Electronic equipment and antenna tuning method

Abstract

The invention provides an electronic device. The electronic device comprises an antenna, an electromagnetic energy detector and a controller. The electromagnetic energy detector is located near the radiator of the antenna. The controller can adjust the current distribution on the radiator through being coupled with the electromagnetic energy detector, so that the antenna still has good radiation characteristics in a state of being held by a user.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of wireless communication, and more particularly to electronic devices and methods for antenna tuning. Background Technology

[0002] With the rapid development of wireless communication technology, electronic devices used to be merely tools for sending and receiving text messages and making voice communication. Wireless internet access was extremely slow because data transmission relied on voice channels. Nowadays, in addition to making calls, sending text messages, and taking photos, electronic devices can also be used for online music streaming, watching online movies, and real-time video, covering a wide range of applications in people's lives, including communication, entertainment, and e-commerce. This has led to a gradual increase in the number of antennas required in electronic devices.

[0003] As the number of antennas in electronic devices increases, user contact with the devices (e.g., holding them) can affect the antenna's radiation characteristics in the contact area (e.g., resonant frequency shift). Currently, in this situation, the antenna's S-parameters are determined by comparing the reverse power measured by the coupler with the input power transmitted to the feed point to assess the antenna's state and thus tune it. However, S-parameters do not accurately reflect the antenna's radiation performance and may lead to misjudgments, resulting in inaccurate adjustments to the antenna's radiation characteristics. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides an electronic device including an antenna, an electromagnetic energy detector, and a controller. The electromagnetic energy detector is located near the radiator of the antenna. The controller, coupled with the electromagnetic energy detector, can control the current distribution on the radiator, thereby ensuring good radiation characteristics of the antenna even when held by a user.

[0005] In a first aspect, an electronic device is provided, comprising: a floor; a frame including a first position and a second position, the frame having an insulating gap at the first position or coupled to the floor, and the frame having an insulating gap at the second position or coupled to the floor; an antenna including: a radiator including a conductive portion of the frame between the first and second positions, at least a portion of the radiator being spaced apart from the floor; a first tuning circuit including a first connection point of the radiator, the first tuning circuit being coupled to the first connection point; a first electromagnetic energy detector being spaced apart from the radiator, the minimum distance between the first electromagnetic energy detector and the radiator being less than or equal to a first threshold; and a controller coupled to the first electromagnetic energy detector and coupled to the first tuning circuit.

[0006] According to an embodiment of this application, an electromagnetic energy detector is positioned close to the radiator (at a distance less than or equal to a first threshold). The electromagnetic energy detector can be used to detect the electric field in the vicinity of the detector. When the environment around the electronic device changes, the controller can determine the current distribution on the radiator through the electromagnetic energy detector, thereby adjusting the radiation characteristics of the antenna. Changes in the environment around the electronic device can be understood as a user holding the electronic device, the electronic device being inside a bag, or a conductor being near the electronic device. For the sake of brevity, this embodiment of the application only uses the example of a user holding the electronic device. When the user holds the electronic device, the area held overlaps at least partially with the radiator. The controller, based on the changes in the current distribution on the radiator (compared to when the user is not holding the electronic device), controls the first tuning circuit to adjust the current distribution of the antenna, so that the antenna has good radiation characteristics (e.g., radiation efficiency and system efficiency), and the electronic device still has good communication performance.

[0007] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the first electromagnetic energy detector transmits a first electrical signal to the controller, and the controller switches the element coupled to the first connection point in the first tuning circuit according to the first electrical signal.

[0008] According to an embodiment of this application, the controller switches the component coupled to the first connection point in the first tuning circuit based on the first electrical signal to adjust the current distribution on the radiator. The controller compares the first electrical signal with a standard value to determine the current intensity at the position on the radiator corresponding to the first electromagnetic energy detector, and then determines the current distribution on the radiator, thereby adjusting the current distribution on the radiator through the first tuning circuit.

[0009] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the electronic device further includes a printed circuit board (PCB), the PCB including a metal layer serving as the ground plane; wherein the first electromagnetic energy detector is located on the PCB, the first electromagnetic energy detector and the metal layer do not overlap in a first direction, the first direction being the thickness direction of the PCB.

[0010] According to the embodiments of this application, the electromagnetic energy detector can generate an electrical signal by electric field coupling in space. Since there is usually a strong current on the floor, when the electromagnetic energy detector overlaps with the floor in the first direction, the current on the floor will have a certain impact on the electromagnetic energy detector, so that the electrical signal generated by the electromagnetic energy detector cannot fully reflect the current distribution on the radiator.

[0011] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the radiator is used to generate a first resonance and a second resonance; based on the generation of the first resonance by the radiator, the first electromagnetic energy detector transmits a first electrical signal to the controller; based on the generation of the second resonance by the radiator, the first electromagnetic energy detector transmits a second electrical signal to the controller, wherein the first electrical signal and the second electrical signal are different.

[0012] According to embodiments of this application, the radiator can generate multiple resonances in different operating modes. The electromagnetic energy detector can generate different electrical signals in different operating modes, thereby enabling the controller to determine that the radiator is operating in different operating modes.

[0013] For example, when a user holds an electronic device, the area held by the hand at least partially overlaps with the radiator, which may have a significant impact on the first resonance (larger resonant point shift) and a smaller impact on the second resonance (smaller resonant point shift). When the first resonance is significantly affected, the current distribution on the radiator changes significantly, and the electrical signal generated by the electromagnetic energy detector before and after the user holds the device changes significantly. The controller can then adjust the first tuning circuit through the electrical signal transmitted by the electromagnetic energy detector, so that the current distribution on the radiator is approximately the same as the current distribution before the user holds the device, and the antenna still has good radiation characteristics when the user holds it.

[0014] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the frame has a first insulating gap at the first position, and the distance between the first electromagnetic energy detector and the first insulating gap is less than or equal to a first threshold.

[0015] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the antenna further includes a feeding circuit, the radiator includes a feeding point, and the feeding circuit is coupled to the feeding point.

[0016] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the first electromagnetic energy detector is located between the feed point and the first connection point in the extension direction of the radiator.

[0017] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the radiator includes a grounding point coupled to the floor.

[0018] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the first electromagnetic energy detector is located between the grounding point and the first connection point in the extension direction of the radiator.

[0019] According to the embodiments of this application, the electromagnetic energy detector can be located at any position. When the electromagnetic energy detector is located in a region where the current of the radiator changes significantly, the electromagnetic energy detector is more likely to generate the first electrical signal, and the controller is more likely to determine the current distribution change on the radiator.

[0020] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the distance between the first electromagnetic energy detector and the grounding point is less than or equal to a first threshold.

[0021] According to the embodiments of this application, the above embodiments only illustrate the use of an electromagnetic energy detector to detect the electric field generated by a radiator. In actual production or design, the magnetic field generated by the radiator can also be detected to determine the changes in current distribution on the radiator. The electromagnetic energy detector can be located in a region on the radiator where the magnetic field changes significantly, for example, in the region near the grounding point.

[0022] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the frame further includes a third position, the first position being located between the second position and the third position, the frame having a first insulating gap at the first position; the antenna includes a parasitic stub and a second tuning circuit, the parasitic stub including a conductive portion of the frame between the first position and the third position, the parasitic stub including a second connection point, the second tuning circuit being coupled to the second connection point, the second tuning circuit being coupled to the controller, and at least a portion of the parasitic stub being spaced apart from the floor.

[0023] According to embodiments of this application, parasitic stubs can be used to generate parasitic resonances to improve the radiation characteristics of an antenna (e.g., operating bandwidth, radiation efficiency, etc.). In one embodiment, a second tuning circuit can be used to adjust the radiation characteristics of the parasitic stub (e.g., the resonant frequency of the parasitic resonance). A controller can adjust the radiation characteristics of the parasitic stub (e.g., the resonant frequency of the parasitic resonance) through the second tuning circuit.

[0024] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the electronic device further includes a second electromagnetic energy detector; wherein the second electromagnetic energy detector is spaced apart from the parasitic branch, and the minimum distance between the second electromagnetic energy detector and the parasitic branch is less than or equal to the first threshold.

