Electronic device including an antenna

Abstract

To provide an electronic device capable of reducing degradation of antenna performance. [Solution] The present invention provides a foldable electronic device including an antenna, the device comprising: a processor; a hinge module; a first housing and a second housing at least partially coupled to both sides of the hinge module and in an unfolded or folded state based on the hinge module; and a flexible display arranged in a space formed by the first housing and the second housing, the first housing comprising a first side member forming at least a part of the exterior of the foldable electronic device, the first side member comprising a first side disposed parallel to a folding axis of the hinge module, a second side extending from one end of the first side in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis, and a third side extending from the other end of the first side in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis, the second housing comprising a second side member forming at least a part of the exterior of the foldable electronic device, the second side member being a fork. a fourth side disposed parallel to the folding axis, a fifth side extending from one end of the fourth side in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis, and a sixth side extending from the other end of the fourth side in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis, a first segment portion formed on the first side, a second segment portion formed on the second side, and a third segment portion formed on the fifth side, and when the first housing and the second housing are in a folded state, the second segment portion and the third segment portion are arranged to overlap each other, and a portion of the first side separated by the first segment portion and a portion of the second side separated by the second segment portion are electrically connected to the processor to operate as an antenna, and the antenna includes a power supply portion connected to a power supply point located on the second side, a first matching circuit connected to a first point located between the power supply point and the first segment portion, and a second matching circuit connected to a second point located between the power supply point and the second segment portion.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to electronic devices that include antennas. [Background technology]

[0002] The use of electronic devices such as smartphones, foldable phones, or tablet PCs is increasing, and various functions are provided in the electronic devices.

[0003] The electronic devices transmit and receive telephone calls and various data to and from other electronic devices through wireless communication.

[0004] The electronic device includes at least one antenna for wireless communication with other electronic devices. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] The portable electronic device may be a bar type, a foldable type, a rollable type, a wearable type, or a tablet PC.

[0006] For example, a foldable electronic device operates by folding or unfolding multiple housings around a hinge module.

[0007] The foldable electronic device has a plurality of housings that form the exterior, at least a portion of which is made of a conductive material (e.g., metal), and at least a portion of the portion made of the conductive material is used as an antenna radiator for wireless communication. The plurality of housings includes at least one segment (e.g., a slit).

[0008] When multiple housings of a foldable electronic device are folded, a segment formed on the side of one housing is adjacent to a part of another housing made of a conductive material (e.g., a metal frame), reducing the antenna radiation performance.

[0009] In a foldable electronic device, when multiple housings are in a folded or unfolded state and a user grips a segment formed on a side of the housing with their fingers, the radiation performance of the antenna is reduced.

[0010] If the antenna radiation performance of a foldable electronic device deteriorates, the device may not be able to properly communicate with other electronic devices and / or transmit and receive data.

[0011] Various embodiments of the present invention may provide an electronic device that can reduce antenna performance degradation by using at least a portion of the first side where the first segment is formed or the second side where the second segment is formed as an antenna radiation area.

[0012] The technical problems that the present invention aims to achieve are not limited to those mentioned above, and other technical problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains from the following description. [Means for solving the problem]

[0013] A foldable electronic device according to one aspect of the present invention includes a processor, a hinge module, first and second housings at least partially coupled to both sides of the hinge module and configured to be in an unfolded state or a folded state with respect to the hinge module, and a flexible display disposed in a space formed by the first and second housings, wherein the first housing includes a first side member forming at least a part of the exterior of the foldable electronic device, the first side member including a first side disposed parallel to a folding axis of the hinge module, a second side extended from one end of the first side in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis, and a third side extended from the other end of the first side in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis, and the second housing includes a second side member forming at least a part of the exterior of the foldable electronic device, the second side member disposed parallel to the folding axis. a fourth side extending from one end of the fourth side in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis, a fifth side extending from the other end of the fourth side in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis, a first segmented portion formed on the first side, a second segmented portion formed on the second side, and a third segmented portion formed on the fifth side, and when the first housing and the second housing are in a folded state, the second segmented portion and the third segmented portion are arranged to overlap, and a portion of the first side separated by the first segmented portion and a portion of the second side separated by the second segmented portion are electrically connected to the processor to operate as an antenna, and the antenna may include a feeding portion connected to a feeding point formed on the second side, a first matching circuit connected to a first point located between the feeding point and the first segmented portion, and a second matching circuit connected to a second point located between the feeding point and the second segmented portion.

[0014] A multi-foldable electronic device according to one aspect of the present invention includes a processor, a hinge module, a folding unit, a first housing and a second housing at least partially coupled to both sides of the hinge module and configured to be unfolded or folded through an in-folding manner based on a first folding axis of the hinge module, a third housing disposed on the opposite side of the second housing based on a second folding axis of the folding unit and configured to be unfolded or folded through an out-folding manner based on the second folding axis, and a flexible display disposed in a space formed by the first housing, the second housing, and the third housing, wherein the first housing includes a first side member forming at least a part of the exterior of the multi-foldable electronic device, the first side member including a first side disposed parallel to the first folding axis of the hinge module, a second side extending from one end of the first side in a direction perpendicular to the first folding axis, and a third side extending from the other end of the first side in a direction perpendicular to the first folding axis. the second housing includes a second side member forming at least a part of the appearance of the multi-foldable electronic device, the second side member including a fourth side member arranged parallel to the second side of the first housing and a fifth side member arranged parallel to the third side of the first housing, the third housing including a third side member forming at least a part of the appearance of the multi-foldable electronic device, the third side member including a sixth side member arranged parallel to the second folding axis of the folding part, a seventh side member extending from one end of the sixth side toward the fourth side of the second housing in a direction perpendicular to the second folding axis, and an eighth side member extending from the other end of the sixth side toward the fifth side of the second housing in a direction perpendicular to the second folding axis, a first segmented portion formed on the first side, a second segmented portion formed on the second side, a third segmented portion formed on the fourth side, and a fourth segmented portion formed on the seventh side,The fourth segment is arranged to overlap, and a portion of the first side separated by the first segment and a portion of the second side separated by the second segment are electrically connected to the processor and operate as an antenna, and the antenna may include a feed section connected to a feed point located on the second side, a first matching circuit connected to a first point located between the feed point and the first segment, and a second matching circuit connected to a second point located between the feed point and the second segment. [Effects of the Invention]

[0015] According to the present invention, by adjusting the matching value of the switch, at least a portion of the first side surface on which the first segment is formed or the second side surface on which the second segment is formed is selected and used as the antenna radiation area, thereby reducing degradation in antenna performance.

[0016] In addition, various other advantages are provided that are directly or indirectly understood through this specification. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0017] [Figure 1] 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device in a network environment according to various embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 2a] 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a foldable electronic device in an unfolded state according to various embodiments of the present invention; [Figure 2b] 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a folded state of a foldable electronic device according to various embodiments of the present invention; [Figure 3a] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating another example of an unfolded state of a foldable electronic device according to various embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 3b] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating another example of a folded state of a foldable electronic device according to various embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 4]10A to 10C are diagrams illustrating the operation of an antenna in a foldable electronic device according to various embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 5] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating an electric field when an antenna of a foldable electronic device according to various embodiments of the present invention radiates through a first region between a first segment and a second point and a second region between the first point and the second segment. [Figure 6] 10 is a diagram showing the electric field when the antenna of the foldable electronic device according to the present invention uses the second region between the first point and the second segment as the main radiation region. FIG. [Figure 7] 10 is a diagram illustrating an electric field when the antenna of the foldable electronic device according to the present invention uses the first region between the first segment and the second point as the main radiation region. [Figure 8] This is a diagram showing that the antenna of a foldable electronic device according to various embodiments of the present invention radiates through a first region between a first segment and a second point, and a second region between the first point and the second segment. [Figure 9] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating operations according to adjustment of matching values ​​of a third matching circuit (S3) and a fourth matching circuit (S4) of an antenna of a foldable electronic device according to various embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 10] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating S-parameters illustrating changes in frequency bands through switching of the third matching circuit (S3) and the fourth matching circuit (S4) of the antenna of the foldable electronic device according to various embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 11a] 1A and 1B are diagrams illustrating an unfolded state of a multi-foldable electronic device according to various embodiments of the present invention; [Figure 11b] 1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating a folding state of a multi-foldable electronic device according to various embodiments of the present invention; [Figure 12a] 11a is a diagram illustrating the operation of the antenna when the multi-foldable electronic device of FIG. 11a is used in landscape mode. [Figure 12b]11a is a diagram illustrating the operation of the antenna when the multi-foldable electronic device of FIG. 11a is used in a vertical mode. [Figure 13] 1A and 1B are diagrams illustrating configurations of matching circuits according to various embodiments of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0018] 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device 101 in a network environment 100 according to various embodiments of the present invention. Referring to FIG. 1, in the network environment 100, the electronic device 101 communicates with an electronic device 102 through a first network 198 (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network) or with an electronic device 104 or a server 108 through a second network 199 (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). According to one embodiment, the electronic device 101 communicates with the electronic device 104 through the server 108. According to one embodiment, the electronic device 101 includes a processor 120, a memory 130, an input module 150, an audio output module 155, a display module 160, an audio module 170, a sensor module 176, an interface 177, a connection terminal 178, a haptic module 179, a camera module 180, a power management module 188, a battery 189, a communication module 190, a subscriber identity module 196, or an antenna module 197. In some embodiments, at least one of these components (e.g., connection terminal 178) may be omitted or one or more other components may be added to electronic device 101. In some embodiments, some of these components (e.g., sensor module 176, camera module 180, or antenna module 197) may be integrated into a single component (e.g., display module 160).

[0019] The processor 120 executes software (e.g., program 140) to control at least one other component (e.g., a hardware or software component) of the electronic device 101 connected to the processor 120 and perform various data processing or calculations. According to one embodiment, as at least part of the data processing or calculations, the processor 120 stores instructions or data received from other components (e.g., the sensor module 176 or the communication module 190) in the volatile memory 132, processes the instructions or data stored in the volatile memory 132, and stores the resulting data in the non-volatile memory 134. According to one embodiment, the processor 120 includes a main processor 121 (e.g., a central processing unit or application processor) or an auxiliary processor 123 (e.g., a graphics processing unit, a neural processing unit (NPU), an image signal processor, a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor) that can operate independently or in conjunction with the main processor 121. For example, if the electronic device 101 includes the main processor 121 and the auxiliary processor 123, the auxiliary processor 123 may be configured to use less power than the main processor 121 or to be specialized for a designated function. The auxiliary processor 123 may be embodied separately from the main processor 121 or as part of it.

