Antenna and electronic device comprising the same

Abstract

An electronic device according to various embodiments comprises an antenna comprising a housing including a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface, and a printed circuit board positioned between the first surface and the second surface, wherein the printed circuit board may include a feed pattern including a first connector area, and a ground pattern including a first ground area in contact with a first portion of the first surface, a first coupling area connected to the first ground area, a second ground area connected to the first coupling area and including a second connector area, and a second coupling area connected to the second ground area and in contact with a second portion different from the second portion of the first surface.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The following various embodiments relate to an antenna and an electronic device including the same. Background Technology

[0002] The use of electronic devices with wireless communication capabilities, such as data communication (e.g., the Internet), is increasing. Various technologies are being developed to utilize next-generation networks (e.g., fifth generation new radio, 5G NR) to provide high-speed mobile communication capabilities to users. The problem to be solved

[0003] According to various embodiments, an antenna covering the entire frequency band of a next-generation network and an electronic device including the same can be provided. means of solving the problem

[0004] An electronic device according to various embodiments comprises an antenna comprising a housing including a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface, and a printed circuit board positioned between the first surface and the second surface, wherein the printed circuit board may include a feed pattern including a first connector area, and a ground pattern including a first ground area in contact with a first portion of the first surface, a first coupling area connected to the first ground area, a second ground area connected to the first coupling area and including a second connector area, and a second coupling area connected to the second ground area and in contact with a second portion different from the second portion of the first surface.

[0005] An antenna according to various embodiments may include a feed pattern including a first connector region, and a ground pattern including a first ground region, a first coupling region connected to the first ground region, a second ground region connected to the first coupling region and including a second connector region, and a second coupling region connected to the second ground region.

[0006] An electronic device according to various embodiments comprises an antenna comprising a housing comprising a first surface including a first part of a non-metallic material and a second part of a metallic material formed as a single segment, and a second surface opposite to the first surface, and a printed circuit board positioned between the first surface and the second surface, wherein the printed circuit board may include a feed pattern positioned on the first part, and a ground pattern comprising a first ground region in contact with a first part of the first surface, a first coupling region connected to the first ground region, a second ground region connected to the first coupling region and including a second connector region, and a second coupling region connected to the second ground region and in contact with a second part different from the second part of the first surface. Effects of the invention

[0007] According to various embodiments, the bandwidth of each frequency band of a next-generation network (e.g., 5G network) can be expanded. According to various embodiments, radio waves of the entire frequency band of a next-generation network (e.g., about 600 MHz to about 4,300 MHz) can be transmitted and received with a single antenna without additional antennas. According to various embodiments, a broadband antenna within an electronic device can be designed in a standardized port structure with limited transmission output without additional components (e.g., RF circuit elements). According to various embodiments, the radiation efficiency of radio waves can be improved. The effects of the antenna and the electronic device including it according to various embodiments are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned effects will be clearly understood by a person skilled in the art from the description below. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0008] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device in a network environment according to various embodiments. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an electronic device according to various embodiments. FIG. 3a is a drawing of an electronic device according to one embodiment viewed in one direction. FIG. 3b is a drawing of an electronic device according to one embodiment viewed from another direction. FIG. 3c is an exploded perspective view of an electronic device according to one embodiment. FIG. 3d is an exploded side view of an electronic device according to one embodiment. FIG. 3e is a drawing of an antenna in an electronic device according to one embodiment. FIG. 4a is a drawing of an antenna in an electronic device according to one embodiment. FIG. 4b is a drawing of an antenna and a sensor within an electronic device according to one embodiment. FIG. 5 is a drawing of an antenna support structure within an electronic device according to one embodiment. FIG. 6 is a drawing of an antenna in an electronic device according to one embodiment. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0009] Referring to FIG. 1, in a network environment (100), an electronic device (101) may communicate with an electronic device (102) through a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network) or with at least one of an electronic device (104) or a server (108) through a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may communicate with the electronic device (104) through a server (108). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a processor (120), memory (130), input module (150), sound output module (155), display module (160), audio module (170), sensor module (176), interface (177), connection terminal (178), haptic module (179), camera module (180), power management module (188), battery (189), communication module (190), subscriber identification module (196), or antenna module (197). In some embodiments, at least one of these components (e.g., connection terminal (178)) may be omitted from the electronic device (101), or one or more other components may be added. In some embodiments, some of these components (e.g., sensor module (176), camera module (180), or antenna module (197)) may be integrated into a single component (e.g., display module (160)).

[0010] The processor (120) can control at least one other component (e.g., hardware or software component) of the electronic device (101) connected to the processor (120) by executing software (e.g., program (140)), and can perform various data processing or operations. According to one embodiment, as at least part of the data processing or operations, the processor (120) can store commands or data received from other components (e.g., sensor module (176) or communication module (190)) in volatile memory (132), process the commands or data stored in volatile memory (132), and store the resulting data in non-volatile memory (134). According to one embodiment, the processor (120) may include a main processor (121) (e.g., central processing unit or application processor) or an auxiliary processor (123) that can operate independently or together with it (e.g., graphics processing unit, neural processing unit (NPU), image signal processor, sensor hub processor, or communication processor). For example, if the electronic device (101) includes a main processor (121) and an auxiliary processor (123), the auxiliary processor (123) may be configured to use less power than the main processor (121) or to be specialized for a designated function. The auxiliary processor (123) may be implemented separately from the main processor (121) or as part thereof.

