground through the second part (310b) of the first conductive part (310), or the current may flow from the second feed point (312) to ground through the third part (310c) of the first conductive part (310). If the current flows to ground through the second part (310b) and / or the third part (310c), a folded dipole antenna cannot be formed because a loop for forming an antenna (e.g., a folded dipole antenna) is not formed. In order for the first conductive part (310) to function as a radiator of a folded dipole antenna, the second part (310b) of the first conductive part (310) and the third part (310c) of the first conductive part (310) are connected to ground. It can be distinguished from the area (e.g., bracket (230)).

[0088] An electronic device (101) according to one embodiment can cause a phase difference between a signal provided to a first feed point (311) of a first conductive part (310) and a signal provided to a second feed point (312) of a first conductive part (310) through a phase control unit (230). As described above, the signals can be referenced as signals branched by a distribution circuit (220). A signal provided to the first feed point (311) may have a first phase, and a signal provided to the second feed point (312) may have a second phase different from the first phase. As signals having different phases are fed to the first feed point (311) and the second feed point (312), respectively, the shape of the radiation pattern formed by an antenna (e.g., a folded dipole antenna) including the first conductive part (310) may be changed. For example, based on the above phase difference, the coverage of the antenna can be improved as the directivity of the antenna is reduced. The communication performance of an electronic device (101) including a ground having a relatively large size can be improved through the antenna.

[0089] FIG. 4 illustrates a ground path of an electronic device according to a comparative example. FIG. 5 illustrates a ground path of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0090] The electronic device (401) according to the comparative example shown in FIG. 4 and the electronic device (101) according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 5 can be referred to as substantially the same device, except that signals having a phase difference are fed. For example, the size of the bracket (403) of the electronic device (401) according to the comparative example and the size of the bracket (340) of the electronic device (101) according to the embodiment may be substantially the same.

[0091] Referring to FIG. 4, an electronic device (401) according to a comparative example may include a conductive part (402) configured to function as an antenna radiator. The conductive part (402) may be configured to function as an antenna radiator by being fed by a wireless communication circuit. The conductive part (402) may include a first feed point (402a) and a second feed point (402b) and may be configured to function as a radiator of an antenna (e.g., a folded dipole antenna). An electronic device (401) according to a comparative example may include a bracket (403) configured to function as a ground.

[0092] In the case of the electronic device (401) according to the comparative example, signals having the same phase may be provided to the first feed point (402a) and the second feed point (402b). For example, the phase of the signal provided to the first feed point (402a) from the distribution circuit (e.g., the distribution circuit (220) of FIG. 2) may be substantially the same as the phase of the signal provided to the second feed point (402b) from the distribution circuit. The electronic device (401) according to the comparative example does not include a phase adjustment unit that causes a phase difference between the signals.

[0093] When the conductive portion (402) of the electronic device (401) according to the comparative example functions as a radiator of an antenna (e.g., a folded dipole antenna), a current flow (e.g., a ground path (G1)) formed along the bracket (403) can be formed. The ground path (G1) illustrated in FIG. 4 can be formed substantially along the longitudinal direction (e.g., the y-axis direction) of the bracket (403). As the ground path (G1) is formed along the longitudinal direction of the bracket (403), the radiation pattern of the electronic device (401) according to the comparative example can have high directivity. Because the directivity of the radiation pattern is high, the coverage of the antenna including the conductive portion (402) may be degraded.

[0094] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating an electronic device (101) according to one embodiment, which is an electronic device (101) illustrated in FIG. 3. As previously described, the first conductive portion (310) may be configured to function as a radiator of an antenna (e.g., a folded dipole antenna). The first phase of a signal provided to the first feed point (311) of the first conductive portion (310) may be different from the second phase of a signal provided to the second feed point (312) of the first conductive portion (310). For example, the difference between the first phase and the second phase may be about 135 degrees, but this is merely an exemplary figure and the embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto. As described below, the difference between the first phase and the second phase may be determined based on the size of the bracket (340).

[0095] Referring to FIG. 5, when the first conductive portion (310) functions as a radiator of the dipole antenna, a ground path (G2) may be formed along the bracket (340). The ground path (G2) may be formed substantially along the longitudinal direction (e.g., the y-axis direction) of the bracket (340). In one embodiment, the ground path (G2) may not be formed along the entire length of the bracket (340), but only along a portion of the bracket (340). For example, the ground path (G2) may not be formed from the top (341) of the bracket (340) (e.g., a portion of ground facing the +y direction) to the bottom (342) of the bracket (340) (e.g., a portion of ground facing the -y direction), but may be formed from the top (341) to a portion between the top (341) and the bottom (342). In the case of an electronic device (101) according to one embodiment, the ground path (G2) may be formed shorter than the length of the bracket (340), so a relatively short ground path (G2) may be formed.

[0096] According to one embodiment, a ground path (G2) of relatively short length may be formed because the first phase of the signal provided to the first feed point (311) is different from the second phase of the signal provided to the second feed point (312). For example, if the electronic device (101) includes a bracket (340) having a relatively large size, such as a tablet device or a foldable electronic device including three or more housing parts (e.g., the foldable electronic device (1800) of FIG. 17a), the length of the ground path formed along the bracket (340) may be increased. As the length of the ground path increases, the directivity of the antenna (e.g., a folded dipole antenna) may be high, and the coverage of the antenna may be reduced. The electronic device (101) according to one embodiment may reduce the length of the ground path through the difference between the first phase and the second phase. As illustrated in FIG. 5, a ground path is not formed along the entire length of the bracket (340), but a ground path (e.g., ground path (G2) in FIG. 5) is formed along a part of the length of the bracket (340), so the directivity of the antenna including the first conductive part (310) can be reduced and the coverage of the antenna can be improved.

[0097] Figure 6 shows a radiation pattern according to the difference between the first phase and the second phase.

[0098] The radiation pattern (600) of FIG. 6 represents the radiation pattern of an antenna (e.g., a folded dipole antenna) according to an azimuth angle. For example, the radiation pattern of the antenna formed around the electronic device (101) can be changed according to the difference between the first phase of the signal provided to the first feed point (e.g., the first feed point (311) of FIG. 3) of the first conductive part (e.g., the first conductive part (310) of FIG. 3) and the second phase of the signal provided to the second feed point (e.g., the second feed point (312) of FIG. 3) of the first conductive part (310).

[0099] The first radiation pattern (601) of FIG. 6 illustrates the radiation pattern of an antenna (e.g., a folded dipole antenna) including a first conductive portion (310) when the difference between the first phase and the second phase is approximately 180 degrees. The second radiation pattern (602) of FIG. 6 illustrates the radiation pattern of an antenna including a first conductive portion (310) when the difference between the first phase and the second phase is approximately 135 degrees. The third radiation pattern (603) of FIG. 6 illustrates the radiation pattern of an antenna including a first conductive portion (310) when the difference between the first phase and the second phase is approximately 90 degrees. The fourth radiation pattern (604) of FIG. 6 illustrates the radiation pattern of an antenna including a first conductive portion (310) when the difference between the first phase and the second phase is approximately 60 degrees. The fifth radiation pattern (605) of FIG. 6 illustrates the radiation pattern of an antenna including a first conductive portion (310) when the difference between the first phase and the second phase is 0 degrees (e.g., when the first phase and the second phase are the same).

[0100] Referring to the radiation pattern (600) of FIG. 6, the fifth radiation pattern (605), which has no difference between the first and second phases, exhibits a peak at an azimuth of approximately 64 degrees. The fifth radiation pattern (605) has a high gain of approximately 8.2 dB at an azimuth of approximately 64 degrees. Because the fifth radiation pattern (605) has a relatively high gain at the peak, it has a relatively narrow coverage. For example, between an azimuth of -180 degrees and 0 degrees, the fifth radiation pattern (605) exhibits a relatively low gain.

[0101] As the difference between the first phase and the second phase increases, the directivity of the antenna may be reduced, and the coverage of the antenna may be expanded. For example, a second radiation pattern (602) in which the difference between the first phase and the second phase is about 135 degrees exhibits a peak at an azimuth of about 74 degrees. The second radiation pattern (602) has a gain of 4 dB at an azimuth of about 74 degrees. Because the second radiation pattern (602) has a relatively low gain at the peak, it has relatively wide coverage. When the difference between the first phase and the second phase is adjusted to about 135 degrees, the communication coverage of the electronic device (101) can be improved.

[0102] An electronic device (101) according to one embodiment may be configured to control the radiation pattern of an antenna using a distribution circuit (e.g., the distribution circuit (220) of FIG. 2) and a phase control unit (e.g., the phase control unit (230) of FIG. 2). As described with reference to FIG. 6, the phase control unit (230) can control the directivity and coverage of the antenna by causing a difference between a first phase and a second phase. The electronic device (101) may control the phase control unit (230) to cause an appropriate phase difference value depending on the structure of the electronic device (101), the size of the ground, the communication environment, etc.

[0103] Figures 7, 8, and 9 are graphs showing the phase difference according to the size of the bracket.

[0104] As described above, the directivity of an antenna (e.g., a folded dipole antenna) comprising a first conductive portion (310) can be controlled by the difference between a first phase and a second phase. In the example described above, the phase difference is described as approximately 135 degrees, but this is merely exemplary and the embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto. According to one embodiment, the difference between the first phase and the second phase may be based on the size of the ground. In FIGS. 7, 8, and 9, length may be referenced as length in the y-axis direction, and width may be referenced as length in the x-axis direction. The directivity of the antenna represents the ratio of radiation intensity in a specific direction (peak direction) to the average radiation intensity. Higher directivity may be referenced as electromagnetic waves being radiated in a specific direction.

[0105] Referring to FIG. 7, the length (701) of the bracket (340) may be approximately 162 mm, and the width (702) of the bracket (340) may be approximately 79 mm. The graph (710) of FIG. 7 represents the directivity of the antenna according to the difference between the first phase of the signal provided to the first feed point (311) and the second phase of the signal provided to the second feed point (312) when the operating frequency of the antenna including the first conductive part (310) is approximately 3.5 GHz. The x-axis of the graph (710) is the difference between the first phase and the second phase (unit: degrees), and the y-axis of the graph (710) is the directivity (unit: dB (decibel)).