[0020] The auxiliary processor 123 controls at least a portion of the functions or states associated with at least one of the components of the electronic device 101 (e.g., the display module 160, the sensor module 176, or the communication module 190), either in place of the main processor 121 while the main processor 121 is in an inactive (e.g., sleep) state, or together with the main processor 121 while the main processor 121 is in an active (e.g., application execution) state. According to one embodiment, the auxiliary processor 123 (e.g., an image signal processor or a communication processor) is embodied as part of another functionally related component (e.g., the camera module 180 or the communication module 190). According to one embodiment, the auxiliary processor 123 (e.g., a neural network processing unit) may include a hardware structure specialized for processing artificial intelligence models. The artificial intelligence models are generated through machine learning. Such learning may be performed, for example, within the electronic device 101 itself, where the artificial intelligence models are executed, or through a separate server (e.g., the server 108). The learning algorithm may be, for example, supervised learning, unsupervised learning, semi-supervised learning, or reinforcement learning, but is not limited to these examples. The artificial intelligence model may include multiple artificial neural network layers. The artificial neural network may be, for example, a deep neural network (DNN), a convolutional neural network (CNN), a recurrent neural network (RNN), a restricted Boltzmann machine (RBM), a deep belief network (DBN), a bidirectional recurrent deep neural network (BRDNN), a deep Q-network, or a combination of two or more of the above, but is not limited to these examples.In addition to hardware structures, the artificial intelligence model may additionally or alternatively include software structures.

[0021] Memory 130 stores various data used by at least one component (e.g., processor 120 or sensor module 176) of electronic device 101. The data includes, for example, input data or output data for software (e.g., program 140) and associated instructions. Memory 130 includes volatile memory 132 or non-volatile memory 134.

[0022] The program 140 is stored as software in the memory 130 and includes, for example, an OS 142 , a middleware 144 , or an application 146 .

[0023] Input module 150 receives instructions or data from outside (e.g., a user) electronic device 101 for use by components (e.g., processor 120) of electronic device 101. Input module 150 includes, for example, a microphone, a mouse, a keyboard, keys (e.g., buttons), or a digital pen (e.g., a stylus pen).

[0024] The audio output module 155 outputs audio signals to the outside of the electronic device 101. The audio output module 155 may include, for example, a speaker or a receiver. The speaker is used for general purposes such as multimedia playback or recording playback. The receiver is used to receive incoming calls. According to one embodiment, the receiver is embodied separately from or as part of the speaker.

[0025] The display module 160 visually presents information to an external (e.g., user) of the electronic device 101. The display module 160 may include, for example, a display, a holographic device, or a projector and control circuitry for controlling the device. According to one embodiment, the display module 160 includes a touch sensor configured to detect a touch or a pressure sensor configured to measure the strength of a force generated by a touch.

[0026] Audio module 170 converts sound into an electrical signal or vice versa. According to one embodiment, audio module 170 acquires sound through input module 150 or outputs sound through an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device 102) (e.g., a speaker or headphones) connected directly or wirelessly to audio output module 155 or electronic device 101.

[0027] The sensor module 176 detects an operating state (e.g., power or temperature) of the electronic device 101 or an external environmental state (e.g., a user state) and generates an electrical signal or data value corresponding to the detected state. According to one embodiment, the sensor module 176 includes, for example, a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a proximity sensor, a color sensor, an infrared (IR) sensor, a biometric sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or an illuminance sensor.

[0028] Interface 177 supports one or more specified protocols used to connect electronic device 101 directly or wirelessly to external electronic devices (e.g., electronic device 102). According to one embodiment, interface 177 includes, for example, a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB) interface, an SD card interface, or an audio interface.

[0029] The connection terminal 178 includes a connector through which the electronic device 101 is physically connected to an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device 102). According to one embodiment, the connection terminal 178 includes, for example, an HDMI connector, a USB connector, an SD card connector, or an audio connector (e.g., a headphone connector).

[0030] Haptic module 179 converts electrical signals into mechanical (e.g., vibration or movement) or electrical stimuli that can be perceived by a user through touch or kinesthetic sensation. According to one embodiment, haptic module 179 includes, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulator.

[0031] Camera module 180 captures still and video images and, according to one embodiment, includes one or more lenses, an image sensor, an image signal processor, or a flash.

[0032] The power management module 188 manages the power supplied to the electronic device 101. According to one embodiment, the power management module 188 is embodied, for example, as at least part of a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

[0033] Battery 189 provides power to at least one component of electronic device 101. According to one embodiment, battery 189 includes, for example, a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable secondary battery, or a fuel cell.

[0034] Communications module 190 supports establishing a direct (e.g., wired) or wireless communication channel between electronic device 101 and an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device 102, electronic device 104, or server 108) and performing communications over the established communication channel. Communications module 190 includes one or more communications processors that operate independently of processor 120 (e.g., an application processor) and support direct (e.g., wired) or wireless communications. According to one embodiment, communications module 190 includes wireless communication module 192 (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication module) or wired communication module 194 (e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication module or a power line communication module). A corresponding one of these communication modules communicates with an external electronic device 104 through a first network 198 (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth®, WiFi® (wireless fidelity) direct, or IrDA (infrared data association)) or a second network 199 (e.g., a long-range communication network such as a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN)). These various communication modules may be integrated into a single component (e.g., a single chip) or embodied as multiple separate components (e.g., multiple chips). The wireless communication module 192 identifies or authenticates the electronic device 101 within a communication network such as the first network 198 or the second network 199 using subscriber information (e.g., an International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI)) stored in the subscriber identity module 196.

[0035] The wireless communication module 192 supports 5G networks and next-generation communication technologies beyond 4G networks, such as new radio access (NR) technology. NR technology supports high-speed transmission of large amounts of data (eMBB (enhanced mobile broadband)), minimizing terminal power consumption and connecting multiple terminals (mMTC (massive machine type communications)), or high-reliability and low-latency (URLLC (ultra-reliable and low-latency communications)). The wireless communication module 192 supports, for example, high-frequency bands (e.g., mmWave bands) to achieve high data rates. The wireless communication module 192 supports various technologies to ensure performance in high-frequency bands, such as beamforming, massive MIMO (multiple-input and multiple-output), full-dimensional MIMO (FD-MIMO), array antennas, analog beamforming, or large scale antennas. The wireless communication module 192 supports various requirements defined by the electronic device 101, an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device 104), or a network system (e.g., the second network 199). According to one embodiment, the wireless communication module 192 supports a peak data rate (e.g., 20 Gbps or more) for implementing eMBB, a loss coverage (e.g., 164 dB or less) for implementing mMTC, or a U-plane latency (e.g., 0.5 ms or less for each of the downlink (DL) and uplink (UL), or 1 ms or less for a round trip) for implementing URLLC.

[0036] The antenna module 197 transmits or receives signals or power to or from the outside (e.g., an external electronic device). According to one embodiment, the antenna module 197 includes an antenna including a radiator made of a conductor or conductive pattern formed on a substrate (e.g., a PCB). According to one embodiment, the antenna module 197 includes multiple antennas (e.g., an array antenna). In such a case, at least one antenna compatible with a communication method used in a communication network such as the first network 198 or the second network 199 is selected from the multiple antennas by, for example, the communication module 190. The signal or power is transmitted or received between the communication module 190 and the external electronic device through the selected at least one antenna. According to one embodiment, other components (e.g., a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) besides the radiator are formed as part of the antenna module 197.

[0037] According to various embodiments, antenna module 197 forms an mmWave antenna module. According to one embodiment, the mmWave antenna module includes a printed circuit board, an RFIC disposed on or adjacent to a first surface (e.g., bottom surface) of the printed circuit board and supporting a designated high frequency band (e.g., mmWave band), and a plurality of antennas (e.g., array antennas) disposed on or adjacent to a second surface (e.g., top or side surface) of the printed circuit board and transmitting or receiving signals in the designated high frequency band.

[0038] At least some of the above components are connected to each other through a peripheral communication method (e.g., a bus, a general purpose input and output (GPIO), a serial peripheral interface (SPI), or a mobile industry processor interface (MIPI)) to exchange signals (e.g., commands or data) between them.

[0039] According to one embodiment, commands or data are transmitted or received between electronic device 101 and external electronic device 104 via server 108 connected to second network 199. External electronic device 102 or 104 may be the same or a different type of device as electronic device 101. According to one embodiment, all or part of the operations performed by electronic device 101 are performed by one or more external electronic devices, such as external electronic devices 102, 104, or 108. For example, when electronic device 101 must perform a function or service automatically or in response to a request from a user or another device, electronic device 101 may request one or more external electronic devices to perform the function or at least part of the service instead of or in addition to performing the function or service independently. Upon receiving the request, one or more external electronic devices may perform at least part of the requested function or service, or an additional function or service related to the request, and communicate the results of the execution to electronic device 101. The electronic device 101 processes the result directly or additionally and provides it as at least part of a response to the request. For example, cloud computing, distributed computing, mobile edge computing (MEC), or client-server computing technology may be used for this purpose. The electronic device 101 provides an ultra-low latency service using, for example, distributed computing or mobile edge computing. In another embodiment, the external electronic device 104 includes an Internet of Things (IoT) device. The server 108 may be an intelligent server using machine learning and / or neural networks. According to one embodiment, the external electronic device 104 or the server 108 is included in a second network 199. The electronic device 101 is applied to intelligent services (e.g., smart homes, smart cities, smart cars, or healthcare) based on 5G communication technology and IoT-related technologies.

[0040] The electronic device according to various embodiments disclosed herein may take various forms, including, for example, a portable communication device (e.g., a smartphone), a computer device, a portable multimedia device, a portable medical device, a camera, a wearable device, or a consumer electronic device. The electronic device according to embodiments disclosed herein is not limited to the above-mentioned devices.