[0011] The auxiliary processor (123) may control at least some of the functions or states associated with at least one component of the electronic device (101) (e.g., display module (160), sensor module (176), or communication module (190)) on behalf of the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an inactive (e.g., sleep) state, or together with the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an active (e.g., application execution) state. According to one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., image signal processor or communication processor) may be implemented as part of another functionally related component (e.g., camera module (180) or communication module (190)). According to one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., neural network processing unit) may include a hardware structure specialized for processing an artificial intelligence model. The artificial intelligence model may be generated through machine learning. Such learning may be performed, for example, on the electronic device (101) itself where the artificial intelligence model is executed, or through a separate server (e.g., server (108)). The learning algorithm may include, for example, supervised learning, unsupervised learning, semi-supervised learning, or reinforcement learning, but is not limited to the examples described above. The artificial intelligence model may include a plurality of artificial neural network layers.An artificial neural network may be a deep neural network (DNN), a convolutional neural network (CNN), a recurrent neural network (RNN), a restricted Boltzmann machine (RBM), a deep belief network (DBN), a bidirectional recurrent deep neural network (BRDNN), a deep Q-network, or a combination of two or more of the above, but is not limited to the examples described above. In addition to the hardware structure, the artificial intelligence model may include a software structure, either additionally or substantially.

[0012] The memory (130) can store various data used by at least one component of the electronic device (101) (e.g., processor (120) or sensor module (176)). The data may include, for example, software (e.g., program (140)) and input or output data for related commands. The memory (130) may include volatile memory (132) or non-volatile memory (134).

[0013] The program (140) may be stored as software in memory (130) and may include, for example, an operating system (142), middleware (144), or an application (146).

[0014] The input module (150) can receive commands or data to be used for a component of the electronic device (101) (e.g., processor (120)) from outside the electronic device (101) (e.g., user). The input module (150) may include, for example, a microphone, a mouse, a keyboard, a key (e.g., a button), or a digital pen (e.g., a stylus pen).

[0015] The sound output module (155) can output a sound signal to the outside of the electronic device (101). The sound output module (155) may include, for example, a speaker or a receiver. The speaker may be used for general purposes, such as multimedia playback or recording playback. The receiver may be used to receive incoming calls. According to one embodiment, the receiver may be implemented separately from the speaker or as part thereof.

[0016] The display module (160) can visually provide information to an external (e.g., user) of the electronic device (101). The display module (160) may include, for example, a display, a holographic device, or a projector and a control circuit for controlling said device. According to one embodiment, the display module (160) may include a touch sensor configured to detect a touch, or a pressure sensor configured to measure the intensity of the force generated by said touch.

[0017] The audio module (170) can convert sound into an electrical signal or, conversely, convert an electrical signal into sound. According to one embodiment, the audio module (170) can acquire sound through the input module (150) or output sound through the sound output module (155) or an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102)) (e.g., speaker or headphones) connected directly or wirelessly to the electronic device (101).

[0018] The sensor module (176) can detect the operating state of the electronic device (101) (e.g., power or temperature) or the external environmental state (e.g., user state) and generate an electrical signal or data value corresponding to the detected state. According to one embodiment, the sensor module (176) may include, for example, a gesture sensor, a gyroscope sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an accelerometer sensor, a grip sensor, a proximity sensor, a color sensor, an IR (infrared) sensor, a biosensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or an illuminance sensor.

[0019] The interface (177) may support one or more specified protocols that can be used for the electronic device (101) to be connected directly or wirelessly to an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102)). According to one embodiment, the interface (177) may include, for example, a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB) interface, an SD card interface, or an audio interface.

[0020] The connection terminal (178) may include a connector through which the electronic device (101) can be physically connected to an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102)). According to one embodiment, the connection terminal (178) may include, for example, an HDMI connector, a USB connector, an SD card connector, or an audio connector (e.g., a headphone connector).

[0021] The haptic module (179) can convert an electrical signal into a mechanical stimulus (e.g., vibration or movement) or an electrical stimulus that the user can perceive through tactile or kinesthetic senses. According to one embodiment, the haptic module (179) may include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electric stimulation device.

[0022] The camera module (180) can capture still images and video. According to one embodiment, the camera module (180) may include one or more lenses, image sensors, image signal processors, or flashes.

[0023] The power management module (188) can manage power supplied to the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the power management module (188) can be implemented, for example, as at least part of a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

[0024] The battery (189) can supply power to at least one component of the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the battery (189) may include, for example, a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable secondary battery, or a fuel cell.

[0025] The communication module (190) can support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between an electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102), electronic device (104), or server (108)), and the performance of communication through the established communication channel. The communication module (190) may include one or more communication processors that operate independently of the processor (120) (e.g., application processor) and support direct (e.g., wired) communication or wireless communication. According to one embodiment, the communication module (190) may include a wireless communication module (192) (e.g., cellular communication module, short-range wireless communication module, or GNSS (global navigation satellite system) communication module) or a wired communication module (194) (e.g., LAN (local area network) communication module, or power line communication module). The corresponding communication module among these communication modules can communicate with an external electronic device (104) through a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, WiFi (wireless fidelity) direct, or IrDA (infrared data association)) or a second network (199) (e.g., a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN)). These various types of communication modules may be integrated into a single component (e.g., a single chip) or implemented as multiple separate components (e.g., multiple chips). The wireless communication module (192) can identify or authenticate the electronic device (101) within a communication network such as the first network (198) or the second network (199) using subscriber information (e.g., International Mobile Subscriber Identifier (IMSI)) stored in the subscriber identification module (196).

