An antenna assembly, an electronic device, and an electronic device assembly method

Abstract

The application discloses an antenna assembly, an electronic device and an electronic device assembling method, and relates to the technical field of wireless communication. The antenna assembly comprises a metal sheet, a radio frequency connecting piece and a feed line, and is installed to a metal bottom plate of a shell of the electronic device. After being installed to the metal bottom plate of the electronic device, the antenna assembly can define a closed or semi-closed cavity between the metal sheet and the metal bottom plate, the cavity serves as a resonance cavity, and based on the resonance effect of the cavity, the radiation efficiency and the receiving sensitivity of the antenna can be improved, so that the antenna can maintain good antenna efficiency in the case that the antenna clearance environment in the electronic device is limited. In the case that the internal space of the electronic device is limited, the antenna has good wireless communication capability. The formation of the antenna cavity utilizes the metal bottom plate of the shell of the electronic device, and the antenna cavity can be formed by relying on less material. The electronic device assembling method can improve the overall assembling efficiency.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of wireless communication technology, and in particular to an antenna assembly, an electronic device, and a method for assembling the electronic device. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, smartphones, tablets, and other electronic devices have become an indispensable part of people's daily lives. As a key component for wireless communication in electronic devices, the performance and stability of antennas are crucial to the user experience. However, antenna placement faces numerous challenges during the design process of electronic devices.

[0003] In current electronic devices, independent antennas with structures such as FPC, LDS, and PI FA are commonly used. With the development of electronic devices, people's requirements for portability and functionality are increasing. This has led to the internal space of electronic devices becoming more compact and limited. For antennas such as FPC, LDS, and PI FA, the available headroom is significantly compressed. The limitation of antenna headroom not only makes it difficult for the antenna to meet the headroom requirements, but also directly affects the antenna's performance, such as reduced signal quality and reduced radiation efficiency, thereby affecting the overall wireless communication capability of electronic devices. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The purpose of this invention is to provide an antenna assembly, an electronic device, and an electronic device assembly method, which can form a cavity antenna through a simple structure and achieve the desired antenna performance.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention adopts the following technical solution:

[0006] An antenna assembly, comprising:

[0007] A metal sheet used to define a cavity between itself and the metal base plate of an electronic device;

[0008] The radio frequency connector includes a first electrical connection portion and a second electrical connection portion; the radio frequency connector (12) is a soft-base connector, which includes a flexible soft substrate and conductive lines disposed on the flexible soft substrate;

[0009] The feeder, the first end of which is used for electrical connection with the antenna motherboard of the electronic device;

[0010] The second end of the feed line is welded to the first electrical connection part so that the feed line is fixedly connected to the radio frequency connector and electrically connected.

[0011] The second electrical connection is welded to the metal plate to securely connect the RF connector to the metal plate and provide electrical connection. The antenna assembly is used to mount to the metal base plate of the electronic device, forming an antenna cavity between the metal plate and the metal base plate. Compared to antennas such as FPCs, this allows for higher antenna efficiency in scenarios with limited clearance. The feed line is connected to the metal plate via the RF connector, ensuring greater reliability.

[0012] Optionally, the RF connector is a flexible connector, which includes a flexible substrate and conductive lines disposed on the flexible substrate. The flexible connector is flexible and bendable, and is not easily damaged.

[0013] Optionally, the second electrical connection is welded to the metal sheet, and the second end of the feed line is welded to the first electrical connection. The connection between the feed line and the RF connector, and between the RF connector and the metal sheet, is more stable and reliable, less prone to loosening, ensuring stable antenna performance, and the welding method allows the antenna assembly to be pre-assembled as a whole.

[0014] Optionally, the flexible substrate is one of polyimide, polyester film, liquid crystal polymer, and thermoplastic polyurethane; and / or, the conductive line is one of copper foil, copper-plated material, silver paste printing layer, and conductive ink layer.

[0015] Optionally, the RF connector is provided with a first welding positioning hole, and the metal sheet is provided with a second welding positioning hole. The first and second welding positioning holes are aligned and used for positioning and mating with a positioning fixture. Alignment of the welding positioning holes improves welding efficiency and welding effect. Furthermore, the second electrical connection portion of the RF connector can be welded to a preset position on the metal sheet, ensuring consistent welding positions of the RF connector to the metal sheet across different devices and improving device consistency.

[0016] Optionally, the second end of the feed line is located on the side of the RF connector close to the metal plate; a support member, made of insulating material, is provided between the RF connector and the metal plate, shielding the feed line on the side close to the metal plate. The support member prevents direct conductive contact between the feed line and the metal plate, thus avoiding short circuits.

[0017] Optionally, the support element is insulating foam.

[0018] Optionally, the support and the RF connector are bonded together.

[0019] Alternatively, the support member can be bonded to the metal sheet.

[0020] Optionally, the feed line is a coaxial line, which includes a reference ground line and an excitation line. The first electrical connection part includes a first pad and a second pad, and the second electrical connection part includes one or more third pads. The excitation line is electrically connected to the first pad, the reference ground line is electrically connected to the second pad, the third pad is electrically connected to the metal sheet, and the first pad and the third pad are electrically connected through conductive lines.

[0021] Optionally, the RF connector includes a grounding portion disposed on the side of the RF connector away from the metal sheet; the grounding portion is used for electrical connection with the metal base plate of the electronic device.

[0022] An electronic device includes a housing, an antenna motherboard, and an antenna assembly as described above. The antenna assembly and the antenna motherboard are disposed in the housing. The housing includes a metal base plate, a cavity is defined between a metal sheet and the metal base plate, an RF connector is located in the cavity, and a first end of a feed line is electrically connected to the antenna motherboard.

[0023] Optionally, the electronic device includes a plastic bracket connected to the housing; a metal plate is connected to the plastic bracket via fasteners, and the antenna mainboard is connected to the plastic bracket via fasteners. The plastic bracket facilitates the installation and fixation of the antenna assembly and antenna mainboard. The plastic bracket can be molded to form different parts, such as clearance holes, positioning posts, and threaded posts, to meet the installation requirements of the antenna assembly and antenna mainboard.

[0024] Optionally, the RF connector or metal sheet is provided with a first mounting and positioning part, and the plastic bracket is provided with a second mounting and positioning part, with the first mounting and positioning part and the second mounting and positioning part being inserted and engaged.

[0025] Optionally, the electronic device includes a first grounding conductor and a second grounding conductor. The plastic bracket is provided with a first clearance hole and a second clearance hole. The first grounding conductor is disposed in the first clearance hole, and the second grounding conductor is disposed in the second clearance hole. The radio frequency connector has a grounding part on the side away from the metal sheet. The first grounding conductor is disposed between the grounding part and the metal base plate. The grounding part is in conductive contact with the first grounding conductor, and the first grounding conductor is in conductive contact with the metal base plate. The second grounding conductor is disposed between the metal sheet and the metal base plate. The metal sheet is in conductive contact with the second grounding conductor, and the second grounding conductor is in conductive contact with the metal base plate.

[0026] An electronic device assembly method is provided for assembling an electronic device to form the above-described solution. The electronic device assembly method includes:

[0027] Grounding conductor installation steps: Place the first grounding conductor and the second grounding conductor on the metal base plate respectively;

[0028] Antenna assembly installation steps: Provide a pre-installed antenna assembly, electrically connect the first end of the feed line to the antenna main board, adjust the antenna assembly so that the RF connector is located on the side of the metal plate close to the metal base plate, install the metal plate to the housing so that the RF connector makes conductive contact with the metal base plate through the first grounding conductor, and makes conductive contact between the metal plate and the metal base plate, and encloses the metal plate and the metal base plate to form a cavity.