[0041] The various embodiments and terms used herein are not intended to limit the technical features described herein to specific embodiments, but rather encompass various modifications, equivalents, or alternatives of the embodiments. In describing the drawings, similar reference numerals are used to refer to similar or related components. The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item includes one or more of the item, unless the relevant context clearly dictates otherwise. In this specification, each of phrases such as "A or B," "at least one of A and B," "at least one of A or B," "A, B, or C," "at least one of A, B, and C," and "at least one of A, B, or C" includes any one of the items listed in the phrase, or all possible combinations thereof. Terms such as "first," "second," "primary," or "secondary" are used simply to distinguish a component from other components, and do not limit the component in other aspects (e.g., importance or procedure). When a (e.g., first) component is referred to as "coupled" or "connected" to another (e.g., second) component, with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicatively," it means that the component is connected to the other component directly (e.g., by wire), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0042] The term "module" used in various embodiments of this specification includes a unit implemented in hardware, software, or firmware, and is used interchangeably with terms such as logic, logic block, component, or circuit. A module is the smallest unit or part of an integrated component or component that performs one or more functions.

[0043] 2a is a diagram illustrating an example of an unfolded state of a foldable electronic device according to various embodiments of the present invention, and FIG. 2b is a diagram illustrating an example of a folded state of a foldable electronic device according to various embodiments of the present invention.

[0044] The foldable electronic device 200 shown in Figures 2a and 2b includes, for example, a foldable phone that is unfolded or folded horizontally or vertically. The foldable electronic device 200 in Figures 2a and 2b includes the electronic device 101 shown in Figure 1. The foldable electronic device 200 includes at least one of the components included in the electronic device 101 shown in Figure 1.

[0045] 2a and 2b, a foldable electronic device 200 according to various embodiments of the present invention includes a first housing 210 and a second housing 220 that are configured to be in an unfolded state or a folded state based on a hinge module 201.

[0046] According to one embodiment, the hinge module 201 connects the first housing 210 and the second housing 220 to be rotatable about a folding axis (A).

[0047] According to various embodiments, when the foldable electronic device 200 is in an unfolded state (e.g., FIG. 2a), the first housing 210 and the second housing 220 are substantially planar and form an angle of approximately 180°. When the foldable electronic device 200 is in a folded state (e.g., FIG. 2b), the first housing 210 and the second housing 220 are disposed to face each other.

[0048] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device 200 includes a flexible display 230 (e.g., a foldable display) disposed in a space formed by the first housing 210 and the second housing 220. For example, the flexible display 230 disposed in the space formed by the first housing 210 and the second housing 220 includes one display or at least two or more displays.

[0049] According to various embodiments, the first housing 210, in the unfolded state, includes a first surface 211 facing a first direction (e.g., front direction, z-axis direction) and a second surface 212 facing a second direction (e.g., rear direction, −z-axis direction) opposite to the first surface 211. According to one embodiment, the second housing 220, in the unfolded state, includes a third surface 221 facing the first direction (e.g., front direction, z-axis direction) and a fourth surface 222 facing the second direction (e.g., rear direction, −z-axis direction) opposite to the third surface 221.

[0050] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device 200 operates in such a manner that the first surface 211 of the first housing 210 and the third surface 221 of the second housing 220 face substantially in the same first direction (e.g., z-axis direction) in the unfolded state, and the first surface 211 of the first housing 210 and the third surface 221 of the second housing 220 face each other in the folded state. According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device 200 operates in such a manner that the second surface 212 of the first housing 210 and the fourth surface 222 of the second housing 220 face substantially in the same second direction (e.g., rearward, −z-axis direction) in the unfolded state, and the second surface 212 of the first housing 210 and the fourth surface 222 of the second housing 220 face in opposite directions in the folded state. For example, when the foldable electronic device 200 is in a folded state, the second surface 212 of the first housing 210 faces in a second direction (e.g., rearward, -z-axis direction), and the fourth surface 222 of the second housing 220 faces in a first direction (e.g., forward, z-axis direction).

[0051] According to various embodiments, the first housing 210 and the second housing 220 are disposed on either side of the folding axis A and have substantially symmetrical shapes with respect to the folding axis A. The angle or distance between the first housing 210 and the second housing 220 changes depending on whether the foldable electronic device 200 is in an unfolded state, a folded state, or an intermediate state.

[0052] According to various embodiments, the first housing 210 and the second housing 220 have asymmetric shapes based on the folding axis A. For example, when the foldable electronic device 200 is in a folded state, the first housing 210 and the second housing 220 are folded in an asymmetric shape around the folding axis A so that a portion of the flexible display 230 is exposed to the outside of the foldable electronic device 200.

[0053] According to one embodiment, the first housing 210 includes a first side member 202 that at least partially forms the exterior of the foldable electronic device 200, and a first rear cover (not shown) that is coupled to the first side member 202 and forms at least a part of the second side 212 of the foldable electronic device 200. For example, the first side member 202 includes a first side 210a that is arranged parallel to the folding axis (A), a second side 210b that extends from one end of the first side 210a in a direction substantially perpendicular to the folding axis (A), and a third side 210c that extends from the other end of the first side 210a in a direction substantially perpendicular to the folding axis (A).

[0054] According to one embodiment, the second housing 220 includes a second side member 204 that at least partially forms the exterior of the foldable electronic device 200, and a second rear cover (not shown) that is coupled to the second side member 204 and forms at least a part of a fourth side 222 of the foldable electronic device 200. For example, the second side member 204 includes a fourth side 220a that is disposed substantially parallel to the folding axis (A), a fifth side 220b that extends from one end of the fourth side 220a in a direction substantially perpendicular to the folding axis (A), and a sixth side 220c that extends from the other end of the fourth side 220a in a direction substantially perpendicular to the folding axis (A).

[0055] According to one embodiment, the first side surface 210a of the first side surface member 202 includes a first segment 215. For example, the first segment 215 separates a portion of the first side surface 210a. The second side surface 210b of the first side surface member 202 includes a second segment 225. For example, the second segment 225 separates a portion of the second side surface 210b. The fifth side surface 220b of the second side surface member 204 includes a third segment 235. For example, the third segment 235 separates a portion of the fifth side surface 220b. For example, the first segment 215, the second segment 225, and / or the third segment 235 are formed in the form of a slit.

[0056] According to various embodiments, the first segment portion 215, the second segment portion 225, and / or the third segment portion 235 are filled with a non-conductive material. The non-conductive material prevents foreign matter from entering the inside of the foldable electronic device 200. The non-conductive material may include a dielectric (e.g., an insulator) including at least one of polycarbonate, polyimide, plastic, polymer, or ceramic, for example.

[0057] According to one embodiment, the second segment portion 225 formed on the second side surface 210b and the third segment portion 235 formed on the fifth side surface 220b are formed on a first side (e.g., the left side) and a second side (e.g., the right side) based on the hinge module 201. When the foldable electronic device 200 is in a folded state (e.g., FIG. 2b), the second segment portion 225 and the third segment portion 235 are arranged to overlap when viewed from above the second rear cover (not shown). The overlapping second segment portion 225 and the third segment portion 235 reduce degradation of the radiation performance of the antenna 240.

[0058] According to one embodiment, a portion of the first side surface 210a separated by the first segment 215 and a portion of the second side surface 210b separated by the second segment 225 act as antenna radiators and are electrically connected to a processor 120 (e.g., processor 120 of FIG. 1) or a communication module (e.g., communication module 190 of FIG. 1) in the foldable electronic device 200 to form the antenna 240. For example, the portion of the first side surface 210a and the portion of the second side surface 210b may be a single conductive portion (e.g., a radiator of the antenna 240) extending from the first segment 215 to the second segment 225. At least a portion of the conductive portion acts as a radiator of the antenna 240.

[0059] For example, antenna 240 operates in the low band (e.g., approximately 600 MHz to 1200 MHz), mid band (e.g., approximately 1500 MHz to 2200 MHz), and high band (e.g., approximately 2300 MHz to 2700 MHz) frequency bands. The frequency bands of antenna 240 are not limited to the above examples, and antenna 240 may transmit and receive signals in other frequency bands.

[0060] According to one embodiment, the antenna 240 includes a feed section 250f coupled to a feed point 250 located on the second side 210b, a first matching circuit (S1) coupled to a first point 251 located between the feed point 250 and the first segment 215, and a second matching circuit (S2) coupled to a second point 252 located between the feed point 250 and the second segment 225.

[0061] For example, the first matching circuit (S1) includes a first switch (e.g., switch 1310 in FIG. 13) and / or at least one lumped element (e.g., passive element 1320 in FIG. 13). The second matching circuit (S2) includes a second switch (e.g., switch 1310 in FIG. 13) and / or at least one lumped element (e.g., passive element 1320 in FIG. 13). The at least one lumped element includes a capacitor or an inductor. The power supply unit 250f is disposed between the first matching circuit (S1) and the second matching circuit (S2).

[0062] According to various embodiments, the power feed portion 250f is coupled to the power feed point 250 located on the second side surface 210b. The power feed portion 250f is electrically coupled to the processor 120 (or the communication module 190). The power feed portion 250f supports the antenna 240 to transmit and receive wireless signals. The power feed portion 250f is coupled to the power feed point 250 via, for example, a C-clip. The power feed portion 250f supplies power to the antenna 240.

[0063] According to various embodiments, the first matching circuit (S1) and the second matching circuit (S2) adjust the electrical length of the antenna 240 using a first switch, a second switch, or at least one lumped element.

[0064] According to various embodiments, the first matching circuit (S1) is coupled to a first point 251 that is closer to the first side 210a than the feed point 250. For example, the first point 251 is disposed on one side (e.g., the left side, in the -x-axis direction) of the feed portion 250f. In one embodiment, the first point 251 is disposed adjacent to a first segment 215 formed on the first side 210a. The first matching circuit (S1) is electrically coupled to the processor 120 or the communication module 190. In one embodiment, the first point 251 is disposed at a distance of about λ / 4 or more from the first segment 215 in the low band. In one embodiment, the first matching circuit (S1) selectively electrically couples a conductive portion (e.g., the antenna 240) to ground (G). In one embodiment, the first switch of the first matching circuit (S1) is used as a shunt element of the tuner. According to one embodiment, the first matching circuit (S1) has its matching value adjusted under the control of the processor 120 or the communication module 190.

[0065] According to various embodiments, the processor 120 (or the communication module 190) controls the first switch included in the first matching circuit (S1) to be turned on and the second switch included in the second matching circuit (S2) to be in an isolation mode (e.g., open state), thereby adjusting the electrical path of the antenna 240. For example, when the first switch included in the first matching circuit (S1) is turned on and the conductive portion (e.g., the antenna 240) is connected to the ground (G) at the first point 251, the antenna 240 uses the second region 242, which is the conductive portion between the first point 251 and the second segment 225, as the main radiation region. For example, the portion of the second side surface 210b in contact with the second segment 225 becomes the main radiation region.