[0026] The wireless communication module (192) can support 5G networks and next-generation communication technologies following 4G networks, for example, new radio access technology. NR access technology can support high-speed transmission of high-capacity data (enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB)), minimization of terminal power and connection of multiple terminals (massive machine type communications (mMTC)), or high reliability and low latency (ultra-reliable and low-latency communications (URLLC)). The wireless communication module (192) can support a high-frequency band (e.g., mmWave band) to achieve a high data transmission rate, for example. The wireless communication module (192) can support various technologies for securing performance in the high-frequency band, such as beamforming, massive MIMO (multiple-input and multiple-output), full-dimensional MIMO (FD-MIMO), array antenna, analog beam-forming, or large-scale antenna. The wireless communication module (192) can support various requirements specified in the electronic device (101), external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (104)), or network system (e.g., second network (199)). According to one embodiment, the wireless communication module (192) can support a Peak data rate (e.g., 20 Gbps or more) for realizing eMBB, loss coverage (e.g., 164 dB or less) for realizing mMTC, or U-plane latency (e.g., downlink (DL) and uplink (UL) each 0.5 ms or less, or round trip 1 ms or less) for realizing URLLC.

[0027] An antenna module (197) can transmit a signal or power to or from an external source (e.g., an external electronic device). According to one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include an antenna comprising a radiator made of a conductor or a conductive pattern formed on a substrate (e.g., a PCB). According to one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna). In this case, at least one antenna suitable for a communication method used in a communication network, such as a first network (198) or a second network (199), may be selected from the plurality of antennas, for example, by a communication module (190). A signal or power may be transmitted or received between the communication module (190) and an external electronic device through the selected at least one antenna. According to some embodiments, in addition to the radiator, other components (e.g., a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) may be additionally formed as part of the antenna module (197).

[0028] According to various embodiments, the antenna module (197) may form a mmWave antenna module. According to one embodiment, the mmWave antenna module may include a printed circuit board, an RFIC disposed on or adjacent to a first surface (e.g., bottom surface) of the printed circuit board and capable of supporting a specified high frequency band (e.g., mmWave band), and a plurality of antennas (e.g., array antennas) disposed on or adjacent to a second surface (e.g., top surface or side surface) of the printed circuit board and capable of transmitting or receiving a signal of the specified high frequency band.

[0029] At least some of the above components can be connected to each other via a communication method between peripheral devices (e.g., bus, GPIO (general purpose input and output), SPI (serial peripheral interface), or MIPI (mobile industry processor interface)) and exchange signals (e.g., commands or data) with each other.

[0030] According to one embodiment, commands or data may be transmitted or received between the electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (104) through a server (108) connected to a second network (199). Each of the external electronic devices (102, or 104) may be the same or a different type of device as the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, all or part of the operations performed on the electronic device (101) may be performed on one or more of the external electronic devices (102, 104, or 108). For example, if the electronic device (101) needs to perform a function or service automatically or in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device (101) may request one or more external electronic devices to perform at least part of the function or service instead of performing the function or service itself or additionally. One or more external electronic devices that receive the above request may execute at least part of the requested function or service, or additional function or service related to the request, and transmit the result of the execution to the electronic device (101). The electronic device (101) may provide the result as is or additionally processed as at least part of the response to the request. For this purpose, for example, cloud computing, distributed computing, mobile edge computing (MEC), or client-server computing technology may be used. The electronic device (101) may provide ultra-low latency services using, for example, distributed computing or mobile edge computing. In another embodiment, the external electronic device (104) may include an Internet of Things (IoT) device. The server (108) may be an intelligent server using machine learning and / or neural networks. According to one embodiment, the external electronic device (104) or the server (108) may be included within a second network (199).The electronic device (101) can be applied to intelligent services (e.g., smart home, smart city, smart car, or healthcare) based on 5G communication technology and IoT-related technology.

[0031] The electronic device according to the various embodiments disclosed in this document may be a device of various forms. The electronic device may include, 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 electronics device. The electronic device according to the embodiments of this document is not limited to the devices described above.

[0032] The various embodiments of this document and the terms used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, and should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutions of said embodiments. In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components. The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of said items unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise. In this document, 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" may include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase, or all possible combinations thereof. Terms such as “first,” “second,” or “first” or “second” may be used simply to distinguish a component from another component and do not limit the components in any other aspect (e.g., importance or order). Where any (e.g., first) component is referred to as “coupled” or “connected” to another (e.g., second) component, with or without the terms “functionally” or “communicationally,” it means that said component may be connected to said other component directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0033] The term “module” as used in the various embodiments of this document may include a unit implemented in hardware, software, or firmware, and may be used interchangeably with terms such as logic, logic block, component, or circuit, for example. A module may be a component formed integrally, or a minimum unit of said component or a part thereof that performs one or more functions. For example, according to one embodiment, a module may be implemented in the form of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0034] Various embodiments of the present document may be implemented as software (e.g., program (140)) comprising one or more instructions stored in a storage medium (e.g., internal memory (136) or external memory (138)) readable by a machine (e.g., electronic device (101)). For example, a processor (e.g., processor (120)) of the machine (e.g., electronic device (101)) may call at least one of the one or more instructions stored in the storage medium and execute it. This enables the machine to be operated to perform at least one function according to the at least one called instruction. The one or more instructions may include code generated by a compiler or code that can be executed by an interpreter. The storage medium readable by the machine may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, 'non-temporary' simply means that the storage medium is a tangible device and does not contain a signal (e.g., electromagnetic waves), and the term does not distinguish between cases where data is stored semi-permanently and cases where it is stored temporarily.

[0035] According to one embodiment, the method according to the various embodiments disclosed herein may be provided by being included in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded between a seller and a buyer as a product. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a device-readable storage medium (e.g., compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM)), or distributed online (e.g., download or upload) through an application store (e.g., Play Store™) or directly between two user devices (e.g., smartphones). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product may be temporarily stored or temporarily created on a device-readable storage medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or a relay server.