[0029] The beneficial effects of this application are as follows: After the antenna assembly is installed on the metal base plate of the electronic device, it can define a closed or semi-closed cavity between the metal sheet and the metal base plate. This cavity serves as a resonant cavity, and based on its resonance effect, the antenna's radiation efficiency and receiving sensitivity can be improved. This allows the antenna to maintain good antenna efficiency even when the internal space of the electronic device is limited. In situations where the internal space of the electronic device is limited, the antenna assembly of this application ensures good wireless communication capabilities. Furthermore, the antenna cavity is formed using the metal base plate of the electronic device housing, allowing for the construction of the antenna cavity with less material and a simpler structure. Using soft-base connectors as RF connectors, and welding the RF connectors to the feed line and the metal sheet, improves antenna reliability and facilitates pre-assembly into an antenna assembly.

[0030] The electronic device assembly method treats pre-assembled antenna components as a whole, improving overall assembly efficiency and product assembly consistency. Attached Figure Description

[0031] The present invention will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments.

[0032] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the front structure of the electronic device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0033] Figure 2 This is an exploded view of the electronic device described in an embodiment of the present invention (some components are omitted in the figure);

[0034] Figure 3 This is one of the schematic diagrams of the internal structure of the electronic device described in an embodiment of the present invention (the screen cover is omitted in the figure);

[0035] Figure 4 This is one of the assembly diagrams of the antenna assembly and the antenna motherboard in the electronic device described in the embodiment of the present invention;

[0036] Figure 5 This is a second schematic diagram of the assembly of the antenna assembly and the antenna motherboard in the electronic device described in this embodiment of the invention;

[0037] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the antenna assembly in the first angle according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0038] Figure 7 This is an exploded view of the antenna assembly described in an embodiment of the present invention at a first angle;

[0039] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the antenna assembly in the second angle according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0040] Figure 9 This is an exploded view of the antenna assembly described in an embodiment of the present invention at a second angle;

[0041] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the feed line being soldered to the radio frequency connector in the antenna assembly described in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0042] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the support member being attached to the radio frequency connector in the antenna assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0043] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram showing the mating relationship between the radio frequency connector and the metal sheet after the antenna assembly is assembled according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0044] Figure 13 This is one of the assembly flowcharts of the electronic device described in the embodiments of the present invention;

[0045] Figure 14 for Figure 13 Enlarged view of part A in the image;

[0046] Figure 15 This is the second assembly flowchart of the electronic device described in the embodiment of the present invention;

[0047] Figure 16 for Figure 15 Enlarged view of part B in the image;

[0048] Figure 17 This is a second schematic diagram of the internal structure of the electronic device described in an embodiment of the present invention (the screen cover and metal sheet are omitted in the figure);

[0049] Figure 18 for Figure 17 Enlarged view of section C in the image;

[0050] Figure 19 This is a schematic diagram of the radio frequency connector and metal plate grounding scheme of the electronic device described in the embodiment of the present invention;

[0051] Figure 20 for Figure 19 Enlarged view of part D in the image;

[0052] Figure 21 This is a front view of the radio frequency connector in the antenna assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention;

[0053] Figure 22 This is a schematic diagram of the back of the radio frequency connector in the antenna assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention;

[0054] Figure 23 This is a front view of the radio frequency connector in the antenna assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0055] In the diagram: 10. Antenna assembly; 11. Metal sheet; 1101. Top wall; 1102. Side wall; 111. Second welding positioning hole; 12. RF connector; 1201. First part; 1202. Second part; 121. First electrical connection; 1211. First pad; 1212. Second pad; 122. Second electrical connection; 123. Grounding part; 124. First welding positioning hole; 125. First mounting positioning part; 13. Feeder; 14. Support; 20. Housing; 21. Metal base plate; 22. Frame; 30. Plastic bracket; 31. First clearance hole; 32. Second clearance hole; 33. Second mounting positioning part; 40. Antenna main board; 51. First grounding conductor; 52. Second grounding conductor; 90. Screen cover. Detailed Implementation

[0056] To make the technical problems solved by the present invention, the technical solutions adopted, and the technical effects achieved clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0057] In the description of this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "connected" and "fixed" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0058] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can include direct contact between the first and second features, or contact between the first and second features through another feature between them. Furthermore, "above," "over," and "on top" of the second feature includes the first feature directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature includes the first feature directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0059] In current electronic device designs, antennas are typically designed as stand-alone antennas, such as FPC antennas, LDS antennas, or PIFA antennas. Stand-alone antennas refer to those that are not well-integrated or integrated with the device body. Among them, FPC (Flexibole Printed Circuit Antenna) is a new type of high-tech short-range built-in antenna suitable for various small electronic devices, such as mobile phones, laptops, and handheld devices; LDS (Laser Direct Structuring) antennas utilize laser direct forming technology to create conductive patterns and structures on plastic components; and PIFA (Plane Inverted-F Antenna) antennas, also known as planar inverted-F antennas, typically include a radiating element, a feed network, and a ground plane.

[0060] In related technologies, antennas in electronic devices such as mobile phones and tablets often suffer from insufficient clearance when used, making it difficult to achieve the predetermined antenna efficiency requirements. This is due to factors such as the back cover of electronic devices being a complete metal structure (without cut points or cut grooves), the trend towards thinner and smaller designs, and the compact internal space of electronic devices.

[0061] Due to limited internal space, antennas such as FPC, LDS, and PI FA may be placed close to the metal frame. This compact arrangement may result in insufficient clearance around the antenna, and the metal frame may have a shielding effect on the electromagnetic waves generated by the antenna, leading to reduced antenna radiation efficiency and signal quality.

[0062] For example, in practical applications, due to the design requirements of the electronic device's appearance, the entire back cover (including the base plate and frame) is made of a single piece of metal (e.g., aluminum). The metal back cover has no cut points or surfaces. Combined with the limited internal space, the distance between the antenna and the metal frame may not meet the clearance requirements. Thus, the antenna lacks a good radiation area and clearance environment, resulting in poor radiation performance at the device's frame. Furthermore, considering that when the electronic device is placed flat on a table, the performance of the antenna's signal radiation to the rear of the device (reflected in the RSSI signal strength) will decrease by 5 to 10 dB (the decrease range depends on the table material), the antenna's radiation effect on the back of the device is also limited. Therefore, the antenna can only achieve good radiation in the black edge area of ​​the cover glass. In summary, the problems with standalone antennas such as FPC, LDS, and PIFA in current electronic devices like tablets and mobile phones are: they can only radiate within the black border of the screen's cover glass, resulting in significant limitations in clearance; the distance between the antenna and surrounding metal is too small, failing to reach the ideal spacing; and the antenna cannot achieve good radiation, especially in the low-frequency band (below 4GHz), where the transmission and reception efficiency of radio frequency signals is difficult to meet specified requirements (because low-frequency signals have longer wavelengths and require greater clearance). Currently, standalone antennas such as FPC, LDS, and PIFA in electronic devices struggle to achieve antenna efficiencies greater than 20%. Antenna efficiency refers to the ability of an antenna to convert input power into effective radiated power, usually expressed as a percentage. It reflects the degree to which an antenna can effectively convert electrical energy into electromagnetic wave energy during operation. Specifically, antenna efficiency is the ratio of the power radiated by the antenna (i.e., the power effectively converted into electromagnetic waves) to the active power input to the antenna.

[0063] If grooves are cut into the metal frame to achieve the desired antenna efficiency, it will reduce the strength of the electronic device and may also lead to insufficient bonding strength between the frame and the cover glass.

[0064] To address the issue of insufficient clearance affecting antenna efficiency in electronic devices with limited internal space, current FPC, LDS, and PI FA antennas provide an antenna assembly and an electronic device employing the antenna assembly. A method for assembling the electronic device is also provided.

