Ring device including antenna

Abstract

A ring device according to the present invention includes: a printed circuit board including an upper surface, a lower surface opposite to the upper surface, and a side surface extending from an edge of the upper surface to an edge of the lower surface; a first antenna pattern formed on a first part of the side surface; a second antenna pattern formed on a second part opposite to the first part of the side surface; at least one sensor disposed on the printed circuit board; and at least one processor operatively coupled to the first antenna pattern, the second antenna pattern, and the at least one sensor and including a processing circuit. The at least one processor individually and / or collectively determines the orientation of the ring device using the at least one sensor, and controls the ring device on the basis of the determined orientation to transmit and / or receive radio frequency (RF) signals using one of the first antenna pattern or the second antenna pattern. Various other embodiments are possible.

Description

Ring device including an antenna

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a ring device including an antenna.

[0002] Wearable devices are gaining popularity as they offer a variety of interactions with other devices, such as a user's smartphone, while also tracking various biometric parameters, such as heart rate, sleep patterns, and activity levels. In particular, the development of ring-type wearable devices, designed to be worn on the user's finger, is rapidly increasing as an alternative wearable form factor to wearable devices such as wristwatches, glasses, and clothing.

[0003] The above information may be provided as background art to aid in understanding the present disclosure. No claim or determination is made as to whether any of the above is applicable as prior art in connection with the present disclosure.

[0004] According to an exemplary embodiment, a ring device may include a printed circuit board having an upper surface, a lower surface opposite the upper surface, and a side surface extending from an edge of the upper surface to an edge of the lower surface, a first antenna pattern formed on a first part of the side surface, a second antenna pattern formed on a second part of the side surface opposite the first part, at least one sensor disposed on the printed circuit board, and at least one processor operatively coupled to the first antenna pattern, the second antenna pattern, and the at least one sensor and including processing circuitry. The at least one processor may be configured to individually and / or collectively determine an orientation of the ring device using the at least one sensor, and may be configured to control the ring device to transmit and / or receive a radio frequency (RF) signal using one of the first antenna pattern and the second antenna pattern based on the determined orientation.

[0005] According to an exemplary embodiment, a non-transitory computer readable storage medium storing one or more programs may include instructions for a ring device having a first antenna pattern directed toward a fingernail or wrist of a user wearing the ring device, a second antenna pattern directed toward a wrist or fingernail of the user wearing the ring device, and at least one sensor, when executed by at least one processor including a processing circuit. The instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, individually and / or collectively cause the ring device to determine whether the ring device is worn by the user; and in response to determining that the ring device is worn by the user, cause the ring device to determine an antenna pattern of the first antenna pattern and the second antenna pattern directed toward the fingernail of the user; In response to determining that the ring device is not being worn by the user, the ring device may be caused to determine an antenna pattern facing away from the ground among the first antenna pattern and the second antenna pattern; and to transmit and / or receive a radio frequency (RF) signal using the determined antenna pattern.

[0006] The above-described aspects and other aspects, features, and advantages of specific embodiments of the present disclosure will become more apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0007] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary electronic device within a network environment according to various embodiments.

[0008] FIG. 2A includes a perspective view illustrating an exemplary ring device according to various embodiments.

[0009] FIG. 2b is an exploded perspective view of an exemplary ring device according to one embodiment.

[0010] FIG. 3 is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary substrate assembly according to various embodiments.

[0011] FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing a substrate of an exemplary ring device according to various embodiments.

[0012] FIG. 5A is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary ring device according to various embodiments.

[0013] FIG. 5b is a diagram illustrating an exemplary ring device according to various embodiments.

[0014] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an exemplary configuration of an exemplary ring device according to various embodiments.

[0015] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an exemplary configuration of an exemplary ring device according to various embodiments.

[0016] Figure 8 is a graph showing radiation efficiency according to various embodiments.

[0017] FIG. 9 is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary ring device according to various embodiments.

[0018] FIG. 10A is a perspective view showing a ring device mounted on an external device according to various embodiments.

[0019] FIG. 10b is a diagram showing acceleration data acquired by at least one sensor according to various embodiments.

[0020] FIG. 11A is a diagram illustrating a ring device worn by a user according to various embodiments.

[0021] FIG. 11b is a diagram showing acceleration data acquired by at least one sensor according to various embodiments.

[0022] FIG. 12A is a diagram showing a radiation pattern of an antenna pattern according to various embodiments.

[0023] FIG. 12b is a diagram showing a radiation pattern of an antenna pattern according to various embodiments.

[0024] FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary method of ring device operation according to various embodiments.

[0025] FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary method of ring device operation according to various embodiments.

[0026] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary electronic device (100) within a network environment according to various embodiments. Referring to FIG. 1, in a network environment, the electronic device (100) may communicate with an electronic device (102) via a network (198) (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network).

[0027] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (100) may include a processor (120) (e.g., including processing circuitry), a memory (130), a sensor module (176) (e.g., including at least one sensor), a haptic module (179) (including haptic circuitry), a power management module (188) (including power management circuitry), a battery (189), a wireless communication module (192) (e.g., including communication circuitry), and / or an antenna module (197) (e.g., including at least one antenna).

[0028] The processor (120) may include various processing circuits and / or multiple processors. For example, as used herein, including in the claims, the term "processor" may include various processing circuits including at least one processor, wherein one or more of the at least one processors may be configured to perform various functions described herein, collectively and / or individually, in a distributed manner. As used herein, when "processor," "at least one processor," and "one or more processors" are described as being configured to perform various functions, these terms also encompass, for example and without limitation, situations where one processor performs some of the recited functions and other processor(s) perform other of the recited functions, and situations where a single processor performs all of the recited functions. Additionally, the at least one processor may include a combination of processors that perform various functions recited and / or disclosed, for example, in a distributed manner. The at least one processor may execute program instructions to achieve or perform various functions. The processor (120) may control at least one other component (e.g., hardware or software component) of the electronic device (100) connected to the processor (120) by executing, for example, software (e.g., program (140)), and may 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., sensor module (176) or wireless communication module (192)) in volatile memory (132), process the commands or data stored in volatile memory (132), and store result data in 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 communication processor) that can operate independently or together with the main processor (121). For example, when the electronic device (100) includes a main processor (121) and an auxiliary processor (123), the auxiliary processor (123) may be configured to use less power than the main processor (121) or to be specialized for a given function. The auxiliary processor (123) may be implemented separately from the main processor (121) or as a part thereof.

[0029] The auxiliary processor (123) may control at least a portion of functions or states associated with at least one component (e.g., a sensor module (176) or a wireless communication module (192)) of the electronic device (100), 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 wireless communication module (192)).

[0030] 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 (100). 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).

[0031] 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).

[0032] The sensor module (176) can detect the operating status (e.g., power or temperature) of the electronic device (100) 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 pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a proximity sensor, a color sensor, an infrared (IR) sensor, a biometric sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or an illuminance sensor. For example, the sensor module (176) can detect biometric data such as the user's heart rate and saturation of percutaneous oxygen (SpO2) and fitness data such as the number of steps and sleep patterns. The electronic device (100) can transmit data acquired using the sensor module (176) to an external electronic device (102) (e.g., a user's smart phone) in real time or in batches.

[0033] A 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.

[0034] The power management module (188) can manage power supplied to the electronic device (100). 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).

[0035] A battery (189) may power at least one component of the electronic device (100). In one embodiment, the battery (189) may include, for example, a rechargeable secondary battery or a fuel cell.