[0025] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the electronic device further includes a switch and a third electromagnetic energy detector; wherein the third electromagnetic energy detector is spaced apart from the radiator, and the minimum distance between the third electromagnetic energy detector and the radiator is less than or equal to the first threshold; the common port of the switch is coupled to the first port of the controller, the first connection port of the switch is coupled to the first electromagnetic energy detector, and the second connection port of the switch is coupled to the third electromagnetic energy detector.

[0026] According to an embodiment of this application, multiple electromagnetic energy detectors can be used to detect the current intensity at different locations of the radiator, thereby more accurately determining the current distribution on the radiator, which facilitates the controller to adjust the current distribution on the radiator through the first tuning circuit.

[0027] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the first threshold is 10 mm.

[0028] According to an embodiment of this application, when the electromagnetic energy detector approaches the radiator, as the distance between the electromagnetic energy detector and the radiator decreases, the change in the electric field near the radiator increases, and the electrical signal generated by the electromagnetic energy detector through coupling becomes stronger. The stronger the electrical signal transmitted from the electromagnetic energy detector to the controller, the easier it is for the controller to determine the current distribution on the radiator and to adjust the radiation characteristics of the antenna.

[0029] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the controller is a radio frequency chip.

[0030] Secondly, a method for antenna tuning is provided, applied in an electronic device, the electronic device including an antenna, a first electromagnetic energy detector and a controller, wherein the first electromagnetic energy detector is spaced apart from the radiator of the antenna, and the distance between the first electromagnetic energy detector and the radiator is less than or equal to a first threshold, the method including: the first electromagnetic energy detector transmitting a first electrical signal to the controller, the first electrical signal being used to indicate the current distribution on the radiator; the controller adjusting the tuning circuit according to the first electrical signal.

[0031] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the controller adjusts the tuning circuit according to the first electrical signal, including: based on the difference between the first electrical signal and a standard value, the controller switches the element in the tuning circuit that is coupled to the radiator.

[0032] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the controller determines the element coupled to the radiator in the tuning circuit based on the first electrical signal, including: based on the first electrical signal being the same as a standard value, the controller does not switch the element coupled to the radiator in the tuning circuit.

[0033] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the electronic device further includes a second electromagnetic energy detector, which is spaced apart from the radiator, and the distance between the second electromagnetic energy detector and the radiator is less than or equal to the first threshold; the method further includes: the second electromagnetic energy detector transmitting a second electrical signal to the controller, and the controller adjusting the tuning circuit according to the first electrical signal and the second electrical signal.

[0034] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the controller is a radio frequency chip. Attached Figure Description

[0035] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an electronic device 100 provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0036] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of an electronic device 100 provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0037] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of an electronic device 100 along the x-direction provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0038] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of an electronic device 100 provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0039] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 Simulation results of the S-parameters of the antenna in the electronic device 100 shown.

[0040] Figure 6 yes Figure 4 Simulation results of the current intensity of each electromagnetic energy detector in the electronic device 100 shown.

[0041] Figure 7 yes Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the current distribution of the antenna in the electronic device 100 at 1.7 GHz.

[0042] Figure 8 yes Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the current distribution of the antenna in the electronic device 100 at 1.9 GHz.

[0043] Figure 9 yes Figure 4A schematic diagram of the current distribution of the antenna in the electronic device 100 at 3.5 GHz.

[0044] Figure 10 yes Figure 4 The simulation results of the S-parameters of the antenna of the electronic device 100 shown in the user-held state.

[0045] Figure 11 This application provides an antenna tuning method 400. Detailed Implementation

[0046] The following explains the terminology that may appear in the embodiments of this application.

[0047] It should be understood that the term "and / or" used in this document is merely a description of the same field in the related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A alone, A and B simultaneously, and B alone. Additionally, the character " / " in this document generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects have an "or" relationship.

[0048] The phrase "within the range" used in this application, unless otherwise specified, includes both endpoints of the range by default. For example, in the range of 1 to 5, it includes the values ​​1 and 5.

[0049] Coupling can be understood as direct coupling and / or indirect coupling. "Coupled connection" can be understood as a direct coupling connection and / or indirect coupling connection. Direct coupling can also be called "electrical connection," which can be understood as physical contact and electrical conduction between components; it can also be understood as the form of connection between different components in a circuit structure through physical lines that can transmit electrical signals, such as copper foil or wires on a printed circuit board (PCB). "Indirect coupling" can be understood as electrical conduction between two conductors through a gap / non-contact method. In one embodiment, indirect coupling can also be called capacitive coupling, for example, signal transmission is achieved by forming an equivalent capacitance through coupling between the gaps between two conductive parts.

[0050] Components / devices: including at least one of lumped components / devices and distributed components / devices.

[0051] Lumped element / device: This refers to all components whose size is much smaller than the wavelength relative to the circuit's operating frequency. For signals, the characteristics of the components remain constant at all times, regardless of frequency.

[0052] Distributed elements / devices: Unlike lumped elements, if the size of an element is similar to or larger than the wavelength of the circuit's operating frequency, then when a signal passes through the element, the characteristics of each point on the element will vary due to the signal change. In this case, the element as a whole cannot be regarded as a single entity with fixed characteristics, but should be called a distributed element.

[0053] Capacitor: can be understood as lumped capacitance and / or distributed capacitance. Lumped capacitance refers to capacitive components, such as capacitor elements; distributed capacitance (or distributed capacitance) refers to the equivalent capacitance formed by two conductive components separated by a certain gap.

[0054] Inductance: can be understood as lumped inductance and / or distributed inductance. Lumped inductance refers to inductive components, such as inductor elements; distributed inductance (or distributed inductance) refers to the equivalent inductance formed through a conductive element of a certain length.

[0055] Radiator: In an antenna, this is the device used to receive / transmit electromagnetic wave radiation. In some cases, the term "antenna" is narrowly defined as a radiator, which converts guided wave energy from the transmitter into radio waves, or converts radio waves into guided wave energy, for radiating and receiving radio waves. The modulated high-frequency current energy (or guided wave energy) generated by the transmitter is transmitted to the transmitting radiator via a feed line, where it is converted into electromagnetic wave energy of a specific polarization and radiated in the desired direction. The receiving radiator converts the electromagnetic wave energy of a specific polarization from a specific direction in space back into modulated high-frequency current energy, which is then transmitted to the receiver input via a feed line.

[0056] The radiator may include a conductor with a specific shape and size, such as a wire or sheet, and this application does not limit the specific shape. In one embodiment, the wire radiator may be simply referred to as a wire antenna. In one embodiment, the wire radiator may be implemented by a conductive frame, and may also be referred to as a frame antenna. In one embodiment, the wire radiator may be implemented by a support conductor, and may also be referred to as a support antenna. In one embodiment, the wire diameter (e.g., including thickness and width) of the wire radiator, or the radiator of the wire antenna, is much smaller than the wavelength (e.g., the wavelength of the medium) (e.g., less than 1 / 16 of the wavelength), and the length may be comparable to the wavelength (e.g., the wavelength of the medium) (e.g., the length is around 1 / 8 of the wavelength, or 1 / 8 to 1 / 4, or 1 / 4 to 1 / 2, or longer). The main forms of wire antennas include dipole antennas, half-wave dipole antennas, monopole antennas, loop antennas, and inverted F antennas (also known as IFA, Inverted F Antenna). For example, in a dipole antenna, each dipole antenna typically includes two radiating stubs, each fed from the feed end of the radiating stub by a feed section. For example, an inverted-F antenna can be considered as a monopole antenna with an added ground path. An IFA antenna has one feed point and one ground point, and is called an inverted-F antenna because its side view is inverted-F shaped. In one embodiment, the sheet radiator may include a microstrip antenna or a patch antenna, such as a planar inverted-F antenna (also known as a PIFA). In one embodiment, the sheet radiator may be implemented using a planar conductor (e.g., a conductive sheet or conductive coating). In one embodiment, the sheet radiator may include a conductive sheet, such as a copper sheet. In one embodiment, the sheet radiator may include a conductive coating, such as silver paste. The shape of the sheet radiator includes circular, rectangular, and annular shapes, and this application does not limit the specific shape. The structure of a microstrip antenna generally consists of a dielectric substrate, a radiator, and a ground plane, wherein the dielectric substrate is disposed between the radiator and the ground plane.