[0106] Referring to the graph (710) of FIG. 7, the directivity of the antenna including the first conductive part (310) may be lowest when the phase difference is about 125 degrees. For example, when the first phase and the second phase are the same (when the phase difference is 0 degrees), the directivity may be about 6.5 dB. For example, when the phase difference is about 125 degrees, the directivity may be about 4.2 dB. As described above, when the length (701) of the bracket (340) is about 162 mm and the width (702) of the bracket (340) is about 79 mm, the difference between the first phase and the second phase provided through the phase adjustment unit (230) may be set to about 125 degrees.

[0107] Referring to FIG. 8, the length (801) of the bracket (340) may be approximately 285 mm, and the width (802) of the bracket (340) may be approximately 185 mm. The graph (810) of FIG. 8 represents the directivity of the antenna according to the difference between the first phase of the signal provided to the first feed point (311) and the second phase of the signal provided to the second feed point (312) when the operating frequency of the antenna including the first conductive part (310) is approximately 3.5 GHz. The x-axis of the graph (810) is the difference between the first phase and the second phase (unit: degrees), and the y-axis of the graph (810) is the directivity (unit: dB (decibel)).

[0108] Referring to the graph (810) of FIG. 8, the directivity of the antenna including the first conductive part (310) may be lowest when the phase difference is about 135 degrees. For example, when the first phase and the second phase are the same (when the phase difference is 0 degrees), the directivity may be about 8.2 dB. For example, when the phase difference is about 135 degrees, the directivity may be about 4.5 dB. As described above, when the length (801) of the bracket (340) is about 285 mm and the width (802) of the bracket (340) is about 185 mm, the difference between the first phase and the second phase provided through the phase adjustment unit (230) may be set to about 135 degrees.

[0109] Referring to FIG. 9, the length (901) of the bracket (340) may be approximately 326 mm, and the width (902) of the bracket (340) may be approximately 209 mm. The graph (910) of FIG. 9 represents the directivity of the antenna according to the difference between the first phase of the signal provided to the first feed point (311) and the second phase of the signal provided to the second feed point (312) when the operating frequency of the antenna including the first conductive part (310) is approximately 3.5 GHz. The x-axis of the graph (910) is the difference between the first phase and the second phase (unit: degrees), and the y-axis of the graph (910) is the directivity (unit: dB (decibel)).

[0110] Referring to the graph (910) of FIG. 9, the directivity of the antenna including the first conductive part (310) may be lowest when the phase difference is about 135 degrees. For example, when the first phase and the second phase are the same (e.g., when the phase difference is 0 degrees), the directivity may be about 8.3 dB. For example, when the phase difference is about 140 degrees, the directivity may be about 4.2 dB. As described above, when the length (901) of the bracket (340) is about 326 mm and the width (902) of the bracket (340) is about 209 mm, the difference between the first phase and the second phase provided through the phase adjustment unit (230) may be set to about 140 degrees.

[0111] As illustrated in FIGS. 7, 8, and 9, the difference between the first phase and the second phase provided through the phase adjustment unit (230) can be determined based on the size of the bracket (340). As the size of the bracket (340) increases, the difference between the first phase of the signal provided to the first feed point (311) and the second phase of the signal provided to the second feed point (312) can be increased.

[0112] According to one embodiment, the phase adjustment unit (230) may be configured to adjust the difference between a first phase and a second phase by being controlled by at least one processor (120). For example, the at least one processor (120) may be configured to adjust the phase difference to increase the directivity of the antenna based on a received signal strength indicator (RSSI) value or data throughput. For example, if communication between a base station and an electronic device (101) is not performed smoothly, the directivity of the antenna may be increased by adjusting the phase difference through the phase adjustment unit (230). The electronic device (101) may increase directivity or improve coverage by appropriately controlling the phase adjustment unit (230) according to the communication environment.

[0113] FIG. 10 shows the current distribution by a ground path formed from a second conductive portion. FIG. 11 shows the current distribution by a ground path formed from a third conductive portion. FIG. 12 shows the current distribution by a ground path formed from a first conductive portion.

[0114] As described above, the frame of the electronic device (101) may include a first conductive portion (310), a second conductive portion (320), and a third conductive portion (330). The first conductive portion (310) may be positioned between the second conductive portion (320) and the third conductive portion (330). Each of the first conductive portion (310), the second conductive portion (320), and the third conductive portion (330) may be configured to function as an antenna radiator (e.g., the antenna radiator (203) of FIG. 2).

[0115] Referring to FIG. 10, when the second conductive portion (320) operates as an antenna radiator, a ground path may be induced by the flow of current formed along the bracket (340). The ground path is a flow of current flowing along the surface of the bracket (340), and in the drawing, an area with a high density may be referred to as an area where the current is concentrated. When the second conductive portion (320) operates as an antenna radiator, the ground path formed from the second conductive portion (320) may be formed along the longitudinal direction (e.g., the y-axis direction) of the bracket (340). The radiation pattern formed when the second conductive portion (320) operates as an antenna radiator may have a gain of about 5.5 dB in the peak direction. The higher the gain in the peak direction, the higher the directivity of the radiation pattern may be.

[0116] Referring to FIG. 11, when the third conductive part (330) operates as an antenna radiator, a ground path may be induced by the flow of current formed along the bracket (340). When the third conductive part (330) operates as an antenna radiator, the ground path formed from the third conductive part (330) may be formed along the longitudinal direction (e.g., the y-axis direction) of the bracket (340). The radiation pattern formed when the third conductive part (330) operates as an antenna radiator may have a gain of about 8.1 dB in the peak direction. When the third conductive part (330) operates as an antenna radiator, the directivity of the radiation pattern may be high as the ground path formed along the longitudinal direction of the bracket (340) is strongly formed. Because the directivity of the radiation pattern is high, the coverage of the antenna including the third conductive part (330) may be relatively narrow.

[0117] Referring to FIG. 12, when the first conductive part (310) operates as an antenna radiator, a ground path may be induced by the flow of current formed along the bracket (340). When the first conductive part (310) operates as an antenna radiator, the ground path formed from the first conductive part (310) may be formed along the longitudinal direction (e.g., the y-axis direction) of the bracket (340). The radiation pattern formed when the first conductive part (310) operates as an antenna radiator may have a gain of about 4.7 dB in the peak direction.

[0118] According to one embodiment, in the case of the first conductive part (310) positioned between the second conductive part (320) and the third conductive part (330), the gain of the radiation pattern in the peak direction may be relatively low. As illustrated in FIG. 12, in the ground path formed in the longitudinal direction of the bracket (340), the degree to which the current is concentrated in the longitudinal direction may be relatively weak. Compared to the current distribution illustrated in FIG. 10 and FIG. 11, the current distribution illustrated in FIG. 12 may have the current distributed relatively strongly in the width direction (e.g., x-axis direction) of the bracket (340). When the first conductive part (310) operates as an antenna radiator, the current distribution formed may have the current formed relatively weakly along the longitudinal direction of the bracket (340) and relatively strongly along the width direction of the bracket (340). According to the above current distribution, the directivity of the radiation pattern may be relatively low, so the coverage of the antenna including the first conductive part (310) may be relatively wide.

[0119] In the case of the second conductive part (320) and the third conductive part (330), they may be located in the corner portion of the electronic device (101). When electromagnetic waves are radiated uniformly or similarly in all directions relative to the antenna radiator, the directivity of the radiation pattern may be reduced. When the second conductive part (320) and the third conductive part (330) located in the corner portion of the electronic device (101) function as antenna radiators, it may be difficult to control the antenna so that electromagnetic waves are radiated uniformly or similarly overall.

[0120] An electronic device (101) according to one embodiment may utilize a first conductive portion (310) disposed between a second conductive portion (320) and a third conductive portion (330) as a radiator of an antenna (e.g., a folded dipole antenna) to provide relatively wide coverage. As described with reference to FIG. 3, since the first conductive portion (310) disposed between the second conductive portion (320) and the third conductive portion (330) is utilized as a radiator of an antenna, the electronic device (101) may be configured to communicate using the antenna. An antenna including the first conductive portion (310) can improve the communication performance of the electronic device (101) by providing relatively wide coverage.

[0121] FIG. 13 illustrates a phase control unit including a phase shifter.

[0122] Referring to FIG. 13, the phase control unit (230) may include a phase shifter. For example, the phase shifter (e.g., a first phase shifter (1311) and / or a second phase shifter (1312)) may include a passive component such as an inductor or a capacitor. The phase shifter may shift the phase of a signal output from the phase shifter by delaying the phase of a signal input to the phase shifter.

[0123] The phase control unit (230) may include at least one of a first phase shifter (1311) electrically connected to a first power supply point (311) of the distribution circuit (220) and the first conductive part (310), or a second phase shifter (1312) electrically connected to a second power supply point (312) of the distribution circuit (220) and the first conductive part (310).

[0124] The first phase shifter (1311) and / or the second phase shifter (1312) can cause a difference between the first phase of the signal provided to the first feed point (311) of the conductive part through the distribution circuit (220) and the second phase of the signal provided to the second feed point (312) of the conductive part through the distribution circuit (220). The first phase and the second phase may be different. For example, the difference between the first phase and the second phase may be about 135 degrees, but is not limited thereto. As described above, the difference between the first phase and the second phase may be determined based on the size of the bracket (e.g., the bracket (340) of FIG. 3).

[0125] The directivity of the peak of the radiation pattern formed from the antenna can be controlled by causing a difference between the first phase and the second phase by a phase control unit (230) including a first phase shifter (1311) and / or a second phase shifter (1312), when the first conductive part (310) functions as a radiator of an antenna (e.g., a folded dipole antenna). For example, the directivity can be reduced by the difference between the first phase and the second phase. As the directivity is reduced, the coverage of the radiation pattern can be expanded. An electronic device (101) according to one embodiment can improve the coverage of the antenna by reducing the directivity using a phase control unit (230) including a first phase shifter (1311) and / or a second phase shifter (1312).

