Electronic device including antenna

Abstract

An electronic device including an antenna is provided. A side member of the electronic device includes a first conductive portion, a second conductive portion, and a non-conductive portion disposed between the first conductive portion and the second conductive portion. The electronic device may comprise: the side member; a wireless communication circuit which is electrically connected to the first conductive portion and provides an RF signal of a designated frequency; and a first tuning unit which is electrically connected to the first conductive portion and the second conductive portion, wherein the first tuning unit includes: a variable capacitor which is electrically connected to the first conductive portion and the second conductive portion; and a plurality of switches for switching electrical connections between both ends of the variable capacitor and at least one lumped element.

Description

electronic device with antenna

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an electronic device having an antenna, and more particularly, to an electronic device in which an exterior metal frame operates as an antenna radiator.

[0002] The use of electronic devices such as smartphones or tablet PCs of bar type, foldable type, rollable type, and sliding type is increasing, and various functions are provided by the electronic devices. The electronic devices can perform wireless communication with other electronic devices using at least one antenna. For example, the electronic device may form at least a portion of a housing made of a conductive material (e.g., metal), and may use at least a portion of the housing made of the conductive material as an antenna (or radiator, or antenna radiator) for performing wireless communication. The electronic device may adjust the operating frequency band using a tuner or a switch.

[0003] An embodiment of the present disclosure provides an electronic device, comprising: a front plate facing the front of the electronic device; a rear plate facing the rear of the electronic device; a side member disposed between the front plate and the rear plate, the side member including a first conductive portion, a second conductive portion, and a non-conductive portion disposed between the first conductive portion and the second conductive portion; a wireless communication circuit electrically connected to the first conductive portion and providing an RF signal of a specified frequency; and a first tuning unit electrically connected to the first conductive portion and the second conductive portion; wherein the first tuning unit includes a variable capacitor electrically connected to the first conductive portion and the second conductive portion, and a plurality of switches for switching an electrical connection between both ends of the variable capacitor and at least one lumped element; wherein the length of a radiator including the first conductive portion and the second conductive portion for radiating the RF signal is adjusted as the electrostatic capacitance of the variable capacitor is adjusted.

[0004] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment according to various embodiments.

[0005] FIG. 2A is a perspective view of the front of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0006] Figure 2b is a perspective view of the electronic device of Figure 2a viewed from the rear.

[0007] FIG. 3 is a drawing showing a portion of a periphery of a side member that acts as an antenna radiator of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0008] Fig. 4 is a drawing showing an example of a tuning unit according to one embodiment.

[0009] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing the antenna characteristics of a radiator according to one embodiment.

[0010] FIG. 6 is a drawing showing an example of a tuning section connected to electronic components according to one embodiment.

[0011] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a tuning section connected to electronic components for ESD protection according to one embodiment.

[0012] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a tuning unit including a plurality of capacitors according to one embodiment.

[0013] FIG. 9 is a drawing showing a portion of a periphery of a side member that acts as an antenna radiator of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0014] Fig. 10 is a diagram showing the radiation efficiency of a radiator according to one embodiment.

[0015] FIG. 11 is a drawing showing a portion of a periphery of a side member that acts as an antenna radiator of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0016] FIG. 12A is a drawing showing an example of an antenna structure including a plurality of tuning sections according to one embodiment.

[0017] Figure 12b is a drawing showing an example of an antenna structure including a plurality of tuning sections according to one embodiment.

[0018] Figure 12c is a drawing showing an example of an antenna structure including a plurality of tuning sections according to one embodiment.

[0019] Figure 12d is a drawing showing an example of an antenna structure including a plurality of tuning sections according to one embodiment.

[0020] Below, embodiments of the present disclosure are described in detail with reference to the attached drawings so that those skilled in the art can easily implement the present disclosure. However, the present disclosure may be implemented in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. In addition, for the purpose of clearly explaining the present disclosure in the drawings, parts irrelevant to the description are omitted, and similar parts are designated with similar reference numerals throughout the specification.

[0021] The terms used in this disclosure are described as currently common terms, taking into account the functions mentioned herein. However, these terms may mean various other terms depending on the intentions of those skilled in the art, precedents, the emergence of new technologies, etc. Therefore, the terms used in this disclosure should not be interpreted solely based on their names, but rather based on the meanings of the terms and the overall content of this disclosure.

[0022] Additionally, while terms such as first, second, etc. may be used to describe various components, the components should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used to distinguish one component from another.

[0023] Throughout the specification, when a part is said to be "connected" to another part, this includes not only the cases where the parts are "directly connected" but also the cases where the parts are "electrically connected" with other elements intervening. Furthermore, when a part is said to "include" a component, this does not exclude other components, but rather includes other components, unless otherwise stated.

[0024] The phrases “in one embodiment” and the like appearing in various places throughout this disclosure do not necessarily all refer to the same embodiment.

[0025] An embodiment of the present disclosure may be represented by functional block configurations and various processing steps. Some or all of these functional blocks may be implemented by various hardware and / or software configurations that perform specific functions. For example, the functional blocks of the present disclosure may be implemented by one or more microprocessors or by circuit configurations for a given function. Furthermore, for example, the functional blocks of the present disclosure may be implemented in various programming or scripting languages. The functional blocks may be implemented by algorithms that execute on one or more processors. Furthermore, the present disclosure may employ conventional techniques for electronic configuration, signal processing, and / or data processing. Terms such as "mechanism," "element," "means," and "configuration" may be used broadly and are not limited to mechanical and physical configurations.

[0026] Additionally, the connecting lines or connecting members between components depicted in the drawings are merely exemplary representations of functional connections and / or physical or circuit connections. In an actual device, connections between components may be represented by various functional connections, physical connections, or circuit connections that may be replaced or added.

[0027] The present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings below.

[0028] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device (101) within a network environment (100) according to various embodiments. Referring to FIG. 1, in the network environment (100), the electronic device (101) may communicate with the electronic device (102) via a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network), or may communicate with the electronic device (104) or a server (108) via a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may communicate with the electronic device (104) via the server (108). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include 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 identification module (196), or an antenna module (197). In some embodiments, the electronic device (101) may omit at least one of these components (e.g., the connection terminal (178)), or may have one or more other components added. In some embodiments, some of these components (e.g., the sensor module (176), the camera module (180), or the antenna module (197)) may be integrated into one component (e.g., the display module (160)).

[0029] The processor (120) may, for example, execute software (e.g., a 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 operations. According to one embodiment, as at least a part of the data processing or operations, the processor (120) may store commands or data received from other components (e.g., a sensor module (176) or a communication module (190)) in a volatile memory (132), process the commands or data stored in the volatile memory (132), and store result data in a non-volatile memory (134). According to one embodiment, the processor (120) may include a main processor (121) (e.g., a central processing unit or an 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 together with the main processor (121). For example, when 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 given function. The auxiliary processor (123) may be implemented separately from the main processor (121) or as a part thereof.

[0030] The auxiliary processor (123) may control at least a portion of functions or states associated with at least one component (e.g., a display module (160), a sensor module (176), or a communication module (190)) of the electronic device (101), for example, 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. In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., an image signal processor or a communication processor) may be implemented as a part of another functionally related component (e.g., a camera module (180) or a communication module (190)). In 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 may be generated through machine learning. This learning can be performed, for example, in the electronic device (101) itself where artificial intelligence is performed, or can be performed through a separate server (e.g., server (108)). The learning algorithm can 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 can include multiple artificial neural network layers.The artificial neural network may be one of 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, or alternatively to, a hardware structure, an artificial intelligence model may include a software structure.

[0031] The memory (130) can store various data used by at least one component (e.g., processor (120) or sensor module (176)) of the electronic device (101). The data can include, for example, software (e.g., program (140)) and input data or output data for commands related thereto. The memory (130) can include volatile memory (132) or non-volatile memory (134).

[0032] The program (140) may be stored as software in the memory (130) and may include, for example, an operating system (142), middleware (144), or an application (146).