[0036] According to various embodiments, each component (e.g., module or program) of the components described above may include a singular or multiple entities, and some of the multiple entities may be separated and placed in other components. According to various embodiments, one or more of the components or operations among the aforementioned components may be omitted, or one or more other components or operations may be added. Generally or additionally, multiple components (e.g., module or program) may be integrated into a single component. In this case, the integrated component may perform one or more functions of each of the multiple components in the same or similar manner as those performed by the corresponding component among the multiple components prior to integration. According to various embodiments, operations performed by the module, program, or other components may be executed sequentially, in parallel, iteratively, or heuristically, or one or more of the operations may be executed in a different order, omitted, or one or more other operations may be added.

[0037] Referring to FIG. 2, an electronic device (200) according to one embodiment (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1) may include a first housing (210), a connection part (215), a display part (220) (e.g., the display module (160) of FIG. 1), and a second housing (230). The electronic device (200) may include, for example, a smartphone, a laptop computer, a tablet PC, an e-book reader, a portable multimedia device, a portable medical device, a wearable device, or a home appliance.

[0038] The first housing (210) may include a keyboard (202), a touchpad (204), a palm rest (206), and an antenna module (208). The keyboard (202) (e.g., the input device (150) of FIG. 1) may include a plurality of keys on the upper part of the first housing (210). The keyboard (202) may receive numeric or character information. The keyboard (202) may include a plurality of input keys and function keys for setting various functions of the electronic device (200). The function keys may include directional keys, volume keys, and / or shortcut keys set to perform designated functions. The keyboard (203) may include any one of a query keypad, a 3x4 keypad, a 4x3 keypad, or a touch key. The touchpad (204) may replace the function of a mouse. The touchpad (204) may input commands to select or execute an application displayed through the display unit (220). A palm rest (206) may be a support for reducing wrist fatigue of a user of an electronic device (200) using a keyboard (202). An antenna module (208) (e.g., antenna module (197) of FIG. 1) may transmit a signal or power to an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102, 104) and / or server (108) of FIG. 1) or receive from an external electronic device.

[0039] The connecting portion (215) can combine the first housing (210) and the display portion (220) in a way that allows them to be folded or unfolded. The connecting portion (215) can mechanically connect the first housing (210) and the display portion (220). The connecting portion (215) may include, for example, a hinge member between the first housing (210) and the display portion (220). The connecting portion (215) can electrically connect the first housing (210) and the display portion (220). The connecting portion (215) may include, for example, a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB) between the first housing (210) and the display portion (220).

[0040] The display unit (220) may include a screen (222). The screen (222) may display information entered by a user using various menus of the electronic device (200) or a keyboard (202), or information to be provided to the user. The screen (222) may be formed as at least one of a liquid crystal display, an organic light-emitted diode, an active matrix organic light-emitted diode, a flexible display, or a transparent display. The screen (222) may provide at least one of various screens according to the use of the portable electronic device (200), for example, a home screen, a menu screen, a lock screen, a game screen, a web page screen, a call screen, a music or video playback screen.

[0041] The second housing (230) can form the exterior of the first housing (210). The second housing (230) can also be applied to a palm rest (206) located in the first housing (210). The second housing (230) can protect at least one electronic component (e.g., the processor (120), memory (130), sensor module (176), and other electronic components of FIG. 1) contained within the first housing (210). The second housing (230) may include a first surface (231) covering the top surface of the first housing (210), a second surface (233) covering the side surface, and a third surface (235) covering the rear surface. The second housing (230) can form the exterior of the display unit (220). The second housing (230) can protect at least one electronic component (e.g., camera module (180) of FIG. 1, sound output device (155) and other electronic components) and the screen (222) included in the display unit (220).

[0042] Referring to FIGS. 3a through 3e, an electronic device (301) according to one embodiment (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1 and / or the electronic device (200) of FIG. 2) may include a housing (310) (e.g., the first housing (210) of FIG. 2) comprising a first surface (310A) (e.g., the front) and a second surface (310B) (e.g., the rear) opposite to the first surface (310A). The housing (310) may include a keyboard (302) (e.g., the keyboard (202) of FIG. 2), a touchpad (304) (e.g., the touchpad (204) of FIG. 2), an acoustic output module (355) (e.g., the acoustic output module (155) of FIG. 1), and an antenna (397) (e.g., the antenna module (197) of FIG. 1 and / or the antenna module (208) of FIG. 2).

[0043] In one embodiment, the housing (310) may include a first metal part (312), at least one first non-metal part (314), a second metal part (316), and at least one second non-metal part (318). The first metal part (312) and at least one first non-metal part (314) may form a first surface (310A) of the housing (310), and the second metal part (316) and at least one second non-metal part (318) may form a second surface (310B) of the housing (310). In one embodiment, the first metal part (312) and at least one first non-metal part (314) may be joined and processed together so as not to substantially form a segment line. For example, the first metal part (312) and at least one first non-metal part (314) may be joined by bonding or double injection and painted by spraying or anodizing. In one embodiment, the second metal part (316) and at least one second non-metal part (318) may be joined and treated (e.g., anodizing) together so as not to substantially form a segment line. In one embodiment, at least one first non-metal part (314) and at least one second non-metal part (318) may be formed of a plastic material.

[0044] In one embodiment, the first metal part (312) may include a plurality of keyboard holes (313A) formed on a first surface (310A), and a plurality of edges (313B, 313C) defining the plurality of keyboard holes (313A). The plurality of edges (313B, 313C) may include an outer edge (313B) forming the outermost edge of the plurality of keyboard holes (313A), and inner edges (313C) forming keyboard holes (313A) of a size suitable for the shape of the keyboards from the outer edge (313B).

[0045] In one embodiment, the first metal part (312) and / or the second metal part (316) may be formed substantially as a single segment. Here, being formed as a 'single segment' means that the component is formed as a complete part that is continuously connected without joining, connecting, and / or joining multiple segments, and may mean not forming a segment line that may result from joining, connecting, and / or joining multiple segments.

