Electronic device comprising antenna

Abstract

An electronic device according to one embodiment comprises: a processor; a memory for storing instructions; an antenna; a slidable housing including a first housing part and a second housing part; a wireless communication circuit; and a driving unit that provides a driving force for sliding the second housing part with respect to the first housing part. When executed by the processor, the instructions cause the electronic device to control the driving unit such that the radiation pattern of the antenna is changed to a state in which the upward directionality is high.

Description

Electronic device including an antenna

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

[0002] An electronic device can transmit or receive signals via an antenna. For example, the electronic device can transmit signals within a satellite communication frequency band via at least a portion of the conductive portion. Since satellites are located far from the ground, satellite communication efficiency can be improved if the antenna of the electronic device has a highly upward-directed radiation pattern.

[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] An electronic device is provided. The electronic device may include a processor. The electronic device may include a memory that stores instructions. The electronic device may include an antenna. The electronic device may include a sliderable housing including a first housing part and a second housing part slidably connected to the first housing part. The electronic device may include a wireless communication circuit configured to transmit a signal in a specified frequency band to an external electronic device or receive the signal from the external electronic device through the antenna. The electronic device may include a driving unit configured to provide a driving force for sliding movement of the second housing part relative to the first housing part. The driving unit may include a first state in which a size of the sliderable housing formed by the first housing part and the second housing part is minimum, a second state in which a size of the sliderable housing is maximum, and a third state between the first state and the second state. The instructions, when executed by the processor, may cause the electronic device to identify a state in which the top directivity of the radiation pattern of the antenna is high among the first state, the second state, and the third state, based on the wireless communication circuit performing communication with the external electronic device. The instructions, when executed by the processor, may cause the electronic device to control the driving unit to change the electronic device to the state in which the top directivity of the radiation pattern is high.

[0005] An electronic device is provided. The electronic device may include a processor. The electronic device may include a memory that stores instructions. The electronic device may include a wireless communication circuit configured to communicate with an external electronic device using a signal on a designated frequency band. The electronic device may include a foldable housing (1301) including a first housing part and a second housing part. The electronic device may include a flexible display including a first region disposed on the first housing part, a second region disposed on the second housing part, and a third region between the first region and the second region. The electronic device may include a hinge structure configured to provide a first state in which a first direction toward the first region corresponds to a second direction toward the second region, a second state in which the first direction is opposite to the second direction, and a third state between the second state and the first state by rotatably connecting the first housing part and the second housing part about a folding axis. The instructions, when executed by the processor, may cause the electronic device to identify an angle between the first region and the second region, in which the upward directivity of the radiation pattern of the antenna is high, based on the wireless communication circuit performing communication with the external electronic device using a signal on the designated frequency band. The instructions, when executed by the processor, may cause the electronic device to display a screen for guiding the identified angle through the flexible display.

[0006] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment according to one embodiment.

[0007] FIG. 2A is a top plan view of an exemplary electronic device in a first state.

[0008] FIG. 2b is a bottom view of an exemplary electronic device in a first state.

[0009] Figure 2c is a plan view of an exemplary electronic device within a second state.

[0010] FIG. 2d is a bottom view of an exemplary electronic device within a second state.

[0011] Figures 3a and 3b are exploded perspective views of an exemplary electronic device.

[0012] FIG. 4A is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary electronic device in a first state.

[0013] FIG. 4b is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary electronic device in a second state.

[0014] FIG. 5A illustrates an exemplary electronic device with the display omitted.

[0015] Figure 5b is a block diagram of an exemplary electronic device.

[0016] Figure 5c is a graph showing the radiation pattern of an antenna according to the state of an exemplary electronic device.

[0017] Figures 6a, 6b, and 6c schematically illustrate the flow of current and electromagnetic fields formed in an electronic device.

[0018] Figures 6d and 6e are graphs showing the modal significance of multiple modes according to frequency for a sliderable housing of a certain length.

[0019] Figure 6f is a graph showing the modal significance of multiple modes according to the sliderable housing for a specified frequency.

[0020] Fig. 7 is a graph showing the radiation pattern of the antenna according to the slide-out length of the second housing part.

[0021] Figure 8 is a flow chart showing the operation of an exemplary electronic device controlling a driving unit.

[0022] Figure 9a illustrates the relative positional relationship between an exemplary electronic device and an external electronic device.

[0023] FIG. 9b is a flowchart illustrating an operation of an exemplary electronic device to identify a state of high upward directivity over time.

[0024] FIG. 9c is a flowchart illustrating an operation of an exemplary electronic device to change a slide-out length.

[0025] Figure 10 is a flowchart illustrating a process by which an exemplary electronic device searches for a state with high upward directivity.

[0026] Figures 11a, 11b, 11c, and 11d illustrate various structures of an exemplary second housing part.

[0027] Figures 12a and 12b illustrate an example of a screen for guiding the relative position of a satellite for satellite communication.

[0028] Figure 13a illustrates an unfolded state of an exemplary electronic device.

[0029] Figure 13b illustrates intermediate states and a folding state of an exemplary electronic device.

[0030] FIG. 14A illustrates states of an exemplary electronic device including a foldable housing.

[0031] Figure 14b is a graph showing the radiation pattern of an antenna according to the state of an exemplary electronic device.

[0032] FIG. 14c illustrates an example of a screen for guiding a folding angle of an exemplary electronic device.

[0033] Figure 15 illustrates exemplary electronic devices of a deformable structure.

[0034] Figure 16a illustrates states of an exemplary electronic device.

[0035] Figure 16b illustrates the rear side of an exemplary electronic device.

[0036] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment, according to one embodiment.

[0037] Referring to FIG. 1, in a network environment (100), an electronic device (101) may communicate with an electronic device (102) via a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network), or may communicate with an 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)).