[0033] The input module (150) can receive commands or data to be used in a component of the electronic device (101) (e.g., a processor (120)) from an external source (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (101). The input module (150) can include, for example, a microphone, a mouse, a keyboard, a key (e.g., a button), or a digital pen (e.g., a stylus pen).

[0034] The audio output module (155) can output audio signals to the outside of the electronic device (101). The audio output module (155) can include, for example, a speaker or a receiver. The speaker can be used for general purposes, such as multimedia playback or recording playback. The receiver can be used to receive incoming calls. In one embodiment, the receiver can be implemented separately from the speaker or as part of the speaker.

[0035] The display module (160) can visually provide information to an external party (e.g., a 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 the 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 a force generated by the touch.

[0036] The audio module (170) can convert sound into an electrical signal, or vice versa, convert an electrical signal into sound. According to one embodiment, the audio module (170) can acquire sound through the input module (150), output sound through the sound output module (155), or an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102)) (e.g., speaker or headphone) directly or wirelessly connected to the electronic device (101).

[0037] The sensor module (176) can detect the operating status (e.g., power or temperature) of the electronic device (101) or the external environmental status (e.g., user status) and generate an electrical signal or data value corresponding to the detected status. According to one embodiment, the sensor module (176) can include, 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 IR (infrared) sensor, a biometric sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or an illuminance sensor.

[0038] The interface (177) may support one or more designated protocols that may be used to directly or wirelessly connect the electronic device (101) with an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (102)). In 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.

[0039] The connection terminal (178) may include a connector through which the electronic device (101) may 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).

[0040] The haptic module (179) can convert electrical signals into mechanical stimuli (e.g., vibration or movement) or electrical stimuli that a user can perceive through tactile or kinesthetic sensations. According to one embodiment, the haptic module (179) can include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0041] The camera module (180) can capture still images and moving images. According to one embodiment, the camera module (180) may include one or more lenses, image sensors, image signal processors, or flashes.

[0042] 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 as, for example, at least a part of a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

[0043] A battery (189) may power at least one component of the electronic device (101). In one embodiment, the battery (189) may include, for example, a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable secondary battery, or a fuel cell.

[0044] The communication module (190) may support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between the 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 operate independently from the processor (120) (e.g., application processor) and may include one or more communication processors that 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., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module (194) (e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication module, or a power line communication module). Among these communication modules, the corresponding communication module can communicate with an external electronic device (104) via a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, wireless fidelity (WiFi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) 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 types of communication modules can 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 verify or authenticate the electronic device (101) within a communication network such as the first network (198) or the second network (199) by using subscriber information (e.g., an international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI)) stored in the subscriber identification module (196).

[0045] The wireless communication module (192) can support 5G networks and next-generation communication technologies following the 4G network, such as NR access technology (new radio access technology). The NR access technology can support high-speed transmission of high-capacity data (eMBB (enhanced mobile broadband)), minimization of terminal power and connection of 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) can support, for example, a high-frequency band (e.g., mmWave band) to achieve a high data transmission rate. The wireless communication module (192) can support various technologies for securing performance in a high-frequency band, such as beamforming, massive multiple-input and multiple-output (MIMO), 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), 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) can support a peak data rate (e.g., 20 Gbps or more) for eMBB realization, a loss coverage (e.g., 164 dB or less) for mMTC realization, or a U-plane latency (e.g., 0.5 ms or less for downlink (DL) and uplink (UL), or 1 ms or less for round trip) for URLLC realization.

[0046] The antenna module (197) can transmit or receive signals or power to or from an external device (e.g., an external electronic device). In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include an antenna including a radiator formed of a conductor or a conductive pattern formed on a substrate (e.g., a PCB). In 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 the first network (198) or the second network (199), may be selected from the plurality of antennas, for example, by the communication module (190). A signal or power may be transmitted or received between the communication module (190) and an external electronic device via the at least one selected antenna. In some embodiments, in addition to the radiator, another component (e.g., a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) may be additionally formed as a part of the antenna module (197).

[0047] According to various embodiments, the antenna module (197) may form a mmWave antenna module. In one embodiment, the mmWave antenna module may include a printed circuit board, an RFIC disposed on or adjacent a first side (e.g., a bottom side) of the printed circuit board and capable of supporting a designated high-frequency band (e.g., a mmWave band), and a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna) disposed on or adjacent a second side (e.g., a top side or a side side) of the printed circuit board and capable of transmitting or receiving signals in the designated high-frequency band.

[0048] At least some of the above components can be interconnected and exchange signals (e.g., commands or data) with each other via a communication method between peripheral devices (e.g., a bus, GPIO (general purpose input and output), SPI (serial peripheral interface), or MIPI (mobile industry processor interface)).

[0049] According to one embodiment, commands or data may be transmitted or received between the electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (104) via 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 executed in the electronic device (101) may be executed in one or more of the external electronic devices (102, 104, or 108). For example, when the electronic device (101) is to perform a certain function or service automatically or in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device (101) may, instead of or in addition to executing the function or service itself, request one or more external electronic devices to perform the function or at least a part of the service. One or more external electronic devices that receive the request may execute at least a portion of the requested function or service, or an 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 process the result as is or additionally and provide it as at least a portion of a response to the request. For this purpose, cloud computing, distributed computing, mobile edge computing (MEC), or client-server computing technology may be used, for example. The electronic device (101) may provide an ultra-low latency service by using distributed computing or mobile edge computing, for example. In another embodiment, the external electronic device (104) may include an Internet of Things (IoT) device. The server (108) may be an intelligent server utilizing machine learning and / or a neural network. According to one embodiment, the external electronic device (104) or the server (108) may be included in the 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.

[0050] FIG. 2a is a perspective view of the front of an electronic device according to one embodiment, and FIG. 2b is a perspective view of the rear of the electronic device of FIG. 2a.

[0051] Referring to FIGS. 2A and 2B , an electronic device (200) according to one embodiment (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1 ) may include a housing (210) that includes a first side (or “front side”) (210A), a second side (or “back side”) (210B), and a side surface (or “side wall”) (210C) enclosing a space between the first side (210A) and the second side (210B). In another embodiment (not shown), the housing (210) may also refer to a structure forming a portion of the first side (210A), the second side (210B), and the side surface (210C) of FIGS. 2A and 2B .

[0052] In one embodiment, the first side (210A) may be formed by a front plate (202) (or “cover window”) that is at least partially substantially transparent (e.g., a glass plate or a polymer plate including various coating layers). In one embodiment, the front plate (202) may include a curved portion that extends seamlessly from the first side (210A) toward the rear plate (211) at least at one side edge portion.

[0053] In one embodiment, the second side (210B) may be formed by a substantially opaque back plate (211). The back plate (211) may be formed of, for example, coated or colored glass, ceramic, polymer, metal (e.g., aluminum, stainless steel (STS), or magnesium), or a combination of at least two of the foregoing materials. In one embodiment, the back plate (211) may include a curved portion extending seamlessly from the second side (210B) toward the front plate (202) at least at one end.

[0054] In one embodiment, the side (210C) may be formed by a side member (or “bracket”) (218) that is coupled to the front plate (202) and the back plate (211) and comprises a metal and / or polymer. In some embodiments, the back plate (211) and the side member (218) may be formed integrally and comprise the same material (e.g., a metal material such as aluminum). In one example, the side member (218) may comprise a conductive portion (2181) and / or at least one non-conductive portion (2182, 2183). For example, a first non-conductive portion (2182) may be arranged on one end of the conductive portion (2181) (e.g., one end in the -x direction), and a second non-conductive portion (2183) may be arranged on the other end of the conductive portion (2181) (e.g., one end in the +x direction) to electrically isolate the conductive portion (2181). In another example, the conductive portion (2181) may be fed from a wireless communication circuit (e.g., a wireless communication module (192) of FIG. 1) and may operate as an antenna radiator that transmits and / or receives an RF signal of a specified frequency band.