[0066] According to various embodiments, the second matching circuit (S2) is coupled to a second point 252 that is farther from the first side 210a than the feed point 250. For example, the second point 252 is disposed on the other side (e.g., the right side) of the feed portion 250f. In one embodiment, the second point 252 is disposed adjacent to the second segment 225 formed on the second side 220b. The second matching circuit (S2) is electrically coupled to the processor 120 (or the communication module 190). In one embodiment, the second point 252 is disposed at a distance of about λ / 4 or more from the second segment 225 in the low band. The second matching circuit (S2) selectively electrically couples a conductive portion (e.g., a portion of the antenna 240) to ground (G) using a second switch included in the second matching circuit (S2). In one embodiment, the second switch is used as a shunt element of the tuner. The matching value of the second matching circuit (S2) is adjusted under the control of the processor 120 (or the communication module 190).

[0067] According to various embodiments, the processor 120 or the communication module 190 controls the second switch included in the second matching circuit (S2) to be turned on and the first switch included in the first matching circuit (S1) to be in an isolation mode (e.g., open state), thereby adjusting the electrical path of the antenna 240. For example, when the second switch included in the second matching circuit (S2) is turned on and the conductive portion (e.g., the antenna 240) is connected to the ground (G) at the second point 252, the antenna 240 uses the first region 241, which is the conductive portion between the second point 252 and the first segment 215, as the main radiation region. For example, the portions of the first side surface 210a and the second side surface 210b in contact with the first segment 215 become the main radiation region.

[0068] According to various embodiments, the first matching circuit (S1) includes a first switch, a first lumped element, or a second lumped element. The second matching circuit (S2) includes a second switch, a third lumped element, or a fourth lumped element. For example, the first lumped element and the third lumped element have higher L values ​​than the second lumped element and the fourth lumped element. The first matching circuit (S1) electrically connects a first point 251 of the conductive portion (e.g., antenna 240) to ground (G). The second matching circuit (S2) electrically connects a second point 252 of the conductive portion (e.g., antenna 240) to ground (G).

[0069] In one embodiment, the processor 120 (or the communication module 190) connects a first switch included in the first matching circuit (S1) to the first lumped element and electrically connects it to ground (G), and connects a second switch included in the second matching circuit (S2) to the fourth lumped element and electrically connects it to ground (G), thereby controlling the portion of the antenna 240 in contact with the first segment 215 (e.g., the first region 241) to be the main radiation region. In another example, the processor 120 (or the communication module 190) connects a first switch included in the first matching circuit (S1) to the second lumped element and electrically connects it to ground (G), and connects a second switch included in the second matching circuit (S2) to the third lumped element and electrically connects it to ground (G), thereby controlling the portion of the antenna 240 in contact with the second segment 225 (e.g., the second region 242) to be the main radiation region.

[0070] According to various embodiments, the first matching circuit (S1) and the second matching circuit (S2) convert the frequency band of the antenna 240 by adjusting the matching values ​​through the processor 120 (or the communication module 190).

[0071] According to one embodiment, the antenna 240 uses the first region 241, which is the conductive portion between the first segment 215 and the second point 252, as the main radiation region by adjusting the matching values ​​of the first matching circuit (S1) and the second matching circuit (S2), or uses the second region 242, which is the conductive portion between the first point 251 and the second segment 225, as the main radiation region.

[0072] For example, when the foldable electronic device 200 is in a folded state (e.g., FIG. 2b), if the first segment 215 formed on the first side 210a of the first housing 210 is adjacent to or overlaps the fourth side 220a of the second housing 220 made of a conductive material, the radiation performance of the antenna 240 will be reduced. In this case, the processor 120 (or the communication module 190) turns on the first matching circuit (S1) to adjust the electrical path of the antenna 240, thereby transmitting and receiving wireless signals using the second region 242, which is a conductive portion between the first point 251 and the second segment 225, as the main radiation region.

[0073] According to various embodiments, when the foldable electronic device 200 is in an unfolded state (e.g., FIG. 2a) or a folded state (e.g., FIG. 2b), if the first segment 215 formed on the first side 210a of the first housing 210 is gripped by a user's fingers, the radiation performance of the antenna 240 is reduced. In this case, the processor 120 (or the communication module 190) turns on the first matching circuit (S1) to adjust the electrical path of the antenna 240, thereby transmitting and receiving wireless signals using the second region 242, which is a conductive portion between the first point 251 and the second segment 225, as a main radiation region.

[0074] According to various embodiments, the foldable electronic device 200 includes a recess (not shown) formed to accommodate the flexible display 230 through structural coupling of the first housing 210 (e.g., the first side member 202) and the second housing 220 (e.g., the second side member 204). The foldable electronic device 200 includes a printed circuit board (not shown) inside the first housing 210 and / or the second housing 220. The processor 120, memory 130, input module 150, acoustic output module 155, audio module 170, sensor module 176, haptic module 179, camera module 180, communication module 190, and / or communication module 190 shown in FIG. 1 are arranged on the printed circuit board. According to one embodiment, at least a portion of the first housing 210 and the second housing 220 is formed of a metallic or non-metallic material to support the flexible display 230.

[0075] According to various embodiments, the foldable electronic device 200 may be an in-folding type electronic device in which the flexible displays 230 are folded inward to face each other so that the flexible displays 230 are not substantially exposed to the outside of the foldable electronic device 200 in the folded state (e.g., FIG. 2b). In another embodiment (not shown), the foldable electronic device 200 may be an out-folding type electronic device in which the flexible displays 230 are folded outward so that the flexible displays 230 are visually exposed to the outside of the foldable electronic device 200 in the folded state. In another embodiment (not shown), the foldable electronic device 200 may be a multi-folding type foldable electronic device in which the in-folding method and the out-folding method are combined.

[0076] 3a is a diagram schematically illustrating another example of an unfolded state of a foldable electronic device according to various embodiments of the present invention, and FIG. 3b is a diagram schematically illustrating another example of a folded state of a foldable electronic device according to various embodiments of the present invention.

[0077] In the description of Figures 3a and 3b, the same reference numerals are used for the same components as those in Figures 2a and 2b described above, and redundant descriptions of their functions and arrangements will be omitted. The foldable electronic device 200 in Figures 3a and 3b includes the electronic device 101 in Figure 1 and the foldable electronic device 200 in Figures 2a and 2b.

[0078] In the following description of FIGS. 3a and 3b, differences from the embodiment of FIGS. 2a and 2b will be described.

[0079] 3a and 3b, the foldable electronic device 200 according to various embodiments of the present invention includes a fourth segment 315 on the fourth side surface 220a of the second housing 220. The fourth segment 315 separates a portion of the fourth side surface 220a. The fourth segment 315 is formed in the form of a slit. The fourth segment 315 is filled with a non-conductive material (e.g., an insulator).

[0080] According to an embodiment, the fourth segment 315 is formed at a position corresponding to the first segment 215 formed on the first side surface 210a of the first housing 210 with respect to the folding axis (A).

[0081] According to one embodiment, when the foldable electronic device 200 is in a folded state (e.g., FIG. 3b), the first segment 215 and the fourth segment 315 are arranged to overlap when viewed from above the second rear cover (not shown). The overlapping second segment 225 and the third segment 235 reduce degradation of the radiation performance of the antenna 240.

[0082] Fig. 4 is a diagram illustrating the operation of an antenna of a foldable electronic device according to various embodiments of the present invention. Fig. 5 is a diagram illustrating an electric field when an antenna of a foldable electronic device according to various embodiments of the present invention radiates through a first region between a first segment and a second point and a second region between the first point and the second segment. Fig. 6 is a diagram illustrating an electric field when an antenna of a foldable electronic device according to various embodiments of the present invention uses the second region between the first point and the second segment as a main radiation region. Fig. 7 is a diagram illustrating an electric field when an antenna of a foldable electronic device according to various embodiments of the present invention uses the first region between the first segment and the second point as a main radiation region. Fig. 8 is a diagram illustrating an antenna of a foldable electronic device according to various embodiments of the present invention radiating through the first region between the first segment and the second point and the second region between the first point and the second segment.

[0083] In the description of FIGS. 4 to 8, the same reference numerals are given to the same components as those in FIGS. 2a, 2b, 3a, and 3b described above, and redundant descriptions of their functions and arrangements will be omitted.

[0084] 4, the antenna 240 of the foldable electronic device 200 according to various embodiments of the present invention includes a power supply unit 250f, a first matching circuit (S1), and a second matching circuit (S2). According to one embodiment, the first matching circuit (S1) and the second matching circuit (S2) provided on one side and the other side of the power supply unit 250f adjust the electrical length of the antenna 240 by on / off operation. The matching values ​​of the first matching circuit (S1) and the second matching circuit (S2) are adjusted through the processor 120 (or the communication module 190), so that the antenna 240 uses the first region 241, which is the conductive portion between the first segment 215 and the second point 252, as the main radiation region, or the second region 242, which is the conductive portion between the first point 251 and the second segment 225, as the main radiation region. The antenna 240 operates in, for example, a low band (for example, approximately 600 MHz to 1200 MHz) frequency band by adjusting the matching values ​​of the first matching circuit (S1) and the second matching circuit (S2).

[0085] According to various embodiments, the antenna 240 of the foldable electronic device 200 radiates wireless signals through a first region 241 between the first segment 215 and the second point 252 and a second region 242 between the first point 251 and the second segment 225.

[0086] 5, it is possible to see the electric field when the antenna 240 of the foldable electronic device 200 radiates through the first region 241 between the first segment 215 and the second point 252 and the second region 242 between the first point 251 and the second segment 225. The electric field in Fig. 5 shows the electric field of the first segment 215 and the second segment 225 when the first segment 215 and the fourth segment 315 are vertically aligned and the second segment 225 and the third segment 235 are vertically aligned when the foldable electronic device 200 is in a folded state (e.g., Fig. 3b).