[0065] In this electronic device, the antenna is a cavity antenna, also known as a resonant cavity antenna. This electronic device can be, but is not limited to, tablet computers (such as entertainment tablets, conference tablets, student tablets, learning machine terminals, etc.), mobile phones, handheld learning machines, etc.

[0066] After the antenna assembly of this application is installed on the metal base plate of the electronic device, it can define a closed or semi-closed cavity (the cavity serves as a resonant cavity) between the metal sheet and the metal base plate, forming a cavity antenna. Because the cavity antenna itself has a certain degree of enclosure and shielding, its resonant cavity structure can reduce the influence of the external environment on the antenna performance to a certain extent, enabling the antenna to achieve good antenna performance even in environments with poor clearance conditions, ensuring that the antenna efficiency meets requirements.

[0067] Furthermore, the resonant cavity in this application is formed using the metal base plate of the electronic device housing, which allows for the construction of the resonant cavity with less material, resulting in a simpler structure and reduced material costs. Simultaneously, on the electronic device assembly line, the pre-assembled antenna assembly can be treated as a single component, reducing the types and number of parts on the assembly line, improving assembly efficiency, lowering the overall production cost of the electronic device, and enhancing product assembly consistency.

[0068] Please refer to Figures 1 to 23 The antenna assembly 10 of this application and the electronic device using the antenna assembly 10 of this application will be described below.

[0069] Antenna assembly 10 includes a metal plate 11, an RF connector 12, and a feed line 13. Antenna assembly 10 is mounted into the housing 20 of an electronic device. The metal plate 11 in antenna assembly 10 is positioned between the screen cover 90 and the metal base plate 21 of the electronic device. The metal plate 11 cooperates with the metal base plate 21 of the electronic device to define a cavity, which can also be called a resonant cavity. In other words, the formation of the antenna resonant cavity in the electronic device is achieved through the cooperation between the metal plate 11 in antenna assembly 10 and the metal base plate 21 of housing 20. Feed line 13 is the part of the antenna system used to transmit RF signals. Feed line 13 receives RF signals from antenna mainboard 40 and transmits the RF signals to the metal plate 11 through RF connector 12, or the signals received on the metal plate 11 are transmitted back to antenna mainboard 40 through RF connector 12 and feed line 13. Figure 6 , Figure 8 This diagram illustrates the completed assembly of antenna assembly 10. Figure 7 , Figure 9 An exploded view of antenna assembly 10 is shown. Figure 4 , Figure 5 The diagram illustrates that the antenna assembly 10 is connected to the antenna motherboard 40 of the electronic device via the first end of the feed line 13. Figure 3 The diagram illustrates the arrangement of the antenna assembly 10 inside the electronic device (the screen cover 90 and display screen are omitted in the figure).

[0070] Figure 1This diagram illustrates the overall structure of an electronic device. The electronic device is a device with a display screen. It includes a metal housing 20, which comprises a metal base plate 21 and a metal frame 22 surrounding the perimeter of the base plate 21. A mounting groove is defined between the metal base plate 21 and the metal frame 22, allowing circuit boards and other components to be accommodated within the mounting groove. The housing 20 has a top opening, at which a screen cover 90 is disposed. The display screen is located between the screen cover 90 and the metal base plate 21. The screen cover 90 protects the display screen and can be, but is not limited to, a glass cover. Figure 3 As shown, the electronic device includes an antenna motherboard 40, which can be, but is not limited to, a Wi-Fi motherboard. Both the antenna motherboard 40 and the antenna assembly 10 are housed within the mounting slot of the housing 20.

[0071] Reference Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 20 If the side of the electronic device with the screen cover 90 is the side facing upward, then the antenna assembly 10 is disposed on the upper side of the metal base plate 21. The metal sheet 11 includes a top wall portion 1101. The top wall portion 1101 of the metal sheet 11 is located on the upper side of the metal base plate 21 and is spaced a certain distance from the metal base plate 21. The cavity is located between the top wall portion 1101 and the metal base plate 21. In the antenna system, this cavity is also called a resonant cavity.

[0072] Please continue to refer to Figure 4 , Figure 5 The first end of the feed line 13 is electrically connected to the antenna mainboard 40 of the electronic device, and the second end of the feed line 13 is electrically connected to the first electrical connection portion 121 of the RF connector 12. The first electrical connection portion 121 and the second electrical connection portion 122 of the RF connector 12 are connected, and the second connector of the RF connector 12 is electrically connected to the metal plate 11. Thus, the antenna mainboard 40 is electrically connected to the metal plate 11 through the feed line 13 and the RF connector 12, realizing the transmission of antenna signals between the antenna mainboard 40 and the metal plate 11.

[0073] The electronic device of this application adopts the principle of cavity antenna (also known as resonant cavity antenna). The cavity is formed by the space between the metal plate 11 and the metal base plate 21. The antenna main board 40 generates radio frequency signals. The radio frequency signals are transmitted to the radio frequency connector 12 through the feed line 13, and then to the metal plate 11 through the radio frequency connector 12. Part of the energy generated by the electromagnetic field will couple into the cavity between the metal plate 11 and the metal base plate 21. After the electromagnetic wave enters the cavity, it will reflect back and forth in the cavity to form a standing wave and reach a resonance state, thereby enhancing the signal transmission and reception capability in the required frequency band.

[0074] It should be noted that cavity antennas in electronic devices can be either closed or open. An open cavity antenna refers to a cavity between the metal plate 11 and the metal base plate 21 that has one or more openings. These openings allow electromagnetic waves to radiate directly into the external environment, serving as channels for both radiation and reception. A closed cavity antenna refers to a cavity between the metal plate 11 and the metal base plate 21 that is closed without any openings. In this case, electromagnetic waves are coupled to the external environment through the cavity walls (usually metal walls), thus achieving radiation and reception. This coupling is typically achieved through small holes, gaps, or special structures in the cavity walls, even though the cavity itself does not have direct openings.

[0075] The antenna assembly 10 and electronic device of this application can improve antenna performance, help control the cost of electronic devices, and improve the consistency of antenna performance among different devices. The specific advantages of the antenna structure used in the electronic device of this application include:

[0076] First, compared to antennas such as FPC, LDS, and PI FA, this device achieves better antenna performance and meets antenna efficiency requirements even in environments with limited internal antenna clearance. The cavity antenna in this application utilizes the cavity formed between the metal sheet 11 and the metal base plate 21 to radiate and receive electromagnetic waves. This makes the antenna less dependent on external space clearance conditions. Based on the resonance effect within the cavity, the antenna's radiation efficiency and receiving sensitivity are improved, thus maintaining good antenna efficiency even when the internal antenna clearance environment of the electronic device is limited. In situations where internal space is limited in electronic devices, the antenna assembly 10 of this application ensures good wireless communication capabilities.

[0077] Secondly, compared to cavities that provide a resonant cavity through an independent, single structure, the cavity antenna of this application can be constructed with a simpler structure. This application utilizes the metal base plate 21 of the device housing 20 and the metal sheet 11 of the antenna assembly 10 to form a resonant cavity. By having the metal base plate 21 serve as the bottom wall of the resonant cavity, no additional metal material is needed for the bottom wall, thus saving material costs. Correspondingly, the structure of the metal sheet 11 is also simpler; the side of the metal sheet 11 near the metal base plate 21 can be open, facilitating the pre-positioning of the RF connector 12 on the side of the metal sheet 11 near the metal base plate 21 and achieving electrical connection between the two.

[0078] like Figure 5 The bottom of the metal sheet 11 faces upward, and the bottom of the metal sheet 11 is open with an opening. The radio frequency connector 12 can be connected to the metal sheet 11 from the open side of the bottom of the metal sheet 11. During assembly, the open side of the metal sheet 11 (that is, the side where the radio frequency connector 12 is provided) faces the metal base plate 21.