[0055] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include at least one of a display (201), an audio module (203), a sensor module (not shown), a camera module (205, 212, 213, 214, 215, 206), a key input device (217), or a connector hole (208). In some embodiments, the electronic device (200) may omit at least one of the components (e.g., the key input device (217)) or may additionally include other components.

[0056] In some embodiments, the electronic device (200) may further include a light-emitting element, which may be positioned adjacent to the display (201) within an area provided by the front plate (202). The light-emitting element may, for example, provide status information of the electronic device (200) in the form of light. In other embodiments, the light-emitting element may provide a light source that is linked to the operation of, for example, the camera module (205). The light-emitting element may include, for example, an LED, an IR LED, and / or a xenon lamp.

[0057] In one embodiment, the display (201) may be visible to the outside of the electronic device (200) through a substantial portion of the front plate (202). In some embodiments, the edge of the display (201) may be formed to be substantially the same as an adjacent outer shape (e.g., curved) of the front plate (202). In other embodiments (not shown), the gap between the outer edge of the display (201) and the outer edge of the front plate (202) may be formed to be substantially the same in order to expand the area to which the display (201) is exposed. In other embodiments (not shown), the electronic device (200) may form a recess or opening in a portion of the screen display area of ​​the display (201), and may include other electronic components aligned with the recess or opening, such as a camera module (205), a proximity sensor (not shown), or an ambient light sensor.

[0058] In another embodiment (not shown), the display (201) may include at least one of a camera module (212, 213, 214, 215), a fingerprint sensor (not shown), and a flash (206) on the back surface of the screen display area. In another embodiment (not shown), the display (201) may be coupled with or disposed adjacent to a touch detection circuit, a pressure sensor capable of measuring the intensity (pressure) of a touch, and / or a digitizer capable of detecting a magnetic field-type stylus pen.

[0059] According to one embodiment, the audio module (203) may include a microphone hole and / or a speaker hole. The microphone hole may have a microphone positioned inside for capturing external sounds, and in some embodiments, multiple microphones may be positioned to detect the direction of sounds. In some embodiments, the speaker hole and the microphone hole may be implemented as a single hole, or a speaker may be included without a speaker hole (e.g., a piezo speaker). The speaker hole may include an external speaker hole and / or a receiver hole for calls.

[0060] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may generate an electrical signal or data value corresponding to an internal operating state or an external environmental state by including a sensor module (not shown). For example, the sensor module may further include a proximity sensor disposed on a first side (210A) of the housing (210), a fingerprint sensor integrated into or disposed adjacent to the display (201), and / or a biometric sensor (e.g., an HRM sensor) disposed on a second side (210B) of the housing (210). The electronic device (200) may further include at least one of a sensor module (not shown), for example, a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a color sensor, an infrared (IR) sensor, a biometric sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or an illuminance sensor.

[0061] According to one embodiment, the camera modules (205, 212, 213, 214, 215, 206) may include a first camera device (205) disposed on a first side (210A) of the electronic device (200), and a second camera device (212, 213, 214, 215) disposed on a second side (210B) and / or a flash (206). In one example, the aforementioned camera devices (205, 212, 213, 214, 215) may include one or more lenses, an image sensor, and / or an image signal processor. In another example, the flash (206) may include a light emitting diode or a xenon lamp. In some embodiments, two or more lenses (infrared camera, wide-angle and telephoto lenses) and image sensors may be arranged on one side of the electronic device (200).

[0062] In one embodiment, the key input device (217) may be disposed on a side surface (210C) of the housing (210). In other embodiments, the electronic device (200) may not include some or all of the above-mentioned key input devices (217), and the key input devices (217) that are not included may be implemented in other forms, such as soft keys, on the display (201). In some embodiments, the key input device may include at least a portion of a fingerprint sensor disposed on a second surface (210B) of the housing (210).

[0063] According to one embodiment, the connector hole (208) may accommodate a connector for transmitting and receiving power and / or data with an external electronic device, and / or a connector for transmitting and receiving audio signals with the external electronic device. For example, the connector hole (208) may include a USB connector or an earphone jack. In one embodiment, the USB connector and the earphone jack may be implemented as a single hole (e.g., 208 of FIGS. 2A and 2B), and according to another embodiment (not shown), the electronic device (200) may transmit and receive power and / or data, or transmit and receive audio signals, with an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (102, 104) of FIG. 1) without a separate connector hole.

[0064] FIG. 3 is a drawing showing a portion of a periphery of a side member that acts as an antenna radiator of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0065] Referring to FIG. 3, an electronic device (300) according to one embodiment (e.g., the electronic device (200) of FIGS. 2A and 2B) may include a side member (310) (e.g., the side member (218) of FIG. 2A) including at least one conductive member (311, 312) and at least one non-conductive member (313, 314, 415), a tuning unit (320), lumped elements (331, 332), and a wireless communication circuit (340). At least one of the components of the electronic device (300) according to one embodiment may be identical or similar to at least one of the components of the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1 or the electronic device (200) of FIGS. 2A and 2B, and any redundant description thereof will be omitted below.

[0066] According to one embodiment, the side member (310) may form at least a portion of a side of the electronic device (300) (e.g., side member (210C) of FIG. 2A). The side member (310) may include at least one conductive member (311, 312) and at least one non-conductive member (313, 314, 415). The at least one non-conductive member (313, 314, 415) may electrically isolate the at least one conductive member (311, 312) from each other and may be referred to as a segment.

[0067] According to one embodiment, the side member (310) may include a first conductive member (311), a second conductive member (312), a first non-conductive member (313), a second non-conductive member (314), and / or a third non-conductive member (315). The length and arrangement positions of the first conductive member (311), the second conductive member (312), the first non-conductive member (313), the second non-conductive member (314), and the third non-conductive member (315) may be formed in various ways. For example, the first non-conductive member (313) may be arranged at one end of the first conductive portion (311) (e.g., one end in the -x direction), and the second non-conductive portion (314) may be arranged at the other end of the first conductive portion (311) (e.g., one end in the +x direction). For example, the first non-conductive portion (313) and / or the second non-conductive portion (314) can electrically isolate the first conductive portion (311). For example, the second non-conductive portion (314) can be disposed at one end (e.g., one end in the -x direction) of the second conductive portion (312), and the third non-conductive portion (315) can be disposed at the other end (e.g., one end in the +y direction) of the second conductive portion (312). For example, the second non-conductive portion (314) and / or the third non-conductive portion (315) can electrically isolate the second conductive portion (312). For example, a portion of the side member (310) in the -x-axis direction of the first non-conductive portion (313) that is in contact with the first non-conductive portion (313), or a portion of the side member (310) in the +y-axis direction of the third non-conductive portion (315) that is in contact with the third non-conductive portion (315) may include a conductive member.

[0068] According to one embodiment, the tuning unit (320) may include a variable capacitor (321) and at least one switch (322, 323). The variable capacitor (321) is a capacitor element whose electrostatic capacitance can be adjusted, and the variable capacitor (321) may form an electrical path between the first conductive portion (311) and the second conductive portion (312). The variable capacitor (321) may be connected to the first conductive portion (311) and the second conductive portion (312). For example, one end of the variable capacitor (321) may be connected to the first conductive portion (311), and the other end of the variable capacitor may be connected to the second conductive portion (312).

[0069] According to one embodiment, one end and the other end of the variable capacitor (321) may be connected to at least one switch (322, 323). For example, one end of the variable capacitor (321) may be connected to the switch (322), and the other end of the variable capacitor (321) may be connected to the switch (323).

[0070] According to one embodiment, at least one switch (322, 323) may be connected to at least one lumped element (331, 332). The lumped element (331, 332) may include, but is not limited to, an inductor and / or a capacitor, for example.

[0071] According to one embodiment, a switch (322) connected to one end of a variable capacitor (321) may be connected to ground via a lumped element (331). A switch (323) connected to the other end of the variable capacitor (321) may be connected to ground via a lumped element (332).