[0087] According to various embodiments, when the foldable electronic device 200 is in a folded state (e.g., FIG. 2b), if the first segment 215 formed on the first side surface 210a of the first housing 210 overlaps with the fourth side surface 220a of the second housing 220 made of a conductive material, the radiation performance of the antenna 240 will be reduced. In this case, the processor 120 (or the communication module 190) adjusts the matching values ​​of the first matching circuit (S1) and the second matching circuit (S2) to select one of the first region 241 between the first segment 215 and the second point 241 of the antenna 240 or the second region 242 between the first point 251 and the second segment 225 as the main radiation region. For example, the processor 120 (or the communication module 190) turns on the first matching circuit (S1) and operates the second matching circuit (S2) in an isolation mode (e.g., open state), and adjusts the electrical path of the antenna 240 to a first length (L), thereby using the second region 242 between the first point 251 and the second segment 225 as the main radiation region. In another example, impedance matching is performed using at least one lumped element included in the first matching circuit (S1) according to the frequency band supported by the antenna 240.

[0088] The electric field in Figure 6 shows the electric field of the second segment 225 when the foldable electronic device 200 is in a folded state (e.g., Figure 2b), the fourth side 220a of the second housing 220, which is made of a conductive material, is adjacent to or overlaps the top of the first segment 215, and the second segment 225 and the third segment 235 are aligned vertically.

[0089] 6, the electric field when the antenna 240 of the foldable electronic device 200 radiates using the second region 242 between the first point 251 and the second segment 225 as the main radiation region can be seen. For example, the first matching circuit (S1) operates substantially the same as when a first switch included in the first matching circuit (S1) is connected to an inductor having 1 nH and the first switch is shorted, and the second matching circuit (S2) operates substantially the same as when a second switch included in the second matching circuit (S2) is connected to an inductor having 56 nH and the second switch is open. In this case, the antenna 240 uses the second region 242 between the first point 251 and the second segment 225 as the main radiation region.

[0090] 8, the antenna 240 of the foldable electronic device 200 operates in a low band (e.g., about 600 MHz to 1200 MHz) frequency band. For example, the antenna 240 operates in a frequency band of about 0.85 GHz to 0.9 GHz through a first region 241 between a first segment 215 and a second point 252, and operates in a frequency band of about 1.15 GHz to 1.2 GHz through a second region 242 between the first point 251 and a second segment 225. For example, as shown in FIG. 4, the antenna 240 operates at a frequency resonance corresponding to a second length (L2) that is an electrical path of the first region 241 formed between the first segment 215 and the second point 252 and a first length (L1) that is an electrical path of the second region 242 formed between the first point 251 and the second segment 225. According to various embodiments, when the foldable electronic device 200 is in an unfolded state (e.g., FIGS. 2a and 3a) or a folded state (e.g., FIGS. 2b and 3b), if the second segment 225 formed on the second side surface 210b of the first housing 210 is held by the palm or fingers of a user, the radiation performance of the antenna 240 decreases. In this case, the processor 120 (or the communication module 190) adjusts the matching values ​​of the first matching circuit (S1) and the second matching circuit (S2) to select one of the first region 241 between the first segment 215 and the second point 252 or the second region 242 between the first point 251 and the second segment 225 as the main radiation region. For example, the processor 120 (or the communication module 190) turns on the second matching circuit (S2) and operates the first matching circuit (S1) in an isolation mode (e.g., in an open state), and adjusts the electrical path of the antenna 240 by a second length (L2), thereby using the first region 241 between the first segment 215 and the second point 252 as the main radiation region.

[0091] 4, in various embodiments, antenna 240 operates at a first resonant frequency using a first length (L1) that is an electrical path formed between first point 251 and second region 242 between second segment 225. Antenna 240 operates at a second resonant frequency using a second length (L2) that is an electrical path formed between first region 241 between first segment 215 and second point 252.

[0092] The electric field in Figure 7 shows the electric field of the first segment 215 when the second segment 225 formed on the second side 210b of the first housing 210 is grasped by the palm or fingers of the user when the foldable electronic device 200 is in an unfolded state (e.g., Figures 2a and 3a) or a folded state (e.g., Figures 2b and 3b).

[0093] 7, the electric field when the antenna 240 of the foldable electronic device 200 radiates using the first region 241 between the first segment 215 and the second point 252 as the main radiation region, as described with reference to FIG. 4, can be seen. For example, the first matching circuit (S1) operates substantially the same as when a first switch included in the first matching circuit (S1) is connected to an inductor having a resistance of 56 nH and the first switch is open, and the second matching circuit (S2) operates substantially the same as when a second switch included in the second matching circuit (S2) is connected to an inductor having a resistance of 1 nH and the second switch is shorted. In this case, the antenna 240 uses the first region 241 between the first segment 215 and the second point 252 as the main radiation region.

[0094] 9 is a diagram illustrating an operation of adjusting the matching values ​​of the third matching circuit (S3) and the fourth matching circuit (S4) of the antenna of the foldable electronic device according to various embodiments of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating S-parameters illustrating a change in frequency band through switching of the third matching circuit (S3) and the fourth matching circuit (S4) of the antenna of the foldable electronic device according to various embodiments of the present invention.

[0095] In the description of FIG. 9, the same components as those in FIG. 4 are given substantially the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions of their functions and arrangements will be omitted.

[0096] 9, the antenna 240 of the foldable electronic device 200 according to various embodiments of the present invention includes a power supply unit 250f, a first matching circuit (S1), and a second matching circuit (S2). The first matching circuit (S1) and the second matching circuit (S2) provided on one side and the other side of the power supply unit 250f adjust the electrical length of the antenna 240 by on / off operation. The matching values ​​of the first matching circuit (S1) and the second matching circuit (S2)2 are adjusted through the processor 120 (or the communication module 190). The antenna 240 uses the first region 241, which is the conductive portion between the first segment 215 and the second point 252, as the main radiation region, or selects the second region 242, which is the conductive portion between the first point 251 and the second segment 225, as the main radiation region. The antenna 240 operates in, for example, a low band (for example, about 600 MHz to 1200 MHz) frequency band by adjusting the matching values ​​of the first matching circuit (S1) and the second matching circuit (S2). The antenna 240 of the foldable electronic device 200 radiates a wireless signal through a first region 241 between the first segment 215 and the second point 252, and a second region 242 between the first point 251 and the second segment 225. According to one embodiment, the power supply unit 250f, the first matching circuit (S1), and the second matching circuit (S22) are located between the first segment 215 and the second segment 225.

[0097] According to one embodiment, the feed unit 250f is disposed between the first matching circuit (S1) and the second matching circuit (S2). The feed unit 250f is coupled to a feed point 250 located on the second side surface 210b. The first matching circuit (S1) is coupled to a first point 251 that is closer to the first side surface 210 than the feed point 250. In one embodiment, the first point 251 is disposed adjacent to the first segment 215 formed on the first side surface 210a. The second matching circuit (S2) is coupled to a second point 252 that is farther from the first side surface 210a than the feed point 250. In one embodiment, the second point 252 is disposed closer to the second segment 225 formed on the second side surface 220b than the first segment 215 formed on the first side surface 210a.

[0098] According to various embodiments, a third matching circuit S3 is located on the first side 210a, which is opposite the first matching circuit S1 with respect to the first segment 215. The third matching circuit S3 is connected to a third point 930 located on the first side 210a, which is opposite the first point 251 with respect to the first segment 215. For example, the first segment 215 is located between the first point 251 and the third point 930. A fourth matching circuit S4 is located on the second side 210b, which is opposite the second matching circuit S2 with respect to the second segment 225. The fourth matching circuit S4 is connected to a fourth point 940 located on the second side 210b, which is opposite the second point 252 with respect to the second segment 225. For example, the second segment 225 is located between the second point 252 and the fourth point 940.

[0099] According to various embodiments, the third matching circuit (S3) and the fourth matching circuit (S4) are electrically coupled to the processor 120 (or the communication module 190). The antenna 240 is switched to operate in a frequency band, for example, mid band (e.g., about 1500 MHz to 2200 MHz) and / or high band (e.g., about 2300 MHz to 2700 MHz), by adjusting the matching values ​​of the third matching circuit (S3) and the fourth matching circuit (S4) through the processor 120 (or the communication module 190).

[0100] 10, the antenna 240 adjusts the matching value of the third matching circuit (S3) to, for example, switch from a high band frequency band of about 2.6 GHz to 2.62 GHz to a mid band frequency band of about 1.75 GHz to 1.8 GHz. The antenna 240 adjusts the matching value of the fourth matching circuit (S4) to, for example, switch from a high band frequency band of about 2.65 GHz to 2.7 GHz to a high band frequency band of about 2.35 GHz to 2.4 GHz. In this case, it can be confirmed that even if the frequency band of the antenna 240 is switched to the mid band and / or high band through adjustment of the matching values ​​of the third matching circuit (S3) and the fourth matching circuit (S4), the low band (e.g., about 0.6 GHz to 0.8 GHz) frequency band due to adjustment of the matching values ​​of the first matching circuit (S1) and the second matching circuit (S2) is not affected.

[0101] According to various embodiments, the third matching circuit (S3) includes a third switch (e.g., switch 1310 in FIG. 13) and / or at least one lumped element (e.g., passive element 1320 in FIG. 13). The fourth matching circuit (S4) includes a fourth switch (e.g., switch 1310 in FIG. 13) and / or at least one lumped element (e.g., passive element 1320 in FIG. 13). For example, the at least one lumped element includes a capacitor or an inductor.

[0102] 11a is a diagram illustrating an unfolded state of a multi-foldable electronic device according to various embodiments of the present invention, and FIG. 11b is a diagram illustrating a folded state of a multi-foldable electronic device according to various embodiments of the present invention.

[0103] The multi-foldable electronic device 1100 of Figures 11a and 11b includes the electronic device 101 shown in Figure 1. The multi-foldable electronic device 1100 includes at least one of the components included in the electronic device 101 shown in Figure 1.

[0104] The embodiment shown in Figures 11a and 11b includes at least a part of the description shown in the above-mentioned Figures 2a to 10. In the description of Figures 11a and 11b, the same reference numerals are used for components that are substantially the same as those in the above-mentioned Figures 2a to 10, and redundant description of their functions and operations will be omitted.

[0105] 11a and 11b, a multi-foldable electronic device 1110 according to various embodiments of the present invention includes a first housing 210, a second housing 1120, and a third housing 1130 that form an unfolded state or a folded state based on a hinge module 201 and a folding portion 1101.

[0106] According to one embodiment, the first housing 210 and the second housing 1120 are rotatably coupled around a first folding axis (A) via a hinge module 201. The first housing 210 and the second housing 1120 are folded in an in-folding manner so that the flexible display 230 is not visually exposed to the outside of the multi-foldable electronic device 1100 in a folded state (e.g., FIG. 11b). When the first housing 210 and the second housing 1120 are folded in an in-folding manner, the flexible displays 230 disposed in the first housing 210 and the second housing 1120 are folded inward to face each other.