[0036] The wireless communication module (192) may support the establishment of a wireless communication channel between the electronic device (100) and an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (102)), and the performance of communication through the established communication channel. The wireless communication module (192) may operate independently from the processor (120) (e.g., an application processor) and may include one or more communication processors that support wireless communication. According to one embodiment, the wireless communication module (192) may include a short-range wireless communication module or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication module. Among these communication modules, a corresponding communication module may communicate with an external electronic device (102) through a network (198) (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi (wireless fidelity) direct, or IrDA (infrared data association)). These various types of communication modules may be integrated into one component (e.g., a single chip) or implemented as multiple separate components (e.g., multiple chips).

[0037] The antenna module (197) can transmit or receive signals or power to or from an external source (e.g., an external electronic device). In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) can include an antenna including a radiator including a conductor or a conductive pattern (e.g., a conductive pattern provided by a substrate (e.g., a PCB)).

[0038] 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)).

[0039] According to one embodiment, the command or data may be transmitted or received via an external electronic device (102) connected to the network (198), another network (e.g., a cellular network), or a server. The external electronic device (102) may be a device of the same or a different type (e.g., a smart phone) as the electronic device (100). According to one embodiment, all or part of the operations executed in the electronic device (100) may be executed in one or more external electronic devices, such as the external electronic device (102) or a server connected to the external electronic device. For example, when the electronic device (100) is to perform a certain function or service automatically or in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device (100) 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 (100). The electronic device (100) 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 technologies may be utilized, for example.

[0040] Unless otherwise stated in this disclosure, components having the same reference numerals may be identical or similar components, and redundant descriptions for identical components referencing different drawings may be omitted.

[0041] FIG. 2A includes perspective views illustrating exemplary ring devices according to various embodiments. Referring to FIG. 2A, a ring device (100) according to one embodiment may include a housing (210). The housing (210) may form an exterior appearance of the ring device (100). For example, the housing (210) may define or include a first side (100A), a second side (100B), a third side (100C), and a fourth side (100D) of the ring device (100).

[0042] In one embodiment, the second side (100B) may be opposite to the first side (100A). The second side (100B) may be a side that comes into contact with the body (e.g., a finger) of a user wearing the ring device (100). For a non-limiting example, the second side (100B) may be formed as a curved surface to correspond to the circumference shape of the contacted finger. In one embodiment, the third side (100C) may extend from a portion of the first side (100A) to a portion of the second side (100B). For example, the third side (100C) may extend from a first edge of the first side (100A) to a first edge of the second side (100B). In one embodiment, the fourth side (100D) may extend from another portion (or remaining portion) of the first side (100A) to another portion (or remaining portion) of the second side (100B). For example, the fourth side (100D) may extend from the second edge of the first side (100A) to the second edge of the second side (100B). In one embodiment, the third side (100C) may be opposite the fourth side (100D). For example, the third side (100C) may face a fingernail or wrist of a user wearing the ring device (100), and the fourth side (100D) may face the wrist or fingernail of the user.

[0043] In one embodiment, the housing (210) may include a first member (212) (e.g., a first portion) and a second member (214) (e.g., a second portion) coupled to the first member (212). In one embodiment, the first member (212) may form a first surface (100A) of the housing (210), a first region (C1) of a third surface (100C), and a first region (D1) of a fourth surface (100D). The first region (C1) of the third surface (100C) may extend from the first edge of the first surface (100A), and the first region (D1) of the fourth surface (100D) may extend from the second edge of the first surface (100A). In one embodiment, the second member (214) may form a second surface (100B) of the housing (210), a second region (C2) of the third surface (100C), and a second region (D2) of the fourth surface (100D). The second region (C2) of the third surface (100C) may extend from the first edge of the second surface (100B) to the first region (C1). The second region (D2) of the fourth surface (100D) may extend from the second edge of the second surface (100B) to the first region (D1).

[0044] For example, but not limited to, the first member (212) may include metal. For example, at least a portion of the first member (212) may be formed of metal. For example, but not limited to, a portion of the first member (212) formed of metal may be used as an antenna radiator for transmitting and receiving radio frequency (RF) signals. For example, but not limited to, the second member (214) may include plastic formed of resin.

[0045] In one embodiment, the ring device (100) may be referred to as an electronic device or a wearable device.

[0046] FIG. 2B is an exploded perspective view of an exemplary ring device according to various embodiments. Referring to FIG. 2B, a ring device (100) according to one embodiment may include a substrate assembly (250) and a battery (240) (e.g., battery (189) of FIG. 1).

[0047] In one embodiment, the substrate assembly (250) and the battery (240) may be positioned within the housing (210). For example, the substrate assembly (250) and the battery (240) may be positioned between the first member (212) and the second member (214) of the housing (210). For example, the substrate assembly (250) and the battery (240) may be supported by being surrounded by the first member (212) and / or the second member (214). Each of the substrate assembly (250) and the battery (240) may be provided in a form in which at least a portion is bent to correspond to the shape of the ring device (100).

[0048] In one embodiment, the substrate assembly (250) may include at least one printed circuit board on which various components of the ring device (100) are arranged. At least one of the components illustrated in FIG. 1 may be arranged on the at least one printed circuit board. For non-limiting example, at least the processor (120), the memory (130), the sensor module (176), and the wireless communication module (192) of FIG. 1 may be arranged on the at least one printed circuit board. When the substrate assembly (250) includes a plurality of printed circuit boards, the substrate assembly (250) may include a connecting substrate that interconnects the plurality of printed circuit boards.

[0049] Fig. 3 is a perspective view illustrating a substrate assembly according to various embodiments. Referring to Fig. 3, a substrate assembly (250) according to one embodiment may include a first substrate (351), a second substrate (352), a third substrate (353), a first connection substrate (354), and a second connection substrate (355).

[0050] In one embodiment, each of the first substrate (351), the second substrate (352), and the third substrate (353) may include a printed circuit board. The first substrate (351), the second substrate (352), and the third substrate (353) may be formed rigidly so as to support various components mounted thereon.

[0051] In one embodiment, the first connecting substrate (354) can connect the first substrate (351) and the second substrate (352) to each other. The second connecting substrate (355) can connect the second substrate (352) and the third substrate (353) to each other. Each of the first connecting substrate (354) and the second connecting substrate (355) can include a flexible printed circuit board. Through the first connecting substrate (354) and the second connecting substrate (355), the first substrate (351), the second substrate (352), and the third substrate (353) can be arranged at different angles. Accordingly, the substrate assembly (250) can have an overall curved shape to correspond to the shape of a ring device (e.g., the ring device (100) of FIG. 2A).

[0052] FIG. 4 is a perspective view illustrating a substrate of an exemplary ring device according to various embodiments. Referring to FIG. 4, a substrate (450) (e.g., the first substrate (351), the second substrate (352), or the third substrate (353) of FIG. 3) of a ring device (e.g., the ring device (100) of FIG. 2A) according to one embodiment may include a first surface (or upper surface) (410), a second surface (or lower surface) (420), and a third surface (or side surface) (430). The first surface (410) and the second surface (420) may face in opposite directions. The third surface (430) may extend from an edge of the first surface (410) to an edge of the second surface (420), thereby defining a thickness of the substrate (450).