[0072] According to one embodiment, the tuning unit (320) can adjust the electrical length of the radiator including the first conductive portion (311) and the second conductive portion (312) by adjusting the electrical capacitance of the variable capacitor (321) and adjusting the switching path of at least one switch (322, 323) under the control of the electronic device (300). For example, the tuning unit (320) can short-circuit at least one of the switch (322) and the switch (323) and adjust the electrical capacitance of the variable capacitor (321) under the control of the electronic device (300). Based on the combination of the lumped elements (331, 332) and the adjustment of the electrical capacitance of the variable capacitor (321), the electrical length and the operating frequency band of the radiator including the first conductive portion (311) and the second conductive portion (312) can be adjusted.

[0073] According to one embodiment, the tuning unit (320) can adjust the operating frequency band of the radiator including the first conductive portion (311) and the second conductive portion (312) according to the frequency band of the frequency of the RF signal provided from the wireless communication circuit (340) described later.

[0074] According to one embodiment, the wireless communication circuit (340) can provide an RF signal to the first conductive portion (311). The wireless communication circuit (340) can be configured to transmit or receive the RF signal in at least one designated frequency band via a radiator including the first conductive portion (311) and the second conductive portion (312).

[0075] According to one embodiment, the wireless communication circuit (340) may be included, for example, in a part of the wireless communication module (190) of FIG. 1. The wireless communication circuit (340) may be disposed on at least one printed circuit board disposed within an internal space of the electronic device (300). For example, the wireless communication circuit (340) may be disposed on a portion adjacent to the first conductive portion (311) on the printed circuit board, but is not limited thereto.

[0076] Although the wireless communication circuit (340) has been described above as providing an RF signal to the first conductive portion (311) via an electrical path connected to the first conductive portion (311), this is not limited thereto. For example, the RF signal from the wireless communication circuit (340) may be provided to a conductive portion other than the first conductive portion (311).

[0077] Additionally, for example, the electronic device (300) may include antennas operating in various bands, with more conductive portions electrically isolated from more non-conductive portions, depending on design changes. Furthermore, the electronic device (300) may include more tuning sections connecting the conductive portions, and the operating frequency of the antenna may be varied by adjusting the length of the radiator through the tuning sections.

[0078] Fig. 4 is a drawing showing an example of a tuning unit according to one embodiment.

[0079] The tuning unit (420) of Fig. 4 may correspond to the tuning unit (320) of Fig. 3.

[0080] Referring to FIG. 4, in one embodiment, the tuning unit (420) may be implemented as an IC (integrated circuit) chip including a variable capacitor (410), a first switch (421), a second switch (422), a third switch (423), a fourth switch (424), and / or a fifth switch (425).

[0081] According to one embodiment, the variable capacitor (410) is disposed between the first conductive portion (311) and the second conductive portion (312), such that both ends of the variable capacitor (410) can be electrically connected to the first conductive portion (311) and the second conductive portion (312). For example, one end of the variable capacitor (410) can be electrically connected to a first protrusion (41) protruding from the first conductive portion (311), and the other end of the variable capacitor (410) can be electrically connected to a second protrusion (42) protruding from the second conductive portion (312).

[0082] According to one embodiment, one end of the variable capacitor (410) may be connected to a first switch (421), and the first switch (421) may be connected to ground via a first lumped element (431). For example, the other end of the variable capacitor (410) may be connected to a second switch (422), and the second switch (422) may be connected to ground via a second lumped element (432).

[0083] According to one embodiment, one end of the variable capacitor (410) may be connected to a third switch (423), and the third switch (423) may be connected to ground via a third lumped element (433). For example, the other end of the variable capacitor (410) may be connected to a fourth switch (424), and the fourth switch (424) may be connected to ground via a fourth lumped element (434).

[0084] According to one embodiment, at least some of the lumped elements (431, 432, 433, 434) connected to the switches in the tuning unit (420) may have different element values. For example, the first lumped element (431) connected to the first switch (421) may be an inductor having an inductance value of L1, the second lumped element (432) connected to the second switch (422) may be an inductor having an inductance value of L2, the third lumped element (433) connected to the third switch (423) may be an inductor having an inductance value of L3, and the fourth lumped element (434) connected to the fourth switch (424) may be an inductor having an inductance value of L4. For example, at least some of L1, L2, L3, or L4 may have different values.

[0085] In the above, the lumped elements (431, 432, 433, 434) are described as being inductors, but are not limited thereto. According to one embodiment, the lumped elements (431, 432, 433, 434) may include inductors and / or capacitors.

[0086] According to one embodiment, the fifth switch (425) may be connected in parallel with one end and the other end of the variable capacitor (410).

[0087] According to one embodiment, the electrical length of the radiator including the first conductive portion (311) and the second conductive portion (312) can be adjusted by adjusting the capacitance of the variable capacitor (410) and short-circuiting at least one of the first switch (421), the second switch (422), the third switch (423), the fourth switch (424), or the fifth switch (425).

[0088] According to one embodiment, an RF signal is applied from a wireless communication circuit (340) to a first conductive portion (311), the capacitance of a variable capacitor (410) is adjusted, and at least one of a first switch (421), a second switch (422), a third switch (423), a fourth switch (424), or a fifth switch (425) is short-circuited, thereby adjusting an electrical length of a radiator including a first conductive portion (311) and a second conductive portion (312). In addition, an RF signal of an operating frequency band corresponding to the adjusted electrical length of the radiator can be radiated through the radiator.

[0089] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing the antenna characteristics of a radiator according to one embodiment.

[0090] The graph of FIG. 5 shows the return loss of a radiator of an adjusted length by adjusting the capacitance of the variable capacitor (410) of FIG. 4 and short-circuiting at least one of the first switch (421), the second switch (422), the third switch (423), the fourth switch (424), or the fifth switch (425).

[0091] Referring to the identification number 1 of FIG. 5, in the LB (low band) frequency band of 600 MHz to 1000 MHz, by adjusting the electrostatic capacitance of the variable capacitor (410) of FIG. 4 and short-circuiting at least one of the first switch (421), the second switch (422), the third switch (423), the fourth switch (424), or the fifth switch (425), the electrostatic capacitance of the variable capacitor (410) can be variously set (e.g., 3 pF, 4 pF, 6 pF, 6 pF, 8 pF, 9 pF) and the combination of the element values ​​of the lumped elements (431, 432, 433, 434) can be variously set (e.g., 12 nH, 15 nH, 22 nH, 39 nH, 56 nH, 100 nH).

[0092] Also, referring to the identification number 2 of FIG. 5, it can be confirmed that the RF signal is radiated well through the radiator whose length is adjusted in the LB (low band) frequency band of 600 MHz to 1000 MHz. Also, with regard to the RF signal radiation in the MB / HB (1700 MHz to 2700 MHz) band through the radiator whose electrical length is adjusted, it can be confirmed that there is almost no change in the performance of the antenna, so that there is almost no degradation in the performance of the antenna in a situation where the RF signal is radiated through the CA (carrier aggregation) / ENDC (E-UTRA NR Dual Connectivity) technology.

[0093] FIG. 6 is a drawing showing an example of a tuning section connected to electronic components according to one embodiment.

[0094] The tuning unit (420) of Fig. 6 may correspond to the tuning unit (320) of Fig. 3.

[0095] Referring to FIG. 6, in one embodiment, the tuning unit (420) may be implemented as an IC (integrated circuit) chip including a variable capacitor (410), a first switch (421), a second switch (422), a third switch (423), a fourth switch (424), and / or a fifth switch (425).

[0096] According to one embodiment, the tuning unit (420) may be disposed between the first conductive portion (311) and the second conductive portion (312) and may be electrically connected to the first conductive portion (311) and the second conductive portion (312). For example, the tuning unit (420) may be electrically connected to the first conductive portion (311) and the second conductive portion (312) through at least one of the first capacitor (631), the second capacitor (632), the third capacitor (633), or the fourth capacitor (634). For example, the tuning unit (420) may be electrically connected to the first conductive portion (311) through at least one of the first capacitor (631) or the third capacitor (633), and may be electrically connected to the second conductive portion (312) through at least one of the second capacitor (632) or the fourth capacitor (634).