[0107] According to one embodiment, the second housing 1120 and the third housing 1130 are coupled to each other so as to be rotatable about a second folding axis (B) via a folding portion 1101. The second housing 1120 and the third housing 1130 are folded in an out-folding manner so that the flexible display 230 is visually exposed to the outside of the multi-foldable electronic device 1100 in the folded state (e.g., FIG. 11b). When the second housing 1120 and the third housing 1130 are folded in an out-folding manner, the flexible displays 230 disposed in the second housing 1120 and the third housing 1130 are folded outward so as not to face each other.

[0108] According to various embodiments, when the multi-foldable electronic device 1100 is in an unfolded state (e.g., FIG. 11a), the first housing 210, the second housing 1120, and the third housing 1130 are substantially planar and form an angle of approximately 180°. When the multi-foldable electronic device 1100 is in a folded state (e.g., FIG. 11b), the first housing 210, the second housing 1120, and the third housing 1130 are arranged to overlap each other.

[0109] According to one embodiment, the multi-foldable electronic device 1100 includes a flexible display 230 (e.g., a foldable display) disposed in a space formed by the first housing 210, the second housing 1120, and the third housing 1130. In one embodiment, the flexible display 230 disposed in the space formed by the first housing 210, the second housing 1120, and the third housing 1130 includes one display or at least two or more displays.

[0110] According to various embodiments, the first housing 210, in its unfolded state, includes a first surface 211 facing a first direction (e.g., the front direction, the z-axis direction) and a second surface 212 facing a second direction (e.g., the rear direction, the -z-axis direction) opposite to the first surface 211. According to one embodiment, the second housing 1120, in its unfolded state, includes a third surface 1121 facing the first direction (e.g., the front direction, the z-axis direction) and a fourth surface 1122 facing a second direction (e.g., the rear direction, the -z-axis direction) opposite to the third surface 1121. According to one embodiment, the third housing 1130, in its unfolded state, includes a fifth surface 1131 facing the first direction (e.g., the front direction, the z-axis direction) and a sixth surface 1132 facing a second direction (e.g., the rear direction, the -z-axis direction) opposite to the fifth surface 1131.

[0111] According to one embodiment, in the unfolded state, the first face 211 of the first housing 210, the third face 1121 of the second housing 1120, and the fifth face 1131 of the third housing 1130 face in substantially the same first direction (e.g., the front direction, z-axis direction) of the multi-foldable electronic device 1100. In the folded state, the multi-foldable electronic device 1100 operates in such a manner that the first face 211 of the first housing 210 and the third face 1121 of the second housing 1120 face each other, and the fourth face 1122 of the second housing 1120 and the sixth face 1132 of the third housing 1130 face each other.

[0112] According to various embodiments, the multi-foldable electronic device 1100 includes a first surface (e.g., a facing or front surface) on which the flexible display 230 is disposed, a second surface (e.g., a bottom or rear surface) opposite the first surface, and side surfaces surrounding the first and second surfaces.

[0113] According to one embodiment, the first housing 210 includes a first side member 202 that at least partially defines the exterior of the multi-foldable electronic device 1100. The second housing 1120 includes a second side member 1126 that at least partially defines the exterior of the multi-foldable electronic device 1100. The third housing 1130 includes a third side member 1136 that at least partially defines the exterior of the multi-foldable electronic device 1100.

[0114] In one embodiment, the first side member 210, the second side member 1126, and the third side member 1136 are formed using a conductive material (eg, metal).

[0115] According to various embodiments, the first housing 210 and the second housing 1120 are disposed on opposite sides of a first folding axis (A) and have substantially symmetrical shapes with respect to the first folding axis (A). The second housing 1120 and the third housing 1130 are disposed on opposite sides of a second folding axis (B) and have substantially symmetrical shapes with respect to the second folding axis (B).

[0116] According to various embodiments, the first housing 210 and the second housing 220 may have asymmetric shapes with respect to the first folding axis (A), and the second housing 1120 and the third housing 1130 may have asymmetric shapes with respect to the second folding axis (B).

[0117] According to one embodiment, the first housing 210 includes a first rear cover (not shown) coupled to the first side member 202 and forming at least a portion of the second side 212 of the multi-foldable electronic device 1100. For example, the first side member 202 includes a first side 210a disposed substantially parallel to the first folding axis (A), a second side 210b extending from one end of the first side 210a in a direction substantially perpendicular to the first folding axis (A), and a third side 210c extending from the other end of the first side 210a in a direction substantially perpendicular to the first folding axis (A).

[0118] According to one embodiment, the second housing 1120 includes a second rear cover (not shown) coupled to a second side member 1126 and forming at least a portion of a fourth side 1122 of the multi-foldable electronic device 1100. For example, the second side member 1126 includes a fourth side 1120b disposed substantially parallel to the second side 210b of the first side member 202 and a fifth side 1120c disposed substantially parallel to the third side 210c of the first side member 202.

[0119] According to one embodiment, the third housing 1130 includes a third rear cover (not shown) coupled to a third side member 1136 and forming at least a portion of a sixth side 1132 of the multi-foldable electronic device 1100. For example, the third side member 1136 includes a sixth side 1130a disposed substantially parallel to the second folding axis (B), a seventh side 1130b extending from one end of the sixth side 1130a toward the fourth side 1120b of the second side member 1126 in a direction substantially perpendicular to the second folding axis (B), and an eighth side 1130c extending from the other end of the sixth side 1130a toward the fifth side 1120c of the second side member 1126 in a direction substantially perpendicular to the second folding axis (B).

[0120] According to various embodiments, when the multi-foldable electronic device 1100 is in an unfolded state (e.g., FIG. 11a), the second side 210b of the first side member 202, the fourth side 1120b of the second side member 1126, and the seventh side 1130b of the third side member 1136 are arranged substantially parallel, and the third side 210c of the first side member 201, the fifth side 1120c of the second side member 1126, and the eighth side 1130c of the third side member 1136 are arranged substantially parallel.

[0121] According to one embodiment, the first side 210a of the first side member 202 includes a first segment 215. For example, the first segment 215 separates a portion of the first side 210a. The second side 210b of the first side member 202 includes a second segment 225. For example, the second segment 225 separates a portion of the second side 210b. The fourth side 1120b of the second side member 1126 includes a third segment 1125. For example, the third segment 1125 separates a portion of the fourth side 1120b. The seventh side 1130b of the third side member 1136 includes a fourth segment 1135. For example, the fourth segment 1135 separates a portion of the seventh side 1130b. The first segment 215, the second segment 225, the third segment 1125, and the fourth segment 1135 are each formed in the form of a slit.

[0122] According to one embodiment, the second segment 225 formed on the second side surface 210b and the third segment 1125 formed on the fourth side surface 1120b are disposed on a first side (e.g., left side) and a second side (e.g., right side) based on the hinge module 201. The third segment 1125 formed on the fourth side surface 1120b and the fourth segment 1135 formed on the seventh side surface 1130b are disposed on a first side (e.g., left side) and a second side (e.g., right side) based on the folding portion 1101.

[0123] According to one embodiment, when the multi-foldable electronic device 1100 is in a folded state (e.g., FIG. 11b), the second segment 225, the third segment 1125, and the fourth segment 1135 are arranged to be stacked one on top of the other when viewed from above the first surface. The stacked second segment 225, the third segment 1125, and the fourth segment 1135 reduce degradation of the radiation performance of the antenna 240.

[0124] According to one embodiment, a portion of the first side surface 210a separated by the first segment 215 and a portion of the second side surface 210b separated by the second segment 225 act as antenna radiators and are electrically connected to the processor 120 (or the communication module 190) in the multi-foldable electronic device 1100 to form the antenna 240. For example, a portion of the first side surface 210a and a portion of the second side surface 210b may be a single conductive portion (e.g., a radiator of the antenna 240) extending from the first segment 215 to the second segment 225. At least a portion of the conductive portion acts as a radiator of the antenna 240.

[0125] According to one embodiment, the antenna 240 includes a feed point 250f, a first matching circuit (S1), and a second matching circuit (S2). In one embodiment, the feed point 250, the first point 251, and the second point 252 are disposed on the second side 210b of the first housing 210.

[0126] According to various embodiments, the feed portion 250f is connected to a feed point 250 disposed on the second side surface 210b. The first matching circuit (S1) is connected to a first point 251 that is closer to the first side surface 210a than the feed point 250. For example, the first matching circuit (S1) is disposed on one side (e.g., the left side) of the feed portion 250f. In one embodiment, the first point 251 is disposed adjacent to the first segment 215 formed on the first side surface 210a. The second matching circuit (S2) is connected to a second point 252 that is farther from the first side surface 210a than the feed point 250. For example, the second point 252 is disposed on the other side (e.g., the right side) of the feed portion 250f. In one embodiment, the second point 252 is disposed adjacent to the second segment 225 formed on the second side surface 220b.

[0127] According to various embodiments, the first matching circuit (S1) and the second matching circuit (S2) convert the frequency band of the antenna 240 by adjusting the matching values ​​through the processor 120 (or the communication module 190). The antenna 240 uses the first region 241, which is the conductive portion between the first segment 215 and the second point 252, as the main radiation region, or the second region 242, which is the conductive portion between the first point 251 and the second segment 225, as the main radiation region by adjusting the matching values ​​of the first matching circuit (S1) and / or the second matching circuit (S2).

[0128] For example, when the multi-foldable electronic device 1100 is in a folded state (e.g., FIG. 11b), if the first segment 215 formed on the first side 210a of the first housing 210 is adjacent to or overlaps the display 230 disposed on at least a portion of the second housing 1120 and the third housing 1130, the radiation performance of the antenna 240 will be reduced. In this case, the processor 120 (or the communication module 190) turns on the first matching circuit (S1) to adjust the electrical path of the antenna 240, thereby transmitting and receiving wireless signals using the second region 242, which is the conductive portion between the first point 251 and the second segment 225, as the main radiation region.

