An antenna module and a terminal device

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to an antenna module and a terminal device. The antenna module comprises: a radio frequency component; at least two antennas distributed in different positions; a first switch component arranged on a connection line between the radio frequency component and each of the antennas; wherein the first switch component is used to turn on the connection line between the radio frequency component and a target antenna in the at least two antennas when an antenna selection instruction indicates the target antenna. The antenna module of the embodiment of the present disclosure is provided with multiple antennas with the same communication function and distributed in different positions, so that the communication coverage is larger, and the specified antenna in the multiple antennas can also be controlled to work in communication according to the antenna selection instruction, realizing personalized communication selection.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of terminal equipment communication, and in particular to an antenna module and a terminal equipment. Background Technology

[0002] In the evolution of electronic communication technology, terminal devices, as the core carriers, have continuously driven the innovation of information interaction methods. Terminal devices generally employ built-in antenna designs, using these antennas to transmit and receive signals in specific frequency bands to achieve designated wireless communication functions, such as short-range communication, long-range communication, near-field communication, and wireless positioning.

[0003] However, traditional communication functions are achieved by transmitting and receiving wireless signals using antennas at fixed locations. This not only limits the coverage area and the communication quality, but also restricts the application flexibility of terminal devices due to the hardware constraints of a single antenna. It is difficult to meet the actual needs of different scenarios and users for communication coverage and direction. Utility Model Content

[0004] To overcome the problems existing in related technologies, this disclosure provides an antenna module and a terminal device. The antenna module of this disclosure is configured with multiple antennas having the same communication function but distributed in different locations, resulting in a wider communication coverage. Furthermore, it can control a specific antenna among the multiple antennas to perform communication operations according to antenna selection commands, achieving personalized communication selection.

[0005] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, an antenna module is provided, the antenna module comprising:

[0006] Radio frequency components;

[0007] At least two antennas located in different positions;

[0008] A first switching assembly is disposed on the connection line between the radio frequency assembly and each of the antennas;

[0009] The first switch assembly is used to connect the radio frequency assembly to the target antenna when the antenna selection command indicates the target antenna among the at least two antennas.

[0010] In some optional embodiments of this disclosure, the at least two antennas are formed as at least two antenna groups, each of the antenna groups including at least one of the antennas;

[0011] The radio frequency component includes at least two radio frequency transmission terminals; the first switching component includes at least two;

[0012] Each of the first switching components is connected to a connection line between a radio frequency transmission terminal and an antenna group, and is used to turn on or off the connection line between the radio frequency transmission terminal and any of the antennas in the antenna group.

[0013] In some optional embodiments of this disclosure, the first switching assembly includes a switch, the first end of which is connected to the radio frequency transmission end;

[0014] Each of the at least one second terminal of the switch is connected to the feed terminal of one of the antennas in the antenna group.

[0015] In some optional embodiments of this disclosure, when the antenna group includes at least two antennas, the distance between each antenna and any antenna in the same antenna group is less than the distance between the antenna and any antenna in a different antenna group.

[0016] In some optional embodiments of this disclosure, there are two radio frequency transmission terminals; there are two first switching assemblies; and the antenna module further includes:

[0017] A first radio frequency branch is connected between one of the radio frequency transmission terminals and one of the first switching components;

[0018] The second radio frequency branch is connected between another of the radio frequency transmission terminals and another of the first switching components;

[0019] The phase-shifting branch has one end connected to a first connection node between the first radio frequency branch and one of the first switching components, and the other end connected to a second connection node between the second radio frequency branch and another of the first switching components;

[0020] When there is only one target antenna, one of the first switching components corresponding to the target antenna is in the on state, the other first switching component is in the completely off state, the phase shifting branch is in the on state, and is used to adjust the phase of the radio frequency signal output by the second radio frequency branch to match the phase of the radio frequency signal output by the first radio frequency branch.

[0021] In some alternative embodiments of this disclosure, the phase-shifting branch includes a second switching assembly and an inductor connected in series.

[0022] In some optional embodiments of this disclosure, the inductive reactance of the inductor is within a preset range.

[0023] In some optional embodiments of this disclosure, the radio frequency component is a near-field communication radio frequency chip.

[0024] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, a terminal device is provided, the terminal device comprising:

[0025] Radiation carrier;

[0026] The antenna module proposed in the first aspect above, wherein the antenna in the antenna module is disposed on the radiating carrier;

[0027] The radiation carrier includes at least a frame, a back shell, and a middle frame.

[0028] In some optional embodiments of this disclosure, different antenna groups in the antenna module are distributed on different radiating carriers;

[0029] or,

[0030] The different antenna groups in the antenna module are distributed in different locations on the same radiating carrier.

[0031] In some optional embodiments of this disclosure, the terminal device further includes:

[0032] A display screen, mounted on the side of the middle frame away from the rear shell, is used to display the position information of at least two antennas in the antenna module and selection controls for the at least two antennas;

[0033] A processing module is disposed in the middle frame and connected to the display screen and the first switch assembly of the antenna module respectively. It is used to receive antenna selection instructions for the selection control and control the switching state of the first switch assembly based on the target antenna indicated by the antenna selection instructions.

[0034] In some optional embodiments of this disclosure, the processing module is further connected to a second switching component of the antenna module, for controlling the second switching component to be in a conducting state when the target antenna indicated by the antenna selection command is one.

[0035] The technical solutions provided by the embodiments of this disclosure may include the following beneficial effects:

[0036] The antenna module proposed in this embodiment includes a radio frequency (RF) component, at least two antennas distributed at different locations, and a first switch component connecting the RF component to each antenna. The first switch component can flexibly turn on and off the communication connection between any antenna and the RF component. Thus, the communication connection between multiple antennas at different locations and the same RF component allows each antenna to have the same communication function, enabling multi-directional communication, increasing communication coverage, and improving communication quality. Furthermore, when an antenna selection command determines a target antenna among multiple antennas, the first switch component can selectively use the target antenna for communication, meeting the needs of practical scenarios and user customization. Especially when multiple antennas can be used for near-field communication, a personalized card-swiping experience can be achieved based on user customization.