[0097] According to one embodiment, the variable capacitor (410) is disposed between the first conductive portion (311) and the second conductive portion (312), such that both ends of the variable capacitor (410) can be electrically connected to the first conductive portion (311) and the second conductive portion (312) via the first switch (421) and the second switch (422). For example, one end of the variable capacitor (410) can be electrically connected to a first protrusion (41) protruding from the first conductive portion (311) via the first switch (421) and the first capacitor (631). For example, the other end of the variable capacitor (410) can be electrically connected to a second protrusion (42) protruding from the second conductive portion (312) via the second switch (422) and the second capacitor (632).

[0098] According to one embodiment, a third switch (433) and a third capacitor (633) may be additionally connected between one end of the variable capacitor (410) and the first protrusion (41). The third switch (433) and the third capacitor (633) may be connected in parallel with the first switch (421) and the first capacitor (631).

[0099] According to one embodiment, a fourth switch (434) and a fourth capacitor (634) may be additionally connected between the other end of the variable capacitor (410) and the second protrusion (42). The fourth switch (434) and the fourth capacitor (634) may be connected in parallel with the second switch (422) and the second capacitor (632).

[0100] According to one embodiment, at least some of the capacitors (631, 632, 633, 634) connected to the switches in the tuning unit (420) may have different element values. For example, a first capacitor (631) connected to a first switch (421) may have a capacitance value of C1, a second capacitor (632) connected to a second switch (422) may have a capacitance value of C2, a third capacitor (633) connected to a third switch (423) may have a capacitance value of C3, and a fourth capacitor (634) connected to a fourth switch (424) may have a capacitance value of C4. For example, at least some of C1, C2, C3, or C4 may have different values.

[0101] According to one embodiment, the fifth switch (425) may be connected in parallel with one end and the other end of the variable capacitor (410).

[0102] According to one embodiment, the electrical length of the radiator including the first conductive portion (311) and the second conductive portion (312) can be adjusted by adjusting the capacitance of the variable capacitor (410) and short-circuiting at least one of the first switch (421), the second switch (422), the third switch (423), the fourth switch (424), or the fifth switch (425).

[0103] According to one embodiment, an RF signal is applied from a wireless communication circuit (340) to a first conductive portion (311), the capacitance of a variable capacitor (410) is adjusted, and at least one of a first switch (421), a second switch (422), a third switch (423), a fourth switch (424), or a fifth switch (425) is short-circuited, thereby adjusting an electrical length of a radiator including a first conductive portion (311) and a second conductive portion (312). In addition, an RF signal of an operating frequency band corresponding to the adjusted electrical length of the radiator can be radiated through the radiator.

[0104] For example, the range of the electrostatic capacitance of the variable capacitor (410) in the tuning unit (420) may be 0.75 pF to 9 pF, and the electrostatic capacitance may be adjusted by dividing into 30 states. In this case, it may be difficult to secure optimized performance of the antenna depending on the LB frequency band. Accordingly, for example, if C1, C2, C3, and C4 of FIG. 6 are all made to have different values, 16 electrostatic capacitance values ​​may be provided depending on the combination of C1, C2, C3, and C4. In this case, the variable capacitor (410) may be adjusted to 30 electrostatic capacitance values, and by short-circuiting at least one of the first switch (421), the second switch (422), the third switch (423), the fourth switch (424), or the fifth switch (425), the electrical length of the radiator may be adjusted to 480 (= 30 * 16) states. Accordingly, the range of settable capacitances can be varied to adjust the operating frequency and the length of the radiator.

[0105] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a tuning section connected to electronic components for ESD protection according to one embodiment.

[0106] The tuning unit (420) of Fig. 7 may correspond to the tuning unit (320) of Fig. 3.

[0107] According to one embodiment, both ends of the variable capacitor (410) may be electrically connected to the first conductive portion (311) and the second conductive portion (312) via electronic components for electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection. For example, the electronic components for ESD protection may include, but are not limited to, an inductor and a capacitor.

[0108] For example, one end of the variable capacitor (410) may be connected to the first protrusion (41) of the first conductive portion (311) via the capacitor (72). The capacitor (72) may be connected in series between one end of the variable capacitor (410) and the first protrusion (41) of the first conductive portion (311). For example, the first protrusion (41) of the first conductive portion (311) may be connected to the inductor (71), and the inductor (71) may be connected to the ground. The capacitor (72) and the inductor (71) may protect the tuning portion (420) by alleviating an electric shock generated in the first conductive portion (311).

[0109] For example, the other end of the variable capacitor (410) may be connected to the second protrusion (42) of the second conductive portion (312) via the capacitor (73). The capacitor (73) may be connected in series between the other end of the variable capacitor (410) and the second protrusion (42) of the second conductive portion (312). For example, the second protrusion (42) of the second conductive portion (312) may be connected to an inductor (74), and the inductor (74) may be connected to ground. The capacitor (73) and the inductor (74) may protect the tuning portion (420) by alleviating an electric shock generated in the second conductive portion (312).

[0110] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a tuning unit including a plurality of capacitors according to one embodiment.

[0111] The tuning unit (820) of Fig. 8 may correspond to the tuning unit (320) of Fig. 3.

[0112] Referring to FIG. 8, in one embodiment, the tuning unit (820) may include a single pole multi throw (SPMT) switch. For example, the tuning unit (820) may include a single pole 4 throw (SP4T) switch. In this case, the RF1 port (801) of the single pole 4 throw (SP4T) switch may be connected to the protrusion (41) of the first conductive portion (311) via the first capacitor (811), and the RF4 port (804) may be connected to the protrusion (41) of the first conductive portion (311) via the fourth capacitor (814). For example, the RF2 port (802) may be connected to the protrusion (42) of the second conductive portion (312) via the second capacitor (812), and the RF3 port (803) may be connected to the protrusion (42) of the second conductive portion (312) via the third capacitor (813).

[0113] According to one embodiment, the length of the radiator including the first conductive portion (3110) and the second conductive portion (322) can be adjusted based on a combination of at least one of the first capacitor (811), the second capacitor (812), the third capacitor (813), or the fourth capacitor (814) by short-circuiting at least one of the first switch (821), the second switch (822), the third switch (823), or the fourth switch (824) within the SP4T (single pole 4 throw) switch. Additionally, for example, the RFC port (805) can be a common port connected to the first switch (821), the second switch (822), the third switch (823), or the fourth switch (824).

[0114] FIG. 9 is a drawing showing a portion of a periphery of a side member that acts as an antenna radiator of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0115] Referring to FIG. 9, compared to FIG. 3, a third lumped element (334) may be additionally connected to the second conductive member (312) of FIG. 9 via a switch (350). According to one embodiment, the tuning unit (320) may, under the control of the electronic device (300), short-circuit at least one of the switch (322), the switch (323), or the switch (350) and adjust the electrical capacity of the variable capacitor (321). Based on the combination of the lumped elements (331, 332, 334) and the adjustment of the electrical capacity of the variable capacitor (321), the electrical length of the radiator including the first conductive portion (311) and the second conductive portion (312) may be adjusted.

[0116] Fig. 10 is a diagram showing the radiation efficiency of a radiator according to one embodiment.

[0117] Fig. 10 shows the radiation efficiency of a radiator of controlled electrical length by controlling the capacitance of the variable capacitor (321) of Fig. 9 and short-circuiting at least one of the switch (322), the switch (323), or the switch (340).

[0118] Referring to identification number 3 of FIG. 10, in the LB (low band) frequency band of 600 MHz to 1000 MHz, by adjusting the electrostatic capacitance of the variable capacitor (321) of FIG. 9 and short-circuiting at least one of the switch (322), the switch (323), or the switch (340), the electrostatic capacitance of the variable capacitor (321) can be set to various values ​​(e.g., 100 pF, 3.3 pF, 2.2 pF), and the element values ​​of the combination of the lumped elements (331, 332, 334) can be set to various values ​​(e.g., 4.7 nH, 100 pF).