[0046] In one embodiment, the acoustic output module (355) may be positioned on a portion of the antenna (397). For example, the acoustic output module (355) may overlap with at least a portion of the ground pattern (336) without substantially overlapping with the area of ​​the feed pattern (334). Meanwhile, in FIG. 3a, at least one first non-metallic part (314) on which the antenna (397) and the acoustic output module (355) are located is depicted as wrapping the antenna (397) and the acoustic output module (355); however, to explain the position of the antenna (397) and the acoustic output module (355) within the housing (310) under at least one first non-metallic part (314), it can be understood that, contrary to what is depicted, at least one first non-metallic part (314) is positioned to substantially overlap the antenna (397) and the acoustic output module (355).

[0047] In one embodiment, the first metal part (312) and at least one first non-metal part (314) may partially define the radiation area of ​​the antenna (397). The radiation area of ​​the antenna (397) defined by the first metal part (312) and at least one first non-metal part (314) may have a first width (D1) when viewed from the first surface (310A) of the housing (310) and a second width (D2) when viewed from the second surface (310B) of the housing (310). In one embodiment, the first width (D1) may be defined as the distance between the edge of the first metal part (312) and / or the edge of at least one first non-metal part (314) and the acoustic output module (355), and the second width (D2) may be defined as the distance between the edges of the second metal part (312) where at least one second non-metal part (318) is visible. The first width (D1) and the second width (D2) may be, for example, about 10 mm, but are not limited thereto, and may be designed in various dimensions based on the frequency or wavelength of the radiated radio waves.

[0048] In one embodiment, the electronic device (301) may include a keyboard support (320) configured to support a keyboard (302). The keyboard support (320) may be positioned on a plurality of keyboard holes (313A) formed on a first surface (310A) of a first metal part (312) and on a plurality of edges (313B, 313C) forming the plurality of keyboard holes (313A).

[0049] In one embodiment, the electronic device (301) may include an insulator (322) that reduces or prevents electrical connection between the first metal part (312) and the electronic components (e.g., the processor (120), memory (130), sensor module (176) and / or other electronic components) within the housing (310). The insulator (322) may be positioned on the keyboard support (320).

[0050] In one embodiment, the antenna (397) may include a printed circuit board (330) and a cable (332) connecting the printed circuit board (330) and a communication module (e.g., the communication module (180) of FIG. 1). The cable (332) may have a feed end and a ground end. In one embodiment, the printed circuit board (330) may be a flexible printed circuit board.

[0051] The printed circuit board (330) may include a feed pattern (334) and a ground pattern (336). In one embodiment, the feed pattern (334) may be located at the center of the printed circuit board (330), and the ground pattern (336) may be located at the periphery of the printed circuit board (330). In one embodiment, the feed pattern (334) may be located on a first non-metallic part (314), and at least a portion of the ground pattern (336) may be located on the first non-metallic part (314) and the remainder may be located on a first metallic part (312).

[0052] In one embodiment, the feed pattern (334) may include a first feed portion (338A), a second feed portion (338B) extending from the first feed portion (338A), and a third feed portion (338C) extending from the first feed portion (338A) in a direction different from the extension direction of the second feed portion (338B). For example, the first feed portion (338A) may substantially have a polygonal shape (e.g., a square shape), and the second feed portion (338B) and the third feed portion (338C) may have a conductive portion in one direction (e.g., longitudinal direction in FIG. 3e) and a conductive portion in the other direction (e.g., transverse direction in FIG. 3e). Meanwhile, the feed pattern (334) described herein is exemplary and is not limited to the shape shown, and may have various shapes depending on the location, type and / or radiation pattern of the antenna (397).

[0053] In one embodiment, the feed pattern (334) may include a first connector area (340) connected to the feed end of the cable (332) and located on the third feed portion (338C). In one embodiment, the first connector area (340) may be located adjacent to at least one of the multiple edges (313B, 313C) defining the multiple keyboard holes (313A). In some embodiments, the first connector area (340) may be located adjacent to the outer edge (313B).

[0054] In one embodiment, the ground pattern (336) may include a first ground area (342), a first coupling area (344), a second ground area (346), and a second coupling area (350). The first ground area (342) may be configured to contact a first portion (P1) of the first metal part (312), and the second coupling area (350) may be configured to contact a second portion (P2) of the second metal part (312). In one embodiment, the first portion (P1) and the second portion (P2) may be different portions within the first metal part (312). The antenna (397) includes a first ground region (342) and a second coupling region (350) that contact different parts (P1, P2) of the first metal part (312), thereby forming a substantially entire area of ​​the housing (310), including the first non-metal part (314), into the radiating structure of the antenna (397), which can expand the bandwidth of the frequency band of a next-generation network (e.g., 5G network) (e.g., a low band of about 600 MHz to about 1,000 MHz, a mid band of about 1,700 MHz to about 2,300 MHz, a high band of about 2,300 MHz to about 2,700 MHz and / or an ultra-high band of about 3,300 MHz to about 4,300 MHz).

[0055] The first coupling region (344) is located between the first ground region (342) and the second ground region (346) and can connect the first ground region (342) and the second ground region (346). In one embodiment, the first coupling region (344) may be positioned to at least partially surround the feed pattern (334). For example, the first coupling region (344) may form an open loop or a closed loop.