[0037] It should be understood that the above general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only, and are not intended to limit this disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0038] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments consistent with this disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of this disclosure.

[0039] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an antenna module according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 1 .

[0040] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an antenna module according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 2 .

[0041] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an antenna module disposed within a terminal device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0042] Figure 4 This is a structural block diagram of a terminal device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0043] Figures 1 to 3 The reference numerals in the attached figures are as follows:

[0044] 1. Antenna module; 11. RF component; 111 RF transmission end; 12. Antenna (specifically including 12a, 12b, 12c, 12d); 13. First switch assembly; 14. First RF branch; 15. Second RF branch; 16. Phase shifting branch; 161. Second switch assembly; 162. Inductor; 2. Terminal device; 21. Frame; 22. Back cover. Detailed Implementation

[0045] Exemplary embodiments will now be described in detail, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. When the following description relates to the drawings, unless otherwise indicated, the same numerals in different drawings denote the same or similar elements. The embodiments described in the following exemplary embodiments do not represent all embodiments consistent with this disclosure. Rather, they are merely examples of apparatuses and methods consistent with some aspects of this disclosure as detailed in the appended claims.

[0046] This disclosure provides an antenna module according to embodiments. See also Figure 1 , Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an antenna module according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 1 .like Figure 1 Antenna module 1 includes:

[0047] RF component 11;

[0048] At least two antennas 12 distributed in different locations;

[0049] The first switch assembly 13 is disposed on the connection line between the radio frequency assembly 11 and each antenna 12;

[0050] The first switch assembly 13 is used to turn on the connection line between the radio frequency assembly 11 and the target antenna when the antenna selection command indicates the target antenna among at least two antennas 12.

[0051] Here, the antenna module proposed in this disclosure is applied in a terminal device, and the terminal device enables functions such as wireless communication and wireless positioning. The terminal device includes a fixed terminal, a mobile terminal, or a portable device; fixed terminals include, but are not limited to, vehicle-mounted terminals, televisions, etc.; mobile terminals include, but are not limited to, mobile phones, tablets, etc.; portable devices include, but are not limited to, smartwatches, etc., and this disclosure does not further limit these categories.

[0052] The radio frequency (RF) component includes modules such as a modulator, demodulator, filter, power amplifier, and low-noise amplifier. The RF component can output an RF signal of a specified frequency based on modulation, which is then transmitted to the antenna. Through the antenna's matching and tuning circuits, the data information in the RF signal is transmitted wirelessly. Additionally, when the antenna senses the magnetic field of another transmitting antenna, it will detect an RF signal, which is then transmitted back to the RF component. The RF component uses demodulation to obtain the interactive information output by the other transmitting end, completing the information exchange function.

[0053] Traditional radio frequency components are connected to a single antenna at a fixed location, and this single antenna enables a specific wireless function. However, considering the limitations of location and the small signal coverage area, the proposed antenna module also includes at least two antennas distributed in different locations.

[0054] Here, at least two antennas can be of the same or different types. For example, they can both be stripes set on the frame, or they can both be patch antennas, flexible printed circuit (PFC) antennas, or coil antennas set on the rear shell. In order to improve the location limitations and improve the coverage, the antennas provided in this disclosure can be at least four, respectively distributed on the left frame, top frame, right frame and rear shell of the terminal (the bottom frame generally has a data interface, and antennas are generally not set there to avoid signal crosstalk, although antennas can be set there in some special cases, and this disclosure does not limit this).

[0055] In some examples of this disclosure, the radio frequency component can simultaneously output radio frequency signals to at least two antennas, so that at least two antennas can simultaneously perform the same type of communication function. Since the at least two antennas are located in different positions, the radiation range of the same type of wireless communication is expanded and the communication quality is improved.

[0056] In other examples of this disclosure, considering that multiple antennas may work simultaneously and serve the same communication service, there may be some power consumption waste. Therefore, embodiments of this disclosure may also generate antenna selection instructions according to actual communication needs, and determine the target antenna among at least two antennas by the antenna selection instructions, so as to instruct the target antenna to connect to the radio frequency component for operation, while other non-target antennas will not connect to the radio frequency component with the corresponding function.

[0057] To achieve communication between the radio frequency (RF) component and a designated target antenna, embodiments of this disclosure provide a first switching component between the same RF component and at least two antennas. One or more first switching components may be provided, and each first switching component may contain one or more individual switches; the specific structure is not limited. The aforementioned first switching component is a switching component capable of adjusting its switching state in response to a control signal. Antenna selection commands can be converted into control signals and applied to the first switching component to control it to connect the RF component to the target antenna and disconnect the connection from other non-target antennas.

[0058] In this embodiment of the disclosure, the antenna selection command that controls the switching state of the first switching component can be determined based on user needs or by the terminal device based on a comprehensive analysis of the actual communication scenario and communication environment.

[0059] In some examples, users can select one or more target antennas from at least two available antennas using selection controls on the terminal device's display screen or physical buttons on the device. Alternatively, a target antenna can be selected first, and the user can then choose whether the other antennas are active, inactive, or randomly active. In this case, the terminal can determine whether the other antennas are target antennas based on the current communication scenario. In other examples, the terminal can determine the target antenna from at least two antennas through a comprehensive analysis of the current communication scenario and the location of the device to be communicated with.

[0060] In some optional embodiments of this disclosure, the radio frequency component is a near-field communication radio frequency chip.