[0119] In addition, referring to identification number 4 of FIG. 10, it can be confirmed that RF signals are radiated well for various frequencies within the LB (low band) frequency band of 600 MHz to 1000 MHz. Accordingly, frequency switching can be performed within the LB (low band) frequency band of 600 MHz to 1000 MHz to achieve good radiation efficiency.

[0120] FIG. 11 is a drawing showing a portion of a periphery of a side member that acts as an antenna radiator of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0121] Referring to FIG. 11, compared to FIG. 9, the third conductive portion (315) of FIG. 11 can additionally be connected to a fourth lumped element (335) and a wireless communication circuit (342) via a switch (350).

[0122] Accordingly, a first RF signal can be radiated through a radiator including a first conductive portion (311) and a second conductive portion (312) whose electrical lengths are controlled by a tuning portion (320). In addition, a second RF signal can be radiated through a third conductive portion (315).

[0123] For example, an LB signal, an MB signal, an HB signal, or an UHB signal can be radiated through a radiator including a first conductive portion (311) and a second conductive portion (312), the electrical length of which is controlled by a tuning portion (320). In addition, for example, independently of this, an MB signal, an HB signal, or an UHB signal can be radiated through a third conductive portion (315).

[0124] FIG. 12A is a drawing showing an example of an antenna structure including a plurality of tuning sections according to one embodiment.

[0125] Referring to FIG. 12A, a first tuning unit (361) and a second tuning unit (362) may be arranged in a portion of a periphery of a side member (310) that operates as an antenna radiator of an electronic device (300) according to one embodiment. According to one embodiment, a first wireless communication circuit (371) may be electrically connected to the side member (310) that operates as an antenna radiator of the electronic device (300).

[0126] For example, the first tuning section (361) may be disposed around the second non-conductive section (314) and electrically connected to the first conductive section (311) and the second conductive section (312). For example, the second tuning section (362) may be disposed around the first non-conductive section (313) and electrically connected to the first conductive section (311) and the third conductive section (315). For example, the first wireless communication circuit (371) may be connected to the first conductive section (311) and provide an RF signal to the first conductive section (311).

[0127] In one embodiment, a ground point (12) may be formed on the second conductive portion (312), and the second conductive portion (312) may be connected to the ground through the ground point (12). For example, a ground point (14) may be formed on the third conductive portion (315), and the third conductive portion (315) may be connected to the ground through the ground point (14). In addition, for example, the ground point (12) and the ground point (14) may be connected to a printed circuit board and / or other elements that function as a ground within the electronic device (300).

[0128] According to one embodiment, a portion (30) between the ground point (12) and the ground point (14) in the side member (310) can operate as an antenna radiator. According to one embodiment, a variable capacitor (21) and switches (22, 23) in the first tuning section (361) are controlled, and a variable capacitor (24) and switches (25, 26) in the second tuning section (362) are controlled, so that an electrical length of the radiator including a first conductive portion (311), a portion of the second conductive portion (312) (e.g., a portion between the second non-conductive portion (314) and the ground point (12)) and a portion of the third conductive portion (315) (e.g., a portion between the first non-conductive portion (313) and the ground point (14)) can be adjusted. According to one embodiment, the variable capacitor (21) and switches (22, 23) in the first tuning unit (361) are controlled, and the variable capacitor (24) and switches (25, 26) in the second tuning unit (362) are controlled, so that RF signals of various frequencies provided from the first wireless communication circuit (371) can be effectively radiated through a radiator of adjustable length.

[0129] Figure 12b is a drawing showing an example of an antenna structure including a plurality of tuning sections according to one embodiment.

[0130] Referring to FIG. 12B, a first tuning unit (361) and a second tuning unit (362) may be arranged in a portion of a periphery of a side member (310) that operates as an antenna radiator of an electronic device (300) according to one embodiment. According to one embodiment, a first wireless communication circuit (371) may be electrically connected to the side member (310) that operates as an antenna radiator of the electronic device (300). In FIG. 12B, in one embodiment, the first wireless communication circuit (371) may be connected to the second conductive portion (312).

[0131] For example, the first tuning portion (361) may be disposed around the second non-conductive portion (314) and electrically connected to the first conductive portion (311) and the second conductive portion (312). For example, the second tuning portion (362) may be disposed around the first non-conductive portion (313) and electrically connected to the second conductive portion (312) and the third conductive portion (315).

[0132] For example, the first wireless communication circuit (371) can be connected to the second conductive portion (312) and provide an RF signal to the second conductive portion (312).

[0133] For example, a ground point (12) may be formed on the second conductive portion (312), and the second conductive portion (312) may be connected to the ground through the ground point (12). For example, the ground point (12) may be connected to a printed circuit board and / or other elements that function as a ground within the electronic device (300). For example, the third conductive portion (312) may be electrically isolated from the fourth conductive portion (317) by the third non-conductive portion (316).

[0134] In one embodiment, a portion (31) between the ground point (12) and the third non-conductive portion (316) in the side member (310) can operate as an antenna radiator. In one embodiment, a variable capacitor (21) and switches (22, 23) in the first tuning section (361) are controlled, and a variable capacitor (24) and switches (25, 26) in the second tuning section (362) are controlled, so that an electrical length of the radiator including the first conductive portion (311), a portion of the second conductive portion (312) (e.g., a portion between the second non-conductive portion (314) and the ground point (12)) and the third conductive portion (315) can be adjusted. According to one embodiment, the variable capacitor (21) and switches (22, 23) in the first tuning unit (361) are controlled, and the variable capacitor (24) and switches (25, 26) in the second tuning unit (362) are controlled, so that RF signals of various frequencies provided from the first wireless communication circuit (371) can be effectively radiated through a radiator with an electrical length adjusted.

[0135] Figure 12c is a drawing showing an example of an antenna structure including a plurality of tuning sections according to one embodiment.

[0136] Referring to FIG. 12C, a first tuning unit (361) and a second tuning unit (362) may be arranged in a portion of a periphery of a side member (310) that operates as an antenna radiator of an electronic device (300) according to one embodiment. According to one embodiment, a first wireless communication circuit (371) and a second wireless communication circuit (372) may be electrically connected to the side member (310) that operates as an antenna radiator of the electronic device (300). In FIG. 12c, a first wireless communication circuit (371) and a second wireless communication circuit (372) can be connected to the first conductive portion (311), and a ground point (16) can be formed between a position where the first wireless communication circuit (371) is connected to the first conductive portion (372) and a position where the second wireless communication circuit (372) is connected to the first conductive portion (372). In addition, for example, the ground point (16) can be connected to a printed circuit board and / or other elements that act as a ground within the electronic device (300).

[0137] For example, the first tuning portion (361) may be arranged around the second non-conductive portion (314) and electrically connected to the first conductive portion (311) and the second conductive portion (312). For example, the second tuning portion (362) may be arranged around the first non-conductive portion (313) and electrically connected to the first conductive portion (311) and the third conductive portion (315).

[0138] For example, a first wireless communication circuit (371) may be connected to a first conductive portion (311) between a second non-conductive portion (314) and a ground point (16) to provide a first RF signal to a first conductive portion (312). For example, a second wireless communication circuit (372) may be connected to a first conductive portion (311) between a first non-conductive portion (313) and a ground point (16) to provide a second RF signal to the first conductive portion (311).

[0139] For example, a ground point (12) may be formed on a portion of the second conductive portion (312), and a ground point (14) may be formed on a portion of the third conductive portion (312). In addition, for example, the ground point (12) and the ground point (14) may be connected to a printed circuit board and / or other elements that function as a ground within the electronic device (300).

[0140] According to one embodiment, a portion (32) between the ground point (12) and the ground point (16) in the side member (310) can operate as an antenna radiator. According to one embodiment, by controlling the variable capacitor (21) and the switches (22, 23) in the first tuning section (361), an electrical length of the radiator including a portion of the first conductive portion (311) (e.g., a portion between the ground point (16) and the second non-conductive portion (314)) and a portion of the second conductive portion (312) (e.g., a portion between the second non-conductive portion (314) and the ground point (12)) can be adjusted. According to one embodiment, by controlling the variable capacitor (21) and the switches (22, 23) in the first tuning section (361), first RF signals of various frequencies provided from the first wireless communication circuit (371) can be effectively radiated through the radiator having an adjusted electrical length.