[0126] The first phase shifter (1311) and / or the second phase shifter (1312) may include one or more lumped elements or a combination of multiple lumped elements. For example, the first phase shifter (1311) and / or the second phase shifter (1312) may include at least one capacitor and / or at least one inductor. The at least one capacitor and / or at least one inductor may be configured to shift the phase of a signal provided to the first feed point (311) of the conductive part (310) and / or the second feed point (312) of the conductive part (310) through the distribution circuit (220). The amount of phase shift of the signal may be determined based on the parameter value (e.g., capacitance or inductance) of the lumped element electrically connected to the transmission line between the distribution circuit (220) and the conductive part (310). For example, if the first phase shifter (1311) includes a capacitor having a first capacitance value and is electrically connected to a transmission line between the distribution circuit (220) and the first feed point (311), the amount of phase shift of the signal can be determined based on the first capacitance value.

[0127] FIG. 14 illustrates a phase control unit that controls the phase by adjusting the length of the transmission line.

[0128] As described with reference to FIG. 13, the phase control unit (230) may be provided in the form of a circuit such as a phase shifter, but embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto. Referring to FIG. 14, in the present disclosure, the phase control unit (230) may be configured to cause a phase difference through the difference in length of the first transmission line (1511) between the distribution circuit (220) and the first feed point (311) of the first conductive part (310) and the second transmission line (1512) between the distribution circuit (220) and the second feed point (312) of the first conductive part (310).

[0129] The phase control unit (230) may include a first transmission line (1511) that forms part of the line between the distribution circuit (220) and the first feed point (311) of the first conductive part (310), and a second transmission line (1512) that forms part of the line between the distribution circuit (220) and the second feed point (312) of the first conductive part (310). For example, if the first length of the first transmission line (1511) and the second length of the second conductive line are different, the first phase of the signal provided to the first feed point (311) of the first conductive part (310) through the distribution circuit (220) and the second phase of the signal provided to the second feed point (312) of the first conductive part (310) through the distribution circuit (220) may be different from each other. As the length of the transmission line increases, the time required for a signal to pass through the transmission line may increase. As the said time increases, a phase difference of the signal may occur. To cause a difference between the first phase and the second phase, the second length may be different from the first length. For example, the second length may be longer than the first length. The difference between the second length and the first length may not correspond to an integer multiple of the wavelength of the signal to cause a difference between the first phase and the second phase.

[0130] The directivity of the peak of the radiation pattern formed from an antenna including a first conductive portion (310) can be controlled by causing a difference between the first phase and the second phase by a phase control unit (230) including a first transmission line (1511) and a second transmission line (1512). For example, the directivity can be reduced by the difference between the first phase and the second phase. As the directivity is reduced, the coverage of the radiation pattern can be expanded. An electronic device (101) according to one embodiment can improve the coverage of the antenna by reducing the directivity using a phase control unit (230) including a first transmission line (1511) and a second transmission line (1512).

[0131] As examples of the phase control unit (230), a phase shifter and a transmission line have been described, but embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto. The electronic device (101) may use various electronic components to cause a first phase and a second phase difference.

[0132] Figure 15 is a block diagram of an electronic device.

[0133] Referring to FIG. 15, the electronic device (101) may be configured to communicate with an external electronic device using a first conductive part (310) and a second conductive part (320). The first conductive part (310) and the second conductive part (320) may be configured to function as radiators of an antenna.

[0134] According to one embodiment, the wireless communication circuit (192) can be electrically connected to the first feed point (311) of the first conductive part (310) and the third feed point (321) of the second conductive part (320) through the distribution circuit (220) and the phase control unit (230). The signal provided from the wireless communication circuit (192) can be branched through the distribution circuit (220). The signals branched through the distribution circuit (220) can be provided to the first feed point (311) of the first conductive part (310) and the third feed point (321) of the second conductive part (320), respectively.

[0135] According to one embodiment, the distribution circuit (220) may be configured to electrically connect the wireless communication circuit (192) to the first conductive part (310) and the second conductive part (320). For example, the first port (221) of the distribution circuit (220) may be electrically connected to the wireless communication circuit (192) (e.g., RFFE circuit (212)). The second port (222) of the distribution circuit (220) may be electrically connected to the first feed point (311) of the first conductive part (310). The third port (223) of the distribution circuit (220) may be electrically connected to the third feed point (321) of the second conductive part (320). A signal provided from a wireless communication circuit (192) may be input to a first port (221), branched through a distribution circuit (220), output to a second port (222) and a third port (223), and then provided to a first feed point (311) of a first conductive part (310) and a third feed point (321) of a second conductive part (320). The electronic device (101) may include a first antenna contact (1611) that electrically connects a printed circuit board (240) and a first feed point (311) of a first conductive part (310), and a second antenna contact (1612) that electrically connects a printed circuit board (240) and a third feed point (321) of a second conductive part (320).

[0136] According to one embodiment, the phase adjustment unit (230) may be configured to cause a phase difference between a signal provided from the wireless communication circuit (192) to a first feed point (311) of a first conductive part (310) and a signal provided to a third feed point (321) of a second conductive part (320). For example, the phase adjustment unit (230) may include at least one of a first phase adjustment unit (231) electrically connected between the distribution circuit (220) and the first feed point (311) of the first conductive part (310), or a second phase adjustment unit (232) electrically connected between the distribution circuit (220) and the third feed point (321) of the second conductive part (320).

[0137] According to one embodiment, the first conductive portion (310) and the second conductive portion (320) may be configured to function together as radiators of the antenna. The phase control unit (230) may have a first phase of a signal provided from the wireless communication circuit (192) to the first feed point (311) of the first conductive portion (310) through the distribution circuit (220), which may be different from the second phase of a signal provided from the wireless communication circuit (192) to the third feed point (321) of the second conductive portion (320) through the distribution circuit (220). As described above, depending on the difference between the first phase and the second phase, the length of the ground path formed along the bracket (340) may be reduced, and depending on the reduction in the length of the ground path, the directivity of the antenna may be reduced and the coverage of the antenna may be improved.

[0138] Figure 16 illustrates an electronic device.

[0139] Referring to FIG. 16, the electronic device (101) may include a printed circuit board (240), a bracket (340), and a frame (301). As previously described, the bracket (340) may be configured to function as the ground of the electronic device (101). The ground layer of the printed circuit board (240) may be electrically connected to the bracket (340). The frame (301) may include a first conductive portion (310), a second conductive portion (320), and / or a third conductive portion (330). A first non-conductive portion (351) may be disposed between the first conductive portion (310) and the second conductive portion (320). An injection portion (1704) formed of a non-conductive material may be disposed between the frame (301) and the bracket (340). Through the injection portion (1704), the frame (301) and the bracket (340) can be physically separated. The electronic device (101) may include a first antenna contact (1611) (e.g., a conductive clip) that electrically connects the first feed point (311) of the first conductive portion (310) to the printed circuit board (240) and a second antenna contact (1612) (e.g., a conductive clip) that electrically connects the third feed point (321) of the second conductive portion (320) to the printed circuit board (240).

[0140] According to one embodiment, the first conductive portion (310) and the second conductive portion (320) may be configured to function together as radiators of the antenna. In order for the first conductive portion (310) and the second conductive portion (320) to function as radiators of the antenna, the first conductive portion (310) and the second conductive portion (320) may each be electrically connected to the ground layer of the printed circuit board (240).

[0141] According to one embodiment, the first conductive portion (310) may include a first flange portion (1711) that protrudes toward the printed circuit board (240) on the surface of the first conductive portion (310) facing the printed circuit board (240). The first flange portion (1711) may penetrate the injection portion (1704) between the frame (301) and the bracket (340). For example, the end of the first flange portion (1711) may be exposed through the opening of the injection portion (1704). The first flange portion (1711) may protrude toward the printed circuit board (240) and be electrically connected to the bracket (340) or to a non-conductive layer of the printed circuit board (240) that is electrically connected to the bracket (340). For example, the electronic device (101) may include a first conductive connection (1721) for electrically connecting a first flange portion (1711) to a ground layer of a printed circuit board (240) electrically connected to a bracket (340). The first conductive connection (1721) may electrically connect the first flange portion (1711) to the ground layer of the printed circuit board (240).

[0142] According to one embodiment, the second conductive portion (320) may include a second flange portion (1712) that protrudes toward the printed circuit board (240) on the surface of the second conductive portion (320) facing the printed circuit board (240). The second flange portion (1712) may penetrate the injection portion (1704) between the frame (301) and the bracket (340). For example, the end of the second flange portion (1712) may be exposed through the opening of the injection portion (1704). The second flange portion (1712) may protrude toward the printed circuit board (240) and be electrically connected to the ground layer of the printed circuit board (240) which is electrically connected to the bracket (340). For example, the electronic device (101) may include a second conductive connection (1722) for electrically connecting the second flange portion (1712) to the ground layer of a printed circuit board (240) electrically connected to a bracket (340). The second conductive connection (1722) may electrically connect the second flange portion (1712) and the ground layer of the printed circuit board (240).

[0143] According to one embodiment, the first conductive part (310) and the second conductive part (320) can be configured to function as radiators of an antenna (e.g., a folded dipole antenna) through a portion (1701) of the first conductive part (310) between the first feed point (311) and the first flange portion (1711) and a portion (1702) of the second conductive part (320) between the third feed point (321) and the second flange portion (1712). As the first flange portion (1711) and the second flange portion (1712) are electrically connected to the ground layer of the printed circuit board (240), the portion (1701) of the first conductive part (310), the portion (1703) of the second conductive part (320), and the printed circuit board (240) can form a loop. In the example illustrated in FIG. 3, the second portion (310b) of the first conductive portion (310) and the second portion (310b) of the first conductive portion (310) may be separated from the bracket (340) to form an antenna (e.g., a folded dipole antenna) comprising the first conductive portion (310). In the example illustrated in FIG. 16, the portion (1701) of the first conductive portion (310) and the portion (1702) of the second conductive portion (320) may be electrically connected to the ground layer of the printed circuit board (240) to form an antenna comprising the first conductive portion (310) and the second conductive portion (320).