[0053] In one embodiment, the third side (430) can include a first part (431), a second part (432), a third part (433), and a fourth part (434). In one embodiment, the first part (431) can be opposite the second part (432), and the third part (433) can be opposite the fourth part (434). For example, the first part (431) can form a first side of the substrate (450), and the second part (432) can form a second side of the substrate (450) opposite the first side. For example, the third part (433) can form a third side of the substrate (450), and the fourth part (434) can form a fourth side of the substrate (450) opposite the third side. In one embodiment, the third part (433) may extend from one end of the first part (431) to one end of the second part (432), and the fourth part (434) may extend from the other end of the first part (431) to the other end of the second part (432).

[0054] In one embodiment, the ring device (or substrate (450)) may include a first antenna pattern (460) and a second antenna pattern (470). The first antenna pattern (460) and the second antenna pattern (470) may be formed at least partially on a third surface (430) of the substrate (450). The first antenna pattern (460) and the second antenna pattern (470) may be formed of a conductive material (e.g., metal). For example, the first antenna pattern (460) and the second antenna pattern (470) may be formed at least partially on the third surface (430) of the substrate (450) through a plating process.

[0055] In one embodiment, the first antenna pattern (460) may include a first section (or first portion) (461) formed in a first part (431) of a third surface (430). Additionally, the first antenna pattern (460) may extend from the first section (461) and include a second section (or second portion) (462) formed in a third part (433) of a third surface (430). In one embodiment, the first antenna pattern (460) may extend from a first end (466) formed in the third part (433) along the third surface (430) to a second end (467) formed in the first part (431).

[0056] In one embodiment, the second antenna pattern (470) may include a first section (or first portion) (471) formed in a second part (432) of the third surface (430). Additionally, the second antenna pattern (470) may extend from the first section (471) and include a second section (or second portion) (472) formed in a third part (433) of the third surface (430). In one embodiment, the second antenna pattern (470) may extend from a first end (476) formed in the third part (433) along the third surface (430) to a second end (477) formed in the second part (432).

[0057] In one embodiment, the first ends (466, 476) of the first antenna pattern (460) and the second antenna pattern (470) may face each other and be spaced apart from each other. In one embodiment, in order to form a resonant frequency corresponding to the same communication frequency band, the physical lengths of the first antenna pattern (460) and the second antenna pattern (470) may be substantially the same, but are not limited thereto. For example, even if the physical lengths of the first antenna pattern (460) and the second antenna pattern (470) are different from each other, the first antenna pattern (460) and the second antenna pattern (470) may form a resonant frequency corresponding to the same communication frequency band through at least one matching circuit (e.g., at least one of the first matching circuit (710), the second matching circuit (720), and the third matching circuit (730) of FIG. 7).

[0058] In one embodiment, the remaining area of ​​the first part (431), excluding the area where the first section (461) of the first antenna pattern (460) is formed, may be formed as a non-conductive area, but is not limited thereto. For example, the first antenna pattern (460) may extend to the remaining area of ​​the first part (431), or another antenna pattern spaced apart from the first antenna pattern (460) may be formed in the remaining area.

[0059] In one embodiment, the remaining area of ​​the second part (432), excluding the area where the first section (471) of the second antenna pattern (470) is formed, may be formed as a non-conductive area, but is not limited thereto. For example, the second antenna pattern (470) may extend to the remaining area of ​​the second part (432), or another antenna pattern spaced apart from the second antenna pattern (470) may be formed in the remaining area.

[0060] In one embodiment, the third part (433) of the third surface (430) may include a non-conductive region (435) between the first antenna pattern (460) and the second antenna pattern (470). For example, the non-conductive region (435) may be located between the second section (462) of the first antenna pattern (460) and the second section (472) of the second antenna pattern (470). For example, the non-conductive region (435) may be located between first ends (466, 476) of the first antenna pattern (460) and the second antenna pattern (470) that face each other.

[0061] In one embodiment, the substrate (450) may provide electrical paths formed of a conductive material for electrical connection between various components. For example, the substrate (450) may provide a first line (610) and a second line (620).

[0062] In one embodiment, the ring device may include a switch (or switch circuit) (680) disposed on a substrate (450). The switch (680) may be disposed on a first surface (410) or a second surface (420) of the substrate (450). In one embodiment, the switch (680) may be electrically connected to each of the first antenna pattern (460) and the second antenna pattern (470). For example, the switch (680) may be electrically connected to the first antenna pattern (460) via the first line (610). For example, the switch (680) may be electrically connected to the first end (466) of the second section (462) of the first antenna pattern (460) via the first line (610). For example, the switch (680) may be electrically connected to the second antenna pattern (470) via the second line (620). For example, the switch (680) may be electrically connected to the first end (476) of the second section (472) of the second antenna pattern (470) via the second line (620). The first line (610) and the second line (620) may constitute a feed line through which signals transmitted and received by the first antenna pattern (460) and the second antenna pattern (470) are transmitted.

[0063] Although not shown, additionally or optionally, a shorting line connecting the first antenna pattern (460) and / or the second antenna pattern (470) to the antenna ground of the substrate (450) may be provided on the substrate (450). The shorting line may be connected, for example, between a first end (466) and a second end (467) of the first antenna pattern (460) to which the first line (610) is connected. The shorting line may be connected, for example, between a first end (476) and a second end (477) of the second antenna pattern (470) to which the second line (620) is connected. The first antenna pattern (460) and / or the second antenna pattern (470) to which the shorting line is connected may constitute a planar inverted F shape antenna (PIFA) antenna.

[0064] In one embodiment, the substrate (450) can include a non-conductive portion (440) extending inwardly of the substrate (450) from at least a portion of the third surface (430). The non-conductive portion (440) can extend from at least the first antenna pattern (460) and the second antenna pattern (470). The non-conductive portion (440) can separate the first antenna pattern (460) and the second antenna pattern (470) from the antenna ground of the substrate (450). For example, but not limited to, the distance by which the first antenna pattern (460) and the second antenna pattern (470) are separated from the antenna ground by the non-conductive portion (440) can be about 0.2 mm. In one embodiment, the non-conductive portion (440) can be referred to as a non-conductive region. The non-conductive portion (440) may be a portion (or region) of the substrate (450) from which the conductive material is removed. The non-conductive portion (440) may be referred to as a fill-cut region. The fill-cut region may be a region from which a fill of a conductive material (e.g., copper fill) is not applied or removed during the design of the substrate (450).

[0065] In one embodiment, the substrate (450) may include at least a portion surrounded by a non-conductive portion (440). Various components, including a switch (680), may be disposed on the portion. For example, but not limited to, the processor (120), the memory (130), and the wireless communication module (192) of FIG. 1 may be disposed on the portion. For example, the processor (120), the memory (130), and the wireless communication module (192) may be formed as a single chip, such as a microcontroller unit (MCU), but are not limited thereto.

[0066] FIGS. 5A and 5B are perspective views and drawings illustrating exemplary ring devices according to various embodiments.

[0067] Referring to FIG. 5A, in one embodiment, the first antenna pattern (460) may be positioned between the third surface (100C) and the second antenna pattern (470), and the second antenna pattern (470) may be positioned between the first antenna pattern (460) and the fourth surface (100D).

[0068] In one embodiment, the first antenna pattern (460) may be aligned with respect to the third side (100C), and the second antenna pattern (470) may be aligned with respect to the fourth side (100D). In one embodiment, the first antenna pattern (460) may be arranged with respect to the third side (100C), and the second antenna pattern (470) may be arranged with respect to the fourth side (100D).