[0141] According to one embodiment, a portion (33) between the ground point (14) and the ground point (16) in the side member (310) can operate as an antenna radiator. According to one embodiment, by controlling the variable capacitor (24) and the switches (25, 26) in the second tuning section (362), an electrical length of the radiator including another portion of the first conductive portion (311) (e.g., a portion between the ground point (16) and the first non-conductive portion (313)) and a portion of the third conductive portion (315) (e.g., a portion between the first non-conductive portion (313) and the ground point (14)) can be adjusted. According to one embodiment, by controlling the variable capacitor (24) and the switches (25, 26) in the second tuning section (362), second RF signals of various frequencies provided from the second wireless communication circuit (372) can be effectively radiated through the radiator having an adjusted electrical length.

[0142] Figure 12d is a drawing showing an example of an antenna structure including a plurality of tuning sections according to one embodiment.

[0143] Referring to FIG. 12d, a first tuning unit (361) and a second tuning unit (362) may be arranged in a portion of a periphery of a side member (310) that operates as an antenna radiator of an electronic device (300) according to one embodiment. According to one embodiment, a first wireless communication circuit (371) and a second wireless communication circuit (372) may be electrically connected to the side member (310) that operates as an antenna radiator of the electronic device (300). In FIG. 12d, the first wireless communication circuit (371) may be connected to the second conductive portion (312), and the second wireless communication circuit (372) may be connected to the third conductive portion (315). For example, the grounding point (16) may be formed in the first conductive portion (311) between the portion where the first wireless communication circuit (371) is connected to the first conductive portion (372) and the portion where the second wireless communication circuit (372) is connected to the first conductive portion (372). For example, the grounding point (16) may be formed at a point in the first conductive portion (311) that is closer to the first non-conductive portion (313) than to the second non-conductive portion (314). Accordingly, the length from the first non-conductive portion (313) to the point where the grounding point (16) is formed may be shorter than the length from the second non-conductive portion (314) to the point where the grounding point (16) is formed. In addition, for example, the grounding point (16) may be connected to a printed circuit board and / or other elements that operate as a ground within the electronic device (300).

[0144] For example, the first tuning portion (361) may be arranged around the second non-conductive portion (314) and electrically connected to the first conductive portion (311) and the second conductive portion (312). For example, the second tuning portion (362) may be arranged around the first non-conductive portion (313) and electrically connected to the first conductive portion (311) and the third conductive portion (315).

[0145] For example, a first wireless communication circuit (371) may be connected to a second conductive portion (3125) to provide a first RF signal to the second conductive portion (312). For example, a second wireless communication circuit (372) may be connected to a third conductive portion (315) to provide a second RF signal to the third conductive portion (315).

[0146] For example, a ground point (12) may be formed on a portion of the second conductive portion (312). For example, the ground point (12) may be connected to a printed circuit board and / or other elements that function as a ground within the electronic device (300). Additionally, for example, the third conductive portion (312) may be electrically isolated from the fourth conductive portion (317) by the third non-conductive portion (316).

[0147] According to one embodiment, a portion (34) between the ground point (12) and the ground point (16) in the side member (310) can operate as an antenna radiator. According to one embodiment, by controlling the variable capacitor (21) and the switches (22, 23) in the first tuning section (361), an electrical length of the radiator including a portion of the first conductive portion (311) (e.g., a portion between the second non-conductive portion (314) and the ground point (16)) and a portion of the second conductive portion (312) (e.g., a portion between the second non-conductive portion (314) and the ground point (12)) can be adjusted. According to one embodiment, by controlling the variable capacitor (21) and the switches (22, 23) in the first tuning section (361), first RF signals of various frequencies provided from the first wireless communication circuit (371) can be effectively radiated through the radiator having an adjusted electrical length.

[0148] In one embodiment, a portion (35) between the ground point (16) and the third non-conductive portion (316) in the side member (310) can operate as an antenna radiator. In one embodiment, by controlling the variable capacitor (24) and the switches (25, 26) in the second tuning section (362), an electrical length of the radiator including another portion of the first conductive portion (311) (e.g., a portion between the first non-conductive portion (313) and the ground point (16)) and the third conductive portion (315) can be adjusted. In one embodiment, by controlling the variable capacitor (24) and the switches (25, 26) in the second tuning section (362), second RF signals of various frequencies provided from the second wireless communication circuit (372) can be effectively radiated through the radiator having an adjusted electrical length.

[0149] In FIGS. 12A to 12D, the first tuning unit (361) and the second tuning unit (362) are illustrated as being formed in a structure corresponding to the tuning unit (320) of FIG. 3 and connected to the side member (310), but are not limited thereto. For example, the first tuning unit (361) may be the tuning unit (420) of FIG. 4, FIG. 6, or FIG. 7, and the first tuning unit (361) may be connected to the side member (310) as in FIG. 4, FIG. 6, or FIG. 7. Alternatively, for example, the first tuning unit (361) may be the tuning unit (820) of FIG. 8, and may be connected to the side member (310) as in FIG. 8.

[0150] According to one embodiment, an electronic device (101) may include a front plate (e.g., 202) facing the front of the electronic device; a rear plate (e.g., 211) facing the rear of the electronic device; side members (e.g., 218, 310) disposed between the front plate and the rear plate, the side members including a first conductive portion (e.g., 311), a second conductive portion (e.g., 312), and a non-conductive portion (e.g., 314) disposed between the first conductive portion and the second conductive portion; a wireless communication circuit (e.g., 340) electrically connected to the first conductive portion and providing an RF signal of a designated frequency; and a first tuning unit (e.g., 320) electrically connected to the first conductive portion and the second conductive portion.

[0151] According to one embodiment, the first tuning section includes a variable capacitor (321) electrically connected to the first conductive portion and the second conductive portion, and a plurality of switches (e.g., 322, 323) for switching an electrical connection between both ends of the variable capacitor and at least one lumped element, wherein as the electrostatic capacitance of the variable capacitor is adjusted, the length of a radiator including the first conductive portion and the second conductive portion for radiating the RF signal can be adjusted.

[0152] According to one embodiment, one end of the variable capacitor may be electrically connected to the first conductive portion through a first capacitor (e.g., 331) connected to the one end of the variable capacitor through a first switch (e.g., 322) among the plurality of switches.

[0153] According to one embodiment, the other end of the variable capacitor may be electrically connected to the second conductive portion through a second capacitor (332) connected to the other end of the variable capacitor through a second switch (323) among the plurality of switches.

[0154] According to one embodiment, the length of a radiator including the first conductive portion and the second conductive portion for radiating the RF signal can be adjusted by controlling the first switch, the second switch, and the variable capacitor.

[0155] According to one embodiment, a third capacitor (e.g., 631, 633) connected in parallel with the first capacitor may be disposed between the first end of the variable capacitor and the first conductive portion, and a fourth capacitor (e.g., 632, 634) connected in parallel with the second capacitor may be disposed between the other end of the variable capacitor and the second conductive portion.

[0156] According to one embodiment, a third switch (e.g., 421, 423) among the plurality of switches may be disposed between the first end of the variable capacitor and the third capacitor, and a fourth switch (e.g., 632, 634) among the plurality of switches may be disposed between the other end of the variable capacitor and the fourth capacitor.

[0157] According to one embodiment, the length of a radiator including the first conductive portion and the second conductive portion for radiating the RF signal can be adjusted by controlling the first switch, the second switch, the third switch, the fourth switch, and the variable capacitor.

[0158] According to one embodiment, a fifth switch (e.g., 425) may be disposed between the first and second terminals of the variable capacitor for switching the connection between the first and second terminals.