[0144] According to one embodiment, an antenna comprising a first conductive portion (310) and a second conductive portion (320) may be configured to transmit and / or receive an RF signal on a specified frequency band. For example, the frequency of the RF signal transmitted and / or received through the antenna comprising the first conductive portion (310) may correspond to band 48 (e.g., about 3550 MHz to about 3700 MHz). To function as an antenna radiator of the antenna, the distance (1703) between the first flange portion (1711) and the second flange portion (1712) may correspond to about half the wavelength corresponding to the operating frequency of the antenna.

[0145] The structure illustrated in FIG. 3 and the structure illustrated in FIG. 16 can be applied simultaneously to a single electronic device (101). For example, the structure illustrated in FIG. 3 can be applied to a portion of a frame (301) that forms at least a portion of the upper side (e.g., the side in the +y direction) of the electronic device (101), and the structure illustrated in FIG. 16 can be applied to a portion of a frame (301) that forms at least a portion of the lower side (e.g., the side in the -y direction) of the electronic device (101). For example, referring to FIG. 16, the frame (301) may include conductive portions that form at least a portion of the lower side. The first conductive portion (310) and the second conductive portion (320) may be configured to function together as a radiator of the antenna, and the fourth conductive portion may be configured to function as a radiator of the antenna. For example, the structure illustrated in FIG. 3 can be applied to a conductive portion that forms a portion of the lower side forming the antenna.

[0146] An electronic device (101) according to one embodiment may include a bracket (340) having a relatively large size. To reduce the high directivity caused by the large size of the bracket (340), the aforementioned phase control unit (230) may be used. For example, the electronic device (101) may include a tablet device. Alternatively, the electronic device (101) may include a foldable electronic device (e.g., the foldable electronic device (1800) of FIG. 17a) described below.

[0147] In the case of the foldable electronic device described below, it may be substantially identical to the electronic device (101) described above, except for a structure including housing parts that are rotatably coupled to each other. The descriptions described above may be substantially identical to the foldable electronic device described below.

[0148] FIG. 17a illustrates an example of a first state of an electronic device. FIG. 17b illustrates an example of a second state of an electronic device. FIG. 17c illustrates an example of a third state of an electronic device.

[0149] Referring to FIGS. 17a, 17b, and 17c, a foldable electronic device (1800) may include a foldable housing (1801), a flexible display (1840), a first hinge assembly (1850), a second hinge assembly (1860), and a display (1870). The foldable housing (1801) may include a first housing part (1810), a second housing part (1820), and a third housing part (1830).

[0150] The first housing part (1810) can be rotatably coupled to the second housing part (1820) by the first hinge assembly (1850). The second housing part (1820) and the first housing part (1810) can be rotated about the first hinge assembly (1850). While the first housing part (1810) is rotated about the first hinge assembly (1850), the second housing part (1820) can be rotated about the first hinge assembly (1850). For example, when the second housing part (1820) and the first housing part (1810) are rotated about the first hinge assembly (1850), the angular displacement of the second housing part (1820) may be substantially the same as the angular displacement of the first housing part (1810).

[0151] The third housing part (1830) may be rotatably coupled to the second housing part (1820) by the second hinge assembly (1860). The second housing part (1820) and the third housing part (1830) may be rotated about the second hinge assembly (1860). While the second housing part (1820) is rotated about the second hinge assembly (1860), the third housing part (1830) may be rotated about the second hinge assembly (1860). For example, when the second housing part (1820) and the third housing part (1830) are rotated about the second hinge assembly (1860), the angular displacement (or angular change) of the second housing part (1820) may be substantially the same as the angular displacement of the third housing part (1830).

[0152] The first hinge assembly (1850) and the second hinge assembly (1860) can change the state of the electronic device. The first hinge assembly (1850) and the second hinge assembly (1860) can provide (or enable) a first state (1800a) of the foldable electronic device (1800) (or a first state (1800a) of the foldable housing (1801). The first state (1800a) of the foldable electronic device (1800) (or a first state (1800a)) of the foldable housing (1801) can be described as an unfolded state (or unfolded state) of the foldable electronic device (1800) (or foldable housing (1801)). In the first state (1800a), the front of the first housing part (1810), the front of the second housing part (1820), and the front of the third housing part (1830) may define the front of the foldable electronic device (1800). In the first state (1800a), the front of the first housing part (1810), the front of the second housing part (1820), and the front of the third housing part (1830) may face the same direction. In the first state (1800a), the foldable electronic device (1800) may provide the user with a large display area of ​​the flexible display (1840).

[0153] The first hinge assembly (1850) and the second hinge assembly (1860) can provide a second state (1800b) of the foldable electronic device (1800). The second state (1800b) of the foldable electronic device (1800) can be described as a state in which the foldable electronic device (1800) is partially folded and partially unfolded (or a single folding state or a half folding state). For example, within the second state (1800b), the front of the second housing part (1820) and the front of the third housing part (1830) may face in the same direction, and the front of the first housing part (1810) and the front of the second housing part (1820) may face in opposite directions. For example, in the second state (1800b), the first housing part (1810) and the second housing part (1820) may be folded, and the second housing part (1820) and the third housing part (1830) may be unfolded. In the second state (1800b), the foldable electronic device (1800) may provide visual information through a part of the flexible display (1840) (e.g., a third display area (1840c)).

[0154] A foldable electronic device (1800) can change from a first state (1800a) to a third state (1800c) through a second state (1800b). The foldable electronic device (1800) can change from a first state (1800a), which is an unfolded state, to a second state (1800b), which is a partially unfolded state. For example, the foldable electronic device (1800) can change from a first state (1800a), in which the first housing part (1810), the second housing part (1820), and the third housing part (1830) face the same direction, to a second state (1800b), in which the front of the first housing part (1810) faces the front of the second housing part (1820). The foldable electronic device (1800) can change from a second state (1800b), which is partially unfolded, to a third state (1800c), which is folded. For example, when changing from the second state (1800b) to the third state (1800c), the folded first housing part (1810) and the second housing part (1820) can be placed on the third housing part (1830).

[0155] The first hinge assembly (1850) and the second hinge assembly (1860) can provide a third state (1800c) of the foldable electronic device (1800) (or a third state (1800c) of the foldable housing (1801). The third state (1800c) of the foldable electronic device (1800) (or a third state (1800c) of the foldable housing (1801)) can be described as a folded state (or a folded state or a multi-folding state) of the foldable electronic device (1800) (or the foldable housing (1801)). In the third state (1800c), the front of the first housing part (1810) and the front of the second housing part (1820) may face in opposite directions, and the front of the second housing part (1820) and the front of the third housing part (1830) may face in opposite directions. In the third state (1800c), the front of the first housing part (1810) and the front of the third housing part (1830) may face each other in the same direction. For example, in the third state (1800c), the front of the second housing part (1820) may face the front of the first housing part (1810), and the front of the third housing part (1830) may face the rear of the first housing part (1810). In the third state (1800c), the rear of the second housing part (1820) may be exposed to the outside. A display (1870) may be placed on the rear of the second housing part (1820). In the third state (1800c), the rear of the third housing part (1830) may be exposed to the outside. A camera (1875) may be placed on the rear of the third housing part (1830). In the third state (1800c), the foldable electronic device (1800) can be folded to improve portability and can provide visual information through a display (1870) positioned on the rear of the second housing part (1820).

[0156] The foldable electronic device (1800) may further include a key button (1839). The key button (1839) may be exposed from a structure (e.g., an opening) formed on the side of the third housing part (1830) and may partially protrude outside the foldable electronic device (1800). The key button (1839) may provide physical input to a processing circuit inside the foldable electronic device (1800) by pressure transmitted from the outside. The key button (1839) may not be included in the foldable electronic device (1800) and may be implemented in other forms, such as a soft key displayed on a flexible display (1840) or a display (1870).

[0157] The key button (1839) may be positioned on the side of the third housing part (1830) so as to be exposed to the outside in the third state (1800c). As the key button (1839) is positioned on the side of the third housing part (1830), it may be positioned in the direction in which the side of the third housing part (1830) faces. Even if the position of the key button (1839) positioned on the side of the third housing part (1830) is changed to the first state (1800a) by a user looking at the display (1870) in the third state (1800c), the position of the key button (1839) positioned on the side of the third housing part (1830) may not be moved. For example, referring to FIG. 17a, in the first state (1800a), when the flexible display (1840) is viewed from above, the key button (1839) may be positioned on the right side. Referring to FIG. 17c, in the third state (1800c), when viewing the display (1870) from above, the key button (1839) may be positioned on the right.

[0158] A flexible display (1840) may define the appearance of a foldable electronic device (1800) at least partially. The flexible display (1840) may be partially disposed within a foldable housing (1801). The flexible display (1840) may define the front of the foldable electronic device (1800). The flexible display (1840) may include a first unbendable portion (1841), a second unbendable portion (1842), a third unbendable portion (1843), a first bendable portion (1844), and a second bendable portion (1845). The first unbendable portion (1841) of the flexible display (1840) may be disposed on the front of the first housing part (1810). A second unbendable portion (1842) of the flexible display (1840) may be placed on the front of the second housing part (1820). A third unbendable portion (1843) of the flexible display (1840) may be placed on the front of the third housing part (1830). A first bendable portion (1844) of the flexible display (1840) may be placed between the first unbendable portion (1841) and the third unbendable portion (1843) of the flexible display (1840). For example, the first bendable portion (1844) of the flexible display (1840) may be placed on a first hinge assembly (1850) connecting the first housing part (1810) and the second housing part (1820). A second bendable portion (1845) of the flexible display (1840) may be positioned between a second unbendable portion (1842) and a third unbendable portion (1843) of the flexible display (1840). For example, the second bendable portion (1845) of the flexible display (1840) may be positioned on a second hinge assembly (1860) connecting a second housing part (1820) and a third housing part (1830).