[0069] In one embodiment, the first antenna pattern (460) may be positioned on the third side (100C) and the second antenna pattern (470) may be positioned on the fourth side (100D). For example, the first antenna pattern (460) may be positioned adjacent to the third side (100C) and the second antenna pattern (470) may be positioned adjacent to the fourth side (100D). For example, the first antenna pattern (460) may be positioned closer to the third side (100C) than to the fourth side (100D), and the second antenna pattern (470) may be positioned closer to the fourth side (100D) than to the third side (100C). For example, the first section (461) of the first antenna pattern (460) may be positioned closer to the third surface (100C) than to the fourth surface (100D), and the first section (471) of the second antenna pattern (470) may be positioned closer to the fourth surface (100D) than to the third surface (100C). For example, the first antenna pattern (460) may be positioned closer to the third surface (100C) than the second antenna pattern (470). For example, the first section (461) of the first antenna pattern (460) may be positioned closer to the third surface (100C) than the second antenna pattern (470) (or the first section (471) of the second antenna pattern (470)). For example, the second antenna pattern (470) may be positioned closer to the fourth surface (100D) than the first antenna pattern (460). For example, the first section (471) of the second antenna pattern (470) may be positioned closer to the fourth surface (100D) than the first antenna pattern (460) (or the first section (461) of the first antenna pattern (460)).

[0070] In one embodiment, the first antenna pattern (460) may be at least partially oriented toward the third side (100C). For example, the first section (461) of the first antenna pattern (460) may be oriented toward the third side (100C). For example, the first section (461) and the third side (100C) may face each other. For example, the first section (461) of the first antenna pattern (460) may be covered by the third side (100C) (e.g., the first area (C1) and / or the second area (C2)).

[0071] In one embodiment, the second antenna pattern (470) may be at least partially oriented toward the fourth side (100D). For example, a first section (471) of the second antenna pattern (470) may be oriented toward the fourth side (100D). For example, the first section (471) and the fourth side (100D) may face each other. For example, the first section (471) of the second antenna pattern (470) may be covered by the fourth side (100D).

[0072] Referring to FIG. 5B, in one embodiment, the first section (461) of the first antenna pattern (460) may at least partially face the second area (C2) of the third surface (100C). For example, the first section (461) of the first antenna pattern (460) may be at least partially covered by the second area (C2) of the third surface (100C). Referring also to FIG. 4, in one embodiment, the second end (467) of the first antenna pattern (460) may be covered by the second area (C2), but is not limited thereto.

[0073] Although not shown, the description of the first antenna pattern (460) with reference to FIG. 5B can also be applied to the second antenna pattern (470) in a corresponding manner. For example, referring to FIGS. 2A and 4 together, in one embodiment, the first section (471) of the second antenna pattern (470) can at least partially face the second area (D2) of the fourth surface (100D). For example, the first section (471) of the second antenna pattern (470) can be at least partially covered by the second area (D2) of the fourth surface (100D). In one embodiment, the second end (477) of the second antenna pattern (470) can be covered by the second area (D2), but the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0074] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of an exemplary ring device according to various embodiments. Referring to FIG. 6, according to one embodiment, the ring device may include a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC) (670) (e.g., the wireless communication module (192) of FIG. 1).

[0075] In one embodiment, the RFIC (670) may include a transceiver for RF signals. Additionally, the RFIC (670) may further include a front end module connected between the transceiver and the switch (680).

[0076] Although not shown, the ring device may include a modem (e.g., a communication processor of the processor (120) of FIG. 1 or a communication processor of the wireless communication module (192)) for processing signals transmitted and received by the RFIC (670). In one embodiment, the modem, the RFIC (670), the switch (680), the first antenna pattern (460) and the second antenna pattern (470) may be operatively coupled to a processor of the ring device (e.g., an application processor of the processor (120) of FIG. 1). The processor may include at least one processor including a processing circuit.

[0077] In one embodiment, the RFIC (670) may be connected to the first antenna pattern (460) and the second antenna pattern (470) via a feed line (or transmission line). For example, the RFIC (670) may be connected to the switch (680) via a third line (630), and may be connected to the first antenna pattern (460) and the second antenna pattern (470) via the first line (610) and the second line (620) connected to the switch (680). The RFIC (670) may transmit or receive an RF signal using the first antenna pattern (460) and the second antenna pattern (470).

[0078] In one embodiment, the switch (680) may be controlled by the RFIC (670) or the modem. For example, the switch (680) may be configured to selectively connect the third line (630) to the first line (610) or the second line (620) based on a control signal provided by the RFIC (670) or the modem. Through the switch (680), the RFIC (670) may be selectively connected to the first antenna pattern (460) or the second antenna pattern (470). Through this, the RFIC (670) may selectively use the first antenna pattern (460) or the second antenna pattern (470) to transmit or receive an RF signal.

[0079] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an exemplary configuration of an exemplary ring device according to various embodiments. Referring to FIG. 7, the ring device according to one embodiment may include at least one matching circuit. For example, the at least one matching circuit may include at least one of a first matching circuit (710), a second matching circuit (720), and a third matching circuit (730). The first matching circuit (710) may be connected between a first antenna pattern (460) and a switch (680) via a first line (610). The second matching circuit (720) may be connected between a second antenna pattern (470) and a switch (680) via a second line (620). The third matching circuit (730) may be connected between an RFIC (670) and a switch (680) via a third line (630). Each of the first matching circuit (710), the second matching circuit (720), and the third matching circuit (730) may include at least one lumped element, but is not limited thereto, and various methods for impedance matching may be applied.

[0080] FIG. 8 is a graph showing radiation efficiency (e.g., total efficiency) according to various embodiments. Graph (a) of FIG. 8 shows the radiation efficiency of the first antenna pattern (460) or the second antenna pattern (470) according to one embodiment. Graph (b) and graph (c) may show the radiation efficiency of an antenna pattern formed on a side surface of a substrate and a different type of antenna (e.g., a chip antenna) in comparative examples. Graph (b) shows the radiation efficiency when the chip antenna is covered by a conductive side wall of a housing (e.g., the first areas (C1, D1) of the first member (212) of FIG. 2a), and graph (c) shows the radiation efficiency when it is not covered. Referring to FIG. 8, graph (a) of one embodiment may have an overall improved radiation efficiency compared to graphs (b, c) of comparative examples. In particular, graph (a) of one embodiment can have improved radiation efficiency compared to graphs (b, c) of comparative examples in a frequency band for short-range wireless communication (e.g., a Bluetooth spectrum band of 2400 MHz to 2483.5 MHz). The chip antenna of the comparative examples may have mounting limitations due to its physical volume. As an alternative to the chip antenna, a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB) antenna may be used, but the FPCB antenna may have a large performance deviation depending on the direction due to the influence of adjacent objects (e.g., a human body or a conductive material), and there are also many limitations in antenna tuning. This degradation in antenna performance may cause a decrease in data transmission speed, an increase in current consumption, a decrease in connection distance, and a decrease in usage time when communicating between the ring device and an external device (e.g., a user's smart phone).In contrast, according to one embodiment, improved antenna performance can be secured through antenna patterns formed on the side of the substrate (e.g., the first antenna pattern (460) and the second antenna pattern (470) of FIG. 7). In addition, as described below, by adaptively switching the antenna patterns according to a state through a switch (e.g., the switch (680) of FIG. 7), degradation of antenna performance due to the surrounding environment can be reduced and / or prevented.