[0159] According to one embodiment, the length of a radiator including the first conductive portion and the second conductive portion for radiating the RF signal can be adjusted by controlling the first switch, the second switch, the third switch, the fourth switch and the fifth switch.

[0160] According to one embodiment, the one end of the variable capacitor may be connected to the first conductive portion via at least one electronic element (e.g., 72) for protecting the tuning portion, and the other end of the variable capacitor may be connected to the second conductive portion via at least one electronic element (e.g., 73) for protecting the tuning portion.

[0161] In one embodiment, the tuning section is formed by an integrated circuit (IC) chip (e.g., 420), and the IC chip can be positioned near the non-conductive portion.

[0162] According to one embodiment, the side member includes a third conductive portion (315) and another non-conductive portion (313) disposed between the first conductive portion and the third conductive portion, and the electronic device may further include a second tuning portion (362) electrically connected to the third conductive portion and the first conductive portion.

[0163] In one embodiment, the second tuning section may include another variable capacitor electrically connected to the third conductive portion and the first conductive portion, and another plurality of switches for switching an electrical connection between both ends of the another variable capacitor and at least one lumped element.

[0164] According to one embodiment, the length of the radiator including the first conductive portion, the second conductive portion, and the third conductive portion for radiating the RF signal can be adjusted as the capacitance of the variable capacitor and the capacitance of the other variable capacitor are adjusted.

[0165] In one embodiment, one end of the first conductive portion may be connected to the first tuning portion.

[0166] According to one embodiment, the other end of the first conductive portion may be connected to the second tuning portion.

[0167] Electronic devices according to the various embodiments disclosed in this document may take various forms. Electronic devices may include, for example, portable communication devices (e.g., smartphones), computer devices, portable multimedia devices, portable medical devices, cameras, wearable devices, or home appliances. Electronic devices according to the embodiments of this document are not limited to the aforementioned devices.

[0168] The various embodiments of this document and the terminology used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, but should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutes of the 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 the items, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this document, each of the phrases "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" can include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase among those phrases, or all possible combinations thereof. Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used merely to distinguish the corresponding component from other corresponding components and do not limit the corresponding components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order). When a component (e.g., a first) is referred to as "coupled" or "connected" to another component (e.g., a second) with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicatively," it means that the component can be connected to the other component directly (e.g., by wire), wirelessly, or through a third component. The term "module" as used in 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 an integral component or a smallest unit or part of a component that performs one or more functions.For example, according to one embodiment, the module may be implemented in the form of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0169] Various embodiments of the present document may be implemented as software (e.g., a program (140)) including one or more instructions stored in a storage medium (e.g., an internal memory (136) or an external memory (138)) readable by a machine (e.g., an electronic device (101)). For example, a processor (e.g., a processor (120)) of the machine (e.g., an electronic device (101)) may call at least one instruction among the one or more instructions stored from the storage medium and execute it. This enables the machine to operate 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 executable by an interpreter. The machine-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, 'non-transitory' simply means that the storage medium is a tangible device and does not contain signals (e.g., electromagnetic waves), and the term does not distinguish between cases where data is stored semi-permanently or temporarily on the storage medium.

[0170] According to one embodiment, the method according to various embodiments disclosed in this document may be provided as a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded between sellers and buyers 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 may be provided through an application store (e.g., Play Store). TM) or directly between two user devices (e.g., smart phones), online distribution (e.g., downloading or uploading). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product may be at least temporarily stored or temporarily generated in a machine-readable storage medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or a relay server. According to various embodiments, each component (e.g., a module or a program) of the above-described components may include one or more entities, and some of the multiple entities may be separately arranged in other components. According to various embodiments, one or more components or operations of the above-described corresponding components may be omitted, or one or more other components or operations may be added. Alternatively or additionally, a plurality of components (e.g., a module or a program) may be integrated into one component. In this case, the integrated component may perform one or more functions of each of the plurality of components identically or similarly to those performed by the corresponding component among the plurality of components prior to the integration. According to various embodiments, the operations performed by a module, program or other component may be performed sequentially, in parallel, iteratively, or heuristically, or one or more of the operations may be performed in a different order, omitted, or one or more other operations may be added.

Claims

1. In electronic devices, A front plate facing the front of the electronic device; A rear plate facing the rear of the electronic device; A side member disposed between the front plate and the rear plate, the side member including a first conductive portion, a second conductive portion, and a non-conductive portion disposed between the first conductive portion and the second conductive portion; A wireless communication circuit electrically connected to the first conductive portion and providing an RF signal of a specified frequency; and A first tuning portion electrically connected to the first conductive portion and the second conductive portion; Including, The above first tuning section, A variable capacitor electrically connected to the first conductive portion and the second conductive portion, and A plurality of switches for switching an electrical connection between the two terminals of the variable capacitor and at least one lumped element; Including, An electronic device, wherein the length of a radiator including the first conductive portion and the second conductive portion for radiating the RF signal is adjusted as the electrostatic capacitance of the variable capacitor is adjusted.

2. In paragraph 1, One end of the variable capacitor is electrically connected to the first conductive portion through a first capacitor connected to the one end of the variable capacitor and a first switch among the plurality of switches, An electronic device, wherein the other terminal of the variable capacitor is electrically connected to the second conductive portion through a second capacitor connected to the other terminal of the variable capacitor and a second switch among the plurality of switches.

3. In paragraph 2, An electronic device, wherein the length of a radiator including the first conductive portion and the second conductive portion for radiating the RF signal is adjusted by controlling the first switch, the second switch, and the variable capacitor.

4. In paragraph 2, Between the first terminal of the variable capacitor and the first conductive portion, a third capacitor is arranged in parallel with the first capacitor, An electronic device, wherein a fourth capacitor is arranged between the other terminal of the variable capacitor and the second conductive portion, and is connected in parallel with the second capacitor.

5. In paragraph 4, A third switch among the plurality of switches is placed between the first end of the variable capacitor and the third capacitor, An electronic device, wherein a fourth switch among the plurality of switches is placed between the other terminal of the variable capacitor and the fourth capacitor.

6. In paragraph 5, An electronic device, wherein the length of a radiator including the first conductive portion and the second conductive portion for radiating the RF signal is adjusted by controlling the first switch, the second switch, the third switch, the fourth switch and the variable capacitor.

7. In paragraph 2, An electronic device, wherein a fifth switch is arranged between the one terminal and the other terminal of the variable capacitor for switching the connection between the one terminal and the other terminal.

8. In paragraph 7, An electronic device, wherein the length of a radiator including the first conductive portion and the second conductive portion for radiating the RF signal is adjusted by controlling the first switch, the second switch, the third switch, the fourth switch and the fifth switch.

9. In paragraph 2, The above one end of the above variable capacitor is connected to the first conductive portion through at least one electronic element for protecting the tuning portion, An electronic device, wherein the other end of the variable capacitor is connected to the second conductive portion through at least one electronic element for protecting the tuning portion.

10. In paragraph 1, An electronic device wherein the tuning section is formed by an IC (integrated circuit) chip, and the IC chip is placed near the non-conductive portion.

11. In paragraph 1, The side member comprises a third conductive portion, and another non-conductive portion disposed between the first conductive portion and the third conductive portion, The above electronic device, A second tuning portion electrically connected to the third conductive portion and the first conductive portion; An electronic device further comprising:

12. In paragraph 11, The above second tuning section, another variable capacitor electrically connected to the third conductive portion and the first conductive portion, and A plurality of other switches for switching the electrical connection between the two terminals of said other variable capacitor and at least one lumped element; An electronic device further comprising:

13. In paragraph 12, An electronic device, wherein the length of a radiator including the first conductive portion, the second conductive portion, and the third conductive portion for radiating the RF signal is adjusted as the capacitance of the variable capacitor and the capacitance of the other variable capacitor are adjusted.

14. In paragraph 11, An electronic device, wherein one end of the first challenging portion is connected to the first tuning portion.

15. In paragraph 14, An electronic device, wherein the other end of the first challenging portion is connected to the second tuning portion.

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