[0079] Third, in the antenna assembly 10 of this application, the feed line 13 is not directly connected to the metal plate 11. Instead, the feed line 13 is connected to the RF connector 12, and then connected to the metal plate 11 through the RF connector 12. This improves the stability and efficiency of signal transmission. For example, by adding the RF connector 12 between the feed line 13 and the metal plate 11, the position, shape, and wiring layout of the RF connector 12 can be adjusted to better match the impedance of the feed line 13. Impedance matching reduces signal reflection and loss during transmission, thereby improving the stability and efficiency of signal transmission. The RF connector 12 can be designed with a reliable connection mechanism to ensure a stable connection between the feed line 13 and the metal plate 11, helping to reduce signal transmission problems caused by loose connections or poor contact.

[0080] Fourth, the antenna assembly 10 of this application is suitable for pre-assembly and then entering the electronic device assembly line as a single part or module, which helps to reduce the amount of materials in the assembly line and improve the assembly efficiency. Using the pre-assembled antenna assembly 10 to be installed as a whole onto the metal base plate 21 of the electronic device also helps to improve the consistency of antenna performance after assembly of different electronic devices.

[0081] Compared to FPC-type antenna designs, the cost of the antenna assembly 10 and electronic device in this application is not reduced. However, FPC-type antennas have poor antenna performance and cannot be used when the internal antenna clearance distance of the electronic device is insufficient (e.g., 5mm). Furthermore, the cavity antenna of this application has a simple structure and is easy to assemble, which helps to reduce the number of parts on the electronic device assembly line and improve assembly efficiency, thereby reducing material costs and assembly process costs.

[0082] Reference Figure 21 , Figure 22 , Figure 7 , Figure 9 The radio frequency connector 12 is a flexible connector, which includes conductive lines on a flexible substrate. The flexible substrate has insulation and flexibility. The first electrical connection part 121 and the second electrical connection part 122 are connected by conductive lines to realize the transmission of radio frequency signals.

[0083] Optionally, the flexible substrate is one of polyimide (PI), polyester film (PET), liquid crystal polymer (LCP), or thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). PI is preferred because it has good temperature resistance and high-frequency performance, making it suitable for high-temperature welding applications.

[0084] Optionally, the conductive circuit is one of copper foil, copper-plated material, silver paste printing layer, and conductive ink layer. The copper foil can be rolled copper foil or electrolytic copper foil.

[0085] Optionally, the conductive lines are disposed on the flexible substrate by physically bonding the conductive lines and pads (solder joints) to the flexible substrate through thermo-pressing. For example, copper is deposited on the surface of the flexible substrate using a lamination method, and lines are formed on the copper layer using photolithography and / or etching processes to obtain conductive lines located on the flexible substrate. Alternatively, for example, the circuit pattern is pre-etched on a whole copper foil to form conductive lines, and then the patterned copper foil (conductive lines) is bonded to the flexible substrate by lamination.

[0086] The first electrical connection portion 121 and the second electrical connection portion 122 can be, but are not limited to, metal pads. The first electrical connection portion 121 and the second connection portion can be partially exposed on the surface of the flexible substrate to facilitate the second end of the feed line 13 to be electrically connected to the first electrical connection portion 121, and to facilitate the second electrical connection portion 122 to be electrically connected to the metal sheet 11.

[0087] In this embodiment, a soft-base connector is used as the RF connector 12. The RF connector 12 has good flexibility and bendability, which can adapt to complex installation environments and space constraints. The RF connector 12 is not easily torn. During the assembly of the antenna assembly 10, the RF connector 12 can be slightly bent as needed to make the electrical connection between the RF connector 12 and the feed line 13, and between the RF connector 12 and the metal sheet 11 easier.

[0088] Taking the RF connector 12 as a flexible substrate with copper traces as an example, the copper trace includes one or more of the first electrical connection portion 121, conductive lines, and second electrical connection portion 122. The impedance can be adjusted by changing the shape, size, and thickness of the first electrical connection portion 121, the second electrical connection portion 122, and the conductive lines to ensure good impedance matching between the feed line 13, the RF connector 12, and the metal sheet 11, thereby reducing signal reflection and loss during transmission and improving the stability and efficiency of signal transmission. Alternatively, the antenna radiation characteristics and antenna gain can be adjusted by changing the shape, size, and thickness of the first electrical connection portion 121, the second electrical connection portion 122, and the conductive lines.

[0089] In one embodiment, such as Figure 5 , Figure 8 , Figure 12 The second electrical connection part 122 of the radio frequency connector 12 is welded to the metal sheet 11, which not only realizes the electrical connection between the radio frequency connector 12 and the metal sheet 11 to achieve stable transmission of radio frequency signals, but also realizes the physical connection and fixation between the radio frequency connector 12 and the metal sheet 11. The connection at this point has a certain strength and pull-out resistance, which makes it convenient to pre-assemble the antenna assembly 10 into a whole.

[0090] Optionally, such as Figure 5 , Figure 8 , Figure 10 , Figure 12 The first electrical connection part 121 of the RF connector 12 is welded to the feed line 13, which realizes the electrical connection between the RF connector 12 and the metal piece 11 to achieve stable transmission of RF signals, and also realizes the physical connection and fixation between the RF connector 12 and the feed line 13. The connection at this point has a certain strength and pull-out resistance, which makes it convenient to pre-assemble the antenna assembly 10 into a whole.

[0091] Compared to electrical connections such as spring contacts, this embodiment uses welding to achieve the electrical connection between the second electrical connection part 122 and the metal sheet 11, which is more robust and reliable, less prone to fatigue loosening, and ensures the stability of signal transmission between the radio frequency connector 12 and the metal sheet 11.

[0092] Compared to the first electrical connection part 121 being configured as a socket, where the end of the feed line 13 is inserted into and fastened to the socket to achieve electrical connection between the feed line 13 and the RF connector 12, in this embodiment the end of the feed line 13 is welded to the second electrical connection part 122, which is more stable, less prone to loosening, and ensures the stability of antenna performance.

[0093] In the process of designing the antenna structure of electronic devices, the inventors considered adopting the following scheme: a PCB board is used as an RF connector, a metal base plate, a PCB board, and a metal sheet are stacked, a first IPEX socket is set on the antenna main board, a second IPEX socket is set between the metal base plate and the PCB board, and a conductive spring is set between the PCB board and the metal sheet. The two ends of the conductive spring contact the PCB board and the metal sheet respectively, thereby realizing the sequential electrical connection between the antenna main board, the first IPEX socket, the feed line, the second IPEX socket, the PCB board, the conductive spring, and the metal sheet. First, the assembly of electronic devices involves a large number of parts and low assembly efficiency. Second, the two ends of the feeder are connected to the IPEX socket, which may become loose under impact or stress, affecting the stability of RF signal transmission. Third, poor contact between the conductive spring and the metal plate may occur: this may be due to installation errors of the metal plate 11 board, impact on the equipment, or mechanical fatigue caused by deformation of the conductive spring, resulting in the conductive spring failing to make tight contact with the metal plate 11, leading to unstable electrical connection between the PCB board and the metal plate 11, affecting RF signal transmission.