[0061] Here, the radio frequency component is a Near Field Communication (NFC) radio frequency chip. The radio frequency chip can modulate data onto a 13.56 MHz carrier signal and transmit it through the target antenna turned on by the first switching component. Since the NFC operating frequency is 13.56 MHz, it can achieve short-range communication within 4 cm to 10 cm, and is usually used for access control card swiping, quick payment and other functions.

[0062] It should be noted that, since there are at least two antennas that can connect to the NFC radio frequency chip in this disclosure, and these at least two antennas can be distributed in different locations, such as on the back cover or frame in the terminal device of the application, or on different sides of the frame, the first switching component can simultaneously conduct all the NFC antennas that the NFC radio frequency chip can connect to, thereby achieving a wider range of NFC communication and improving the success rate of NFC communication. Alternatively, the user can determine the target antenna and then only conduct the line between the NFC radio frequency chip and the target antenna.

[0063] Users can determine the appropriate antenna position for scanning external NFC tags based on their NFC card-swiping habits or the current holding position of the terminal device. They can then select the target antenna at the target location from at least two antennas and generate an antenna selection command. The terminal responds to the antenna selection command by generating a control signal for the first switching component, which connects the NFC RF chip to the target antenna and disconnects the lines between the NFC RF chip and other antennas corresponding to the NFC RF chip. This allows users to achieve NFC near-field identification in a specified direction, fulfilling personalized card-swiping needs, and also improving the power consumption waste caused by multiple antennas simultaneously transmitting and receiving NFC signals.

[0064] In some other optional embodiments of this disclosure, the radio frequency component may also be a wireless fidelity (WiFi) radio frequency chip, with at least two antennas corresponding to the WiFi radio frequency chip. Through the first switching component and the WiFi radio frequency chip, WiFi wireless signals can be transmitted and received, and data can be exchanged with the router, thereby realizing WiFi wireless communication.

[0065] In this example, the terminal can determine the antenna selection instruction. For example, the terminal device can determine the actual location of the router indoors through infrared, laser or data communication, and then determine the WiFi antenna facing the router as the target antenna based on the current orientation of the terminal device, so that the processor generates the antenna selection instruction mentioned above.

[0066] In some alternative embodiments of this disclosure, the radio frequency component may also be a Bluetooth radio frequency chip, a Global Positioning System (GPS) radio frequency chip, a cellular communication radio frequency chip, etc., and these types of radio frequency components may also be connected to at least two antennas through their respective first switch components.

[0067] It should be noted that when the above-mentioned antenna module is applied in a terminal device, there can be one or more radio frequency components of the same type. Each radio frequency component can be connected to at least two antennas through the first switching component, which increases the flexibility and comprehensiveness of the communication function control in this disclosure. Of course, there can also be multiple types of radio frequency components. Each type of radio frequency component can be connected to at least two antennas through a designated first switching component, so as to control the corresponding antenna to transmit and receive wireless signals corresponding to the function of the radio frequency component when the connection is turned on. Here, due to the layout of the terminal device, the antennas that different types of radio frequency components can be connected to can be multi-band / multi-type shared antennas.

[0068] It is understood that the antenna module proposed in this disclosure includes a radio frequency (RF) component, at least two antennas distributed at different locations, and a first switching component that connects the RF component to each antenna. The first switching component can flexibly turn on and off the communication connection between any antenna and the RF component. Thus, the communication connection between multiple antennas at different locations and the same RF component allows each antenna to have the same communication function, enabling multi-directional communication, increasing communication coverage, and improving communication quality. Furthermore, when an antenna selection command determines a target antenna among multiple antennas, the first switching component can selectively use the target antenna for communication, meeting the needs of actual scenarios and users' personalized customization requirements. Especially when multiple antennas can be used for near-field communication, a personalized card-swiping experience can be achieved based on user customization.

[0069] In some optional embodiments of this disclosure, see Figure 2 , Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an antenna module according to an exemplary embodiment; at least two antennas 12 are formed into at least two antenna groups, each antenna group including at least one antenna 12;

[0070] The radio frequency component 11 includes at least two radio frequency transmission terminals 111; the first switch component 13 includes at least two;

[0071] Each first switch assembly 13 is connected to a connection line between a radio frequency transmission terminal 111 and an antenna group, and is used to turn on or off the connection line between the radio frequency transmission terminal 111 and any antenna 12 in the antenna group.

[0072] Here, the radio frequency (RF) component provided in this disclosure includes at least two RF transmission ends, each RF transmission end being individually connected to a modem inside the RF component and independently transmitting and receiving RF signals. Thus, the embodiments of this disclosure can expand from single-end communication to dual-end or even multi-end communication, improving communication efficiency and range. Furthermore, since each RF transmission end transmits data independently, at least one RF transmission end can transmit RF signals outwards, causing the connected antenna to transmit wireless signals, while another one or more RF transmission ends receive the RF signals sensed by the connected antenna. This effectively separates the RF component's RF signal transmission and reception functions, resulting in greater flexibility in wireless communication control.

[0073] In this embodiment, providing at least two radio frequency (RF) transmission ends can expand the communication end. However, if each RF transmission end is connected to all antennas, or if the connected antennas are too far apart or too numerous, it will cause problems in terms of layout, cost, and management. In view of this, this embodiment can divide at least two antennas into different antenna groups, with different antennas in each antenna group. Each antenna group has at least one antenna. Furthermore, each RF transmission end is connected to an antenna group through a first switch component. By adjusting the switching state of the first switch component, each RF transmission end can selectively connect to a designated antenna in the corresponding antenna group. This not only enables flexible selection of directional wireless communication but also saves the number of switches, simplifies the wiring structure, and achieves lower cost and more flexible antenna selection.