[0056] In one embodiment, the first coupling region (344) may include a first peripheral region (344A) located on the first side of the feed pattern (334) (e.g., the lower side in FIG. 3e), a second peripheral region (344B) located on the second side opposite to the first side of the feed pattern (334) (e.g., the upper side in FIG. 3e), and a third peripheral region (344C) located on the third side between the first and second sides of the feed pattern (344) (e.g., the right side in FIG. 3e) and connecting the first peripheral region (344A) and the second peripheral region (344B). The first peripheral region (344A) and the second peripheral region (344B) are electrically connected to a mechanical / mechanical component (e.g., a housing (310)) within the electronic device (301), and a radiating current may flow to said component. In some embodiments, the open portion of the first coupling area (344) where the periphery is not formed (e.g., the left side in FIG. 3e) may be a portion facing a component of the electronic device (301) (e.g., keyboard (302)).

[0057] In any embodiment not illustrated, the first coupling region (344) may further include a fourth peripheral located on a fourth side between the first side and the second side opposite to the third side, connecting the first peripheral (344A) and the second peripheral (344B).

[0058] Meanwhile, the first coupling region (344) described in this document is exemplary and is not limited to the shape shown, and may have various shapes depending on the position, type and / or radiation pattern of the antenna (397).

[0059] The second ground area (346) may include a second connector area (348) that is spaced apart from the first connector area (340) and connected to the ground end of the cable (322). In one embodiment, the second connector area (348) may be located adjacent to at least one of the multiple edges (313B, 313C) defining the multiple keyboard holes (313A). In some embodiments, the second connector area (348) may be located adjacent to the outer edge (313B).

[0060] The second coupling region (350) may be connected to the second ground region (346). In one embodiment, the second coupling region (350) may extend from the second ground region (346). In some embodiments, the second coupling region (350) may extend from an energy-concentrating area (e.g., the second connector region (348)) of the second ground region (346). In one embodiment, the second coupling region (350) may be formed substantially in a rectangular shape. Meanwhile, the second coupling region (350) described herein is exemplary and is not limited to the shape shown, and may have various shapes considering the location, type and / or radiation pattern of the antenna (397) and / or various radiation current forms (e.g., loop forms) of the second coupling region (350).

[0061] In one embodiment, the second coupling region (350) may be grounded to at least one edge (e.g., outer edge (313B)) of the plurality of edges (313B, 313C) defining the plurality of keyboard holes (313A). In one embodiment, the second coupling region (350) may be grounded to the keyboard support (320).

[0062] In one embodiment, the second coupling region (350) may be located on at least one of the plurality of keyboard holes (313A) and / or on at least one of the plurality of edges (313B, 313C). The location of the second coupling region (350) on the keyboard hole (313A) may cause energy to be dissipated individually in each of the plurality of keyboard holes (313A) through the flow of current (e.g., flow in a counterclockwise direction along the edge of the keyboard hole (313A)).

[0063] In one embodiment, the electronic device (301) may include an antenna support structure (380) configured to support an antenna (397). The antenna support structure (380) may be positioned on a printed circuit board (330). The antenna support structure (380) may protect the printed circuit board (330), support stable contact between the printed circuit board (330) and the housing (310), and / or maintain the shape of the antenna cable (332).

[0064] Referring to FIGS. 4a and 4b, an electronic device (401) according to one embodiment (e.g., the electronic device (301) of FIGS. 3a through 3e) may include a housing (410) (e.g., housing (310)). The housing (410) may include a metal part (412) (e.g., a first metal part (312)) and a non-metal part (414) (e.g., a first non-metal part (314)). The metal part (412) may include a plurality of keyboard holes (413A) (e.g., keyboard holes (313A)) and a plurality of edges (413B, 413C) (e.g., an outer edge (413B) and an inner edge (413C)).

[0065] The electronic device (401) may include an antenna (497) (e.g., antenna (397)). The antenna (497) may include a printed circuit board (430) (e.g., printed circuit board (330)), and a cable (432) (e.g., cable (332)). The cable (432) may have a feed end (432A) and a ground end (432B).

[0066] The printed circuit board (430) may include a feed pattern (434) (e.g., feed pattern (334)) and a ground pattern (436) (e.g., ground pattern (336)). The feed pattern (434) may include a first connector area (e.g., first connector area (340)) to which the feed end (432A) is connected. The ground pattern (436) may include a first ground area (442) (e.g., first ground area (342)), a first coupling area (444) (e.g., first coupling area (344)), a second ground area (446) (e.g., second ground area (346)), and a second coupling area (450) (e.g., second coupling area (350)). In one embodiment, the first coupling region (444) may include a first peripheral region (444A), a second peripheral region (444B), and a third peripheral region (444C). The second ground region (446) may include a second connector region (e.g., a second connector region (348)) to which the ground end (432B) is connected.

[0067] In one embodiment, the ground pattern (436) may include a first connection pad (444D) and a second connection pad (444E) for being electrically connected to the input portion of a grip sensor configured to detect the dielectric constant of an object (e.g., a human body). For example, the first connection pad (444D) may be connected to the first input end (461A) of the grip sensor cable (460), and the second connection pad (444E) may be connected to the second input end (461B) of the grip sensor cable (460). The first connection pad (444D) and the second connection pad (444E) may be spaced apart from each other. The first connection pad (444D) may be located between the feed pattern (434) and the second ground area (446), and the second connection pad (444E) may be located between the feed pattern (434) and the first coupling area (444). The first connection pad (444D) and the second connection pad (444E) may be spaced apart from the first coupling area (444) and the second ground area (446).

[0068] In one embodiment, the antenna (497) may include a first capacitor (433A) configured to separate a first ground region (442) and a first coupling region (444), and a second capacitor (433B) configured to separate a first coupling region (444) and a second ground (446). The first capacitor (433A) and the second capacitor (433B) may maintain the operation of the grip sensor when, for example, the first input end (461A) and the second input end (461B) of the grip sensor cable (460) are electrically connected to at least a portion of the area of ​​the ground pattern (436).