[0129] According to various embodiments, when the multi-foldable electronic device 1100 is in an unfolded state (e.g., FIG. 11a) or a folded state (e.g., FIG. 11b), if the first segment 215 formed on the first side 210a of the first housing 210 is gripped by a user's fingers, the radiation performance of the antenna 240 decreases. In this case, the communication module 190 turns on the first matching circuit (S1) and turns off the second matching circuit (S2) to adjust the electrical path of the antenna 240, thereby transmitting and receiving wireless signals using the second region 242, which is a conductive portion between the first point 215 and the second segment 225, as the main radiation region. According to various embodiments, the multi-foldable electronic device 1100 includes a recess (not shown) formed to accommodate the flexible display 230 through structural coupling of the first housing 210 (e.g., first side member 202), the second housing 1120 (e.g., second side member 1126), and the third housing 1130 (e.g., third side member 1136). The multi-foldable electronic device 1100 includes a printed circuit board (not shown) inside at least one of the first housing 210, the second housing 1120, or the third housing 1130. The processor 120, memory 130, input module 150, acoustic output module 155, audio module 170, sensor module 176, haptic module 179, camera module 180, communication module 190, and / or the like shown in FIG. 1 are disposed on the printed circuit board. At least a portion of the first housing 210, the second housing 1120, and the third housing 1130 is made of a metallic or non-metallic material to support the flexible display 230.

[0130] Figure 12a is a diagram illustrating the operation of the antenna when the multi-foldable electronic device of Figure 11a is used in landscape mode, and Figure 12b is a diagram illustrating the operation of the antenna when the multi-foldable electronic device of Figure 11a is used in portrait mode.

[0131] 12a, when the multi-foldable electronic device 1100 according to various embodiments of the present invention is used in an unfolded state (e.g., landscape mode), the first segment 215 formed on the first side surface 210a of the first housing 210 is grasped by the user's finger 1210. In this case, as described with reference to FIG. 11a, the radiation performance of the antenna 240 is reduced through the first region 241, which is the conductive portion between the first segment 215 and the second point 252.

[0132] 4 and 11a, the processor 120 (or the communication module 190) turns on the first matching circuit (S1) to adjust the matching value, and operates the second matching circuit (S2) in an isolation mode (e.g., open state) to adjust the electrical path of the antenna 240. When the first matching circuit (S1) is turned on, the antenna 240 radiates by operating the second region 242, which is the conductive portion between the first point 251 and the second segment 225, as the main radiation region.

[0133] 12b, when the multi-foldable electronic device 1100 according to various embodiments of the present invention is used in an unfolded state (e.g., a vertical mode), the second segment 225 formed on the second side surface 210b of the first housing 210 is gripped by the user's finger 1210. In this case, the radiation performance of the antenna 240 through the second region 242, which is a conductive portion between the first point 251 and the second segment 225, is reduced.

[0134] 4 and 11a, the communication module 190 turns on the second matching circuit S2 to adjust the matching value, and operates the first matching circuit SW1 in an isolation mode (e.g., open state) to adjust the electrical path of the antenna 240. When the second matching circuit S2 is turned on, the antenna 240 radiates by operating the first region 241 between the first segment 215 and the second point 252 as the main radiation region.

[0135] According to various embodiments, the foldable electronic device 200 or the multi-foldable electronic device 1100 according to various embodiments of the present invention reduces degradation of antenna performance by selecting and using one of the first region 241, which is the conductive portion between the first segment 215 and the second point 252 formed on the antenna 240, or the second region 242, which is the conductive portion between the first point 251 and the second segment 225, as the main radiation region.

[0136] According to various embodiments, the above-described embodiments have been described using the foldable electronic device 200 and the multi-foldable electronic device 1100 as examples, but may also be applied to bar-type electronic devices, rollable-type electronic devices, wearable-type electronic devices, and / or tablet PCs.

[0137] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing the configuration of a matching circuit according to various embodiments of the present invention.

[0138] According to various embodiments, the matching circuit shown in FIG. 13 includes the first matching circuit (S1), the second matching circuit (S2), the third matching circuit (S3), and / or the fourth matching circuit (S4) shown in FIG. 2a, FIG. 3a, FIG. 4, or FIG. 9.

[0139] Referring to FIG. 13, the first matching circuit (S1), the second matching circuit (S2), the third matching circuit (S3), or the fourth matching circuit (S4) includes at least one switch 1310 or a plurality of passive elements 1320 (D1, D2, ..., Dn, open) having different element values ​​that are electrically connected to the electrical path or that disconnect the electrical path by at least one switch 1310.

[0140] According to one embodiment, the plurality of passive elements 1320 includes capacitors having various capacitance values ​​and / or inductors having various inductance values.

[0141] According to one embodiment, at least one switch 1310 is coupled to an electrical path 1302 including elements having element values ​​designated under the control of a processor (e.g., processor 120 of FIG. 2a). In some embodiments, the first matching circuit (S1), the second matching circuit (S2), the third matching circuit (S3), or the fourth matching circuit (S4) disconnects the electrical path 1302 through the switch 1310.

[0142] According to one embodiment, the at least one switch 1310 includes a micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) switch. The MEMS switch performs mechanical switching using an internal metal plate and has a complete turn on / off characteristic, so it does not substantially affect the change in the radiation characteristics of the antenna. In some embodiments, the at least one switch 1310 includes a single pole single throw (SPST), a single pole double throw (SPDT), or a switch with three or more throws.

[0143] A foldable electronic device 200 according to various embodiments of the present invention includes a processor 120, a hinge module 201, a first housing 210 and a second housing 220, at least a portion of which is coupled to both sides of the hinge module 201 and is in an unfolded state or a folded state based on the hinge module 201, and a flexible display 230 disposed in a space formed by the first housing 210 and the second housing 220. The first housing 210 includes a first side member 20 that forms at least a part of the exterior of the foldable electronic device 200. 2, the first side member 202 includes a first side 210a arranged parallel to the folding axis (A) of the hinge module 201, a second side 210b extending from one end of the first side 210a in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis (A), and a third side 210c extending from the other end of the first side 210a in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis (A), and the second housing 220 includes a second side member 204 forming at least a part of the exterior of the foldable electronic device 200, and the second side member 204 includes a fourth side member 210b arranged parallel to the folding axis (A). The housing 210 includes a side 220a, a fifth side 220b extending from one end of the fourth side 220a in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis (A), and a sixth side 220c extending from the other end of the fourth side 220a in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis (A). The first side 210a has a first segment portion 215, the second side 210b has a second segment portion 225, and the fifth side 220b has a third segment portion 235. When the first housing 210 and the second housing 220 are in a folded state, the second segment portion 225 and the third segment portion 235 are arranged to overlap each other, and the first segment portion A portion of the first side 210a separated through 215 and a portion of the second side 210b separated through the second segment 225 are electrically connected to the processor 120 and operate as an antenna 240, and the antenna 240 includes a feed section 250f connected to a feed point 250 located on the second side 210b, a first matching circuit (S1) connected to a first point 251 located between the feed point 250 and the first segment 215, and a second matching circuit (S2) connected to a second point 252 located between the feed point 250 and the second segment 225.

[0144] According to various embodiments, the foldable electronic device 200 further includes a fourth segment 315 formed on the fourth side 220a, and when the first housing 210 and the second housing 220 are in a folded state, the first segment 215 and the fourth segment 315 are arranged to overlap.

[0145] According to various embodiments, the first matching circuit (S1) includes a first switch and / or at least one lumped element, and the second matching circuit (S2) includes a second switch and / or at least one lumped element.

[0146] According to various embodiments, the lumped element comprises a capacitor or an inductor.

[0147] According to various embodiments, the first matching circuit (S1) or the second matching circuit (S2) is configured such that the matching value is adjusted under the control of the processor 120.

[0148] According to various embodiments, when the first matching circuit (S1) is turned on and the second matching circuit (S2) operates in an open state under the control of the processor 120, the antenna 240 is configured to operate with the second region 242, which is the conductive portion between the first point 251 and the second segment 225, as the main radiation region.

[0149] According to various embodiments, when the second matching circuit (S2) is turned on and the first matching circuit (S1) operates in an open state under the control of the processor 120, the antenna 240 is configured to operate with the first region 241, which is the conductive portion between the first segment 215 and the second point 252, as the main radiation region.

[0150] According to various embodiments, the processor 120 adjusts the matching values ​​of the first matching circuit (S1) and / or the second matching circuit (S2) so that the antenna 240 is configured to operate in the low band frequency band between 600 MHz and 1200 MHz.

[0151] According to various embodiments, the foldable electronic device 200 includes a third matching circuit (S3) connected to a third point 930 located on the first side 210a, which is opposite the first matching circuit (S1) based on the first segment 215; and a fourth matching circuit (S4) connected to a fourth point 940 located on the second side 210b, which is opposite the second matching circuit (S2) based on the second segment 225.

[0152] According to various embodiments, the processor 120 adjusts the matching values ​​of the third matching circuit (S3) and / or the fourth matching circuit (S4) so ​​that the antenna 240 is configured to operate in the mid band of 1500 MHz to 2200 MHz and / or the high band of 2300 MHz to 2700 MHz.

[0153] A multi-foldable electronic device 1100 according to various embodiments of the present invention includes a processor 120, a hinge module 201, a folding unit 1101, a first housing 210 and a second housing 1120, at least a portion of which is coupled to both sides of the hinge module 201 and configured to be in an unfolded state or a folded state through an in-folding manner based on a first folding axis (A) of the hinge module 201, a third housing 1130, which is disposed on the opposite side of the second housing 1120 based on a second folding axis (B) of the folding unit 1101 and configured to be in an unfolded state or a folded state through an out-folding manner based on the second folding axis (B), and a flexible display 230 disposed in a space formed by the first housing 210, the second housing 1120, and the third housing 1130, and the first housing 210 includes a first side member 202 that forms at least a part of the exterior of the multi-foldable electronic device 1100. The first side member 202 includes a first side 210a arranged parallel to the first folding axis (A) of the hinge module 201, a second side 210b extending from one end of the first side 210a in a direction perpendicular to the first folding axis (A), and a third side 210c extending from the other end of the first side 210a in a direction perpendicular to the first folding axis (A), and the second housing 1120 includes a second side member 1126 that forms at least a part of the exterior of the multi-foldable electronic device 1100, The second side member 1126 includes a fourth side member 1120b that is arranged substantially parallel to the second side member 210b of the first housing 210, and a fifth side member 1120c that is arranged substantially parallel to the third side member 210c of the first housing 210. The third housing 1130 includes a third side member 1136 that forms at least a part of the appearance of the multi-foldable electronic device 1100. The third side member 1136 includes a sixth side member 1130a that is arranged parallel to the second folding axis (B) of the folding portion 1101.The housing 1120 includes a seventh side surface 1130b extending from one end of the sixth side surface 1130a toward the fourth side surface 1120b of the second housing 1120 in a direction perpendicular to the second folding axis (B), and an eighth side surface 1130c extending from the other end of the sixth side surface 1130a toward the fifth side surface 1120c of the second housing 1120 in a direction perpendicular to the second folding axis (B). A first segmented portion 215 is formed on the first side surface 210a, a second segmented portion 225 is formed on the second side surface 210b, a third segmented portion 1125 is formed on the fourth side surface 1120b, and a fourth segmented portion 1135 is formed on the seventh side surface 1130b, so that the first housing 210, the second housing 1120, and the third housing 1130 are in a folded state. In this state, the second segment 225, the third segment 1125, and the fourth segment 1135 are arranged to overlap, and a portion of the first side 210a separated by the first segment 215 and a portion of the second side 210b separated by the second segment 225 are electrically connected to the processor 120 and operate as an antenna 240. The antenna 240 includes a feed section 250f connected to a feed point 250 located on the second side 210b, a first matching circuit (S1) connected to a first point 251 located between the feed point 250 and the first segment 215, and a second matching circuit (S2) connected to a second point 252 located between the feed point 250 and the second segment 225.