[0074] Thus, the radio frequency component is provided with at least two radio frequency transmission ends, and each radio frequency transmission end is connected to an antenna group separately through a first switching component. Compared with only one radio frequency transmission end, or two radio frequency transmission ends being connected to the same antenna to form a current loop, this not only expands the communication from single-end communication to multi-end communication and improves the communication range, but also enables the separation of transmission and reception functions. In this way, the present disclosure can use an antenna in one antenna group to transmit and an antenna in another antenna group to receive, or it can transmit or receive simultaneously, which is more flexible.

[0075] In some optional embodiments of this disclosure, such as Figure 2 As shown, the first switch assembly 13 includes a switch, the first end of which is connected to the radio frequency transmission terminal 111;

[0076] Each of the at least one second terminal of the switch is connected to the feed terminal of one of the antennas in the antenna group.

[0077] Here, the switch in the first switching assembly can be a single-pole multi-throw switch or a signal switch. The first terminal of the switch is connected to an RF transmission terminal, and each of the second terminals of the switch is connected to the feed terminal of an antenna in the corresponding antenna group. When the switch is in the fully open mode, the first terminal and each of the second terminals are disconnected. In this case, the RF assembly does not connect to any antenna in the antenna group corresponding to this switch, so wireless communication is not achieved through these antennas. When the switch is in the on mode, the first terminal is connected to only one of the second terminals. In this case, the RF signal output by the RF assembly is transmitted to the antenna corresponding to the connected second terminal, and communication is achieved by transmitting and receiving wireless signals through this antenna.

[0078] For example, taking the radio frequency component 11 as an NFC radio frequency chip, there are two radio frequency transmission terminals 111, antenna groups, and first switch components 13. The first end of the switch in the first first switch component 13 is connected to the first radio frequency transmission terminal 111, and the two second ends are respectively connected to the two antennas 12 (antenna 12a and antenna 12b) in the first antenna group; the first end of the switch in the second first switch component 13 is connected to the second radio frequency transmission terminal 111, and the two second ends are respectively connected to the two antennas (antenna 12c and antenna 12d) in the second antenna group. In this case, the radio frequency component can simultaneously support the following antenna combinations for NFC near-field communication: (12a, 12c)(12a, 12d)(12b, 12c)(12b, 12d).

[0079] Here, by setting only one antenna in the same antenna group to work at the same time, the power consumption increase caused by multiple antennas working at the same time can be reduced, thereby improving the product's battery life.

[0080] In some optional embodiments of this disclosure, when the antenna group includes at least two antennas, the distance between each antenna and any antenna in the same antenna group is less than the distance between the antenna and any antenna in a different antenna group.

[0081] Since the distance between each antenna and any antenna within the same antenna group is less than the distance between an antenna and any antenna in a different antenna group, it can be understood that antennas within the same antenna group are positioned close together, generally located in the same area. Because antennas typically have a certain radiation angle and range, the overlap between the wireless signal radiation ranges of different antennas within the same group is significant. This ensures that the specified antenna performance is supported within the same area. When the antenna is an NFC antenna, setting up multiple antenna groups can achieve a 360-degree seamless card-swiping experience.

[0082] Additionally, it should be noted that in this case, by specifying the target antenna within the antenna group, the maximum signal energy can be obtained at a specified radiation angle while ensuring that communication functions can be achieved within the corresponding location area of ​​the antenna group. If the antenna is an NFC antenna, the success rate of recognition with a single card swipe can be improved. If the antenna is a WiFi antenna, the connection stability and data transmission rate between the terminal device and the router can also be improved.

[0083] Of course, in other optional embodiments of this disclosure, the grouping method of the above antennas can also be customized according to the type of terminal device, the layout constraints within the terminal structure, the type and location of the radio frequency chip, etc., and this disclosure does not limit this.

[0084] In some optional embodiments of this disclosure, combined with Figure 2 As shown, there are two radio frequency transmission terminals 111; two first switching components 13; and the antenna module 1 also includes:

[0085] The first radio frequency branch 14 is connected between a radio frequency transmission terminal 111 and a first switching assembly 13;

[0086] The second radio frequency branch 15 is connected between another radio frequency transmission terminal 111 and another first switching assembly 13;

[0087] Phase-shifting branch 16 is connected at one end to a first connection node between the first RF branch 14 and a first switching assembly 13, and at the other end to a second connection node between the second RF branch 15 and another first switching assembly 13.

[0088] When there is only one target antenna, one first switch component 13 corresponding to the target antenna is in the on state, the other first switch component 13 is in the completely off state, the phase shifting branch 16 is in the on state, and is used to adjust the phase of the radio frequency signal output by the second radio frequency branch 15 to match the phase of the radio frequency signal output by the first radio frequency branch 14.

[0089] Here, the RF component has two RF transmission ends, which are connected to two RF branches. Each RF branch contains filtering components, specifically capacitors and / or inductors, to filter the RF signal output from the RF transmission ends before outputting it. The RF branch connects to a first switching component via a connection node, and then to an antenna group. In this way, each RF component forms a dual RF path, enabling the expansion from single-ended communication to dual-ended communication.

[0090] Furthermore, considering that when two RF paths are simultaneously active, the two connected antennas are usually located in different areas, which may result in the communication performance in a specific direction not meeting the requirements, or the user may only have identified one target antenna and only want to enhance the antenna performance in one direction; in order to solve the problems mentioned above, this embodiment of the disclosure also sets up a phase-shifting branch, in which a phase-shifting module is set. The phase-shifting module is used to change the phase of the RF signal flowing from the phase-shifting branch. In response to the antenna selection command indicating that there is only one target antenna, this disclosure controls the first switch component corresponding to the group where the target antenna is located to be turned on, and the other first switch component is completely turned off (the completely turned off state means that the first terminal of the internal switch is disconnected from all the second terminals). At this time, this embodiment of the disclosure also controls the phase-shifting branch to be turned on, and after phase adjustment, the RF signal output from the RF branch corresponding to the turned-off first switch component is combined with the output of the other RF branch and superimposed before being output to the target antenna to enhance the throughput of the target antenna and improve the signal transmission and reception performance in the specified direction.