[0081] FIG. 9 is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary ring device according to various embodiments. Referring to FIG. 9, a ring device (100) according to one embodiment may include at least one sensor (976) (e.g., the sensor module (176) of FIG. 1 ). While the at least one sensor (976) is illustrated as being disposed on the second substrate (352), the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the at least one sensor (976) may be disposed on the first substrate (351), the second substrate (352), or the third substrate (353).

[0082] Although not shown, the processor of the ring device (100) may be disposed on the substrate assembly (250) and operatively coupled to at least one sensor (976). The processor may use the at least one sensor (976) to detect (or determine) the state of the ring device (100).

[0083] FIG. 10A is a diagram illustrating a ring device mounted on an external device according to various embodiments. FIG. 10B is a diagram illustrating acceleration data acquired by at least one sensor according to various embodiments. FIG. 10B illustrates acceleration values ​​(y-axis) over time (x-axis) for three mutually orthogonal axes (a1, a2, a3) when the ring device (100) is mounted on an external device (1002). For a non-limiting example, the third axis (a3) ​​may be perpendicular to the third face (100C) (and / or the fourth face (100D)), and the first axis (a1) and the second axis (a2) may be perpendicular to each other and perpendicular to the third axis (a3). For a non-limiting example, the third axis (a3) ​​may be an axis corresponding to the direction of gravity when the ring device (100) is mounted within the external device (1002).

[0084] Referring to FIG. 10A, in one embodiment, the ring device (100) may be mounted on an external device (1002). The external device (1002) may wirelessly transmit power to the ring device (100) for charging a battery of the ring device (100) (e.g., battery (240) of FIG. 2B). For non-limiting examples, the external device (1002) may include a transmitting coil for generating a magnetic field induced from the external power, and the ring device (100) may include a receiving coil for generating an induced current from the magnetic field.

[0085] In one embodiment, the processor may determine whether the ring device (100) is mounted on an external device (1002). For example, the processor may determine whether the ring device (100) is mounted on an external device (1002) using values ​​(e.g., acceleration data) obtained by at least one sensor (976). For example, referring to FIG. 10B, the processor may determine that the ring device (100) is mounted on an external device (1002) when the third axis (a3) ​​exhibits the largest positive or negative acceleration value and the acceleration values ​​of the first axis (a1), the second axis (a2), and the third axis (a3) ​​are maintained within a specified range for a specified time. However, the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described examples, and various sensor values ​​of at least one sensor (976) and various algorithms for processing the sensor values ​​may be used to determine whether the ring device (100) is mounted on an external device (1002).

[0086] For example, but not limited to, the processor may determine that the ring device (100) is being wirelessly charged by the external device (1002) when the ring device (100) is being wirelessly charged by the external device (1002). For example, the processor may determine whether the ring device (100) is being wirelessly charged through a signal associated with a wireless charging operation received from the external device (1002). For example, the processor may determine that the ring device (100) is being wirelessly charged when it detects an initial magnetic field from the external device (1002) when the ring device (100) is being wirelessly charged by the external device (1002).

[0087] In one embodiment, the processor may analyze sensor data from at least one sensor (976) and determine an antenna pattern when the ring device (100) is mounted on an external device (1002). In one embodiment, the processor may determine an orientation of the ring device (100) using at least one sensor (976). For example, the processor may determine an antenna pattern facing in an opposite direction to the ground among the first antenna pattern (460) and the second antenna pattern (470) through the at least one sensor (976). For example, when the first antenna pattern (460) or the second antenna pattern (470) of the ring device (100) faces in the opposite direction to the ground, data in which the third axis (a3) ​​has the largest positive acceleration value can be obtained, as in the first section (1010), and when the second antenna pattern (470) or the first antenna pattern (460) faces in the opposite direction to the ground, data in which the third axis (a3) ​​has the largest negative acceleration value can be obtained, as in the second section (1020). However, the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described examples, and in order to determine which of the first antenna pattern (460) and the second antenna pattern (470) faces in the opposite direction to the ground, various sensor values ​​of at least one sensor (976) and various algorithms for processing the sensor values ​​can be used.

[0088] The processor may transmit or receive the RF signal using an antenna pattern determined to face in the opposite direction of the ground among the first antenna pattern (460) and the second antenna pattern (470) based on the determined direction. For example, the processor may control the switch (680) so that an RFIC (e.g., RFIC (670) of FIG. 6) is connected to the determined antenna pattern, and the RFIC may transmit or receive an RF signal using the determined antenna pattern. Through this, the antenna performance of the ring device (100) may be improved by using the upper antenna pattern regardless of the direction in which the ring device (100) is mounted on the external device (1002). In one embodiment, the external device (1002) may be referred to as a cradle or a wireless charging device of the ring device (100).

[0089] FIG. 11A is a diagram showing a ring device worn by a user according to various embodiments. FIG. 11B is a diagram showing acceleration data acquired by at least one sensor according to various embodiments. FIG. 11B shows acceleration values ​​(y-axis) over time (x-axis) for three mutually orthogonal axes (a1, a2, a3) when the ring device (100) is worn by a user (1). For example, but not limited to, the third axis (a3) ​​may be an axis perpendicular to the third face (100C) (and / or the fourth face (100D)), and the axes (a1, a2) may be two axes that are perpendicular to each other and perpendicular to the third axis (a3). For a non-limiting example, the third axis (a3) ​​may be an axis corresponding to the nail direction (11) or the wrist direction (12) when the ring device (100) is worn by the user (1).

[0090] Referring to FIG. 11A, in one embodiment, the ring device (100) may be worn on the finger of a user (1). In a worn state, the first antenna pattern (460) of the ring device (100) may be oriented toward the fingernail direction (11) or the wrist direction (12) of the user (1), and the second antenna pattern (470) may be oriented toward the wrist direction (12) or the fingernail direction (11) of the user (1).

[0091] In one embodiment, the processor may determine whether the ring device (100) is worn by the user (1). For example, the processor may determine whether the ring device (100) is worn using a value obtained by at least one sensor (976). As a non-limiting example, at least one sensor (976) (e.g., a skin sensor) may detect an electrical change due to contact with the skin of the user (1), and the processor may determine, in response to the detection, that the ring device (100) is worn. As a non-limiting example, the processor may detect whether the ring device (100) is worn using light (e.g., infrared) transmitted and received from at least one sensor (976) (e.g., an optical sensor). However, the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described examples, and various sensor values ​​of at least one sensor (976) and various algorithms for processing the sensor values ​​may be used to determine whether the ring device (100) is worn by the user (1).

[0092] In one embodiment, the processor may analyze sensor data from at least one sensor (976) and determine an antenna pattern when the ring device (100) is worn by the user (1). In one embodiment, the processor may determine the direction of the ring device (100) using at least one sensor (976). For example, the processor may determine an antenna pattern facing the nail direction (11) among the first antenna pattern (460) and the second antenna pattern (470) through at least one sensor (976). For example, the processor may detect various postures of a user wearing the ring device (100) using sensor data collected using at least one sensor (976). The processor may determine an antenna pattern facing the nail direction (11) based on the determined posture. For example, referring to FIG. 11B, when the first antenna pattern (460) or the second antenna pattern (470) faces the nail direction (11) within the determined posture, acceleration data such as the first section (1110) can be obtained, and when the second antenna pattern (470) or the first antenna pattern (460) faces the nail direction (11) within the determined posture, acceleration data such as the second section (1120) can be obtained. However, the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described example, and in order to determine the antenna pattern facing the nail direction (11) among the first antenna pattern (460) and the second antenna pattern (470), various sensor values ​​of at least one sensor (976) and various algorithms for processing the sensor values ​​can be used.