[0057] Radiators may also include slots or gaps formed on a conductor, for example, closed or semi-closed slots or gaps formed on a grounded conductor surface. In one embodiment, a slotted or slit radiator may be simply referred to as a slot antenna or a gap antenna. In one embodiment, the radial dimension (e.g., including width) of the slot or gap of the slot antenna / gap antenna is much smaller than the wavelength (e.g., the dielectric wavelength) (e.g., less than 1 / 16 of the wavelength), while the length dimension may be comparable to the wavelength (e.g., the dielectric wavelength) (e.g., a length of approximately 1 / 8 of the wavelength, or 1 / 8 to 1 / 4, or 1 / 4 to 1 / 2, or longer). In one embodiment, a radiator with a closed slot or gap may be simply referred to as a closed slot antenna. In one embodiment, a radiator with a semi-closed slot or gap (e.g., an opening added to a closed slot or gap) may be simply referred to as an open slot antenna. In some embodiments, the gap shape is elongated. In some embodiments, the length of the gap is approximately half a wavelength (e.g., the dielectric wavelength). In some embodiments, the length of the gap is approximately an integer multiple of a wavelength (e.g., one dielectric wavelength). In some embodiments, the slot can be fed by transmission lines connected across one or both sides, thereby exciting a radio frequency electromagnetic field on the slot and radiating electromagnetic waves into space. In one embodiment, the radiator of the slot antenna or gap antenna can be implemented by a conductive frame grounded at both ends, also known as a frame antenna; in this embodiment, the slot antenna or gap antenna can be viewed as including a linear radiator, the linear radiator being spaced apart from the ground and grounded at both ends, thereby forming a closed or semi-closed slot or gap. In one embodiment, the radiator of the slot antenna or gap antenna can be implemented by a support conductor grounded at both ends, also known as a support antenna.

[0058] A power supply circuit is a combination of all circuits used for receiving and transmitting radio frequency (RF) signals. It can include a transceiver and an RF front-end. In some cases, the term "power supply circuit" is narrowly interpreted as an RF IC (Radio Frequency Integrated Circuit), which can be considered to include both the RF front-end chip and the transceiver. The power supply circuit has the function of converting radio waves (e.g., RF signals) into electrical signals (e.g., digital signals). It is generally considered part of the RF component.

[0059] In some embodiments, the electronic device may also include a test socket (or, RF socket, or RF test socket). This test socket can be used to insert a coaxial cable to test the characteristics of the RF front-end circuitry or the radiator of the antenna. The RF front-end circuitry can be considered as the circuitry coupled between the test socket and the transceiver.

[0060] In some embodiments, the radio frequency front-end circuit can be integrated into a radio frequency front-end chip in an electronic device, or the radio frequency front-end circuit and the transceiver can be integrated into a radio frequency chip in an electronic device.

[0061] It should be understood that any two feed circuits in the first / second / ...Nth feed circuit of this application can share the same transceiver, for example, by transmitting signals through a radio frequency channel in a transceiver (e.g., a port (pin) of a radio frequency chip); they can also share a radio frequency front-end circuit, for example, by processing signals through a tuning circuit or amplifier in a radio frequency front-end.

[0062] It should also be understood that the two feed circuits in the first / second / ...Nth feed circuit of this application typically correspond to two RF test sockets in an electronic device.

[0063] End / Point: The term "end / point" in the context of an antenna radiator's first end / second end / feed end / ground end / feed point / grounding point / connection point should not be narrowly interpreted as necessarily an endpoint or end physically disconnected from other radiators. It can also be considered a point or segment on a continuous radiator. In one embodiment, an "end / point" can include a connection / coupling region on the antenna radiator that couples to other conductive structures. For example, a feed end / feed point can be a coupling region on the antenna radiator that couples to a feed structure or feed circuit (e.g., a region facing a portion of the feed circuit). Similarly, a ground end / grounding point can be a connection / coupling region on the antenna radiator that couples to a ground structure or grounding circuit. Open End / Closed End: In some embodiments, open end and closed end are relative to whether or not they are grounded; a closed end is grounded, and an open end is not grounded. In some embodiments, open end and closed end are relative to other conductors; a closed end is electrically connected to other conductors, and an open end is not electrically connected to other conductors. In one embodiment, an open end can also be called a floating end, free end, open end, or open circuit end. In one embodiment, the closed end may also be referred to as the grounding end or the short-circuit end. It should be understood that in some embodiments, other conductors can be coupled through the open end to transfer coupled energy (which can be understood as transferring current).

[0064] In some embodiments, the understanding of "closed end" can also be from the perspective of current distribution. A closed end or ground end can be understood as a point of high current or low electric field on a radiator. In one embodiment, coupling electronic devices (e.g., capacitors, inductors, etc.) through a closed end can maintain the current distribution characteristics of the point of high current / low electric field. In one embodiment, opening a slit at or near the closed end (e.g., filling the slit with insulating material) can maintain the current distribution characteristics of the point of high current / low electric field.

[0065] In some embodiments, the understanding of "open terminal" can also be from the perspective of current distribution. An open terminal or a floating terminal can be understood as a point with a small current or a point with a large electric field on the radiator. In one embodiment, coupling electronic devices (e.g., capacitors, inductors, etc.) through an open terminal can maintain the current distribution characteristics of the point with a small current or a large electric field.

[0066] It should be understood that when an electronic device (e.g., capacitor, inductor, etc.) is coupled at the radiator end of a gap (which, from the perspective of the radiator's structure, resembles a radiator at the opening of an open or suspended end), the radiator end can be a point with a large current / small electric field. In this case, it should be understood that the radiator end at the gap is actually a closed end or a grounded end, etc.

[0067] Resonance / Resonant Frequency: The resonant frequency is also called the resonance frequency. The resonant frequency can have a frequency range, that is, the frequency range in which resonance occurs. The frequency corresponding to the strongest resonance point is the center frequency. The return loss characteristic of the center frequency can be less than -20dB. It should be understood that, unless otherwise specified, when the antenna / radiator mentioned in this application generates "first / second...resonance," the first resonance should be the fundamental mode resonance generated by the antenna / radiator, or in other words, the lowest frequency resonance generated by the antenna / radiator. It should be understood that the antenna / radiator can generate one or more antenna modes according to a specific design, and each antenna mode can correspond to a fundamental mode resonance.

[0068] Resonant frequency band: The range of resonant frequencies is the resonant frequency band. The return loss characteristics at any frequency point within the resonant frequency band can be less than -6dB or -5dB.

[0069] Communication band / operating band: Regardless of the type of antenna, it always operates within a certain frequency range (bandwidth). For example, an antenna supporting the B40 band operates within the frequency range of 2300MHz to 2400MHz, or in other words, the antenna's operating band includes the B40 band. The frequency range that meets the specifications can be considered the antenna's operating band.

[0070] The resonant frequency band and the operating frequency band can be the same or can partially overlap. In one embodiment, one or more resonant frequency bands of the antenna can cover one or more operating frequency bands of the antenna.

[0071] Antenna system efficiency (total efficiency): refers to the ratio of input power to output power at the antenna port.

[0072] Antenna radiation efficiency refers to the ratio of the power radiated into space by an antenna (i.e., the power effectively converted into electromagnetic waves) to the active power input to the antenna. Active power input to the antenna = antenna input power - loss power; loss power mainly includes return loss power and ohmic loss power of metals and / or dielectric loss power. Radiation efficiency is a measure of an antenna's radiation capability; metal loss and dielectric loss are both factors affecting radiation efficiency.

[0073] Those skilled in the art will understand that efficiency is generally expressed as a percentage, and there is a corresponding conversion relationship between it and dB. The closer the efficiency is to 0dB, the better the efficiency of the antenna.

[0074] Antenna return loss: This can be understood as the ratio of the signal power reflected back to the antenna port after passing through the antenna circuit to the transmit power at the antenna port. The smaller the reflected signal, the larger the signal radiated into space through the antenna, and the higher the antenna's radiation efficiency. Conversely, the larger the reflected signal, the smaller the signal radiated into space through the antenna, and the lower the antenna's radiation efficiency.