[0091] It should be noted that in common radio frequency (RF) components, especially NFC RF chips, the RF signals output from the two RF transmission ends through the RF branches are out of phase, typically opposite (180 degrees out of phase), to allow for the connection of the same antenna in traditional designs to achieve a current loop. Therefore, if the RF signals output from the two RF branches are directly superimposed, phase cancellation may occur, leading to signal energy cancellation. In this case, the phase-shifting branch will adjust the signal phase to eliminate phase cancellation to some extent, enhancing the throughput of the composite RF signal.

[0092] In some examples, after phase-shifting branch adjustment, phase matching of two RF signals can manifest as the two RF signals having the same phase. In this case, the power increases after the two RF signals with the same phase are combined, thus enhancing the energy of the target antenna in transmitting and receiving wireless signals, resulting in a wider coverage area and improved communication performance. In other examples, phase matching can also manifest as phase non-cancellation. In this case, there is no cancellation phenomenon after the two RF signals are combined; the only issue is overcoming the problem of the signal not being able to radiate outwards.

[0093] The phase-shifting module in the aforementioned phase-shifting branch can be a phase-shifting capacitor, an inverter, etc., and this disclosure does not impose any restrictions on it. Of course, in order to achieve flexible phase control, the aforementioned phase-shifting module can include multiple modules, and different phase-shifting modules perform different degrees of phase adjustment. In actual implementation, the phase-shifting module that is activated in the phase-shifting branch can be flexibly selected according to the requirements of energy enhancement or energy reduction of a single antenna.

[0094] In some optional embodiments of this disclosure, combined with Figure 2 As shown, the phase-shifting branch 16 includes a second switching assembly 161 and an inductor 162 connected in series.

[0095] Here, the second switching assembly and the inductor are connected in series. When the second switching assembly is in the on state, the phase-shifting branch is on, and the inductor is connected between the first connection node and the second connection node. The first RF branch and the second RF branch are connected together through the inductor. When the second switching assembly is in the off state, the phase-shifting branch is off, and the first RF branch and the second RF branch output RF signals to their respective antenna groups separately.

[0096] It should be noted that inductors store energy (magnetic field energy), and their voltage is related to the rate of change of current. When the current increases, the voltage across the inductor is positive; when the current decreases, the voltage is negative. Therefore, the change in voltage always precedes the change in current, meaning the voltage phase leads the current phase by 90 degrees. Thus, after the second switching assembly is turned on, the inductor connects the first and second RF branches, causing a phase delay. This results in the RF signal experiencing a phase change as it passes through the inductor. By appropriately selecting the inductance value and the RF signal frequency, specific phase adjustment can be achieved to match the phase of the RF signal output from the second RF branch with the phase of the RF signal output from the first RF branch.

[0097] In the above embodiments, the second switching element can be a transistor switch or a single-pole single-throw switch, used to individually control whether the inductor is connected to the two radio frequency branches; the second switching element can also be a single-pole multi-throw switch, in which case multiple impedance combinations can be set in the phase-shifting branch, each combination can include one or more inductors, or it can be a connection of inductors and capacitors. In this case, by conducting different impedance combinations through the second switching component, flexible phase adjustment can be achieved to meet communication regulation under different requirements.

[0098] In some optional embodiments of this disclosure, the inductive reactance of the inductor is within a preset range.

[0099] When the inductive reactance of the inductor is within a preset range, the RF signal output from the first RF branch undergoes phase flipping after passing through the inductor and becomes phase-matched with the RF signal output from the first RF branch. Thus, whether the first RF branch is connected to the target antenna or the second RF branch is connected to the target antenna, the two RF signals with the same phase can be effectively superimposed to achieve the best flux enhancement effect, thereby optimizing the antenna performance of the target antenna.

[0100] It should be noted that the preset range differs depending on the type of RF component; the preset range also differs when the components configured on the first and second RF branches are different. For example, taking NFC RF signals as the RF component, the inductive reactance of the inductor is within the range of 50 nanohenries (nH) to 70 nH.

[0101] This disclosure also proposes a terminal device, see [link to embodiment]. Figure 3 , Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an antenna module disposed within a terminal device according to an exemplary embodiment; wherein the terminal device 2 includes:

[0102] Radiation carrier;

[0103] The antenna module proposed in the above embodiments of this disclosure has an antenna 12 disposed on a radiating carrier;

[0104] The radiation carrier includes at least a frame 21, a rear shell 22, and a middle frame. Figure 3 (Not shown in the image).

[0105] here, Figure 3 The arrows shown indicate the location of the feed terminal corresponding to the antenna. The terminal device 2 mentioned above in this disclosure can be a mobile terminal such as a mobile phone, tablet computer, or watch.

[0106] In some examples of this disclosure, at least one antenna in the antenna module may be disposed on the frame, wherein being disposed on the frame may be either by mounting a strip antenna on the frame or by reusing the metal portion of the frame as an antenna.

[0107] In other examples of this disclosure, at least one antenna in the antenna module may be disposed on the rear housing, wherein being disposed on the rear housing may be by attaching a patch antenna, an FPC antenna or a coil antenna to the rear housing, or by reusing a metal portion of the rear housing as an antenna.

[0108] In some further examples of this disclosure, at least one antenna in the antenna module may be mounted on the mid-frame, wherein mounting on the mid-frame typically involves mounting a single FPC antenna on the mid-frame.

[0109] Of course, in other examples disclosed herein, the antenna in the antenna module may also be formed by a single FPC antenna connected to the metal portion of the metal frame.