[0159] The first hinge assembly (1850) and the second hinge assembly (1860) may have the first unbendable portion (1841) of the flexible display (1840), the second unbendable portion (1842) of the flexible display (1840), and the third unbendable portion (1843) of the flexible display (1840) oriented substantially in the same direction. In the first state (1800a), the first bendable portion (1844) and the second bendable portion (1845) may be positioned in substantially the same horizontal plane as the first unbendable portion (1841), the second unbendable portion (1842), and the third unbendable portion (1843).

[0160] The first hinge assembly (1850) and the second hinge assembly (1860) can provide a second state (1800b) of the foldable electronic device (1800). In the second state (1800b), the first unbendable portion (1841) of the flexible display (1840) may face the second unbendable portion (1842) of the flexible display (1840), and the third unbendable portion (1843) of the flexible display (1840) may face the same direction as the second unbendable portion (1842) of the flexible display (1840). For example, the second unbendable portion (1842) and the third unbendable portion (1843) may be positioned substantially on the same horizontal plane.

[0161] In the second state (1800b), the first bendable portion (1844) of the flexible display (1840) is bent by the first hinge assembly (1850), so that the first bendable portion (1844) of the flexible display (1840) can be folded such that the first unbendable portion (1841) of the flexible display (1840) and the second unbendable portion (1842) of the flexible display (1840) face in different directions.

[0162] In the second state (1800b), the second bendable portion (1845) of the flexible display (1840) is maintained in an unfolded state by the second hinge assembly (1860), so that the second bendable portion (1845) of the flexible display (1840) can be unfolded such that the second unbendable portion (1842) of the flexible display (1840) and the third unbendable portion (1843) of the flexible display (1840) face each other in the same direction.

[0163] The first hinge assembly (1850) and the second hinge assembly (1860) can provide a third state (1800c) of the foldable electronic device (1800). In the third state (1800c), the second unbendable portion (1842) of the flexible display (1840) faces the first unbendable portion (1841) of the flexible display (1840), and the third unbendable portion (1843) of the flexible display (1840) may face the rear of the first housing part (1810).

[0164] In the third state (1800c), the first bendable portion (1844) of the flexible display (1840) is bent by the first hinge assembly (1850), so that the first bendable portion (1844) of the flexible display (1840) can be folded such that the first unbendable portion (1841) of the flexible display (1840) and the second unbendable portion (1842) of the flexible display (1840) face in different directions.

[0165] In the third state (1800c), the second bendable portion (1845) of the flexible display (1840) is bent by the second hinge assembly (1860), so that the second bendable portion (1845) of the flexible display (1840) can be folded such that the second unbendable portion (1842) of the flexible display (1840) and the third unbendable portion (1843) of the flexible display (1840) face in different directions. The second bendable portion (1845) may further include a first deformation portion (1845a), a second deformation portion (1845b), and a flat portion (1845c). The first deformation part (1845a) may be positioned between the flat part (1845c) and the second unbendable part (1842), and the second deformation part (1845b) may be positioned between the flat part (1845c) and the third unbendable part (1843). The flat part (1845c) may be positioned between the first deformation part (1845a) and the second deformation part (1845b). The flat part (1845c) may be supported by a support plate (e.g., the support plate (1964) of FIG. 18a) that is distinct from the hinge plates of the second hinge assembly (1860) (e.g., the third hinge plate (1962) and the fourth hinge plate (1963) of FIG. 18a). Regardless of the state of the foldable electronic device (1800), the flat part (1845c) may remain flat. The first deformation part (1845a) and the second deformation part (1845b) are unfolded in the first state (1800a) and the second state (1800b), and in the third state (1800c), the first deformation part (1845a) and the second deformation part (1845b) can be bent so that the second unbendable part (1842) and the third unbendable part (1843) face in different directions. In the third state (1800c), the first housing part (1810) can be placed between the second housing part (1820) and the third housing part (1830).In the third state (1800c), the second bendable portion (1845) of the flexible display (1840) placed on the second hinge assembly (1860) may partially face the side (1810c) of the first housing part (1810).

[0166] The display area of ​​the flexible display (1840) may include a first display area (1840a), a second display area (1840b), and a third display area (1840c). The display area represents an area capable of providing visual information from the flexible display (1840). In the first state (1800a), the entire display area of ​​the flexible display (1840) may be visible from the front of the foldable housing (1801). For example, in the first state (1800a), the first display area (1840a), the second display area (1840b), and the third display area (1840c) of the flexible display (1840) may be visually exposed. The foldable electronic device (1800) can provide the user with a large display area including a first display area (1840a), a second display area (1840b), and a third display area (1840c).

[0167] In the second state (1800b), the display area of ​​the flexible display (1840) may be partially visible from the front of the third housing part (1830). For example, the third display area (1840c) may be visually exposed, while the first display area (1840a) and the second display area (1840b) may not be visually exposed.

[0168] In the third state (1800c), the display area of ​​the flexible display (1840) may not be visible. For example, in the third state (1800c), the first display area (1840a), the second display area (1840b), and the third display area (1840c) of the flexible display (1840) may not be visually exposed.

[0169] In a non-limiting example, when the flexible display (1840) is used to display a screen within a first state (1800a) of the foldable electronic device (1800), the first display area (1840a), the second display area (1840b), and the third display area (1840c) of the flexible display (1840) may be activated. In a non-limiting example, within the third state (1800c), the first display area (1840a), the second display area (1840b), and the third display area (1840c) of the flexible display (1840) may be deactivated. In a non-limiting example, within a second state (1800b) of the foldable electronic device (1800), when the flexible display (1840) is used to display a screen, the third display area (1840c) may be activated, and the first display area (1840a) and the second display area (1840b) of the flexible display (1840) may be deactivated.

[0170] In a non-limiting example, when the flexible display (1840) is used to display a screen within a first state (1800a) of the foldable electronic device (1800), the first display area (1840a), the second display area (1840b), and the third display area (1840c) of the flexible display (1840) may display visual information. In a non-limiting example, within the third state (1800c), the first display area (1840a), the second display area (1840b), and the third display area (1840c) of the flexible display (1840) may provide a black image. In a non-limiting example, within a second state (1800b) of the foldable electronic device (1800), when the flexible display (1840) is used to display a screen, the third display area (1840c) may provide visual information, and the first display area (1840a) and the second display area (1840b) of the flexible display (1840) may provide a black image.

[0171] FIG. 18a is a top view of an electronic device with the flexible display removed. FIG. 18b is a rear view of an electronic device with the rear cover and display removed.

[0172] Referring to FIGS. 18a and 18b, the foldable electronic device (1800) may include a first hinge assembly (1850) and a second hinge assembly (1860). The first width (w1) of the first hinge assembly (1850) may be narrower than the second width (w2) of the second hinge assembly (1860). The difference between the first width (w1) of the first hinge assembly (1850) and the second width (w2) of the second hinge assembly (1860) may be equal to or greater than the thickness of the first housing part (1810). For example, the second hinge assembly (1860) may have a second width (w2) wider than the first width (w1) so that, according to the third state (1800c), the first housing part (1810) is positioned between the second housing part (1820) and the third housing part (1830). The first hinge assembly (1850) may be referred to as a narrow hinge structure in that it has a narrower width than the second hinge assembly (1860). The second hinge assembly (1860) may be referred to as a wide hinge structure in that it has a wider width than the first hinge assembly (1850).

[0173] The first hinge assembly (1850) may include a first set of gears (1951), a first hinge plate (1952), and a second hinge plate (1953). The first hinge plate (1952) may be coupled to a first bracket (1811) of a first housing part (1810). The second hinge plate (1954) may be coupled to a second bracket (1821) of a second housing part (1820). The gears (g11, g12, g13, g14) included in the first set of gears (1951) may be configured to rotate the first hinge plate (1952) and the second hinge plate (1954). For example, the gears (g11, g12, g13, g14) included in the first set of gears (1951) can rotate the second hinge plate (1952) (or the second housing part (1820)) in conjunction with the rotation of the first hinge plate (1953) (or the first housing part (1810)). After the first hinge plate (1952) (or the first housing part (1810)) is rotated, the gears (g11, g12, g13, g14) included in the first set of gears (1951) can be rotated according to the rotation of the first hinge plate (1952) (or the first housing part (1810)). The second hinge plate (1953) (or the second housing part (1820)) may be rotated in conjunction with the rotation of the first hinge plate (1952) according to the rotation of the gears included in the first set of gears (1951). The gears (g11, g12, g13, g14) included in the first set of gears (1951) may include a first gear (g11), a second gear (g12), a third gear (g13), and a fourth gear (g14). The first gear (g11) may be positioned adjacent to the first hinge plate (1952), and the fourth gear (g14) may be positioned adjacent to the second hinge plate (1953). The second gear (g12) and the third gear (g13) may be positioned between the first gear (g11) and the fourth gear (g14).The first gear (g11), the second gear (g12), the third gear (g13), and the fourth gear (g14) can be engaged sequentially. Depending on the first rotational direction (e.g., clockwise) of the first gear (g11), the second gear (g12) engaged with the first gear (g11) can be rotated in a second rotational direction (e.g., counterclockwise) opposite to the first rotational direction. Depending on the second rotational direction of the second gear (g12), the third gear (g13) engaged with the second gear (g12) can be rotated in the first rotational direction. Depending on the first rotational direction of the third gear (g13), the fourth gear (g14) can be rotated in the second rotational direction. As the first gear (g11) and the fourth gear (g14) rotate in different directions, the first housing part (1810) connected to the first hinge plate (1952) and the second housing part (1820) connected to the second hinge plate (1953) can be folded or unfolded.