[0093] The processor may transmit or receive the RF signal using an antenna pattern determined to face the nail direction (11) among the first antenna pattern (460) and the second antenna pattern (470) based on the determined direction. For example, the processor may control the switch (680) so that the RFIC is connected to the determined antenna pattern, and the RFIC may transmit or receive the RF signal using the determined antenna pattern. Through this, the antenna performance of the ring device (100) may be improved by using an antenna pattern directed toward the nail direction (11), regardless of the direction in which the ring device (100) is worn on the finger of the user (1).

[0094] FIGS. 12A and 12B illustrate radiation patterns of antenna patterns according to various embodiments. FIG. 12A is a diagram showing a radiation pattern of an antenna pattern facing a nail direction (e.g., nail direction (11) of FIG. 11A) according to a rotation angle, and FIG. 12B is a diagram showing a radiation pattern of an antenna pattern facing a wrist direction (e.g., wrist direction (12) of FIG. 11A) according to a rotation angle. Referring to FIGS. 12A and 12B, the antenna pattern facing the nail direction may have higher performance than the antenna pattern facing the wrist direction. For example, the antenna pattern facing the nail direction may have higher gain than the antenna pattern facing the wrist direction. In addition, for example, the radiation pattern of the antenna pattern facing the nail direction may be formed more uniformly than the radiation pattern of the antenna pattern facing the wrist direction.

[0095] Table 1 below shows the transmission output (total radiated power, TRP) [dBm] of the antenna pattern facing the fingernail direction and the antenna pattern facing the wrist direction.

[0096] Example 1-1-22.81-22.93-22.75 Example 1-2-21.37-21.51-21.10 Example 1-3-22.85-22.73-22.03 Example 2-1-27.02-27.07-26.66 Example 2-2-27.89-28.35-28.02 Example 2-3-26.89-27.16-26.35

[0097] Examples (1-1, 1-2, 1-3) of the above Table 1 are transmission outputs of antenna patterns facing the fingernail direction, and examples (2-1, 2-2, 2-3) are transmission outputs of antenna patterns facing the wrist direction. Referring to the above Table 1, the transmission output of the antenna pattern facing the fingernail direction may be higher than the transmission output of the antenna pattern facing the wrist direction.

[0098] This may be because the volume of the body adjacent to the antenna pattern facing the fingernail direction is relatively smaller than the volume of the body adjacent to the antenna pattern facing the wrist direction.

[0099] FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary method of operating a ring device according to various embodiments. The operations illustrated in FIG. 13 and the drawings below may be performed by the ring device (e.g., the ring device (100) of FIG. 1) or the processor (e.g., the processor (120) of FIG. 1). The operations illustrated in FIG. 13 and the drawings below may be caused by one or more instructions stored in one or more programs stored in the ring device (100) when the programs are executed by at least one processor (120). The operations illustrated in FIG. 13 and the drawings below may be performed sequentially, in parallel, or substantially simultaneously.

[0100] Referring to FIG. 13, in operation (1310), the processor may determine whether the ring device is worn by the user. The description provided with reference to FIG. 11A may be applied to operation (1310). If it is determined in operation (1310) that the ring device is worn by the user (operation 1310: Yes), operation (1320) may be performed, and if not (operation 1310: No), operation (1330) may be performed.

[0101] In operation (1320), the processor may analyze sensor data and determine an antenna pattern. For example, in response to determining that the user is wearing the ring device, the processor may use data acquired by at least one sensor (e.g., at least one sensor (976) of FIG. 9) to determine, among a first antenna pattern (e.g., the first antenna pattern (460) of FIG. 11A) and a second antenna pattern (e.g., the second antenna pattern (470) of FIG. 11A), an antenna pattern corresponding to a direction toward the user's fingernail. The description provided with reference to FIGS. 11A and 11B may apply to operation (1320).

[0102] In operation (1330), the processor may analyze sensor data and determine an antenna pattern. For example, in response to determining that the user is not wearing the ring device, the processor may use data acquired by the at least one sensor to determine an antenna pattern corresponding to a direction opposite to the ground among a first antenna pattern (e.g., the first antenna pattern (460) of FIG. 10A) and a second antenna pattern (e.g., the second antenna pattern (470) of FIG. 10A). The description provided with reference to FIGS. 10A and 10B may apply to operation (1330).

[0103] In operation (1340), the processor may activate the determined antenna pattern. For example, the processor may transmit or receive the RF signal using the antenna pattern determined in operation (1320) or operation (1330). The description provided with reference to FIGS. 10A, 10B, 11A, and 11B may apply to operation (1340).

[0104] FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary method of operating a ring device according to an embodiment. Referring to FIG. 14, if it is determined in operation (1310) that the ring device is worn by a user (operation 1310: Yes), operation (1320) may be performed, and if not (operation 1310: No), operation (1410) may be performed.

[0105] In operation (1410), the processor may determine whether the ring device is mounted in a cradle (e.g., external device (1002) of FIG. 10A). For example, the processor may determine whether the ring device is mounted in the cradle in response to determining that the user is not wearing the ring device. The description provided with reference to FIGS. 10A and 10B may apply to operation (1410). If it is determined in operation (1410) that the ring device is mounted in the cradle (operation 1410: Yes), operation (1420) may be performed, and if not (operation 1410: No), operation (1430) may be performed.

[0106] In operation (1420), the processor may analyze sensor data and determine an antenna pattern. For example, in response to determining that the ring device is mounted on the cradle, the processor may use data acquired by the at least one sensor to determine an antenna pattern corresponding to a direction opposite to the ground among a first antenna pattern (e.g., the first antenna pattern (460) of FIG. 10A) and a second antenna pattern (e.g., the second antenna pattern (470) of FIG. 10A). The description provided with reference to FIGS. 10A and 10B may apply to operation (1420).

[0107] In operation (1430), the processor may analyze sensor data and determine an antenna pattern. For example, in response to determining that the ring device is not placed in the cradle, the processor may use data acquired by the at least one sensor to determine, among the first antenna pattern and the second antenna pattern, an antenna pattern corresponding to a direction opposite to the ground. The description provided with reference to FIGS. 10A and 10B may be applied in a corresponding manner to operation (1430).

[0108] In operation (1440), the processor may activate the determined antenna pattern. For example, the processor may transmit and / or receive the RF signal using the antenna pattern determined in operation (1320), operation (1420), or operation (1430). The description provided with reference to FIGS. 10A, 10B, 11A, and 11B may be equally applicable to operation (1440).

[0109] In an exemplary embodiment, a ring device (e.g., an electronic device (100) of FIG. 1) comprises a printed circuit board (e.g., a substrate (450) of FIG. 4) including an upper surface (e.g., a first surface (410) of FIG. 4), a lower surface opposite to the upper surface (e.g., a second surface (420) of FIG. 4), and a side surface extending from an edge of the upper surface to an edge of the lower surface (e.g., a third surface (430) of FIG. 4), a first antenna pattern (e.g., a first antenna pattern (460) and / or a first section (461) of FIG. 4) formed on a first part (e.g., a first part (431) of FIG. 4) of the side surface), a second antenna pattern (e.g., a second antenna pattern (470) and / or a first section (471) of FIG. 4) formed on a second part (e.g., a second part (432) of FIG. 4) of the side surface opposite to the first part), and at least The ring device may include a sensor (e.g., at least one sensor (976) of FIG. 9), and at least one processor operatively coupled to the first antenna pattern, the second antenna pattern, and the at least one sensor and including processing circuitry (e.g., the processor (120) of FIG. 1). The at least one processor may be configured, individually and / or collectively, to determine an orientation of the ring device using the at least one sensor, and to control the ring device to transmit and / or receive a radio frequency (RF) signal using one of the first antenna pattern and the second antenna pattern based on the determined orientation.