[0110] For example, the radio frequency component described above can be an NFC chip, and the antenna described above can be an NFC antenna for transmitting and receiving NFC communication signals, wherein... Figure 3 The diagram shows three frame-type antennas 12 located on the frame of the terminal device, and two PFC-type antennas 12 located on the rear shell.

[0111] It is understood that, since the at least two antennas proposed in this embodiment can be set on the radiating carrier at different locations, the communication range of the same communication function is greatly expanded, the communication quality is improved, and the diversity and flexibility of the choice of communication in a specified direction are also guaranteed.

[0112] In some optional embodiments of this disclosure, different antenna groups in the antenna module are distributed on different radiating carriers;

[0113] or,

[0114] Different antenna groups in an antenna module are distributed in different locations on the same radiating carrier.

[0115] Here, each antenna group is provided with at least two antennas, and the distribution positions of at least two antennas are close to each other. In this way, the different antenna groups of this disclosure can be distributed on different radiating carriers. For example, the antennas provided on the frame are one group, and the antennas provided on the back shell are another group. In this way, in actual implementation, at least one antenna on the back shell and the frame is guaranteed to realize the wireless communication function. In this way, wireless communication can be effectively realized no matter how the terminal device is held. For example, when the antenna is an NFC antenna, the card swiping function can be realized by any holding method.

[0116] Of course, the different antenna groups disclosed herein can also be distributed in different locations on the same radiating carrier. For example, one antenna group can be distributed on the right side frame and another antenna group can be distributed on the left side frame. In actual implementation, compared to all antennas being distributed on the same side frame, at least one antenna on both the left and right sides frame can be guaranteed to enable wireless communication. In this way, when the terminal device is held with one hand, there can be an antenna on the unheld side frame for communication. When the antenna is an NFC antenna, a convenient and efficient card-swiping experience can be achieved when the device is held with one hand.

[0117] It is understood that the embodiments of this disclosure can improve the flexibility of wireless communication by distributing different antenna groups at different locations on the same radiating carrier or on different radiating carriers.

[0118] In some optional embodiments of this disclosure, the terminal device further includes:

[0119] The display screen, mounted on the side of the mid-frame away from the rear cover, is used to display the position information of at least two antennas in the antenna module and selection controls for at least two antennas;

[0120] The processing module is located in the middle frame and is connected to the first switch assembly of the display screen and the antenna module respectively. It is used to receive antenna selection instructions for the selection control and control the switching state of the first switch assembly based on the target antenna indicated by the antenna selection instructions.

[0121] The terminal device disclosed herein includes a display screen, which is mounted on the middle frame and located on the side of the middle frame away from the rear cover. Functional modules, such as a battery, are disposed between the middle frame and the rear cover. The display screen is capable of displaying images and selecting functions.

[0122] The processing module proposed in this disclosure is the core processor of the terminal device, such as the central processing unit (CPU). The CPU is responsible for executing the calculation and control tasks of the entire terminal device. The CPU will pre-store the antenna positions of the radio frequency components that implement the same communication function and the various antennas that can be connected to them.

[0123] Here, the CPU connects to the display screen and sends the location information of each antenna that the radio frequency component can connect to to the display page (UI interface) of the display screen. At the same time, the UI interface of the display screen also provides selection controls. The selection controls can correspond to each antenna with the same communication function. The user can choose whether to use this antenna, that is, whether to select it as the target antenna.

[0124] In this disclosure, the CPU is also connected to all the first switching components. Thus, after the user operates the display screen to select an antenna and generates an antenna selection command, the CPU receives and responds to the antenna selection command, determines which antenna is the target antenna, and then controls the first switching component corresponding to the target antenna to be turned on. At this time, the radio frequency component outputs a radio frequency signal to the target antenna, and the first switching component corresponding to the antenna that is not selected as the target antenna is adjusted to be turned off.

[0125] In some other optional embodiments of this disclosure, the user of the terminal device may also select the target antenna without using the display screen, but through gestures, voice or other terminal remote communication control methods. Therefore, the antenna selection command can naturally be a gesture command, voice command, etc., and this disclosure does not impose further restrictions on it.

[0126] This disclosure embodiment provides human-computer interaction modules such as a display screen, which enables personalized customization of the working antenna, allowing the communication functions provided by the terminal device to be implemented based on user needs, thereby improving user satisfaction with the terminal device.

[0127] In some optional embodiments of this disclosure, the processing module is also connected to a second switching component of the antenna module, for controlling the second switching component to be in a conducting state when the target antenna indicated by the antenna selection command is one.

[0128] Following the above embodiments of this disclosure, when there are two RF transmission terminals, two first switching components, and two antenna groups, in response to the antenna selection command indicating that there is one target antenna, the first switching component corresponding to the group where the target antenna is located is turned on, the other first switching component is completely turned off, and the second switching component is turned on. An inductor is connected between the first connection node and the second connection node. In this way, the RF signal output from the RF branch corresponding to the turned-off first switching component is phase-flipped by 180 degrees and then combined with the output of the other RF branch. After superimposing the RF signal, it is output to the target antenna, which can enhance the antenna performance of the selected target antenna.

[0129] The following description uses a mobile phone as an example and an NFC radio frequency chip as an example to illustrate the antenna module and terminal device proposed in this disclosure.

[0130] Currently, the main NFC antenna solutions in mobile terminals such as smartphones include coils, single-FPC designs, and single-FPC with metal frames. In these solutions, the NFC antenna position is fixed, and the card-swiping angle is unavailable in certain directions, failing to meet everyone's card-swiping habits and thus not providing a 360-degree card-swiping experience on mobile phones. It's understood that traditional NFC RF chips have one RF transmission end, or two RF transmission ends connected to the same NFC antenna to form a current loop. This only enables single-ended NFC, with a fixed card-swiping direction.