[0094] In this embodiment, the second electrical connection portion 122 of the RF connector 12 is configured to be welded to the metal sheet 11. On the one hand, this makes the electrical connection between the RF connector 12 and the metal sheet 11 more stable and reliable, resulting in more stable RF signal transmission and stable antenna performance. On the other hand, by welding the feed line 13 to the RF connector 12 and the RF connector 12 to the metal sheet 11, the antenna assembly 10 can be pre-assembled. This allows the metal sheet 11, the RF connector 12, and the feed line 13 in the antenna assembly 10 to be treated as a single unit during the overall assembly of the electronic device, optimizing the overall assembly process, improving the overall assembly efficiency, and reducing the overall assembly cost. Thirdly, compared to the electrical connection scheme where the RF connector 12 has a conductive spring contacting the metal sheet 11, this embodiment can also avoid the problem of different antenna performances between different electronic devices due to different contact tightness between the metal spring and the metal sheet 11 caused by installation errors. This helps to improve the consistency of antenna performance between different electronic devices. In this embodiment, the feed line 13 and the RF connector 12 are fixedly fed by welding, and the RF connector 12 and the metal sheet 11 are also fixedly fed by welding. This reduces two uncertain nodes, changing the unstable feed to a stable feed, resulting in high stability and improved antenna reliability. The RF connector 12 is less likely to detach from the feed line 13 or the metal sheet 11, ensuring high reliability. The RF connector 12 is flexible and bendable, making it less prone to tearing during welding or application.

[0095] Optionally, both the first electrical connection portion 121 and the second electrical connection portion 122 of the RF connector 12 are provided with pads for soldering to the feed line 13 and the metal sheet 11, respectively. Multiple pads may be provided in the second electrical connection portion 122 to increase the soldering area between the RF connector 12 and the metal sheet 11 and improve the soldering strength.

[0096] Optionally, the first electrical connection 121 is connected to the feeder 13 by spot welding, and the second electrical connection 122 is connected to the metal sheet 11 by spot welding. Spot welding is a fast and efficient welding method suitable for mass production. It can complete a large number of welding points in a short time, thereby improving production efficiency. Compared with other welding methods, spot welding usually does not require expensive welding materials or complex welding processes. The weld points formed by spot welding have high strength and good electrical connection performance. In other embodiments, the RF connector 12 and the feeder 13, and the RF connector 12 and the metal sheet 11 can also be welded by other means, such as reflow soldering.

[0097] It is understandable that when the RF connector 12 is a flexible connector, the first electrical connection portion 121 and the second electrical connection portion 122 can be provided by setting exposed conductive areas on the insulating surface of the flexible substrate. Compared with setting sockets, springs, etc. on the flexible substrate, welding the exposed conductive areas of the flexible substrate with the feeder 13 and the metal sheet 11 is more reliable and easier to process, and it does not require setting a large and heavy socket on the surface of the flexible substrate. For example only, the first electrical connection portion 121 and the second electrical connection portion 122 can be provided by covering both sides of the conductive material such as copper foil or copper mesh with insulating flexible material and exposing the metal material in the corresponding areas where welding is required.

[0098] In other embodiments, the second electrical connection portion 122 of the RF connector 12 and the metal sheet 11, and the first electrical connection portion 121 of the RF connector 12 and the feeder 13, can also be electrically connected by crimping, which refers to tightly connecting the contact points together by mechanical pressure.

[0099] In other embodiments, the first electrical connection portion 121 of the RF connector 12 is connected to the feeder 13 via a socket insertion and snap-fit, and the second electrical connection portion 122 of the RF connector 12 is welded to the metal sheet 11.

[0100] For ease of understanding, the following embodiments will continue to use the radio frequency connector 12 as a flexible connector as an example for explanation.

[0101] In one embodiment, the second electrical connection portion 122 of the RF connector 12 is welded to the metal sheet 11. To improve the welding accuracy between the RF connector 12 and the metal sheet 11, and thus improve the consistency of different devices, refer to... Figure 10 , Figure 11 The RF connector 12 is provided with a first welding positioning hole 124, as shown in the reference. Figure 6 , Figure 7 A second welding positioning hole 111 is provided on the metal sheet 11, as shown in the reference. Figure 12 The first welding positioning hole 124 and the second welding positioning hole 111 are aligned, and the first welding positioning hole 124 and the second welding positioning hole 111 are used for positioning and mating with the positioning fixture. Exemplarily, the positioning fixture is provided with positioning posts. When assembling the antenna assembly 10, the RF connector 12 and the metal sheet 11 are placed in the positioning fixture, and the same positioning post passes through both the first welding positioning hole 124 and the second welding positioning hole 111 simultaneously, thereby determining the relative position of the metal sheet 11 and the RF connector 12 before welding. In this embodiment, by positioning and mating the RF connector 12, the metal sheet 11, and the positioning fixture, the second electrical connection portion 122 of the RF connector 12 can be welded to a predetermined area of ​​the metal sheet 11. For different devices, the welding positions of the RF connector 12 and the metal sheet 11 are consistent, ensuring consistent RF signal transmission performance, thereby improving the consistency of performance between different devices. In addition, compared to placing the metal sheet 11 and the radio frequency connector 12 as a whole in the positioning slot of the positioning fixture, the positioning method of this embodiment has less interference and obstruction to the welding process.

[0102] It is understandable that, in order to achieve welding positioning, positioning holes are provided on the RF connector 12 and the metal sheet 11 instead of positioning protrusions. This makes it easier to directly drill holes in the thinner RF connector 12 and the metal sheet 11, thereby improving the positioning part and making processing convenient.

[0103] Optionally, the RF connector 12 is provided with a plurality of first welding positioning holes 124, and the metal sheet 11 is provided with a plurality of second welding positioning holes 111. "A plurality of" refers to two or more. The plurality of first welding positioning holes 124 and the plurality of second welding positioning holes 111 are aligned one by one. By aligning two or more sets of positioning holes, the relative angle and relative position of the RF connector 12 and the metal sheet 11 can be determined more accurately.

[0104] In one embodiment, please refer to Figures 8 to 9 , Figure 11The second end of the feed line 13 is located on the side of the RF connector 12 near the metal plate 11. This prevents the connection point of the second end of the feed line 13 from being directly exposed on the surface of the antenna assembly 10, reducing friction between the second end of the feed line 13 and the external environment, and facilitating a reliable connection between the second end of the feed line 13 and the RF connector 12. To prevent a short circuit between the feed line 13 and the metal plate 11, an insulating support member 14 is provided between the RF connector 12 and the metal plate 11. One side of the support member 14 abuts against the inner surface of the top wall 1101 of the metal plate 11, and the other side abuts against the RF connector 12. The support member 14 can be located between the second end of the feed line 13 and the metal plate 11, preventing direct contact between the feed line 13 and the metal plate 11 that could cause a short circuit, allowing the signal to be transmitted to the metal plate 11 through the feed line 13 and the RF connector 12. Furthermore, the support member 14 can shield and support the end of the feed line 13, which helps to protect the end of the feed line 13 and maintain a safe distance between the first electrical connection part 121 and the metal plate 11.

[0105] Optionally, the support member 14 is made of insulating foam. The insulating foam can have a certain degree of rigidity, providing a certain supporting function, while also being less likely to scratch the RF connector 12 and the metal sheet 11. In other embodiments, the support member 14 can also be made of insulating plastic or other materials, or it can simply be an insulating sheet.

[0106] Optionally, the support member 14 is a block support member 14, that is, the support member 14 has a certain thickness to maintain a safe distance between the first electrical connection part 121 and the metal sheet 11.

[0107] Optionally, the support member 14 is bonded to the RF connector 12, and the support member 14 is bonded to the metal sheet 11. The support member 14 not only prevents a direct short circuit between the feed line 13 and the metal sheet 11, but also strengthens the overall integrity of the antenna assembly 10. For example, as... Figure 8 , Figure 9 The radio frequency connector 12 includes a first part 1201 and a second part 1202. A first electrical connection part 121 is disposed in the first part 1201, and a second electrical connection part 122 is disposed in the second part 1202. The second electrical connection part 122 of the radio frequency connector 12 is welded to the metal sheet 11. A support member 14 is also provided between the first part 1201 of the radio frequency connector 12 and the metal sheet 11. The support member 14 is attached to the first part 1201 of the radio frequency connector 12 and the metal sheet 11, which also serves to connect and fix the first part 1201 of the radio frequency connector 12 to the metal sheet 11. Thus, after the antenna assembly 10 is assembled, it becomes a stable whole, allowing the antenna assembly 10 to enter the electronic device assembly line as a separate part.