[0075] Antenna return loss can be represented by the S11 parameter, which is one of the S-parameters. S11 represents the reflection coefficient, and this parameter characterizes the antenna's transmission efficiency. The S11 parameter is usually negative. The smaller the S11 parameter, the smaller the antenna return loss, the less energy the antenna reflects back, which means more energy actually enters the antenna, and the higher the antenna's system efficiency. Conversely, the larger the S11 parameter, the greater the antenna return loss, and the lower the antenna's system efficiency.

[0076] It should be noted that in engineering, an S11 value of -6dB is generally used as the standard. When the S11 value of an antenna is less than -6dB, the antenna can be considered to be working normally, or the antenna can be considered to have good transmission efficiency.

[0077] Ground (GND): Generally refers to at least a portion of any grounding layer, ground plane, or grounding metal layer within an electronic device (such as a mobile phone), or at least a portion of any combination of the aforementioned grounding layers, ground planes, or grounding components. "Ground" can be used for grounding components within an electronic device. In one embodiment, "ground" can be the grounding layer of a circuit board in an electronic device, or a grounding metal layer formed by a ground plane formed within the frame of the electronic device or a metal film formed beneath the screen. In one embodiment, the circuit board can be a printed circuit board (PCB), such as an 8-layer, 10-layer, or 12-14-layer board having 8, 10, 12, 13, or 14 layers of conductive material, or components separated and electrically insulated by dielectric or insulating layers such as fiberglass or polymers. In one embodiment, the circuit board includes a dielectric substrate, a grounding layer, and a trace layer, with the trace layer and grounding layer electrically connected via vias. In one embodiment, components such as displays, touchscreens, input buttons, transmitters, processors, memory, batteries, charging circuits, and system-on-chip (SoC) architectures can be mounted on or connected to a circuit board; or electrically connected to trace layers and / or ground layers in the circuit board. For example, an RF source is disposed on a trace layer.

[0078] Any of the aforementioned grounding layers, ground planes, or grounding metal layers are made of conductive materials. In one embodiment, the conductive material may be any of the following: copper, aluminum, stainless steel, brass and their alloys, copper foil on an insulating substrate, aluminum foil on an insulating substrate, gold foil on an insulating substrate, silver-plated copper, silver-plated copper foil on an insulating substrate, silver foil on an insulating substrate and tin-plated copper, graphite-impregnated cloth, graphite-coated substrates, copper-plated substrates, brass-plated substrates, and aluminum-plated substrates. Those skilled in the art will understand that grounding layers / ground planes / grounding metal layers may also be made of other conductive materials.

[0079] Grounding: refers to coupling with the aforementioned ground / floor in any way. In one embodiment, grounding can be achieved through physical grounding, such as through a structural component of the mid-frame to achieve a physical ground at a specific location on the frame (or, physical ground). In another embodiment, grounding can be achieved through device grounding, such as through devices like capacitors / inductors / resistors connected in series or parallel (or, device ground).

[0080] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0081] like Figure 1As shown, the electronic device 100 may include: a cover 13, a display / module 15, a printed circuit board (PCB) 17, a middle frame 19, and a rear cover 21. It should be understood that in some embodiments, the cover 13 may be a glass cover, but it may also be replaced with a cover made of other materials, such as a PET (Polyethylene terephthalate) cover.

[0082] The cover plate 13 can be set close to the display module 15, and can be mainly used to protect the display module 15 from dust.

[0083] In one embodiment, the display module 15 may include a liquid crystal display (LCD), a light emitting diode (LED) display panel, or an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display panel, etc., and this application embodiment does not limit this.

[0084] The middle frame 19 mainly serves to support the entire machine. Figure 1The diagram shows PCB 17 positioned between the middle frame 19 and the back cover 21. It should be understood that in one embodiment, PCB 17 may also be positioned between the middle frame 19 and the display module 15; this application does not limit this. The printed circuit board PCB 17 can be made of flame-retardant material (FR-4) dielectric, Rogers dielectric, or a hybrid dielectric of Rogers and FR-4, etc. Here, FR-4 is a designation for a flame-retardant material grade, and Rogers dielectric is a high-frequency board. Components, such as radio frequency chips, are carried on PCB 17. In one embodiment, a metal layer can be provided on PCB 17. This metal layer can be used for grounding components carried on PCB 17, or for grounding other components, such as bracket antennas, frame antennas, etc. This metal layer can be called a ground plane, grounding plate, or grounding layer. In one embodiment, this metal layer can be formed by etching metal onto the surface of any dielectric layer in PCB 17. In one embodiment, the grounding metal layer can be located on the side of PCB 17 near the middle frame 19. In one embodiment, the edge of the printed circuit board PCB 17 can be considered as the edge of its ground plane. In one embodiment, the metal frame 19 can also be used for grounding the aforementioned components. The electronic device 100 may also have other ground planes / grounding layers, as previously described, and will not be repeated here.

[0085] Due to the compact nature of electronic devices, a ground plane / grounding layer is typically provided in the internal space 0-2mm from the inner surface of the frame (e.g., printed circuit boards, mid-frames, screen metal layers, batteries, etc. can all be considered part of the ground plane). In one embodiment, a medium is filled between the frame and the ground plane. The length and width of the rectangle formed by the inner surface contour of the filling medium can be simply considered as the length and width of the ground plane; alternatively, the length and width of the rectangle formed by the superimposed contour of all conductive parts inside the frame can be considered as the length and width of the ground plane.

[0086] The electronic device 100 may also include a battery (not shown in the figure). The battery may be disposed between the middle frame 19 and the back cover 21, or between the middle frame 19 and the display module 15; this embodiment does not limit this. In some embodiments, the PCB 17 is divided into a motherboard and a daughterboard, and the battery may be disposed between the motherboard and the daughterboard. The motherboard may be disposed between the middle frame 19 and the upper edge of the battery, and the daughterboard may be disposed between the middle frame 19 and the lower edge of the battery.

[0087] The electronic device 100 may also include a frame 11, which may include a conductive material such as metal. The frame 11 may be disposed between the display module 15 and the back cover 21 and extend circumferentially around the periphery of the electronic device 100. The frame 11 may have four sides surrounding the display module 15 to help secure the display module 15.

[0088] In one implementation, the frame 11, primarily composed of conductive material, can be referred to as the conductive frame or metal frame of the electronic device 100, suitable for industrial design (ID) with a metallic appearance. In another implementation, the outer surface of the frame 11 is primarily made of conductive material, such as metal, thus forming the appearance of a metallic frame. In these implementations, the conductive portion of the outer surface of the frame 11 can be used as an antenna radiator of the electronic device 100, and is commonly referred to as a frame antenna.

[0089] In another implementation, the outer surface of the frame 11 is primarily made of a non-conductive material, such as plastic, forming a non-metallic frame appearance suitable for non-metallic IDs. In another implementation, the inner surface of the frame 11 may include a conductive material, such as a metallic material. In this implementation, the conductive portion of the inner surface of the frame 11 can be used as an antenna radiator of the electronic device 100. It should be understood that the radiator (or the conductive material of the inner surface) disposed on the inner surface of the frame 11 can be attached to the non-conductive material of the frame 11 to minimize the volume occupied by the radiator and to be closer to the outside of the electronic device 100, achieving better signal transmission performance, and can also be referred to as a frame antenna. It should be noted that the antenna radiator being attached to the non-conductive material of the frame 11 means that the antenna radiator can be tightly attached to the inner surface of the non-conductive material, or it can be embedded inside the non-conductive material, or it can be close to the inner surface of the non-conductive material. For example, there can be a certain small gap between the antenna radiator and the inner surface of the non-conductive material. It should be understood that both the conductive material and the non-conductive material can be considered as part of the frame 11.

[0090] It should be understood that the frame 11 may have insulating gaps, with the conductive portion of the frame between the insulating gaps and / or between the insulating gaps and the grounding point serving as radiators, thereby forming a frame antenna (it should be understood that the radiator of the frame antenna may also include the conductive portion of the frame between the grounding point and the grounding point). When the frame 11 is formed of a conductive material such as metal, the insulating gap can be understood as a gap in the frame 11 filled with a non-metallic material (insulating material), in which case the gap is visible on the outer surface. When the outer surface of the frame 11 is a non-conductive material, the insulating gap can be understood as the end of the radiator on the inner surface of the frame 11 (e.g., an end not electrically connected to other radiators or conductors), or as a gap formed between radiators on the inner surface of the frame 11, in which a non-metallic material (insulating material) may be provided, or it may not be provided with a non-metallic material, for example, filled with air, in which case the gap is not visible on the outer surface.