[0131] In view of this, embodiments of the present disclosure provide multiple NFC antennas (e.g., distributed in different locations such as the bezel, housing, and mid-frame) in the terminal device. Figure 3 The five antennas 12 shown are used to connect the two radio frequency transmission ends of the NFC radio frequency chip to different groups of antennas, with each group containing at least two antennas. This extends the single-ended NFC to dual-ended NFC, greatly expanding the NFC operating range and enabling a 360-degree card-swiping experience. Furthermore, this disclosure provides a UI interface on the display screen, showing the position of each NFC antenna. Users can then determine the target antenna based on their preferred card-swiping location. The terminal can then use its internal first switch component to connect the NFC radio frequency chip to the target antenna, achieving directional NFC radio frequency identification.

[0132] In some examples, the NFC RF chip in the antenna module has two RF transmission terminals, one connected to a first RF branch and the other connected to a second RF branch. The first RF branch is connected to an antenna group (with) a first switching component. Figure 2 Taking antennas 12a and 12b as examples), the second radio frequency branch is connected to another antenna group (taking another first switching assembly as an example). Figure 2 (Taking antenna 12c and antenna 12d as examples).

[0133] In this example, if both first switch components are in the ON state, then two antennas can perform NFC identification simultaneously, generating four combinations: (12a, 12c), (12a, 12d), (12b, 12c), and (12b, 12d). Of course, in actual implementation, the number of antenna groups, the number of first switch components, and the number of antennas within each antenna group can be set according to actual needs. Through the above example, this embodiment of the disclosure implements dual-path NFC functionality.

[0134] Of course, in the above example, if the performance of the dual-path antenna cannot meet the usage requirements, or if the user only wants to select one antenna for NFC identification, this embodiment of the present disclosure can also conduct the phase-shifting branch formed by the second switching component and the inductor. If the user is accustomed to using antenna 12a and wants to obtain better performance, the first switching component connected to the first radio frequency branch can be switched to antenna 12a, while the second switching component is turned on and the second switching component connected to the second radio frequency is disconnected. At this time, the two NFC paths are connected together through an inductor. The function of the inductor is to flip the phase of the radio frequency signal output by the second radio frequency branch to be the same as the phase of the radio frequency signal output by the first radio frequency branch, thereby achieving a throughput enhancement effect.

[0135] Thus, this embodiment of the disclosure improves the card-swiping angle and range by using the available antenna in the mobile phone as the NFC antenna, achieving NFC card swiping without blind spots. Furthermore, the user interface on the mobile phone allows users to freely select the target antenna position, fulfilling personalized card-swiping needs. Moreover, by setting up a phase-shifting branch, when the communication performance of dual-path NFC communication cannot meet usage requirements, users can select a specific antenna for performance enhancement, thereby improving NFC communication performance in a specified direction.

[0136] Figure 4 This is a structural block diagram illustrating a terminal device according to an exemplary embodiment. For example, the terminal device 400 may be a mobile phone, computer, digital broadcasting terminal, messaging device, game console, tablet device, medical device, fitness equipment, personal digital assistant, etc.

[0137] Reference Figure 4 The terminal device 400 may include one or more of the following components: processing component 402, memory 404, power supply component 406, multimedia component 408, audio component 410, input / output interface 412, sensor component 414, and communication component 416.

[0138] Processing component 402 typically controls the overall operation of terminal device 400, such as operations associated with at least one of display, telephone call, data communication, camera operation, and recording operation. Processing component 402 may include one or more processors 420 to execute instructions to perform all or part of the steps of the methods described above. Furthermore, processing component 402 may include one or more modules to facilitate interaction between processing component 402 and other components. For example, processing component 402 may include a multimedia module to facilitate interaction between multimedia component 408 and processing component 402.

[0139] Memory 404 is configured to store various types of data to support operation on terminal device 400. Examples of such data include at least one of the following: instructions for any application or method operating on terminal device 400, contact data, phonebook data, messages, pictures, and videos. Memory 404 can be implemented by any type of volatile or non-volatile storage device or a combination thereof, such as Static Random Access Memory (SRAM), Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EEPROM), Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EPROM), Programmable Read Only Memory (PROM), Read-Only Memory (ROM), magnetic storage, flash memory, magnetic disk, or optical disk.

[0140] Power supply component 406 provides power to various components of terminal device 400. Power supply component 406 may include at least one of the following: a power management system, one or more power supplies, and other components associated with generating, managing, and distributing power to terminal device 400.

[0141] Multimedia component 408 includes a screen that provides an output interface between terminal device 400 and the user. In some embodiments, the screen may include a Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) and a Touch Panel (TP). If the screen includes a Touch Panel, the screen may be implemented as a touchscreen to receive input signals from the user. The Touch Panel includes one or more touch sensors to sense touches, swipes, and gestures on the Touch Panel. The touch sensors may sense not only the boundaries of touch or swipe actions but also the duration and pressure associated with the touch or swipe operation. In some embodiments, multimedia component 408 includes a front-facing camera and / or a rear-facing camera. When terminal device 400 is in an operating mode, such as a shooting mode or video mode, the front-facing camera and / or rear-facing camera may receive external multimedia data. Each front-facing camera and rear-facing camera may be a fixed optical lens system or have focal length and optical zoom capabilities.

[0142] Audio component 410 is configured to output and / or input audio signals. For example, audio component 410 includes a microphone (MIC) configured to receive external audio signals when terminal device 400 is in an operating mode, such as call mode, recording mode, and voice recognition mode. The received audio signals may be further stored in memory 404 or transmitted via communication component 416. In some embodiments, audio component 410 also includes a speaker for outputting audio signals.

[0143] Input / output interface 412 provides an interface between processing component 402 and peripheral interface modules, such as keyboards, click wheels, and buttons. These buttons may include, but are not limited to, home buttons, volume buttons, start buttons, and lock buttons.