[0108] Of course, in other embodiments, the support member 14 may be attached only to the radio frequency connector 12 or only to the metal sheet 11 to fix the support member 14.

[0109] In some embodiments, the RF connector 12 is a flexible substrate connector, the flexible substrate being bendable, or both the flexible substrate and the conductive lines located on the flexible substrate being bendable. (Refer to...) Figures 21 to 23 Before assembly, the RF connector 12 can be in a relatively flat state, as shown in the reference. Figures 7 to 12 During assembly, the first part 1201 and the second part 1202 are bent together to connect them through the bent part, thereby creating a height difference between the first part 1201 and the second part 1202. Thus, taking the metal sheet 11 located on the upper side of the metal base plate 21 as an example, while the upper side of the second part 1202 is welded to the metal sheet 11, a gap can be maintained between the upper side of the first part 1201 and the metal sheet 11, and a support member 14 can be provided in this gap.

[0110] In one embodiment, reference is made to Figures 4 to 11 Feeder 13 is a coaxial cable. The coaxial feeder 13 mainly consists of an inner conductor, an outer conductor, and an insulating sheath. The inner conductor is used for signal transmission, the outer conductor is used to shield electromagnetic fields and reduce signal leakage, and the insulating sheath is used to isolate the inner and outer conductors to prevent current from flowing to the outside. The inner conductor is also called the excitation line, and the outer conductor is also called the reference ground line or shielding layer. Figure 10 The second end of the coaxial cable is soldered to the first electrical connection portion 121 of the RF connector 12, as shown in the reference. Figure 21 , Figure 23 The first electrical connection portion 121 includes a first pad 1211 and a second pad 1212. The insulating outer sheath of the second end of the coaxial line is peeled off, the internal excitation line is soldered to the first pad 1211, and the external reference ground line is soldered to the second pad 1212.

[0111] Optionally, the second electrical connection portion 122 includes one or more third pads. When multiple third pads are configured, the reliability of the spot welding connection between the RF connector 12 and the metal sheet 11 is improved. The first pad 1211 is electrically connected to the third pad of the second electrical connection portion 122 through a conductive line, so that the excitation line of the coaxial cable is electrically connected to the metal sheet 11 through the RF connector 12 to realize signal transmission.

[0112] In other embodiments, the feed line 13 may also be a flat feed line 13 (parallel feed line 13), a strip line, etc.

[0113] Optionally, for electrical performance and safety considerations, the RF connector 12 includes a grounding portion 123, which is disposed on the side of the RF connector 12 away from the metal sheet 11; the grounding portion 123 is used for electrical connection with the metal base plate 21 of the electronic device.

[0114] For example, the first electrical connection portion 121 and the grounding portion 123 are located on opposite sides of the first part 1201 of the RF connection portion. The grounding portion 123 is the exposed metal part on the back of the RF connector 12. The grounding portion 123 is conductive to the second pad 1212. By setting the grounding portion 123, the coaxial cable and the RF connector 12 can be grounded, allowing the induced charge on the shielding layer (reference ground wire) of the coaxial cable to be discharged in time. After grounding, the charge on the shielding layer can flow into the ground through the ground wire, thereby eliminating interference. A grounding conductor can be provided between the grounding portion 123 of the RF connector 12 and the metal base plate 21 to ground the grounding portion 123 of the RF connector 12.

[0115] The following is a method for assembling antenna assembly 10: First welding step: Refer to... Figure 10 Feeder 13 is a coaxial cable, and RF connector 12 is a flexible connector. The second end of feeder 13 is soldered to the first electrical connection on the front side of RF connector 12. Support 14 bonding steps: Refer to... Figure 11 Attach the support member 14 to the front side of the RF connector 12, so that the support member 14 covers the first electrical connection portion 121 and the second end of the feed line 13. Second soldering step: Refer to... Figure 6 , Figure 8 The radio frequency connector 12 and the metal sheet 11 are placed on the positioning fixture, and the second electrical connection part 122 of the radio frequency connector 12 is welded to the metal sheet 11 by a spot welding device; the above-mentioned antenna assembly 10 assembly method is not the only limitation of this application.

[0116] In one embodiment, reference is made to Figure 2 The electronic device also includes a plastic bracket 30, which is insulated and used to support the antenna mainboard 40, antenna assembly 10, etc., and provides a locking and fixing position for components. The plastic bracket 30 is disposed within the mounting groove of the housing 20 and on the top side of the metal base plate 21. The plastic bracket 30 is connected and fixed to the housing 20 by secondary injection molding, adhesive bonding, or other methods. The metal sheet 11 is connected to the plastic bracket 30 by fasteners, thereby fixing the entire antenna assembly 10 to the plastic bracket 30. The antenna mainboard 40 is connected to the plastic bracket 30 by fasteners. The fasteners can be, but are not limited to, screws.

[0117] The plastic bracket 30 is used to fix the antenna assembly 10 and the antenna motherboard 40 and other electronic components to the metal housing 20. The plastic bracket 30 is also insulated and will not cause short circuits.

[0118] Alternatively, to allow the antenna assembly 10 to be installed in a suitable position within the housing 20, refer to Figure 8 , Figure 14 , Figure 19 The RF connector 12 or the metal plate 11 is provided with a first mounting positioning part 125, and the plastic bracket 30 is provided with a second mounting positioning part 33. The first mounting positioning part 125 and the second mounting positioning part 33 are inserted and cooperated to allow the antenna assembly 10 to be accurately placed in the accurate position inside the housing 20 before tightening the fastening screws, thereby realizing the installation positioning between the antenna assembly 10 and the plastic bracket 30, and ensuring that the subsequent operation of tightening the metal plate 11 into the plastic bracket 30 is carried out accurately and without error, thus improving assembly efficiency.

[0119] Optionally, the first mounting positioning part 125 is a mounting positioning hole provided in the RF connector 12, and the second mounting positioning part 33 is a mounting positioning post provided in the plastic bracket 30, as shown in the reference. Figure 19 The mounting positioning post is inserted into the mounting positioning hole to position the antenna assembly 10 on the plastic bracket 30. On the one hand, it is convenient to directly machine the mounting positioning hole into the RF connector 12 and the metal sheet 11; on the other hand, the RF connector 12 is closer to the plastic bracket 30 than the top wall 1101 of the metal sheet 11, so the mounting positioning hole is set in the first part 1201 of the RF connector 12, and the mounting positioning post does not need to be very long to pass through the mounting positioning hole.

[0120] In other embodiments, the first mounting and positioning part 125 may also be a mounting and positioning hole provided in the metal sheet 11. Alternatively, a blind slot may be directly provided in the plastic bracket 30, and the antenna assembly 10 may be partially embedded in the blind slot for positioning.

[0121] In one embodiment, the electronic device includes the aforementioned plastic bracket 30. For electrical performance and safety considerations, the radio frequency connector 12 is grounded via a metal base plate 21. (Refer to...) Figure 16 , Figure 20 The electronic device includes a first grounding conductor 51. A plastic bracket 30 has a first clearance hole 31, within which the first grounding conductor 51 is disposed. The RF connector 12 has a grounding portion 123 on the side facing away from the metal plate 11. The first grounding conductor 51 is positioned between the grounding portion 123 and the metal base plate 21, making conductive contact between the grounding portion 123 and the first grounding conductor 51. The first clearance hole 31 accommodates the first grounding conductor 51, allowing the antenna assembly 10 to be installed on the plastic bracket 30. The grounding portion 123 on the back of the RF connector 12 can then be connected to the metal base plate 21 via the first grounding conductor 51, achieving grounding. The first grounding conductor 51 can be made of conductive foam, conductive adhesive, conductive gasket, conductive screw, spring sheet, etc.