[0154] According to various embodiments, the second segment 225 and the third segment 1125 are disposed on either side of the first folding axis (A) of the hinge module 201 .

[0155] According to various embodiments, the third segment 1125 and the fourth segment 1135 are disposed on either side of the second folding axis (B) of the folding portion 1101 .

[0156] According to various embodiments, the first matching circuit (S1) includes a first switch and / or at least one lumped element, and the second matching circuit (S2) includes a second switch and / or at least one lumped element.

[0157] According to various embodiments, the lumped element comprises a capacitor or an inductor.

[0158] According to various embodiments, when the first matching circuit (S1) is turned on and the second matching circuit (S2) operates in an open state under the control of the processor 120, the antenna 240 is configured to operate with the second region 242, which is the conductive portion between the first point 251 and the second segment 225, as the main radiation region.

[0159] According to various embodiments, when the second matching circuit (S2) is turned on and the first matching circuit (S1) operates in an open state under the control of the processor 120, the antenna 240 is configured to operate with the first region 241, which is the conductive portion between the first segment 215 and the second point 252, as the main radiation region.

[0160] According to various embodiments, the processor 120 adjusts the matching values ​​of the first matching circuit (S1) and / or the second matching circuit (S2) so that the antenna 240 is configured to operate in the low band frequency band of 600 MHz to 1200 MHz.

[0161] According to various embodiments, the multi-foldable electronic device 1100 includes a third matching circuit (S3) connected to a third point 930 located on the first side 210a, which is opposite the first matching circuit (S1) based on the first segment 215; and a fourth matching circuit (S4) connected to a fourth point (S4) located on the second side 210b, which is opposite the second matching circuit (S2) based on the second segment 225.

[0162] According to various embodiments, the processor 120 adjusts the matching values ​​of the third matching circuit (S3) and / or the fourth matching circuit (S4) so ​​that the antenna 240 is configured to operate in the mid band of 1500 MHz to 2200 MHz and / or the high band of 2300 MHz to 2700 MHz.

[0163] Although the present invention has been described above with reference to various embodiments thereof, it is understood that modifications and variations made by a person skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains without departing from the technical spirit of the present invention also fall within the scope of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0164] 100 Network Environment 101, 102, 104 Electronic equipment 108 servers 198 Network 1 199 Second Network 200 Foldable Electronic Device 201 Hinge Module 202 First side member 204, 1126 Second side member 210 1st Housing 210a 1st side 210b 2nd side 210c 3rd side 211 Page 1 212 2nd page 215 First Segment 220, 1120 Second Housing 220a, 1120b 4th side 220b, 1120c 5th side 220c, 1120a 6th side 221, 1121 3rd page 222, 1122 4th page 225 Second Segment 230 Flexible Display 235, 1125 Third Segment 240 Antenna 241 First area 242 Second area 250 power points 250f power supply unit 251 First Point 252 Second Point 315, 1135 4th Segment 930 3rd point 940 4th point 1100 Multi-foldable electronic device 1101 Folding section 1130 Third Housing 1130b 7th aspect 1130c 8th side 1131 Page 5 1132 Page 6 1136 Third side member 1210 fingers 1302 Electrical Path 1310 Switch 1320 Passive elements

Claims

1. In a foldable electronic device, a processor; a hinge module; a first housing and a second housing, at least a portion of which is coupled to both sides of the hinge module and which are in an unfolded state or a folded state with respect to the hinge module; a flexible display disposed on the first housing and the second housing; the first housing includes a first side member that forms at least a part of the exterior of the foldable electronic device; the first side member includes a first side disposed parallel to a folding axis of the hinge module, a second side extending from one end of the first side in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis, and a third side extending from the other end of the first side in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis, the second housing includes a second side member that forms at least a part of the exterior of the foldable electronic device; the second side member includes a fourth side disposed parallel to the folding axis, a fifth side extending from one end of the fourth side in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis, and a sixth side extending from the other end of the fourth side in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis, a first segment formed on the first side, a second segment formed on the second side, and a third segment formed on the fifth side; an antenna radiator extending along the first and second sides and disposed between the first and second segments is electrically connected to the processor and operates as an antenna; the antenna radiator includes a feed point, a first point located between the feed point and the first segment, and a second point located between the feed point and the second segment; the antenna includes a feed section coupled to the feed point, a first matching circuit coupled to the first point, and a second matching circuit coupled to the second point; the first point is electrically coupled to ground via the first matching circuit, and the second point is electrically coupled to ground via the second matching circuit; When the second matching circuit is turned on and the first matching circuit operates in an open state under the control of the processor, the antenna is configured to operate with a first region, which is a conductive portion between the first segment and the second point, as a main radiation region. A foldable electronic device.

2. further comprising a fourth segment formed on the fourth side, 2. The foldable electronic device of claim 1, wherein when the first housing and the second housing are in a folded state, the second segment and the third segment are arranged to overlap each other, and the first segment and the fourth segment are arranged to overlap each other.

3. the first matching circuit includes a first switch and / or at least one lumped element; The foldable electronic device according to claim 1 , wherein the second matching circuit is configured to include a second switch and / or at least one lumped element.

4. The foldable electronic device according to claim 3 , wherein the lumped element comprises a capacitor or an inductor.

5. The foldable electronic device according to claim 3 , wherein the first matching circuit or the second matching circuit is configured to adjust a matching value under the control of the processor.

6. 6. The foldable electronic device of claim 5, wherein when the first matching circuit is turned on and the second matching circuit operates in an open state under the control of the processor, the antenna is configured to operate with a second region, which is a conductive portion between the first point and the second segment, as a main radiation region.

7. The foldable electronic device of claim 5, wherein the processor adjusts the matching values ​​of the first matching circuit and / or the second matching circuit so that the antenna operates in a low band frequency band of 600 MHz to 1200 MHz.

8. a third matching circuit connected to a third point located on the first side opposite the first matching circuit with respect to the first segment; and a fourth matching circuit connected to a fourth point located on the second side opposite the second matching circuit with respect to the second segment. The foldable electronic device of claim 5, further comprising:

9. The processor adjusts the matching values ​​of the third matching circuit and / or the fourth matching circuit so that the antenna operates in a frequency band of 1500 MHz to 2200 MHz mid band and / or 2300 MHz to 2700 MHz high band. The foldable electronic device of claim 8,

10. In a multi-foldable electronic device, a processor; a hinge module; A folding section; a first housing and a second housing, at least a portion of which is coupled to both sides of the hinge module, and which are in an unfolded state or a folded state through an in-folding manner based on a first folding axis of the hinge module; a third housing disposed in an opposite direction to the second housing with respect to the second folding axis of the folding unit, and configured to be in an unfolded or folded state through an out-folding manner with respect to the second folding axis; a flexible display disposed in a space formed by the first housing, the second housing, and the third housing; the first housing includes a first side member that forms at least a part of the exterior of the multi-foldable electronic device; the first side member includes a first side disposed parallel to the first folding axis of the hinge module, a second side extending from one end of the first side in a direction perpendicular to the first folding axis, and a third side extending from the other end of the first side in a direction perpendicular to the first folding axis, the second housing includes a second side member that forms at least a part of the exterior of the multi-foldable electronic device; the second side member includes a fourth side surface disposed parallel to the second side surface of the first housing and a fifth side surface disposed parallel to the third side surface of the first housing, the third housing includes a third side member that forms at least a part of the exterior of the multi-foldable electronic device; the third side member includes a sixth side disposed parallel to the second folding axis of the folding portion, a seventh side extending from one end of the sixth side toward the fourth side of the second housing in a direction perpendicular to the second folding axis, and an eighth side extending from the other end of the sixth side toward the fifth side of the second housing perpendicular to the second folding axis, a first segment portion is formed on the first side surface, a second segment portion is formed on the second side surface, a third segment portion is formed on the fourth side surface, and a fourth segment portion is formed on the seventh side surface, and when the first housing, the second housing, and the third housing are in a folded state, the second segment portion, the third segment portion, and the fourth segment portion are arranged to overlap each other; a portion of the first side separated by the first segment and a portion of the second side separated by the second segment are electrically connected to the processor and operate as an antenna; The antenna includes a feeding section connected to a feeding point located on the second side, a first matching circuit connected to a first point located between the feeding point and the first segment, and a second matching circuit connected to a second point located between the feeding point and the second segment. A multi-foldable electronic device.

11. The multi-foldable electronic device of claim 10 , wherein the second segment and the third segment are disposed on both sides of the first folding axis of the hinge module.

12. The multi-foldable electronic device of claim 10 , wherein the third and fourth segments are disposed on both sides of the second folding axis of the folding unit.

13. the first matching circuit includes a first switch and / or at least one lumped element; The multi-foldable electronic device according to claim 10, wherein the second matching circuit is configured to include a second switch and / or at least one lumped element.

14. When the first matching circuit is turned on and the second matching circuit operates in an open state under the control of the processor, the antenna is configured to operate with a second region, which is a conductive portion between the first point and the second segment, as a main radiation region; 14. The multi-foldable electronic device of claim 13, wherein when the second matching circuit is turned on and the first matching circuit operates in an open state under the control of the processor, the antenna is configured to operate with a first region, which is a conductive portion between the first segment and the second point, as a main radiation region.

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