[0091] The middle frame 19 may include the frame 11. The middle frame 19, including the frame 11, is a single unit that supports the electronic components in the device. The cover plate 13 and the rear cover 21 respectively cover the upper and lower edges of the frame to form the housing of the electronic device. In one embodiment, the cover plate 13, the rear cover 21, the frame 11, and / or the middle frame 19 may be collectively referred to as the housing of the electronic device 100. It should be understood that "housing" may refer to part or all of any one of the cover plate 13, the rear cover 21, the frame 11, or the middle frame 19, or to any combination of the cover plate 13, the rear cover 21, the frame 11, or the middle frame 19.

[0092] The frame 11 can at least partially serve as an antenna radiator to transmit / receive radio frequency signals. This portion of the frame serving as the radiator may have gaps between it and the rest of the middle frame 19, thereby ensuring a good radiation environment for the antenna radiator. In one embodiment, the middle frame 19 may have an aperture at this portion of the frame serving as the radiator to facilitate antenna radiation.

[0093] Alternatively, the frame 11 may not be considered part of the middle frame 19. In one embodiment, the frame 11 may be connected to and integrally formed with the middle frame 19. In another embodiment, the frame 11 may include inwardly extending protrusions to connect with the middle frame 19, for example, by means of spring clips, screws, welding, etc. The protrusions of the frame 11 can also be used to receive feed signals, so that at least a portion of the frame 11 acts as a radiator of the antenna to transmit / receive radio frequency signals. A gap may exist between this portion of the frame acting as the radiator and the middle frame 19, thereby ensuring that the antenna radiator has a good radiation environment, enabling the antenna to have good signal transmission capabilities.

[0094] The back cover 21 can be made of metal; it can also be made of non-conductive material, such as a glass back cover, a plastic back cover, or other non-metallic back cover; or it can be made of both conductive and non-conductive materials. In one embodiment, the back cover 21, which includes conductive material, can replace the middle frame 19 and form an integral part with the frame 11, providing support for the electronic components in the whole device.

[0095] In one embodiment, conductive portions in the mid-frame 19 and / or rear cover 21 can serve as a reference ground for the electronic device 100, wherein the frame 11, PCB 17, etc. of the electronic device can be grounded through electrical connection with the mid-frame.

[0096] The antenna of electronic device 100 can also be housed inside the casing, such as a bracket antenna, millimeter-wave antenna, etc. Figure 1 (Not shown in the image). The clearance of the antenna disposed within the housing can be obtained by a slot / aperture on any of the middle frame, and / or side frame, and / or back cover, and / or display screen, or by a non-conductive gap / aperture formed between any of them. The clearance setting of the antenna can ensure the radiation characteristics of the antenna. It should be understood that the clearance of the antenna can be a non-conductive area formed by any conductive components within the electronic device 100, through which the antenna radiates signals to the external space. In one embodiment, the antenna can be a flexible printed circuit (FPC) based antenna, a laser-direct-structuring (LDS) based antenna, or a metal device antenna (MDA), etc. In one embodiment, the antenna can also be a transparent structure embedded inside the screen of the electronic device 100, making the antenna a transparent antenna unit embedded inside the screen of the electronic device 100.

[0097] With the rapid development of wireless communication technology, electronic devices are no longer limited to making calls, sending text messages, and taking photos. They can now be used for listening to music online, watching online movies, and real-time video, covering various applications in people's lives, including communication, film and television entertainment, and e-commerce. This has led to a gradual increase in the number of antennas required in electronic devices. As the number of antennas increases, user contact with electronic devices (e.g., holding the device) affects the radiation characteristics of the antennas in the contact area (e.g., resonant frequency shift). Currently, in this situation, the antenna's S-parameters are determined by measuring the reverse power through a coupler and the input power transmitted to the feed point to judge the antenna's state and thus tune the antenna. However, S-parameters cannot accurately reflect the antenna's radiation performance and may cause misjudgments, leading to inaccurate adjustments to the antenna's radiation characteristics. For example, S-parameters may not reflect whether the lost energy is absorbed by the human body or radiated through space. Alternatively, it can be understood that the S-parameters show a deep dip in a certain frequency band, but this frequency band corresponds to a dip in radiation efficiency and / or system efficiency, indicating poor antenna radiation characteristics in that frequency band.

[0098] This application provides an electronic device including an antenna, an electromagnetic energy detector, and a controller. The electromagnetic energy detector is located near the radiator of the antenna. The controller adjusts the current distribution on the radiator based on the detection data from the electromagnetic energy detector, thereby ensuring that the antenna maintains good radiation characteristics even when held by a user.

[0099] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of an electronic device 100 provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0100] like Figure 2 As shown, the electronic device 100 includes an antenna 200, a frame 11, an electromagnetic energy detector 221, a controller 220, and a floor 300.

[0101] The frame 11 includes a first position 211 and a second position 212. The frame 11 has an insulating gap or is coupled to the floor 300 at the first position 211. The frame 11 also has an insulating gap or is coupled to the floor 300 at the second position 212.

[0102] The antenna 200 includes a radiator 310 and a first tuning circuit 320.

[0103] The radiator 310 includes a conductive portion of a frame 11 between a first position 211 and a second position. At least a portion of the radiator 310 is spaced apart from the floor 300.

[0104] The radiator 310 includes a first connection point 311, to which a first tuning circuit 320 is coupled. In one embodiment, the first tuning circuit 320 can be used to adjust the radiation characteristics of the antenna 200 (e.g., the resonant frequency).

[0105] In one embodiment, the first tuning circuit 320 may include a first switch 321 and an element 322, with the element 322 coupled to a first connection point 311 via the first switch 321. In one embodiment, the first switch 321 and the element 322 are connected in series and coupled to the first connection point 311 (the element 322 may be located between the first switch 321 and the first connection point 311, or the first switch 321 may be located between the element 322 and the first connection point 311). The first tuning circuit 320 can adjust the radiation characteristics (e.g., resonant frequency) of the antenna 200 by switching the capacitance, inductance, etc., of the element 322 coupled to the first connection point 311 via the first switch 321.

[0106] For the sake of brevity, the tuning circuits described in the embodiments of this application can all have the above-described structure. The connection point between the tuning circuit and the radiator (or parasitic branch) can be located at any position (e.g., coinciding with the feed point 312). The embodiments of this application do not impose any restrictions on this.

[0107] The electromagnetic energy detector 221 and the radiator 310 are spaced apart. The minimum distance between the electromagnetic energy detector 221 and the radiator 310 is less than or equal to a first threshold.

[0108] It should be understood that the electromagnetic energy detector 221 can be used to convert the electric field energy in the vicinity of the electromagnetic energy detector 221 into an electrical signal. In one embodiment, the electrical signal can be a current signal or a voltage signal.

[0109] The minimum distance between the electromagnetic energy detector 221 and the radiator 310 can be understood as the minimum distance between a point on the electromagnetic energy detector 221 and a point on the radiator 310.

[0110] The controller 220 is coupled to the electromagnetic energy detector 221. The controller 220 is also coupled to the first tuning circuit 320.

[0111] According to an embodiment of this application, the electromagnetic energy detector 221 is positioned close to the radiator 310 (at a distance less than or equal to a first threshold). The electromagnetic energy detector 221 can be used to detect the electric field in the vicinity of the electromagnetic energy detector 221. When the environment around the electronic device 100 changes, the controller 220 can adjust the current distribution on the radiator 310 through the electromagnetic energy detector 221, thereby adjusting the radiation characteristics of the antenna 200. Changes in the environment around the electronic device 100 can be understood as a user holding the electronic device 100, the electronic device 100 being inside a bag, or a conductor being near the electronic device. For the sake of brevity, this embodiment of the application only uses the example of a user holding the electronic device 100. When the user holds the electronic device 100, the area held overlaps at least partially with the radiator 310. The controller 220 controls the first tuning circuit 320 to adjust the current distribution of the antenna 200 based on the changes in the current distribution on the radiator 310 (compared to when the user is not holding the electronic device 100), so that the antenna 200 has good radiation characteristics (e.g., radiation efficiency and system efficiency), and the electronic device 100 still has good communication performance.