[0174] The second hinge assembly (1860) may include a second set of gears (1961), a third hinge plate (1962), a fourth hinge plate (1963), and a support plate (1964). The third hinge plate (1962) may be coupled to a second bracket (1821) of the second housing part (1820). The fourth hinge plate (1963) may be coupled to a third bracket (1831) of the third housing part (1830). The gears (g21, g22, g23, g24, g25, g26) included in the second set of gears (1961) may be configured to rotate the third hinge plate (1962) and the fourth hinge plate (1963). For example, the gears (g21, g22, g23, g24, g25, g26) included in the second set of gears (1961) can rotate the fourth hinge plate (1963) (or the third housing part (1830)) in conjunction with the rotation of the third hinge plate (1962) (or the second housing part (1820)). After the third hinge plate (1962) (or the second housing part (1820)) is rotated, the gears (g21, g22, g23, g24, g25, g26) included in the second set of gears (1961) can be rotated according to the rotation of the third hinge plate (1962) (or the second housing part (1820)). The fourth hinge plate (1963) (or the third housing part (1830)) can be rotated in conjunction with the rotation of the third hinge plate (1962) according to the rotation of the gears (g21, g22, g23, g24, g25, g26) included in the second set of gears (1961).

[0175] The gears (g21, g22, g23, g24, g25, g26) included in the second set of gears (1961) may include a first gear (g21), a second gear (g22), a third gear (g23), a fourth gear (g24), a fifth gear (g25), and a sixth gear (g26). The first gear (g21) may be positioned adjacent to the third hinge plate (1962), and the sixth gear (g26) may be positioned adjacent to the fourth hinge plate (1963). The second gear (g22), the third gear (g23), the fourth gear (g24), and the fifth gear (g25) may be positioned between the first gear (g21) and the sixth gear (g26). The first gear (g21), second gear (g22), third gear (g23), fourth gear (g24), fifth gear (g25), and sixth gear (g26) can be engaged sequentially. Depending on the first rotational direction (e.g., clockwise) of the first gear (g21), the second gear (g22) engaged with the first gear (g21) can be rotated in a second rotational direction (e.g., counterclockwise) opposite to the first rotational direction. Depending on the second rotational direction of the second gear (g22), the third gear (g23) engaged with the second gear (g22) can be rotated in the first rotational direction. Depending on the first rotational direction of the third gear (g23), the fourth gear (g24) can be rotated in the second rotational direction. Depending on the rotation of the fourth gear (g24) in the second rotational direction, the fifth gear (g25) engaged with the fourth gear (g24) can be rotated in the first rotational direction. Depending on the rotation of the fifth gear (g25) in the first rotational direction, the sixth gear (g26) engaged with the fifth gear (g25) can be rotated in the second rotational direction. As the first gear (g21) and the sixth gear (g26) rotate in different directions, the second housing part (1820) connected to the third hinge plate (1962) and the third housing part (1830) connected to the fourth hinge plate (1963) can be folded or unfolded.

[0176] The first hinge assembly (1850) and the second hinge assembly (1860) may further include a spiral structure. The spiral structure may include a spiral groove formed in each hinge plate or a rotating member connected to the hinge plate and a moving member sliding along the spiral groove. The hinge plates connected to the hinge assembly may be configured to rotate by substantially the same angular displacement through the spiral structure.

[0177] The foldable electronic device (1800) may include a first printed circuit board (1971), a second printed circuit board (1972), and a third printed circuit board (1973).

[0178] A first printed circuit board (1971) may be placed on a first bracket (1811) of a first housing part (1810). Hardware components within the first housing part (1810) may be placed on the first printed circuit board (1971). A second printed circuit board (1972) may be placed on a second bracket (1821) of a second housing part (1820). A third printed circuit board (1973) may be placed on a third bracket (1831) of a third housing part (1830). Hardware components within the third housing part (1830) may be placed on the third printed circuit board (1973).

[0179] Hardware components placed on the first printed circuit board (1971) may support or operate independently of hardware components placed on the second printed circuit board (1972) and / or hardware components placed on the third printed circuit board (1973).

[0180] Hardware components placed on the second printed circuit board (1972) may support or operate independently of hardware components placed on the first printed circuit board (1971) or the third printed circuit board (1973). Hardware components placed on the second printed circuit board (1972) may include a speaker, a front camera, and / or a display driving circuit.

[0181] Hardware components disposed on the third printed circuit board (1973) may include at least one processor including a processing circuit (e.g., application processor (AP), communication processor (CP)), memory including one or more storage media, communication circuits, and a rear camera (1875). The rear camera (1875) may be exposed through a structure (e.g., an opening) on ​​the rear of the third housing part (1830).

[0182] The foldable electronic device (1800) may further include a sub-printed circuit board (1975) and flexible printed circuit boards (1980, 1990). The sub-printed circuit board (1975) may be disposed in at least a portion of the first housing part (1810), the second housing part (1820), and the third housing part (1830). The flexible printed circuit boards (1980, 1990) may include a first flexible printed circuit board (1980) and a second flexible printed circuit board (1990). The first flexible printed circuit board (1980) may electrically connect the printed circuit boards disposed in each of the housing parts (1810, 1820, 1830). The second flexible printed circuit board (1990) can connect the printed circuit board (1975) and the sub-printed circuit board (1975) within the housing part in which the sub-printed circuit board (1975) is placed.

[0183] Components within the foldable electronic device (1800) may be connected to at least one processor within a third printed circuit board (1973) via flexible printed circuit boards (1980, 1990). For example, a signal received from an antenna placed in the third housing part (1830) may be transmitted to the third printed circuit board (1973) where at least one processor (e.g., AP or CP) is placed via a signal path (a) provided by the first flexible printed circuit board (1980). A driving circuit for a flexible display (1840) placed in the first housing part (1810) may be connected to the third printed circuit board (1973) where at least one processor (e.g., AP) is placed via a sub-printed circuit board (1975) and a signal path (b) provided by the first flexible printed circuit board (1980). A driving circuit for a display (1870) connected to a sub-printed circuit board (1975) placed in a second housing part (1820) can be electrically connected to a third printed circuit board (1973) on which at least one processor (e.g., AP) is placed, through a signal path (c) provided by the sub-printed circuit board (1975), the first flexible printed circuit board (1980), and the second flexible printed circuit board (1990).

[0184] The foldable electronic device (1800) may further include batteries. Each of the batteries may be attached to brackets (1811, 1821, 1831) included in the housing parts (1810, 1820, 1830). The brackets (1811, 1821, 1831) may support rechargeable batteries.

[0185] The arrangement of hardware components is exemplary, and unlike the above, the rear camera (1875) and the second printed circuit board (1972) may be placed in the third housing part (1830), and the third printed circuit board (1973) may be placed in the second housing part (1820).

[0186] The first housing part (1810) and the third housing part (1830) are shown to rotate in opposite directions relative to the second housing part (1820), but are not limited thereto. For example, while changing from the first state (1800a) to the third state (1800c), the first housing part (1810) may rotate counterclockwise relative to the second housing part (1820), and the third housing part (1830) may rotate counterclockwise relative to the second housing part (1820). As the first housing part (1810) and the third housing part (1830) rotate in the same direction, a portion of the display area of ​​the flexible display (1840) in the second state may be visually exposed.

[0187] FIGS. 19, FIGS. 20, and FIGS. 21 illustrate examples of foldable electronic devices.

[0188] According to one embodiment, a foldable electronic device (1800) may include a first housing part (1810), a second housing part (1820), and a third housing part (1830). Each of the first housing part (1810), the second housing part (1820), and the third housing part (1830) may include a frame and a bracket. For example, the first housing part (1810) may include a first frame (2010) and a first bracket (1811) that define at least a portion of the side of the first housing part (1810). The first frame (2010) may include a first conductive portion (2011), a second conductive portion (2012), and a third conductive portion (2013). The first conductive portion (2011) may be disposed between the second conductive portion (2012) and the third conductive portion (2013). For example, the second housing part (1820) may include a second frame (2030) and a second bracket (1821) defining at least a portion of the side of the second housing part (1820). The second frame (2030) may include a fourth conductive portion (2031), a fifth conductive portion (2032), and a sixth conductive portion (2033). The fourth conductive portion (2031) may be positioned between the fifth conductive portion (2032) and the sixth conductive portion (2033). For example, the third housing part (1830) may include a third frame (2050) and a third bracket (1831) defining at least a portion of the side of the third housing part (1830). The third frame (2050) may include a seventh conductive portion (2051), an eighth conductive portion (2052), and a ninth conductive portion (2053). The seventh conductive portion (2051) may be positioned between the eighth conductive portion (2052) and the ninth conductive portion (2053).

[0189] According to one embodiment, the aforementioned antenna may be substantially applied to a foldable electronic device (1800). Referring to FIG. 19, the first conductive portion (2011) may be configured to function as a radiator of the antenna. For example, the first conductive portion (2011) may include a first feed point (2011a) and a second feed point (2011b). The first phase of a signal provided to the first feed point (2011a) from a wireless communication circuit (e.g., wireless communication circuit (192) of FIG. 2) through a distribution circuit (e.g., distribution circuit (220) of FIG. 2) may be different from the second phase of a signal provided to the second feed point (2011b) from the wireless communication circuit (192) through the distribution circuit (220). Due to the difference between the first phase and the second phase, the directivity of the dipole folded antenna including the first conductive portion (2011) may be reduced. As the directivity is reduced, the coverage of the dipole folded antenna may be improved. For example, the structure shown in FIG. 3 may be applied to the first conductive portion (2011).

[0190] The structure illustrated in FIG. 3 can be applied substantially the same to the second housing part (1820) and / or the third housing part (1830). For example, the fourth conductive part (2031) and / or the seventh conductive part (2051) can form an antenna.