[0069] Referring to FIG. 5, an electronic device (501) according to one embodiment (e.g., the electronic device (401) of FIG. 4a) may include a housing (510) (e.g., housing (410)), an antenna (597) (e.g., antenna (497)), and an antenna support structure (580) (e.g., antenna support structure (380) of FIG. 3c and FIG. 3d). The antenna (597) may include a printed circuit board (530) (e.g., printed circuit board (430)) and a cable (532) (e.g., cable (432)). The printed circuit board (530) may include a feed pattern (e.g., feed pattern (434)) and a ground pattern (536) (e.g., ground pattern (436)). The ground pattern (536) may include a first ground area (542) (e.g., first ground area (442)), a first coupling area (544) (e.g., first coupling area (444)), a second ground area (e.g., second ground area (446)), and a second coupling area (550) (e.g., second coupling area (450)).

[0070] In one embodiment, the antenna support structure (580) may be configured to protect at least a portion of the antenna (597). The antenna support structure (580) may, for example, substantially overlap with the feed pattern.

[0071] In one embodiment, the antenna support structure (580) may include a presser (582) configured to press at least a portion of the antenna (597). The presser (582) may provide stable contact between, for example, the second coupling area (550) and a portion of the housing (510) (e.g., the first surface (310A) of FIG. 3A).

[0072] In one embodiment, the antenna support structure (580) may include at least one guide (584A, 584B) configured to maintain the shape of the cable (532). In some embodiments, at least one guide (584A, 584B) may be positioned on a presser (582). In some embodiments, the antenna support structure (580) may include a first guide (584A) that supports one side of the cable (532), and a second guide (584B) positioned opposite to the first guide (584A) and supporting the other side of the cable (532). The first guide (584A) and the second guide (584B) may form a groove between the first guide (584A) and the second guide (584B) that can accommodate at least a portion of the cable (532). The first guide (584A) and the second guide (584B) can protrude from the presser (582), for example.

[0073] Referring to FIG. 6, an electronic device (601) according to one embodiment (e.g., the electronic device (401) of FIG. 4a) may include a housing (610) (e.g., housing (410)), an antenna (697) (e.g., antenna (497)), and an antenna support structure (680) (e.g., antenna support structure (580) of FIG. 5). The antenna (697) may include a printed circuit board (630) (e.g., printed circuit board (430)). The printed circuit board (630) may include a feed pattern (e.g., feed pattern (434)) and a ground pattern (636) (e.g., ground pattern (436)). The ground pattern (636) may include a first ground area (642) (e.g., first ground area (442)), a first coupling area (644) (e.g., first coupling area (444)), a second ground area (e.g., second ground area (446)), and a second coupling area (650) (e.g., second coupling area (450)).

[0074] In one embodiment, the electronic device (601) may include a fastening part (686) configured to fasten the second coupling region (650) and at least a portion of the housing (610) (e.g., the first surface (310A) of FIG. 3a). The fastening part (686) may include, for example, a screw. The fastening part (686) may provide stable contact between the housing (610) and the second coupling region (650) and improve the assembly accuracy of the antenna (697) within the housing (610).

[0075] An electronic device (301) according to various embodiments comprises an antenna (397) comprising a housing (310) including a first surface (310A) and a second surface (310B) opposite to the first surface (310A), and a printed circuit board (330) positioned between the first surface (310A) and the second surface (310B), wherein the printed circuit board (330) comprises a feed pattern (334) including a first connector area (340), a first ground area (342) in contact with a first portion (P1) of the first surface (310A), a first coupling area (344) connected to the first ground area (342), a second ground area (346) connected to the first coupling area (344) and including a second connector area (348), and on the second ground area (346 It may include a ground pattern (336) comprising a second coupling region (350) that is connected and contacts a second part (P2) different from the first part (P1) of the first surface (310A).

[0076] In one embodiment, the first coupling region (344) may at least partially surround the feed pattern (334).

[0077] In one embodiment, the first coupling region (344) may include a first peripheral region (344A) located on a first side of the feed pattern (334), a second peripheral region (344B) located on a second side opposite to the first side of the feed pattern (334), and a third peripheral region (344C) located on a third side between the first side and the second side of the feed pattern (334) and connecting the first peripheral region (344A) and the second peripheral region (344B).

[0078] In one embodiment, the second coupling region (350) may be extended from the second ground region (346).

[0079] In one embodiment, the first surface (310A) may include a first part (314) of a non-metallic material and a second part (312) of a metallic material formed as a single segment.

[0080] In one embodiment, the feed pattern may be positioned on the first part (314).

[0081] In one embodiment, the second part (312) includes a plurality of keyboard holes (313A) and edges (313B, 313C) forming the plurality of keyboard holes (313A), and the second coupling region (350) may be grounded to at least one edge (313B) of the edges (313B, 313C).

[0082] In one embodiment, the first connector area (340) and the second connector area (348) may be located adjacent to the at least one edge (313B).

[0083] In one embodiment, the electronic device (301) may further include a keyboard support (320) positioned on the plurality of keyboard holes (313A).

[0084] In one embodiment, the electronic device (301) further includes an insulator (322) positioned on the keyboard support (320), and the printed circuit board (330) may be positioned on the insulator (322).

[0085] In one embodiment, the electronic device (301) may further include an acoustic output module (355) located within the housing (310) so as not substantially overlapping with the feed pattern (334).

[0086] In one embodiment, the antenna (497) may further include a first capacitor (433A) separating the first ground region (442) and the first coupling region (444), and a second capacitor (433B) separating the first coupling region (444) and the second ground region (446).

[0087] In one embodiment, the electronic device (501) may further include an antenna support structure (580) positioned on the printed circuit board (530) and configured to press the second coupling region (550).