[0112] In one embodiment, the controller 220 can determine the current intensity at a position on the radiator 310 corresponding to the electromagnetic energy detector 221 by using the electromagnetic energy detector 221.

[0113] The position on the radiator 310 corresponding to the electromagnetic energy detector 221 can be understood as the location of the projection of the electromagnetic energy detector 221 onto the frame 11. The projection of the electromagnetic energy detector 221 onto the frame 11 can be understood as the projection of the electromagnetic energy detector 221 onto the frame 11 along the extension direction of the radiator 310. When the radiator 310 is in a zigzag shape, the radiator 310 has two extension directions.

[0114] In one embodiment, the electromagnetic energy detector 221 transmits a first electrical signal to the controller 220. The controller 220 determines the current intensity at a position on the radiator 310 corresponding to the electromagnetic energy detector 221 based on the first electrical signal, thereby determining the current distribution on the radiator 310.

[0115] It should be understood that the electromagnetic energy detector 221 generates a first electrical signal through coupling with the radiator 310. The controller 220 compares the first electrical signal with a standard value to determine the current intensity at the location on the radiator 310 corresponding to the electromagnetic energy detector 221, and thus determines the current distribution on the radiator 310. The standard value can be stored in the controller 220, and different first electrical signals can correspond to different current intensities at that location, thereby corresponding to different current distributions on the radiator 310.

[0116] In one embodiment, the controller 220 switches the element coupled to the first connection point 311 in the first tuning circuit 320 according to the first electrical signal. In another embodiment, the controller 220 switches the element coupled to the first connection point 311 via the first switch 321 according to the first electrical signal to adjust the current distribution on the radiator 310.

[0117] In one embodiment, the first threshold is 10 mm. In one embodiment, the first threshold is 5 mm. In one embodiment, the first threshold is 2 mm. In one embodiment, the first threshold is 1 mm.

[0118] It should be understood that when the electromagnetic energy detector 221 approaches the radiator 310, as the distance between the electromagnetic energy detector 221 and the radiator 310 decreases, the change in electric field increases, and the electrical signal generated by the coupling of the electromagnetic energy detector 221 is strengthened. Conversely, as the distance between the electromagnetic energy detector 221 and the radiator 310 increases, the electromagnetic energy detector 221 moves away from the radiator 310, the change in electric field decreases, and the electrical signal generated by the coupling of the electromagnetic energy detector 221 weakens. The stronger the electrical signal transmitted from the electromagnetic energy detector 221 to the controller 220, the easier it is for the controller 220 to determine the current distribution on the radiator 310 and to adjust the radiation characteristics of the antenna 200.

[0119] The electromagnetic energy detector 221 can adjust its distance from the radiator 310 based on the current distribution on the radiator 310. For example, the greater the change in electric field in the first region of the radiator 310, the stronger the electrical signal can be generated by the electromagnetic energy detector 221 over a larger range. Therefore, the distance between the electromagnetic energy detector 221 and the first region can be larger (e.g., a first threshold of 10 mm). Conversely, the smaller the change in electric field in the second region of the radiator 310, the stronger the electrical signal can be generated by the electromagnetic energy detector 221 only over a smaller range. Therefore, the distance between the electromagnetic energy detector 221 and the first region can be smaller (e.g., a first threshold of 2 mm).

[0120] In one embodiment, the radiator 310 is used to generate a first resonance and a second resonance.

[0121] When the radiator 310 generates a first resonance, the electromagnetic energy detector 221 transmits a first electrical signal to the controller 220. When the radiator 310 generates a second resonance, the electromagnetic energy detector 221 transmits a second electrical signal to the controller 220. The first and second electrical signals are different.

[0122] It should be understood that the radiator 310 can generate multiple resonances in different operating modes. The electromagnetic energy detector 221 can generate different electrical signals in different operating modes, thereby enabling the controller 220 to determine that the radiator 310 is operating in different operating modes.

[0123] For example, when a user holds the electronic device 100, the area held by the hand at least partially overlaps with the radiator 310, which may have a significant impact on the first resonance (larger resonant point shift) and a smaller impact on the second resonance (smaller resonant point shift). When the first resonance is significantly affected, the current distribution on the radiator 310 changes significantly, and the electrical signal generated by the electromagnetic energy detector 221 before and after the user holds the device changes significantly. The controller 220 can then adjust the first tuning circuit 320 through the electrical signal transmitted by the electromagnetic energy detector 221, so that the antenna 200 still has good radiation characteristics when the user holds the device.

[0124] In one embodiment, the antenna 200 further includes a feed circuit 330. The radiator 310 includes a feed point 312, to which the feed circuit 330 is coupled.

[0125] In one embodiment, the electronic device 100 further includes a PCB 17, which includes a metal layer 171. The metal layer 171 serves as the floor 300 in the above embodiment. An electromagnetic energy detector 221 is located on the PCB 17. The electromagnetic energy detector 221 does not overlap with the metal layer 171 in a first direction, which is the thickness direction of the PCB 17 (e.g., the x-direction).

[0126] It should be understood that the electromagnetic energy detector 221 can generate an electrical signal by electric field coupling in space. Since there is usually a strong current on the floor, when the electromagnetic energy detector 221 overlaps with the floor in the first direction, the current on the floor will have a certain impact on the electromagnetic energy detector 221, so that the electrical signal generated by the electromagnetic energy detector 221 cannot fully reflect the current distribution on the radiator 310.

[0127] In one embodiment, the frame 11 has a first insulating gap at a first location 211, such as Figure 4 As shown, the distance between the electromagnetic energy detector 221 and the first insulating gap (first position 211) is less than or equal to the first threshold.

[0128] It should be understood that the open end of the radiator 310 has a strong electric field. When the user holds the electronic device 100, it has a greater impact on the electric field near the open end. When the electric field changes significantly, the electromagnetic energy detector 221 is more likely to generate the first electrical signal, which makes it easier to determine the current distribution on the radiator 310 at that location.

[0129] In one embodiment, electronic device 100 may include a plurality of electromagnetic energy detectors.

[0130] It should be understood that multiple electromagnetic energy detectors can be used to detect the current intensity at different locations of the radiator 310, thereby improving the detection accuracy and facilitating the controller 220 to adjust the current distribution on the radiator 310 through the first tuning circuit 320.

[0131] In one embodiment, the electronic device 100 includes an electromagnetic energy detector 221, an electromagnetic energy detector 222, and an electromagnetic energy detector 223, such as Figure 4 As shown.

[0132] It should be understood that, for the sake of brevity, only the example of setting three electromagnetic energy detectors near the radiator 310 is used for illustration. In actual production or design, there can be at least any number of electromagnetic energy detectors, and the embodiments of this application do not limit this.

[0133] In one embodiment, the frame 11 has a second insulating gap at the second position 212.

[0134] It should be understood that, for the sake of brevity, only the example of the radiator 310 having two open ends is used for illustration. In actual production or design, the radiator 310 can have any structure. For example, one end of the radiator 310 can be an open end and the other end can be a grounded end. This application embodiment does not limit this.

[0135] In one embodiment, the radiator 310 includes a ground point 313, at which the radiator 310 is coupled to the floor 300.

[0136] In one embodiment, the electromagnetic energy detector 221 is located between the feed point 312 and the first position 211 (first insulating gap) in the extending direction (e.g., the y direction) of the radiator 310.

[0137] In one embodiment, the electromagnetic energy detector 222 is located between the feed point 312 and the first connection point 311 in the extending direction (e.g., the y-direction) of the radiator 310. In another embodiment, the electromagnetic energy detector 222 is located between the feed point 312 and the ground point 313.

[0138] In one embodiment, the electromagnetic energy detector 223 is located at grounding point 313 and second position 212 (second insulating gap) in the extending direction (e.g., y-direction) of the radiator 310. In another embodiment, the electromagnetic energy detector 223 is located between grounding point 313 and first connection point 311.

[0139] It should be understood that, in the embodiments of this application, the electromagnetic energy detector is located between A and B in the extending direction (e.g., the y direction) of the radiator 310. This can be understood as at least a portion of the projection of the electromagnetic energy detector onto the frame 11 (radiator 310) being located between A and B.