[0191] Referring to FIG. 20, the first conductive portion (2011) and the second conductive portion (2012) may be configured to function together as radiators of the antenna. For example, the first conductive portion (2011) may include a first feed point (2011a), and the second conductive portion (2012) may include a second feed point (2011b). The first phase of the signal provided to the first feed point (2011a) from the wireless communication circuit (e.g., the wireless communication circuit (192) of FIG. 2) through the distribution circuit (e.g., the distribution circuit (220) of FIG. 2) may be different from the second phase of the signal provided to the third feed point (2012a) from the wireless communication circuit (192) through the distribution circuit (220). Due to the difference between the first phase and the second phase, the directivity of the dipole folded antenna including the first conductive portion (2011) and the second conductive portion (2012) may be reduced. As the directivity is reduced, the coverage of the dipole folded antenna may be improved. For example, the structure shown in FIG. 16 may be applied to the first conductive portion (2011) and the second conductive portion (2012).

[0192] The structure illustrated in FIG. 16 can be substantially applied to the second housing part (1820) and / or the third housing part (1830). For example, the fourth conductive part (2031) and the fifth conductive part (2032) can together form a dipole antenna, or the seventh conductive part (2051) and the eighth conductive part (2052) can together form an antenna.

[0193] Referring to FIG. 21, the foldable electronic device (1800) may include a plurality of antennas. The plurality of antennas may be formed in different housing parts. For example, a first conductive portion (2011) may be configured to function as a radiator of the antenna. An antenna including the first conductive portion (2011) may be formed as signals having different phases are fed to a first feed point (2011a) of the first conductive portion (2011) and a second feed point (2011b) of the first conductive portion (2011). For example, a fourth conductive portion (2031) and a fifth conductive portion (2032) may be configured to function together as a radiator of the antenna. As signals having different phases are fed to the fourth feed point (2031a) of the fourth conductive part (2031) and the fifth feed point (2032a) of the fifth conductive part (2032), an antenna including the fourth conductive part (2031) and the fifth conductive part (2032) can be formed. In addition, the foldable electronic device (1800) may include an antenna formed through various combinations of conductive parts.

[0194] FIG. 22 illustrates an electronic device comprising one radiator. FIG. 23 illustrates an electronic device comprising two radiators.

[0195] Referring to FIG. 22, as described above, the first conductive portion (310) can be used as an antenna radiator. For example, the first conductive portion (310) may include a first feed point (311). When the first feed point (311) of the first conductive portion (310) is fed, current may flow along the conductive portion (310). The current forms an electromagnetic wave around the conductive portion (310), and RF (radio frequency) signals may be radiated or received through the electromagnetic wave. According to one embodiment, a phase control unit (230) (e.g., a phase shifter) may be electrically connected around the ground point of the conductive portion (310).

[0196] Referring to FIG. 23, as described above, the first conductive portion (310) and the second conductive portion (320) can be used together as an antenna radiator. For example, the second conductive portion (320) may include a second feed point (321). The first conductive portion (310) may be electrically connected to a phase control unit (230) (e.g., a phase shifter).

[0197] FIGS. 24 and 25 illustrate a circuit related to a radiator including two or more feed points.

[0198] Referring to FIG. 24, the first conductive portion (310) may include three feed points. For example, the first conductive portion (310) may include a first feed point (2401), a second feed point (2402), and a third feed point (2403). The electronic device (101) may include a first feed section (2410), a second feed section (2420) for a signal on a first frequency band (e.g., B48 band), and a third feed section (2430) for a signal on a second frequency band (e.g., low band). For example, the first feed point (2401) of the first conductive portion (310) may be electrically connected to the first feed section (2410) through a first switch circuit (2440). For example, the second power supply point (2402) of the first conductive part (310) may be electrically connected to the second power supply unit (2420) and the third power supply unit (2430) through the second switch circuit (2450). For example, the third power supply point (2403) of the conductive part may be electrically connected to the first power supply unit (2410) through the third switch circuit (2460). A first phase shifter (2471) may be placed between the first power supply point (2401) and the first power supply unit (2410), and a second phase shifter (2472) may be placed between the third power supply point (2403) and the first power supply unit (2410).

[0199] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (101) transmits and / or receives a signal on a first frequency band, the first switch circuit (2440) and the third switch circuit (2460) may be electrically connected to the first feed section (2410). In this case, the second switch circuit (2450) may be configured to electrically isolate the second feed section (2420) and the second feed point (2402) of the first conductive part (310) in order to reduce interference. The first feed point (2401) and the third feed point (2403) may be fed by the first feed section (2410) (e.g., dual feed).

[0200] Referring to FIG. 25, the first conductive portion (310) may include a first feed point (2501) and a second feed point (2502). The electronic device (101) may include a first feed section (2510) for a signal on a first frequency band (e.g., B48 band) and a second feed section (2520) for a signal on a second frequency band (e.g., N77 or N78 band). For example, the first feed point (2501) of the first conductive portion (310) may be electrically connected to the first feed section (2510) through a first switch circuit (2530). For example, the second feed point (2502) of the first conductive portion (310) may be electrically connected to the second feed section (2520) through a second switch circuit (2540). A first phase shifter (2551) may be placed between the first power supply point (2501) and the first power supply section (2510), and a second phase shifter (2552) may be placed between the second power supply point (2502) and the first power supply section (2510).

[0201] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (101) transmits and / or receives a signal on a first frequency band, the first switch circuit (2530) can electrically connect the first power supply section (2510) and the first power supply point (2501) of the first conductive section (310), and the second switch circuit (2540) can electrically connect the second power supply section (2520) and the second power supply point (2502) of the first conductive section (310). In this case, the first switch circuit (2530) and the second switch circuit (2540) can be configured to electrically separate the first conductive section (310) from the second power supply section (2520).

[0202] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (101) transmits and / or receives a signal on a second frequency band, the second switch circuit (2540) can electrically connect the second power supply point (2502) and the second power supply section (2520), and can electrically separate the second power supply point (2502) and the first power supply section (2510). In this case, the first switch circuit (2530) can reduce signal interference by electrically separating the first power supply point (2501) and the first power supply section (2510).

[0203] The technical problems to be solved in this disclosure are not limited to those mentioned above, and other technical problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which this disclosure belongs.

[0204] An electronic device (101, 1800) is disclosed. The electronic device (101, 1800) may include a wireless communication circuit (192). The electronic device (101, 1800) may include a dividing circuitry (220) connected to the wireless communication circuitry (192). The electronic device (101, 1800) may include a frame (301) defining at least a portion of the lateral side of the electronic device (101, 1800). The frame (301) may include a conductive portion (310) having a first feed point (311) and a second feed point (312) electrically connected to the dividing circuitry (220). The electronic device (101, 1800) may include a phase control unit (231) connecting the distribution circuit (220) and the first feed point (311) of the conductive part (310). The conductive part (310) may include a first part (310a) between the first feed point (311) and the second feed point (312), a second part (310b) between the first feed point (311) and one end (313) of the conductive part (310) which is distinguished or insulated from the ground of the electronic device (101, 1800), and a third part (310c) between the second feed point (312) and the other end (314) of the conductive part (310) which is distinguished or insulated from the ground of the electronic device (101, 1800). The conductive portion (310) may be configured to function as a radiator of an antenna (folded dipole antenna) through the first portion (310a) of the conductive portion (310), the second portion (310b) of the conductive portion (310), and the third portion (310c) of the conductive portion (310).

[0205] For example, the phase adjustment unit (231) may be configured to cause a phase difference between a signal provided from the distribution circuit (220) to the first feed point (311) of the conductive part (310) and a signal provided from the distribution circuit (220) to the second feed point (312) of the conductive part (310).

[0206] For example, the phase difference of the above signals can be based on the size of the ground.

[0207] For example, the phase control unit (231) may form a first transmission line (1511) between the distribution circuit (220) and the first feed point (311) of the conductive part (310). The first length of the first transmission line (1511) may be different from the second length of the second transmission line (1512) between the distribution circuit (220) and the second feed point (312) of the conductive part (310) so as to cause a phase difference between the signal provided from the distribution circuit (220) to the first feed point (311) of the conductive part (310) and the signal provided from the distribution circuit (220) to the second feed point (312) of the conductive part (310).

[0208] For example, the phase adjustment unit (231) may include a passive element that is electrically connected to a transmission line (1401) between the distribution circuit (220) and the first feed point (311) of the conductive part (310) and includes at least one of a capacitor or an inductor. The phase adjustment unit (231) may be configured to cause a phase difference between a signal provided from the distribution circuit (220) to the first feed point (311) of the conductive part and a signal provided from the distribution circuit (220) to the second feed point (312) of the conductive part (310) through the passive element.

[0209] For example, the electronic device (101, 1800) may further include another phase control unit (232) connecting the distribution circuit (220) and the second feed point (312) of the conductive part (310).

[0210] For example, the electronic device (101, 1800) may further include a printed circuit board (240) on which the wireless communication circuit (192) and the phase control unit (231) are arranged. The electronic device (101, 1800) may further include a first antenna contact (251) that electrically connects the printed circuit board (240) and the first feed point (311) of the conductive part (310). The electronic device (101, 1800) may further include a second antenna contact (252) that electrically connects the printed circuit board (240) and the second feed point (312) of the conductive part (310).

[0211] For example, the electronic device (101, 1800) may be laterally surrounded by the frame (301) and may further include a bracket (340) corresponding to the ground of the electronic device (101, 1800).

[0212] For example, the conductive portion (310) may correspond to the first conductive portion (310). The frame (301) may further include a second conductive portion (320) spaced apart from the first end (313) of the first conductive portion (310), and a third conductive portion (330) spaced apart from the other end (314) of the first conductive portion (310). The first conductive portion (310) may be located between the second conductive portion (320) and the third conductive portion (330).

[0213] For example, the frame (301) may include a first non-conductive portion (351) disposed between the first conductive portion (310) and the second conductive portion (320), and a second non-conductive portion (352) disposed between the first conductive portion (310) and the third conductive portion (330).

[0214] For example, the distance between the first feed point (311) of the conductive part (310) and the second feed point (312) of the conductive part (310) may correspond to about half of the wavelength corresponding to the operating frequency of the antenna.

[0215] For example, the electronic device (101, 1800) may include a tablet device.