[0144] Sensor assembly 414 includes one or more sensors for providing state assessments of various aspects of terminal device 400. For example, sensor assembly 414 may detect the on / off state of terminal device 400, the relative positioning of components such as the display and keypad of terminal device 400, changes in position of terminal device 400 or one of its components, the presence or absence of user contact with terminal device 400, orientation or acceleration / deceleration of terminal device 400, and temperature changes of terminal device 400. Sensor assembly 414 may include a proximity sensor configured to detect the presence of nearby objects without any physical contact. Sensor assembly 414 may also include an optical sensor, such as a complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) or charge-coupled device (CCD) image sensor, for use in imaging applications. In some embodiments, sensor assembly 414 may also include, but is not limited to, at least one of the following: an accelerometer, a gyroscope, a magnetometer, a pressure sensor, and a temperature sensor.

[0145] Communication component 416 is configured to facilitate wired or wireless communication between terminal device 400 and other devices. Terminal device 400 can access wireless networks based on communication standards, such as Wi-Fi, 4G, 5G, or combinations thereof. In one exemplary embodiment, communication component 416 receives broadcast signals or broadcast-related information from an external broadcast management system via a broadcast channel. In one exemplary embodiment, communication component 416 also includes a Near Field Communication (NFC) module to facilitate short-range communication. For example, the NFC module may be implemented based on Radio Frequency Identification (RFID), Infrared Data Association (IrDA), Ultra Wide Band (UWB), Bluetooth (BT), and other technologies.

[0146] In an exemplary embodiment, the terminal device 400 may be implemented by one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), digital signal processors (DSPs), digital signal processing devices (DSPDs), programmable logic devices (PLDs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), controllers, microcontrollers, microprocessors, or other electronic components.

[0147] In an exemplary embodiment, a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium including instructions is also provided, such as a memory 404 including executable instructions or a computer program, which can be executed by the processor 420 of the terminal device 400 to perform the above-described method. For example, the non-transitory computer-readable storage medium may be a ROM, random access memory (RAM), a compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), magnetic tape, floppy disk, and optical data storage device, etc.

[0148] Other embodiments of this disclosure will readily occur to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the specification and practice of the utility models disclosed herein. This disclosure is intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of this disclosure that follow the general principles of this disclosure and include common knowledge or customary techniques in the art not disclosed herein. The specification and examples are to be considered exemplary only, and the true scope and spirit of this disclosure are indicated by the claims.

[0149] It should be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the precise structures described above and shown in the accompanying drawings, and various modifications and changes can be made without departing from its scope. The scope of this disclosure is limited only by the appended claims.

Claims

1. An antenna module, characterized in that, include: Radio frequency components; At least two antennas located in different positions; A first switching assembly is disposed on the connection line between the radio frequency assembly and each of the antennas; The first switch assembly is used to connect the radio frequency assembly to the target antenna when the antenna selection command indicates the target antenna among the at least two antennas.

2. The antenna module according to claim 1, characterized in that, The at least two antennas are formed into at least two antenna groups, and each antenna group includes at least one of the antennas; The radio frequency component includes at least two radio frequency transmission terminals; the first switching component includes at least two; Each of the first switching components is connected to a connection line between a radio frequency transmission terminal and an antenna group, and is used to turn on or off the connection line between the radio frequency transmission terminal and any of the antennas in the antenna group.

3. The antenna module according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first switching assembly includes a switch, the first end of which is connected to the radio frequency transmission end; Each of the at least one second terminal of the switch is connected to the feed terminal of one of the antennas in the antenna group.

4. The antenna module according to claim 3, characterized in that, When the antenna group includes at least two antennas, the distance between each antenna and any antenna in the same antenna group is less than the distance between each antenna and any antenna in a different antenna group.

5. The antenna module according to claim 2, characterized in that, There are two radio frequency transmission terminals; The first switch assembly consists of two components; the antenna module further includes: A first radio frequency branch is connected between one of the radio frequency transmission terminals and one of the first switching components; The second radio frequency branch is connected between another of the radio frequency transmission terminals and another of the first switching components; The phase-shifting branch has one end connected to a first connection node between the first radio frequency branch and one of the first switching components, and the other end connected to a second connection node between the second radio frequency branch and another of the first switching components; When there is only one target antenna, one of the first switching components corresponding to the target antenna is in the on state, the other first switching component is in the completely off state, the phase shifting branch is in the on state, and is used to adjust the phase of the radio frequency signal output by the second radio frequency branch to match the phase of the radio frequency signal output by the first radio frequency branch.

6. The antenna module according to claim 5, characterized in that, The phase-shifting branch includes a second switching assembly and an inductor connected in series.

7. The antenna module according to claim 6, characterized in that, The inductive reactance of the inductor is within a preset range.

8. The antenna module according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, The radio frequency component is a near-field communication radio frequency chip.

9. A terminal device, characterized in that, include: Radiation carrier; The antenna module as described in any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the antenna in the antenna module is disposed on the radiating carrier; The radiation carrier includes at least a frame, a back shell, and a middle frame.

10. The terminal device according to claim 9, characterized in that, The different antenna groups in the antenna module are distributed on different radiating carriers; or, The different antenna groups in the antenna module are distributed in different locations on the same radiating carrier.

11. The terminal device according to claim 9, characterized in that, The terminal device also includes: A display screen, mounted on the side of the middle frame away from the rear shell, is used to display the position information of at least two antennas in the antenna module and selection controls for the at least two antennas; A processing module is disposed in the middle frame and connected to the display screen and the first switch assembly of the antenna module respectively. It is used to receive antenna selection instructions for the selection control and control the switching state of the first switch assembly based on the target antenna indicated by the antenna selection instructions.

12. The terminal device according to claim 11, characterized in that, The processing module is also connected to the second switching component of the antenna module, which is used to control the second switching component to be in the conducting state when the target antenna indicated by the antenna selection command is one.

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