[0140] For the sake of brevity, this explanation uses the electromagnetic energy detector located at the aforementioned position as an example. The electromagnetic energy detector can be located at any position, and this embodiment does not impose any restrictions on this. When the electromagnetic energy detector is located in a region where the current of the radiator 310 changes significantly, the electromagnetic energy detector is more likely to generate a stronger first electrical signal, and the controller 220 can more accurately adjust the current distribution on the radiator 310.

[0141] In one embodiment, the distance between the electromagnetic energy detector 221 and the grounding point 313 is less than or equal to a first threshold.

[0142] It should be understood that the above embodiment is only illustrated by the example of the electromagnetic energy detector 221 detecting the electric field generated by the radiator 310. In actual production or design, the magnetic field generated by the radiator 310 can also be detected to determine the changes in the current distribution on the radiator 310. The electromagnetic energy detector 221 can be located in a region on the radiator 310 where the magnetic field changes significantly, for example, in the region near the grounding point 313.

[0143] In one embodiment, the border 11 further includes a third position 213. The first position 211 is located between the second position 212 and the third position 213.

[0144] Antenna 200 also includes a parasitic stub 340 and a second tuning circuit 341. The parasitic stub 340 includes a conductive portion of the frame 11 between a first position 211 and a third position 213. The parasitic stub 340 includes a second connection point 342. The second tuning circuit 341 is coupled to the second connection point 342. The second tuning circuit 341 is coupled to the controller 220. At least a portion of the parasitic stub 340 is spaced apart from the floor 300.

[0145] It should be understood that the parasitic stub 340 can be used to generate parasitic resonances to improve the radiation characteristics of the antenna 200 (e.g., operating bandwidth, radiation efficiency, etc.). In one embodiment, the second tuning circuit 341 can be used to adjust the radiation characteristics of the parasitic stub 340 (e.g., the resonant frequency of the parasitic resonance). The controller 220 can adjust the radiation characteristics of the parasitic stub 340 (e.g., the resonant frequency of the parasitic resonance) through the second tuning circuit 341.

[0146] For the sake of brevity, this paper only takes the coupling of the frame 11 with the floor 300 at the third position 213 (one end of the parasitic branch 340 is an open end and the other end is a grounded end) as an example. In actual production or design, the parasitic branch 340 can be any structure. For example, both ends of the parasitic branch 340 are open ends. This application embodiment does not limit this.

[0147] In one embodiment, the electronic device 100 includes an electromagnetic energy detector 224. The electromagnetic energy detector 224 is spaced apart from the parasitic branch 340, and the minimum distance between the electromagnetic energy detector 224 and the parasitic branch 340 is less than or equal to a first threshold.

[0148] It should be understood that the electromagnetic energy detector 224 may be located near the parasitic branch 340. The controller 220 can determine the current distribution on the parasitic branch 340 through the electromagnetic energy detector 224. When a user holds the electronic device 100, the hand-held area at least partially overlaps with the parasitic branch 340, and the controller 220 controls the second tuning circuit 341 to adjust the current distribution on the parasitic branch 340 based on the changes in the current distribution on the parasitic branch 340.

[0149] In one embodiment, the electronic device may further include a second switch 231. Multiple electromagnetic energy detectors are coupled to a first port of the controller 220 via the second switch 231. In one embodiment, the multiple electromagnetic energy detectors are each coupled to a connection port of the second switch 231, and the common port of the second switch 231 is coupled to the first port of the controller 220.

[0150] It should be understood that multiple electromagnetic energy detectors can be coupled to one port of controller 220 via the second switch 231. Each of the multiple electromagnetic energy detectors can send electrical signals to controller 220 at different times / time slots, thereby saving ports of controller 220.

[0151] In one embodiment, the controller 220 is a radio frequency IC (RFIC).

[0152] Figures 5 to 9 yes Figure 4 The simulation results of the antenna in the electronic device 100 shown are presented. Among them, Figure 5 yes Figure 4 Simulation results of the S-parameters of the antenna in the electronic device 100 shown. Figure 6 yes Figure 4 Simulation results of the current intensity of each electromagnetic energy detector in the electronic device 100 shown. Figure 7 yes Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the current distribution of the antenna in the electronic device 100 at 1.7 GHz. Figure 8 yes Figure 4A schematic diagram of the current distribution of the antenna in the electronic device 100 at 1.9 GHz. Figure 9 yes Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the current distribution of the antenna in the electronic device 100 at 3.5 GHz.

[0153] It should be understood that Figures 5 to 9 The simulation results shown are based on only Figure 4 The antenna 200 shown is used as an example for illustration. In actual production or design, the antenna 200 can have different structures, and the embodiments of this application do not limit this.

[0154] like Figure 5 As shown, the antenna resonates near 1.7 GHz, 1.9 GHz, and 3.5 GHz. These resonances are generated by both the radiator and the parasitic stubs.

[0155] It should be understood that, Figure 5 The simulation results shown in the figure illustrate the S-parameters at different frequencies. The data in this figure are for reference only and may change in actual production or design.

[0156] When the antenna resonates as described above, the current intensity of the electrical signals generated by electromagnetic energy detectors 221, 222, 223, and 224 is as follows: Figure 6 As shown.

[0157] like Figure 7 As shown, at 1.7 GHz, the current on the radiator 310 between the second position 212 and the ground point 313 is relatively strong, while the current between the ground point 313 and the third position 213 gradually weakens. Therefore, the current intensity of the electrical signal output by the electromagnetic energy detector 223 is relatively large, while the current intensity of the electrical signals output by the electromagnetic energy detectors 222, 221, and 224 gradually weakens.

[0158] like Figure 8 As shown, at 1.9 GHz, the current on the radiator 310 between the second position 212 and the feed point 312 is relatively strong, while the current between the feed point 312 and the third position 213 gradually weakens. Therefore, the current intensity of the electrical signals output by electromagnetic energy detectors 223 and 222 is relatively large and approximately the same, while the current intensity of the electrical signals output by electromagnetic energy detectors 221 and 224 gradually weakens.

[0159] like Figure 9As shown, at 3.5 GHz, the current between the third position 213 and the second position 212 is stronger (the current of the parasitic stub 340 is stronger). Therefore, the current intensity of the electrical signal output by the electromagnetic energy detector 224 is larger, while the current intensity of the electrical signals output by the electromagnetic energy detectors 221, 222, and 223 is smaller and approximately the same.

[0160] It should be understood that the antenna is connected via a tuning circuit (e.g., Figure 4 The first tuning circuit 320 and the second tuning circuit 341 shown adjust the current distribution of the antenna, enabling the antenna to exhibit different radiation characteristics. For example, when the tuning circuit is in state 1 and state 2, the electrical signals output by electromagnetic energy detectors 221, 222, 223, and 224 are different, resulting in different current distributions in the antenna. These different current distributions correspond to different radiation efficiency values. Therefore, at different frequencies, different current distributions of the antenna can correspond to different radiation characteristics (e.g., radiation efficiency). The current distribution (e.g., the electrical signals (current intensity, or voltage intensity) transmitted from multiple electromagnetic energy detectors to the controller) is stored as a standard value in the controller.

[0161] During user operation of electronic devices, the controller adjusts the antenna's current distribution based on electrical signals transmitted from the electromagnetic energy detector, thereby adjusting the antenna's radiation characteristics (e.g., radiation efficiency) at the target frequency. The controller then uses a tuning circuit (e.g., based on stored standard values) to adjust the antenna's radiation characteristics at the target frequency. Figure 4 The first tuning circuit 320 and the second tuning circuit 341 shown adjust the current distribution of the antenna, which can give the antenna better radiation characteristics (e.g., radiation efficiency).

[0162] Figure 10 yes Figure 4 The simulation results of the S-parameters of the antenna of the electronic device 100 shown in the user-held state.

[0163] It should be understood that, Figure 10 The simulation results shown are illustrated using only the example of a user holding the device near the first position.

[0164] like Figure 10 As shown, the antenna resonates near 1.5 GHz, 1.9 GHz, and 2.7 GHz. These resonances are generated by both the radiator and the parasitic stubs.

[0165] Compared to when the user is not holding the electronic device (original state) Figure 5As shown in the S-parameter simulation results, when the user holds the electronic device (in a holding state), the resonance generated near 3.5 GHz is significantly affected, and the resonant frequency shifts to near 2.7 GHz.