[0110] In an exemplary embodiment, the ring device may include a housing (e.g., housing (210) of FIG. 2A). The housing may include a first surface (e.g., first surface (100A) of FIG. 2A), a second surface opposite the first surface and configured to contact a body of a user wearing the ring device (e.g., second surface (100B) of FIG. 2A), a third surface extending from a first edge of the first surface to a first edge of the second surface (e.g., third surface (100C) of FIG. 2A), and a fourth surface extending from a second edge of the first surface to a second edge of the second surface and opposite the third surface (e.g., fourth surface (100D) of FIG. 2A). The first antenna pattern may be aligned with respect to the third surface of the housing. The second antenna pattern may be aligned with respect to the fourth surface of the housing.

[0111] A first part of the first antenna pattern (e.g., a first section (461) of FIG. 4) may face the third surface of the housing, and a first part of the second antenna pattern (e.g., a first section (471) of FIG. 4) may face the fourth surface of the housing.

[0112] In an exemplary embodiment, the housing may include a first portion (e.g., a first member (212) of FIG. 2A) and a second portion (e.g., a second member (214) of FIG. 2A) coupled to the first portion. The first portion may form a first region (e.g., a first region (C1) of FIG. 2A) of the first side and the third side of the housing. The first region may extend from the first edge of the first side. The second portion may form a second region (e.g., a second region (C2) of FIG. 2A) of the second side and the third side of the housing. The second region may extend from the first edge of the second side to the first region. The first antenna pattern may at least partially face the second region of the third side. For example, the first portion of the first antenna pattern may at least partially face the second area of ​​the third surface.

[0113] In an exemplary embodiment, the first portion may form a first region of the fourth surface (e.g., the first region (D1) of FIG. 2A). The second portion may form a second region of the fourth surface (e.g., the second region (D2) of FIG. 2A). The first region of the fourth surface may extend from the second edge of the first surface. The second region of the fourth surface may extend from the second edge of the second surface to the first region of the fourth surface. The second antenna pattern may at least partially face the second region of the fourth surface. For example, the first portion of the second antenna pattern may at least partially face the second region of the fourth surface.

[0114] In an exemplary embodiment, the first portion of the housing may comprise metal.

[0115] In an exemplary embodiment, the second portion of the housing may comprise a non-conductive material.

[0116] In an exemplary embodiment, the side surface of the printed circuit board may include a third part (e.g., the third part (433) of FIG. 4) extending from one end of the first part to one end of the second part. The first antenna pattern may include a first part (e.g., the first section (461) of FIG. 4) formed on the first part, and a second part (e.g., the second section (462) of FIG. 4) extending from the first part and formed on the third part.

[0117] In an exemplary embodiment, the second antenna pattern may include a first portion formed on the second part (e.g., the first section (471) of FIG. 4), and a second portion extending from the first portion of the second antenna pattern and formed on the third part (e.g., the second section (472) of FIG. 4).

[0118] In an exemplary embodiment, the third part may include a non-conductive region (e.g., non-conductive region (435) in FIG. 4) between the second portion of the first antenna pattern and the second portion of the second antenna pattern.

[0119] According to an exemplary embodiment, the ring device may include a transceiver configured to transmit and / or receive the RF signal (e.g., RFIC (670) of FIG. 6), a switch disposed on the printed circuit board (e.g., switch (680) of FIG. 6), and a feed line configured to connect the transceiver to the first antenna pattern and the second antenna pattern. The feed line may include a first line (e.g., first line (610) of FIG. 6), a second line (e.g., second line (620) of FIG. 6), and a third line (e.g., third line (630) of FIG. 6) provided by the printed circuit board. The first line may be configured to connect the transceiver to the switch, the second line may be configured to connect the switch to the first antenna pattern, and the third line may be configured to connect the switch to the second antenna pattern. The switch may be configured to selectively connect the first line to the second line or the third line.

[0120] According to an exemplary embodiment, the ring device may include at least one of a first matching circuit (e.g., the first matching circuit (710) of FIG. 7), a second matching circuit (e.g., the second matching circuit (720) of FIG. 7), and a third matching circuit (e.g., the third matching circuit (730) of FIG. 7). The first matching circuit may be connected to the first line, the second matching circuit may be connected to the second line, and the third matching circuit may be connected to the third line.

[0121] In an exemplary embodiment, the first line may be connected to the second portion of the first antenna pattern, and the second line may be connected to the second portion of the second antenna pattern.

[0122] In an exemplary embodiment, a first end of the second portion of the first antenna pattern (e.g., the first end (466) of FIG. 4) may face a second end of the second portion of the second antenna pattern (e.g., the first end (476) of FIG. 4). The first line may be connected to the first end, and the second line may be connected to the second end.

[0123] In an exemplary embodiment, the printed circuit board may include a non-conductive portion extending inwardly from at least a portion of the side surface (e.g., non-conductive portion (440) of FIG. 4).

[0124] In an exemplary embodiment, the printed circuit board may include a portion at least partially surrounded by the non-conductive portion. At least one processor may be disposed on the portion of the printed circuit board.

[0125] In an exemplary embodiment, when the ring device is worn by a user, the first antenna pattern or the second antenna pattern may be arranged to face the user's fingernail, and the second antenna pattern or the first antenna pattern may be arranged to face the user's wrist.

[0126] In an exemplary embodiment, the first antenna pattern may be positioned closer to the third surface (e.g., the third surface (100C) of FIG. 2A) of the housing than to the fourth surface (e.g., the fourth surface (100D) of FIG. 2A). The second antenna pattern may be positioned closer to the fourth surface of the housing than to the third surface.

[0127] In an exemplary embodiment, at least one processor may be configured to, individually and / or collectively, use the at least one sensor to determine whether the ring device is worn by a user (e.g., operation 1310 of FIG. 13 ), and in response to determining that the ring device is worn by the user, determine an antenna pattern of the first antenna pattern and the second antenna pattern that is directed toward the user's fingernail (e.g., operation 1320 of FIG. 13 ), and control the ring device to transmit and / or receive the RF signal using the determined antenna pattern (e.g., operation 1340 of FIG. 13 ).

[0128] In an exemplary embodiment, at least one processor may be configured, individually and / or collectively, to, in response to determining that the ring device is not being worn by the user, determine an antenna pattern facing away from the ground among the first antenna pattern and the second antenna pattern (e.g., operation 1330 of FIG. 13 ), and transmit and / or receive the RF signal using the determined antenna pattern (e.g., operation 1340 of FIG. 13 ).

[0129] In an exemplary embodiment, at least one processor may be configured, individually and / or collectively, to determine whether the ring device is mounted within a wireless charging device (e.g., operation 1410 of FIG. 14 ) in response to determining that the ring device is not being worn by the user, and to determine, in response to determining that the ring device is mounted within the wireless charging device, which of the first antenna pattern and the second antenna pattern is oriented in an opposite direction to the ground (e.g., operation 1420 of FIG. 14 ).