[0088] In one embodiment, the electronic device (601) may further include a fastening part (686) that fastens the second coupling region (650) and the first surface.

[0089] An antenna (397) according to various embodiments may include a feed pattern (334) including a first connector area (340), and a ground pattern (336) including a first ground area (342), a first coupling area (344) connected to the first ground area (342), a second ground area (346) connected to the first coupling area (344) and including a second connector area (348), and a second coupling area (350) connected to the second ground area (346).

[0090] In one embodiment, the first coupling region (344) may at least partially surround the feed pattern (334).

[0091] In one embodiment, the first coupling region (344) may include a first peripheral region (344A) located on a first side of the feed pattern (334), a second peripheral region (344B) located on a second side opposite to the first side of the feed pattern (334), and a third peripheral region (344C) located on a third side between the first side and the second side of the feed pattern (334) and connecting the first peripheral region (344A) and the second peripheral region (344B).

[0092] In one embodiment, the second coupling region (350) may be extended from the second ground region (346).

[0093] In one embodiment, the antenna (497) may further include a first capacitor (433A) separating the first ground region (442) and the first coupling region (444), and a second capacitor (433B) separating the first coupling region (444) and the second ground region (446).

[0094] An electronic device (301) according to various embodiments comprises an antenna (397) comprising a housing (310) comprising a first surface (310A) comprising a first part (314) of a non-metallic material and a second part (312) of a metallic material formed as a single segment, and a second surface (310B) opposite to the first surface (310A), and a printed circuit board (330) positioned between the first surface (310A) and the second surface (310B), wherein the printed circuit board (330) comprises a feed pattern (334) positioned on the first part (314), a first ground region (342) in contact with a first part (P1) of the first surface (310A), a first coupling region (344) connected to the first ground region (342), and a second connector connected to the first coupling region (344). It may include a ground pattern (336) including a second ground area (346) including an area (348), and a second coupling area (350) connected to the second ground area (346) and in contact with a second part (P2) different from the first part (P1) of the first surface (310A).

Claims

Claim 1 An electronic device comprising: a housing including a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface; and an antenna including a printed circuit board positioned between the first surface and the second surface; wherein the printed circuit board includes a feed pattern including a first connector region; and a ground pattern including a first ground region in contact with a first portion of the first surface, a first coupling region connected to the first ground region, a second ground region connected to the first coupling region and including a second connector region, and a second coupling region connected to the second ground region and in contact with a second portion different from the first portion of the first surface. Claim 2 In claim 1, the first coupling region is an electronic device that at least partially surrounds the feed pattern. Claim 3 An electronic device according to claim 2, wherein the first coupling region comprises: a first peripheral portion located on a first side of the feed pattern; a second peripheral portion located on a second side opposite to the first side of the feed pattern; and a third peripheral portion located on a third side between the first side and the second side of the feed pattern and connecting the first peripheral portion and the second peripheral portion. Claim 4 In claim 1, the second coupling region is an electronic device extending from the second ground region. Claim 5 An electronic device according to claim 1, wherein the first surface comprises a first part of a non-metallic material and a second part of a metallic material formed as a single segment. Claim 6 In claim 5, the feed pattern is an electronic device located on the first part. Claim 7 In claim 5, the second part comprises a plurality of keyboard holes and edges forming the plurality of keyboard holes, and the second coupling region is an electronic device grounded to at least one of the edges. Claim 8 In claim 7, the first connector region and the second connector region are an electronic device located adjacent to the at least one edge. Claim 9 In claim 7, the electronic device further comprises a keyboard support positioned on the plurality of keyboard holes. Claim 10 In claim 9, the electronic device further comprises an insulator located on the keyboard support, and the printed circuit board is an electronic device located on the insulator. Claim 11 An electronic device according to claim 1, further comprising an acoustic output module located within the housing such that it does not substantially overlap with the feed pattern. Claim 12 An electronic device according to claim 1, wherein the antenna further comprises: a first capacitor separating the first ground region and the first coupling region; and a second capacitor separating the first coupling region and the second ground region. Claim 13 An electronic device according to claim 1, further comprising an antenna support structure positioned on the printed circuit board and configured to press the second coupling region. Claim 14 An electronic device according to claim 1, further comprising a fastening portion that fastens the second coupling region and the first surface. Claim 15 An antenna comprising: a feed pattern including a first connector region; and a ground pattern including a first ground region, a first coupling region connected to the first ground region, a second ground region connected to the first coupling region and including a second connector region, and a second coupling region connected to the second ground region, wherein the second coupling region extends from the second connector region of the second ground region and the second coupling region is configured to be electrically connected to the ground end of a cable. Claim 16 In claim 15, the first coupling region is an antenna that at least partially surrounds the feed pattern. Claim 17 An antenna according to claim 15, wherein the first coupling region comprises: a first peripheral region located on a first side of the feed pattern; a second peripheral region located on a second side opposite to the first side of the feed pattern; and a third peripheral region located on a third side between the first side and the second side of the feed pattern and connecting the first peripheral region and the second peripheral region. Claim 18 delete Claim 19 An antenna according to claim 15, further comprising: a first capacitor separating the first ground region and the first coupling region; and a second capacitor separating the first coupling region and the second ground region. Claim 20 An electronic device comprising: a housing comprising a first surface including a first part of a non-metallic material and a second part of a metallic material formed as a single segment, and a second surface opposite to the first surface; and an antenna comprising a printed circuit board positioned between the first surface and the second surface; wherein the printed circuit board comprises: a feed pattern positioned on the first part; and a ground pattern comprising a first ground region in contact with a first part of the first surface, a first coupling region connected to the first ground region, a second ground region connected to the first coupling region and including a second connector region, and a second coupling region connected to the second ground region and in contact with a second part different from the first part of the first surface.

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