[0122] In one embodiment, the electronic device includes the aforementioned plastic bracket 30. For electrical performance and safety considerations, the metal plate 11 is grounded via a metal base plate 21. (Refer to...) Figure 16 , Figure 20 The electronic device includes a second grounding conductor 52. A plastic bracket 30 has a second clearance hole 32, within which the second grounding conductor 52 is disposed. The second grounding conductor 52 is positioned between a metal sheet 11 and a metal base plate 21, making conductive contact between the metal sheet 11 and the second grounding conductor 52, and between the second grounding conductor 52 and the metal base plate 21. The clearance hole 32 accommodates the second grounding conductor 52, allowing the antenna assembly 10 to be installed on the plastic bracket 30. The metal sheet 11 can then be grounded by connecting to the metal base plate 21 via the second grounding conductor 52. The second grounding conductor 52 can be made of conductive foam, conductive adhesive, conductive gasket, conductive screw, spring sheet, etc.

[0123] The metal sheet 11 has a relatively large area, allowing for the configuration of multiple spaced second clearance holes 32 and multiple spaced second grounding conductors 52 to ensure effective grounding. Grounding the RF connector 12 and the metal sheet 11 reduces interference and improves communication quality.

[0124] Optionally, the metal sheet 11 includes a top wall portion 1101 and a side wall portion 1102. The top wall portion 1101 is spaced apart from the metal base plate 21, and the side wall portion 1102 is bent from the top wall portion 1101 toward the side closer to the metal base plate 21. The top wall portion 1101, the side wall portion 1102, and the metal base plate 21 cooperate to define the resonant cavity. During assembly, the metal sheet 11 is grounded by the bottom of the side wall portion 1102 abutting against the second grounding conductor 52. The side wall portion 1102 is convenient for enclosing the resonant cavity, facilitates the grounding of the metal sheet 11, and is easy to process and shape by bending.

[0125] Optionally, the sidewall portion 1102 includes a vertical sidewall portion and a horizontal sidewall portion, that is, the sidewall portion 1102 is approximately L-shaped, the vertical sidewall portion is bent relative to the top wall portion 1101, and the horizontal sidewall portion is bent inward from the end of the vertical sidewall portion away from the top wall portion 1101. In this way, the vertical sidewall portion provides vertical support to maintain a gap between the top wall portion 1101 and the metal base plate 21 of the equipment, and the horizontal sidewall portion provides a larger contact surface for contact and connection with the metal base plate 21.

[0126] Optionally, there is one first grounding conductor 51 and four second grounding conductors 52.

[0127] Optionally, the top wall portion 1101 of the metal sheet 11 is rectangular. The top wall portion 1101 has a first sidewall portion 1102 bent on its first side, a second sidewall portion 1102 bent on its second side, a third sidewall portion 1102 bent on its third side, and no sidewall portion 1102 on its fourth side. That is, after the metal sheet 11 is installed into the housing 20, an opening for a cavity is formed between the fourth side of the top wall portion 1101 and the metal base plate 21. The second sidewall portion 1102 has a corresponding notch for the feeder cable 13 to pass through.

[0128] This application also provides an electronic device assembly method for assembling an electronic device forming the aforementioned solution. The electronic device assembly method includes a grounding conductor installation step and an antenna assembly 10 installation step. The electronic device assembly method of this embodiment directly installs the pre-assembled antenna assembly 10, including a feed line 13, an RF connector 12, and a metal sheet 11, onto the housing 20, which can improve assembly efficiency and enhance the assembly consistency of different devices.

[0129] Grounding conductor installation steps: Place the first grounding conductor 51 and the second grounding conductor 52 on the metal base plate 21 respectively. Figure 14 The metal casing 20 in the middle has not yet been equipped with a grounding conductor. Figure 16 The diagram shows that the first grounding conductor 51 is installed in the first clearance hole 31 of the plastic bracket 30, and the second grounding conductor 52 is installed in the second clearance hole 32 of the plastic bracket 30. The clearance hole of the plastic bracket 30 exposes the metal base plate 21, which facilitates the bottom side of the grounding conductor to contact the metal base plate 21, and also provides a positioning for the grounding conductor installation.

[0130] Antenna assembly 10 installation steps: as follows Figure 6 , Figure 7 The diagram shows that a pre-installed antenna assembly 10 is provided, followed by tightening the metal plate 11 and connecting the feed line 13 to the antenna main board 40. The two steps of tightening the metal plate 11 and connecting the feed line 13 to the antenna main board 40 can be performed either first or simultaneously.

[0131] Connecting the feeder 13 to the antenna mainboard 40 includes: electrically connecting the first end of the feeder 13 to the antenna mainboard 40, for example, by snapping or plugging the first end of the feeder 13 into the socket of the antenna mainboard 40.

[0132] The locking of the metal piece 11 includes: adjusting the antenna assembly 10 so that the radio frequency connector 12 is located on the side of the metal piece 11 close to the metal base plate 21; installing the metal piece 11 into the plastic bracket 30 inside the housing 20 by fasteners; after the metal piece 11 is locked, the radio frequency connector 12 makes conductive contact with the metal base plate 21 through the first grounding conductor 51, and the metal piece 11 makes conductive contact with the metal base plate 21, and a cavity is formed between the metal piece 11 and the metal base plate 21.

[0133] In one embodiment, the electronic device includes the aforementioned plastic bracket 30, first grounding conductor 51, and second grounding conductor 52; the antenna motherboard 40 is provided with a socket, which can be, but is not limited to, an IPEX socket, and the feed line 13 is a coaxial cable. In the antenna assembly 10, the RF connector 12 is a soft-base connector, the metal sheet 11 includes a top wall portion 1101 and a side wall portion 1102, the first end of the feed line 13 is soldered to the RF connector 12, and the RF connector 12 is soldered to the metal sheet 11.

[0134] The antenna assembly 10 is pre-assembled as a whole and then installed into the electronic device. During installation, the first grounding conductor 51 is set in the first clearance hole 31 and the second grounding conductor 52 is set in the second clearance hole 32 of the plastic bracket 30 of the electronic device. Then, the first end of the feed line 13 is plugged into the antenna motherboard 40 socket. Then, the metal piece 11 is fastened to the plastic bracket 30 with screws to complete the installation of the antenna assembly 10.

[0135] The antenna solution for the electronic device in this embodiment, compared to FPC-type antenna designs, can meet the performance requirements for antenna signal transmission and reception under the same sheltered environment. Compared to other cavity antenna solutions, the cavity antenna solution for the electronic device in this embodiment can reduce material and process costs in the electronic device assembly line.

[0136] In this embodiment of the electronic device antenna solution, the antenna assembly 10 can be pre-assembled as a whole, thereby optimizing the manufacturing process. For the antenna assembly 10 assembly line, apart from the fixing screws and foam, the integration of other components can be completed using spot welding equipment. For the electronic device assembly line, it is only necessary to install the antenna assembly 10 onto the main unit of the equipment, attach the corresponding grounding conductor, and lock the metal sheet 11 onto the plastic bracket 30.

[0137] The antenna scheme of the electronic device in this embodiment can improve antenna reliability. Firstly, the radio frequency signal transmission is simpler. Compared with the signal transmission path of antenna motherboard 40, fixed socket on antenna motherboard 40, feed line 13, fixed socket on PCB, PCB, conductive spring on the surface of PCB, and metal sheet 11, the signal transmission path in this embodiment is antenna motherboard 40, fixed socket on antenna motherboard 40, feed line 13, radio frequency connector 12, and metal sheet 11. On the one hand, this embodiment can reduce two uncertain transmission nodes in the middle. On the other hand, this embodiment changes from non-fixed contact feeding to solder feeding, which can improve antenna reliability in many ways.