[0216] For example, the electronic device (101, 1800) may further include a foldable housing comprising a first housing part (1810), a second housing part (1820), and a third housing part (1830). The ground of the electronic device (101, 1800) may be provided by a first bracket (1811) disposed within the first housing part (1810), a second bracket (1821) disposed within the second housing part (1820), and a third bracket (1831) disposed within the third housing part (1830). The frame (301) may form at least one side of the first housing part (1810), the second housing part (1820), and the third housing part (1830).

[0217] For example, the frequency of the RF (radio frequency) signal transmitted or received through the antenna may be 3550 MHz to 3700 MHz.

[0218] For example, the conductive portion (310) may be exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101, 1800).

[0219] An electronic device (101, 1800) is disclosed. The electronic device (101, 1800) may include a wireless communication circuit (192). The electronic device (101, 1800) may include a distribution circuit (220) connected to the wireless communication circuit (192). The electronic device (101, 1800) may include a frame (301) defining the side of the electronic device (101, 1800). The frame (301) may include a first conductive portion (310) comprising a first feed point (311) electrically connected to the distribution circuit (220) and a first flange portion (1711) spaced apart from the first feed point (311) of the first conductive portion (310) and electrically connected to the ground of the electronic device (101, 1800). The above frame (301) may include a second conductive part (320) comprising a second power supply point (321) that is spaced apart from the first conductive part (310) and electrically connected to the distribution circuit (220), and a second flange part (1712) that is spaced apart from the second power supply point (321) of the second conductive part (320) and electrically connected to the ground of the electronic device (101, 1800). The electronic device (101, 1800) may include a phase control part (231) that connects the distribution circuit (220) and the first power supply point (311) of the first conductive part (310). The first conductive part (310) and the second conductive part (320) can be configured to function as radiators of an antenna through a portion (1701) of the first conductive part (310) between the first feed point (311) of the first conductive part (310) and the first flange portion (1711) of the first conductive part (310), and a portion (1702) of the second conductive part (320) between the second feed point (321) of the second conductive part (320) and the second flange portion (1712) of the second conductive part (320).

[0220] For example, the electronic device (101, 1800) may further include another phase control unit (232) connecting the distribution circuit (220) and the second feed point (321) of the second conductive part (320).

[0221] For example, the frame (301) may further include a non-conductive portion (351) disposed between the first conductive portion (310) and the second conductive portion (320).

[0222] For example, the phase adjustment unit (231) may be configured to cause a phase difference between a first signal provided from the distribution circuit (220) to the first feed point (311) of the first conductive part (310) and a second signal provided from the distribution circuit (220) to the second feed point (321) of the second conductive part (320).

[0223] For example, the distance between the first flange portion (1711) of the first conductive portion (310) and the second flange portion (1712) of the second conductive portion (320) may correspond to about half of the wavelength corresponding to the operating frequency of the antenna.

[0224] The effects obtainable from the present disclosure are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned effects will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which the present disclosure belongs.

[0225] The electronic devices according to the various embodiments disclosed in this document may be of various forms. The electronic devices may include, for example, portable communication devices (e.g., smartphones), computer devices, portable multimedia devices, portable medical devices, cameras, electronic devices, or consumer electronics. The electronic devices according to the embodiments of this document are not limited to the devices described above.

[0226] The various embodiments of this document and the terms used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, and should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutions of said embodiments. In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components. The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of said items unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise. In this document, phrases such as "A or B," "at least one of A and B," "at least one of A or B," "A, B or C," "at least one of A, B and C," and "at least one of A, B, or C" may each include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase, or all possible combinations thereof. Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used simply to distinguish said components from other said components and do not limit said components in any other aspect (e.g., importance or order). Where any (e.g., 1st) component is referred to as "coupled" or "connected" to another (e.g., 2nd) component, with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicationly," it means that said any component may be connected to said other component directly (e.g., via a wire), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0227] The term “module” as used in the various embodiments of this document may include a unit implemented in hardware, software, or firmware, and may be used interchangeably with terms such as logic, logic block, component, or circuit, for example. A module may be a component formed integrally, or a minimum unit of said component or a part thereof that performs one or more functions. For example, according to one embodiment, a module may be implemented in the form of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0228] Various embodiments of the present document may be implemented as software (e.g., program (140)) comprising one or more instructions stored in a storage medium (e.g., internal memory (136) or external memory (138)) readable by a machine (e.g., electronic device (101)). For example, a processor (120) of the machine (e.g., electronic device (101)) may call at least one of the one or more instructions stored from the storage medium and execute it. This enables the machine to operate to perform at least one function according to the at least one called instruction. The one or more instructions may include code generated by a compiler or code that can be executed by an interpreter. The storage medium readable by the machine may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, 'non-temporary' simply means that the storage medium is a tangible device and does not contain a signal (e.g., electromagnetic waves), and the term does not distinguish between cases where data is stored semi-permanently and cases where it is stored temporarily.

[0229] According to one embodiment, the method according to the various embodiments disclosed herein may be provided as included in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded between a seller and a buyer as a product. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a device-readable storage medium (e.g., compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM)), or distributed online (e.g., download or upload) through an application store (e.g., Play Store™) or directly between two user devices (e.g., smartphones). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product may be temporarily stored or temporarily created in a device-readable storage medium such as a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or a relay server's memory (130).

[0230] According to various embodiments, each component (e.g., module or program) of the components described above may include a singular or multiple entities, and some of the multiple entities may be separated and placed in other components. According to various embodiments, one or more of the components or operations of the aforementioned components may be omitted, or one or more other components or operations may be added. Generally or additionally, multiple components (e.g., module or program) may be integrated into a single component. In this case, the integrated component may perform one or more functions of each of the multiple components in the same or similar manner as those performed by the corresponding component among the multiple components prior to integration. According to various embodiments, operations performed by the module, program, or other components may be executed sequentially, in parallel, iteratively, or heuristically, or one or more of the operations may be executed in a different order, omitted, or one or more other operations may be added.

Claims

In electronic devices, Wireless communication circuit; A distribution circuit connected to the above wireless communication circuit; A frame defining at least a portion of the side of the electronic device, the frame comprising a conductive portion having a first feed point and a second feed point electrically connected to the distribution circuit; and It includes a phase adjustment unit connecting the distribution circuit and the first power supply point of the conductive part, and The above conductive part is, A first portion between the first feed point and the second feed point, A second portion between the first power supply point and one end of the conductive portion, distinguished from the ground of the electronic device, and It includes a third portion between the second feed point and the other end of the conductive portion, distinguished from the ground of the electronic device, and The above conductive part is, A conductive portion configured to function as a radiator of an antenna through the first portion, the second portion, and the third portion of the conductive portion. Electronic device. In paragraph 1, The above phase adjustment unit is, Configured to cause a phase difference between a signal provided from the distribution circuit to the first feed point of the conductive part and a signal provided from the distribution circuit to the second feed point of the conductive part. Electronic device. In paragraph 2, The phase difference of the above signals is, Based on the size of the above ground, Electronic device. In any one of paragraphs 1 through 3, The above phase adjustment unit is, A first transmission line is formed between the distribution circuit and the first feed point of the conductive part, and The first length of the first transmission line above is, A second length of a second transmission line between the distribution circuit and the second feed point of the conductive part, different from the second length of the second transmission line between the distribution circuit and the second feed point of the conductive part, so as to cause a phase difference between the signal provided from the distribution circuit to the first feed point of the conductive part and the signal provided from the distribution circuit to the second feed point of the conductive part. Electronic device. In any one of paragraphs 1 through 3, The above phase adjustment unit is, It includes a passive element electrically connected to a transmission line between the distribution circuit and the first feed point of the conductive part, and comprising at least one of a capacitor or an inductor, The above phase adjustment unit is, A passive element configured to cause a phase difference between a signal provided from the distribution circuit to the first feed point of the conductive portion and a signal provided from the distribution circuit to the second feed point of the conductive portion. Electronic device. In any one of paragraphs 1 through 5, A further comprising another phase adjustment unit connecting the distribution circuit and the second feed point of the conductive part, Electronic device. In any one of paragraphs 1 through 6, A printed circuit board on which the above wireless communication circuit and the above phase adjustment unit are arranged; A first antenna contact electrically connecting the first feed point of the printed circuit board and the conductive portion; and A second antenna contact further comprising electrically connecting the second feed point of the printed circuit board and the conductive portion, Electronic device. In any one of paragraphs 1 through 7, A bracket that is laterally wrapped by the above frame and further includes a bracket corresponding to the ground of the electronic device, Electronic device. In any one of paragraphs 1 through 8, The above conductive part is, It corresponds to the first conductive part, and The above frame is, A second conductive portion spaced apart from one end of the first conductive portion, and It further includes a third conductive portion spaced apart from the other end of the first conductive portion, and The above-mentioned first conductive part is, Located between the second conductive part and the third conductive part, Electronic device. In Paragraph 9, The above frame is, A first non-conductive portion disposed between the first conductive portion and the second conductive portion, and A second non-conductive portion disposed between the first conductive portion and the third conductive portion, Electronic device. In any one of paragraphs 1 through 10, The distance between the first power supply point of the conductive part and the second power supply point of the conductive part is, Corresponding to half the wavelength corresponding to the operating frequency of the above antenna, Electronic device. In any one of paragraphs 1 through 11, The above electronic device is, including tablet devices, Electronic device. In any one of paragraphs 1 through 12, A foldable housing further comprising a first housing part, a second housing part, and a third housing part, and The ground of the above electronic device is, Provided by a first bracket disposed within the first housing part, a second bracket disposed within the second housing part, and a third bracket disposed within the third housing part, and The above frame is, A portion forming at least one side of the first housing part, the second housing part, and the third housing part. Electronic device. In any one of paragraphs 1 through 13, The frequency of the RF (radio frequency) signal transmitted or received through the above antenna is, 3,550 MHz to 3,700 MHz, Electronic device. In any one of paragraphs 1 through 14, The above conductive part is, Exposed to the outside of the above electronic device, Electronic device.

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