[0130] In an exemplary embodiment, a non-transitory computer readable storage medium storing one or more programs may include instructions executed by at least one processor including a processing circuit (e.g., a processor (120) of FIG. 1) of a ring device having a first antenna pattern (e.g., a first antenna pattern (460) of FIG. 4) directed toward a fingernail (e.g., a fingernail of FIG. 11A) or a wrist (e.g., a wrist of FIG. 11A) of a user wearing the ring device (e.g., an electronic device (100) of FIG. 1), a second antenna pattern (e.g., a second antenna pattern (470) of FIG. 4) directed toward a wrist or fingernail of the user wearing the ring device, and at least one sensor (e.g., at least one sensor (976) of FIG. 9). The instructions, when executed by at least one processor, may individually and / or collectively cause the ring device to determine whether the ring device is worn by the user (e.g., operation 1310 of FIG. 13); in response to determining that the ring device is worn by the user, cause the ring device to determine an antenna pattern of the first antenna pattern and the second antenna pattern that is directed toward the user's fingernail (e.g., operation 1320 of FIG. 13); in response to determining that the ring device is not worn by the user, cause the ring device to determine an antenna pattern of the first antenna pattern and the second antenna pattern that is directed away from the ground (e.g., operation 1330 of FIG. 13); and cause the ring device to transmit and / or receive a radio frequency (RF) signal using the determined antenna pattern (e.g., operation 1340 of FIG. 13).

[0131] The instructions, when executed by at least one processor, may individually and / or collectively cause the ring device to determine whether the ring device is mounted within a wireless charging device (e.g., operation (1410) of FIG. 14) in response to determining that the ring device is not being worn by the user.

[0132] The instructions, when executed by at least one processor, may individually and / or collectively cause the ring device to, in response to determining that the ring device is mounted within the wireless charging device, determine an antenna pattern facing away from the ground among the first antenna pattern and the second antenna pattern (e.g., operation 1420 of FIG. 14).

[0133] 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.

[0134] 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," the corresponding component may be connected to the corresponding other component directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0135] The term "module" used in various embodiments of this document may include a unit implemented by hardware, software, or firmware, or a combination thereof, and may be used interchangeably with terms such as logic, logic block, component, or circuit. A module may be an integral component, or a minimum unit or part of such a component that performs one or more functions. For example, according to one embodiment, a module may be implemented in the form of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0136] 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 (100)). For example, a processor (e.g., a processor (120)) of the machine (e.g., an electronic device (100)) 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' means that the storage medium is a tangible device and may not contain signals (e.g., electromagnetic waves), but the term does not distinguish between cases where data is stored semi-permanently on the storage medium and cases where it is stored temporarily.

[0137] According to one embodiment, the method according to the various embodiments disclosed in the present document may be provided as included in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded as a product between a seller and a buyer. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable storage medium (e.g., compact disc read only memory (CD-ROM)), or may be distributed online (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) via an application store (e.g., Play Store™) or directly between two user devices (e.g., smart phones). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product may be 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 an intermediary server.

[0138] 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 entities may be separated and placed in other components. According to various embodiments, one or more components or operations of the aforementioned 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 a single component. In such a 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 executed sequentially, in parallel, iteratively, or heuristically, or one or more of the operations may be executed in a different order, omitted, or one or more other operations may be added.

[0139] While the present disclosure has been illustrated and described with reference to various exemplary embodiments, it is to be understood that the various exemplary embodiments are intended to be illustrative and not limiting. It will be further understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and detail may be made without departing from the true spirit and scope of the present disclosure, including the appended claims and their equivalents. It will also be understood that any embodiment(s) described herein may be used in conjunction with any other embodiment(s) described herein.

Claims

1. In a ring device, A printed circuit board comprising: a top surface, a bottom surface opposite to the top surface, and a side surface extending from an edge of the top surface to an edge of the bottom surface; A first antenna pattern formed on the first part of the above side; A second antenna pattern formed on a second part opposite to the first part of the above side; At least one sensor disposed on the printed circuit board; and comprising a processing circuit, and at least one processor operatively coupled to the first antenna pattern, the second antenna pattern, and the at least one sensor; At least one processor, individually and / or collectively: Determining the orientation of the ring device using at least one sensor, and Based on the determined direction, the ring device is configured to control the ring device to transmit and / or receive an RF (radio frequency) signal using one of the first antenna pattern and the second antenna pattern. Ring device.

2. In claim 1, Including housing, The above housing: Page 1; A second side opposite to the first side and configured to come into contact with the body of a user wearing the ring device; a third side extending from the first edge of the first side to the first edge of the second side; and a fourth surface extending from the second edge of the first surface to the second edge of the second surface, and opposite to the third surface; The first antenna pattern is aligned with respect to the third surface of the housing, and the second antenna pattern is aligned with respect to the fourth surface of the housing. Ring device.

3. In claim 2, The above housing, comprising a first part and a second part joined to the first part, The first part forms a first area of ​​the first surface and the third surface of the housing, The first region extends from the first edge of the first surface, The second part forms a second area of ​​the second surface and the third surface of the housing, The second region extends from the first edge of the second surface to the first region, The first antenna pattern is at least partially opposite to the second area of ​​the third surface, Ring device.

4. In claim 3, The above first part forms the first area of ​​the fourth surface, The second part above forms the second area of ​​the fourth surface, The first region of the fourth surface extends from the second edge of the first surface, The second region of the fourth surface extends from the second edge of the second surface to the first region of the fourth surface, The second antenna pattern is at least partially opposite to the second area of ​​the fourth surface. Ring device.

5. In claim 3 or claim 4, The first part above comprises a metal, Ring device.

6. In any one of claims 3 to 5, The second part comprises a non-conductive material, Ring device.

7. In any one of claims 1 to 6, The side surface of the printed circuit board includes a third part extending from one end of the first part to one end of the second part, The above first antenna pattern is, A first part formed on the first part; and extending from the first part and including a second part formed on the third part, Ring device.

8. In claim 7, The above second antenna pattern is, A first part formed on the second part; and Including a second part extending from the first part of the second antenna pattern and formed on the third part, Ring device.

9. In claim 8, The third part above, Including a non-conductive region between the second portion of the first antenna pattern and the second portion of the second antenna pattern, Ring device.

10. In any one of claims 7 to 9, A transceiver configured to transmit and / or receive the RF signal; a switch arranged on the printed circuit board; and Including a feed line configured to connect the transceiver to the first antenna pattern and the second antenna pattern; The above power supply lines include first lines, second lines, and third lines provided by the printed circuit board, The above first line connects the transceiver to the switch, The second line connects the switch to the first antenna pattern, The third line connects the switch to the second antenna pattern, The above switch is configured to selectively connect the first line to the second line or the third line. Ring device.

11. In claim 10, comprising at least one of a first matching circuit, a second matching circuit, and a third matching circuit; The above first matching circuit is connected to the first line, The above second matching circuit is connected to the second line, The third matching circuit is connected to the third line. Ring device.

12. In claim 10 or claim 11, The above first line is connected to the second part of the above first antenna pattern, The second line is connected to the second part of the second antenna pattern, Ring device.

13. In claim 12, The first end of the second part of the first antenna pattern faces the second end of the second part of the second antenna pattern, The above first line is connected to the above first end, The above second line is connected to the above second end, Ring device.

14. In claims 1 to 13, The printed circuit board includes a non-conductive portion extending inwardly from at least a portion of the side surface. Ring device.

15. In claim 14, The printed circuit board comprises a portion at least partially surrounded by the non-conductive portion, At least one processor is arranged on said portion of said printed circuit board, Ring device.

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