[0138] The antenna design of the electronic device in this embodiment improves the reliability of the feed line: First, both the RF connector 12 with a flexible substrate and the coaxial cable are flexible and bendable, making them less prone to bending and breakage. Second, if a PCB board is used as the RF connector 12, and a socket is provided on the RF connector 12 to fasten the coaxial cable, the connection between the coaxial cable and the RF connector 12 is prone to loosening under stress. If the antenna assembly 10 is pre-assembled as a whole, the fastening between the coaxial cable and the RF connector 12 may loosen during the storage, transportation, and loading of the antenna assembly 10 onto the assembly line. In this embodiment, the coaxial cable and the RF connector 12 are soldered together, improving reliability. Third, if a PCB board is used as the RF connector 12, and a conductive spring is provided on the surface of the PCB board to contact the metal sheet 11, this non-fixed contact spring feeding method may cause the spring to deform due to mechanical fatigue, potentially leading to loosening between the RF connector 12 and the metal sheet 11. In this embodiment, the RF connector 12 and the metal sheet 11 are soldered together, improving reliability.

[0139] The antenna scheme used in the electronic device of this embodiment can reduce the overall assembly efficiency, improve the stability of the structure and antenna performance, and enhance the antenna signal transmission and reception effect.

[0140] In the description herein, it should be understood that the terms "upper," "lower," "left," and "right," etc., refer to the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and are used only for ease of description and simplification of operation. They do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as limiting the present invention. Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used merely for descriptive distinction and have no special meaning.

[0141] In the description of this specification, references to terms such as "an embodiment," "example," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In this specification, illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example.

[0142] Furthermore, it should be understood that although this specification describes embodiments, not every embodiment contains only one independent technical solution. This narrative style of the specification is merely for clarity. Those skilled in the art should consider the specification as a whole, and the technical solutions in each embodiment can also be appropriately combined to form other embodiments that can be understood by those skilled in the art.

[0143] The technical principles of the present invention have been described above with reference to specific embodiments. These descriptions are merely for explaining the principles of the invention and should not be construed as limiting the scope of protection of the invention in any way. Based on this explanation, those skilled in the art can readily conceive of other specific embodiments of the invention without inventive effort, and these embodiments will all fall within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. An antenna assembly, characterized in that, include: A metal sheet (11) is used to define a cavity between itself and the metal base plate (21) of the electronic device; The radio frequency connector (12) includes a first electrical connection portion (121) and a second electrical connection portion (122); the radio frequency connector (12) is a soft-base connector, which includes a flexible soft substrate and conductive lines disposed on the flexible soft substrate; Feed line (13), the first end of which is used for electrical connection with the antenna motherboard (40) of the electronic device; The second end of the feed line (13) is welded to the first electrical connection part (121) so that the feed line (13) is fixedly connected to and electrically connected to the radio frequency connector (12); The second electrical connection part (122) is welded to the metal sheet (11) so that the radio frequency connector (12) is fixedly connected to the metal sheet (11) and electrically connected.

2. The antenna assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The flexible substrate is one of polyimide, polyester film, liquid crystal polymer, and thermoplastic polyurethane; And / or, the conductive circuit is one of copper foil, copper-plated material, silver paste printing layer, and conductive ink layer.

3. The antenna assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that, The radio frequency connector (12) is provided with a first welding positioning hole (124), and the metal sheet (11) is provided with a second welding positioning hole (111). The first welding positioning hole (124) and the second welding positioning hole (111) are aligned. The first welding positioning hole (124) and the second welding positioning hole (111) are used for positioning and cooperating with the positioning fixture.

4. The antenna assembly according to claim 3, characterized in that, The second end of the feed line (13) is located on the side of the radio frequency connector (12) near the metal sheet (11); A support member (14) is provided between the radio frequency connector (12) and the metal sheet (11). The support member (14) is made of insulating material and shields the side of the feed line (13) that is close to the metal sheet (11).

5. The antenna assembly according to claim 4, characterized in that, The support member (14) is insulating foam; and / or, the support member (14) is bonded to the radio frequency connector (12); and / or, the support member (14) is bonded to the metal sheet (11).

6. The antenna assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The feed line (13) is a coaxial line, which includes a reference ground line and an excitation line. The first electrical connection part (121) includes a first pad (1211) and a second pad (1212). The second electrical connection part (122) includes one or more third pads. The excitation line is electrically connected to the first pad (1211), the reference ground line is electrically connected to the second pad (1212), the third pad is electrically connected to the metal sheet (11), and the first pad (1211) and the third pad are electrically connected through a conductive line.

7. The antenna assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The radio frequency connector (12) includes a grounding part (123), which is disposed on the side of the radio frequency connector (12) away from the metal sheet (11); the grounding part (123) is used to electrically connect to the metal base plate (21) of the electronic device.

8. An electronic device, characterized in that, It includes a housing (20), an antenna mainboard (40), and an antenna assembly (10) as described in any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the antenna assembly (10) and the antenna mainboard (40) are disposed in the housing (20); The housing (20) includes a metal base plate (21), and a cavity is defined between the metal sheet (11) and the metal base plate (21). The radio frequency connector (12) is located in the cavity, and the first end of the feed line (13) is electrically connected to the antenna main board (40).

9. The electronic device according to claim 8, characterized in that, The electronic device includes a plastic bracket (30) connected to the housing (20); the metal sheet (11) is connected to the plastic bracket (30) by fasteners; and the antenna motherboard (40) is connected to the plastic bracket (30) by fasteners.

10. The electronic device according to claim 9, characterized in that, The radio frequency connector (12) or the metal sheet (11) is provided with a first mounting positioning part (125), and the plastic bracket (30) is provided with a second mounting positioning part (33). The first mounting positioning part (125) and the second mounting positioning part (33) are inserted and engaged.

11. The electronic device according to claim 9, characterized in that, The electronic device includes a first grounding conductor (51) and a second grounding conductor (52). The plastic bracket (30) is provided with a first clearance hole (31) and a second clearance hole (32). The first grounding conductor (51) is disposed in the first clearance hole (31), and the second grounding conductor (52) is disposed in the second clearance hole (32). The radio frequency connector (12) has a grounding part (123) on the side away from the metal sheet (11). The first grounding conductor (51) is disposed between the grounding part (123) and the metal base plate (21). The grounding part (123) is in conductive contact with the first grounding conductor (51), and the first grounding conductor (51) is in conductive contact with the metal base plate (21). The second grounding conductor (52) is disposed between the metal sheet (11) and the metal base plate (21), the metal sheet (11) and the second grounding conductor (52) are in conductive contact, and the second grounding conductor (52) and the metal base plate (21) are in conductive contact.

12. A method for assembling an electronic device, characterized in that, The method for assembling an electronic device as described in any one of claims 9 to 11 includes: Grounding conductor installation steps: Place the first grounding conductor (51) and the second grounding conductor (52) on the metal base plate (21) respectively; Antenna assembly (10) installation steps: Provide a pre-installed antenna assembly (10), electrically connect the first end of the feed line (13) to the antenna main board (40), adjust the antenna assembly (10) so that the radio frequency connector (12) is located on the side of the metal plate (11) close to the metal base plate (21), install the metal plate (11) to the housing (20) so that the radio frequency connector (12) makes conductive contact with the metal base plate (21) through the first grounding conductor (51), and makes conductive contact between the metal plate (11) and the metal base plate (21), and makes the metal plate (11) and the metal base plate (21) form a cavity.

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