[0166] When the user holds the device near the first position, it significantly affects the electrical signal generated by the electromagnetic energy detector 221 located near the first position, causing a decrease of approximately 11 dBA. At 3.5 GHz, the antenna's radiation efficiency decreases by approximately 3.7 dB, resulting in poor antenna radiation performance.

[0167] After the controller adjusts the tuning circuit according to the standard value, the current intensity at the corresponding position of the electromagnetic energy detector 221 is increased (the current intensity of the electrical signal output by the electromagnetic energy detector 221 is increased), and the antenna has better radiation characteristics at 3.5GHz.

[0168] Figure 11 This application provides an antenna tuning method 400.

[0169] It should be understood that Figure 11 The method 400 shown can be applied to any of the electronic devices 100 described in the above embodiments. For the sake of brevity, it will not be described in detail here.

[0170] like Figure 11 As shown, method 400 includes:

[0171] S410, the electromagnetic energy detector transmits a first electrical signal to the controller. This first electrical signal is used to indicate the current distribution on the radiator.

[0172] It should be understood that the controller adjusts the current distribution on the radiator through a first electrical signal transmitted by an electromagnetic energy detector. The controller compares the first electrical signal with a standard value. The standard value can be stored in the controller, and different first electrical signals can correspond to different current intensities at that location, thus corresponding to different current distributions on the radiator.

[0173] S420, the controller adjusts the tuning circuit according to the first electrical signal.

[0174] When the first electrical signal differs from the standard value, the controller adjusts the current distribution on the radiator via the tuning circuit. For example, the controller instructs the tuning circuit to switch the components coupled to the radiator. When the first electrical signal is the same as the standard value, the controller does not instruct the tuning circuit, or instructs the tuning circuit not to switch the components coupled to the radiator.

[0175] It should be understood that when the first electrical signal differs from the standard value, it can be assumed that the user is holding the electronic device, with the area of ​​the hand at least partially overlapping the radiator. The controller adjusts the tuning circuit according to the change in current distribution on the radiator indicated by the first electrical signal, thereby giving the antenna good radiation characteristics (e.g., radiation efficiency and system efficiency), and the electronic device still has good communication performance. Conversely, when the first electrical signal is the same as the standard value, it can be assumed that the current distribution on the radiator has not changed (the user is not holding the electronic device, or is not close to the radiator when holding it), and the antenna has good radiation characteristics. In this case, the tuning circuit is not adjusted (e.g., the components in the tuning circuit coupled to the radiator are not adjusted).

[0176] Meanwhile, since there is a certain error range in engineering, when the first electrical signal differs from the standard value by a certain range (e.g., 10% or 20%), it can be considered that the first electrical signal is the same as the standard value.

[0177] In one embodiment, the electronic device may include multiple electromagnetic energy detectors. Each of the multiple electromagnetic energy detectors transmits an electrical signal to a controller. The controller adjusts a tuning circuit based on the multiple electrical signals.

[0178] It should be understood that multiple electromagnetic energy detectors can be used to detect the current intensity at different locations on the radiator, thereby more accurately determining the current distribution on the radiator, which facilitates the controller to adjust the current distribution on the radiator through the tuning circuit.

[0179] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the technical scope disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. An electronic device, characterized in that, include: floor; A frame, the frame including a first position and a second position, the frame having an insulating gap or being coupled to the floor at the first position, and the frame having an insulating gap or being coupled to the floor at the second position; Antenna, the antenna comprising: A radiator, comprising a conductive portion of the frame between the first and second positions, wherein at least a portion of the radiator is spaced apart from the floor. A first tuning circuit, wherein the radiator includes a first connection point, and the first tuning circuit is coupled to the first connection point; A first electromagnetic energy detector is provided at a distance from the radiator, and the minimum distance between the first electromagnetic energy detector and the radiator is less than or equal to a first threshold. The controller is coupled to the first electromagnetic energy detector and coupled to the first tuning circuit.

2. The electronic device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first electromagnetic energy detector transmits a first electrical signal to the controller, and the controller switches the component coupled to the first connection point in the first tuning circuit according to the first electrical signal.

3. The electronic device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The electronic device further includes a printed circuit board (PCB), the PCB including a metal layer, the metal layer serving as the ground plane; The first electromagnetic energy detector is located on the PCB, and the first electromagnetic energy detector does not overlap with the metal layer in a first direction, which is the thickness direction of the PCB.

4. The electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The radiator is used to generate a first resonance and a second resonance. Based on the first resonance generated by the radiator, the first electromagnetic energy detector transmits a first electrical signal to the controller; Based on the second resonance generated by the radiator, the first electromagnetic energy detector transmits a second electrical signal to the controller, the first electrical signal and the second electrical signal being different.

5. The electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The frame has a first insulating gap at the first position, and the distance between the first electromagnetic energy detector and the first insulating gap is less than or equal to the first threshold.

6. The electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The antenna further includes a feeding circuit, the radiator includes a feeding point, and the feeding circuit is coupled to the feeding point.

7. The electronic device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The first electromagnetic energy detector is located between the feed point and the first connection point in the extension direction of the radiator.

8. The electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, The radiator includes a grounding point that is coupled to the floor.

9. The electronic device according to claim 8, characterized in that, The first electromagnetic energy detector is located between the grounding point and the first connection point in the extension direction of the radiator.

10. The electronic device according to claim 8, characterized in that, The distance between the first electromagnetic energy detector and the grounding point is less than or equal to a first threshold.

11. The electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that, The frame also includes a third position, the first position being located between the second position and the third position, and the frame having a first insulating gap at the first position; The antenna includes a parasitic stub and a second tuning circuit. The parasitic stub includes a conductive portion of the frame between the first position and the third position. The parasitic stub includes a second connection point. The second tuning circuit is coupled to the second connection point and coupled to the controller. At least a portion of the parasitic stub is spaced apart from the floor.

12. The electronic device according to claim 11, characterized in that, The electronic device also includes a second electromagnetic energy detector; The second electromagnetic energy detector is spaced apart from the parasitic branch, and the minimum distance between the second electromagnetic energy detector and the parasitic branch is less than or equal to the first threshold.

13. The electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that, The electronic device also includes a switch and a third electromagnetic energy detector; The third electromagnetic energy detector is spaced apart from the radiator, and the minimum distance between the third electromagnetic energy detector and the radiator is less than or equal to the first threshold. The common port of the switch is coupled to the first port of the controller, the first connection port of the switch is coupled to the first electromagnetic energy detector, and the second connection port of the switch is coupled to the third electromagnetic energy detector.

14. The electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The first threshold is 10 mm.

15. The electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that, The controller is a radio frequency chip.

16. A method for antenna tuning, characterized in that, The method is applied in an electronic device, the electronic device including an antenna, a first electromagnetic energy detector, and a controller, wherein the first electromagnetic energy detector and the radiator of the antenna are spaced apart, and the distance between the first electromagnetic energy detector and the radiator is less than or equal to a first threshold. The first electromagnetic energy detector transmits a first electrical signal to the controller, the first electrical signal being used to indicate the current distribution on the radiator; The controller adjusts the tuning circuit according to the first electrical signal.

17. The method according to claim 16, characterized in that, The controller adjusts the tuning circuit according to the first electrical signal, including: Based on the difference between the first electrical signal and the standard value, the controller switches the element in the tuning circuit that is coupled to the radiator.

18. The method according to claim 17, characterized in that, The controller determines the components coupled to the radiator in the tuning circuit based on the first electrical signal, including: Since the first electrical signal is the same as the standard value, the controller does not switch the components in the tuning circuit that are coupled to the radiator.

19. The method according to any one of claims 16 to 8, characterized in that, The electronic device further includes a second electromagnetic energy detector, which is spaced apart from the radiator, and the distance between the second electromagnetic energy detector and the radiator is less than or equal to the first threshold. The method further includes: the second electromagnetic energy detector transmitting a second electrical signal to the controller, and the controller adjusting the tuning circuit according to the first electrical signal and the second electrical signal.

20. The electronic device according to any one of claims 16 to 19, characterized in that, The controller is a radio frequency chip.

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