[0038] 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.

[0039] 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.

[0040] 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).

[0041] 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).

[0042] 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).

[0043] 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.

[0044] 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. In 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.

[0045] 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).

[0046] 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.

[0047] The interface (177) may support one or more designated protocols that may be used to directly or wirelessly connect the electronic device (101) to 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.

[0048] 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).

[0049] 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.

[0050] The camera module (180) can capture still images and videos. According to one embodiment, the camera module (180) may include one or more lenses, image sensors, image signal processors, or flashes.

[0051] The power management module (188) can manage the 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).

[0052] 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.

[0053] 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).

[0054] 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.

[0055] 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 by, for example, the communication module (190). A signal or power may be transmitted or received between the communication module (190) and an external electronic device through the selected at least one antenna. 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).

[0056] In one embodiment, 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.

[0057] 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)).

[0058] 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 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.

[0059] For example, the display of the display module (160) may be flexible. For example, the display may include a display area that is exposed outside the housing of the electronic device (101), which provides at least a portion of the outer surface of the electronic device (101). For example, since the display has flexibility, at least a portion of the display may be rollable into the housing or slidable into the housing. For example, the size of the display area may change depending on the size of the at least a portion of the display that is rolled into the housing or slid into the housing. For example, the electronic device (101) including the display may be in a plurality of states, including a first state providing the display area having a first size and a second state providing the display area having a second size different from the first size. For example, the first state may be exemplified through the description of FIGS. 2A and 2B.

[0060] FIG. 2A is a top plan view of an exemplary electronic device in a first state.

[0061] Referring to FIG. 2A, the electronic device (101) may include a sliderable housing (201) and a flexible display (230). For example, the sliderable housing (201) may include a first housing part (210) and a second housing part (220). For example, the first housing part (210) may be movable relative to the second housing part (220) in a first direction (261) parallel to the y-axis or in a second direction (262) parallel to the y-axis and opposite to the first direction (261). Although the first housing part (210) is described as being moved relative to the second housing part (220) within the present disclosure, it is not limited thereto. For example, the slidable housing (201) may have a structure in which the overall size of the slidable housing (201) can be changed according to a change in the relative positional relationship between the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220). For example, the relative positional relationship between the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) can be changed by the operation of the motor (361) to be described later. For example, the second housing part (220) may be movable with respect to the first housing part (210), or both the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) may be movable by the motor (361).

[0062] For example, the electronic device (101) may be in the first state. For example, within the first state, the second housing part (220) may be movable relative to the first housing part (210) in a first direction (261) among the first direction (261) and the second direction (262). For example, within the first state, the second housing part (220) may not be substantially movable relative to the first housing part (210) in the second direction (262).

[0063] For example, within the first state, the flexible display (230) can provide the display area having the smallest size. For example, within the first state, the display area can correspond to the first display area (230a). For example, although not shown in FIG. 2A, within the first state, a second display area (e.g., the second display area (230b) of FIG. 2C) of the flexible display (230) that is different from the first display area (230a) can be included within the first housing part (210). For example, within the first state, the area (e.g., the second display area (230b) of FIG. 2C) can be covered by the first housing part (210). For example, within the first state, the area can be rolled into the first housing part (210). For example, within the first state, the first display area (230a) may include a planar portion. However, this is not limited thereto. For example, the first display area (230a) may also include a curved portion extending from the planar portion and positioned within an edge portion within the first state.

[0064] For example, the first state may be referred to as a slide-in state or a closed state in that at least a portion of the second housing part (220) is positioned within the first housing part (210). For example, the first state may be referred to as a reduced state in that it provides the display area having the smallest size, but is not limited thereto.

[0065] For example, the second housing part (220) may include a first image sensor (250-1) within the camera module (180) that is exposed through a portion of the first display area (230a) and faces a third direction (263) parallel to the z-axis. For example, although not illustrated in FIG. 2A, the second housing part (220) may include one or more second image sensors within the camera module (180) that are exposed through a portion of the second housing part (220) and faces a fourth direction (264) parallel to the z-axis and opposite to the third direction (263). For example, the one or more second image sensors may be exemplified through the description of FIG. 2B.

[0066] FIG. 2b is a bottom view of an exemplary electronic device in a first state.

[0067] Referring to FIG. 2B, within the first state, one or more second image sensors (250-2) disposed within the second housing part (220) may be positioned within a structure disposed within the first housing part (210) for the one or more second image sensors (250-2). For example, light from outside the electronic device (101) may be received by the one or more second image sensors (250-2) through the structure within the first state. For example, since the one or more second image sensors (250-2) are positioned within the structure within the first state, the one or more second image sensors (250-2) may be exposed through the structure within the first state. For example, the structure may be implemented in various ways. For example, the structure may be an opening or a notch. For example, the structure may be an opening (212a) in the first plate (212) of the first housing part (210) that surrounds at least a portion of the second housing part (220). However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, in the first state, one or more second image sensors (250-2) included in the second housing part (220) may be covered by the first plate (212) of the first housing part (210).

[0068] For example, the first state can be changed to the second state.

[0069] For example, the first state (or the second state) can be changed to the second state (or the first state) through intermediate states between the first state and the second state.

[0070] For example, the first state (or the second state) may be changed to the second state (or the first state) based on a user input. For example, the first state (or the second state) may be changed to the second state (or the first state) in response to a user input to a physical button exposed through a part of the first housing part (210) or a part of the second housing part (220). For example, the first state (or the second state) may be changed to the second state (or the first state) in response to a touch input to an executable object displayed within the display area. For example, the first state (or the second state) may be changed to the second state (or the first state) in response to a touch input having a contact point on the display area and having a pressing strength greater than or equal to a reference strength. For example, the first state (or the second state) may be changed to the second state (or the first state) in response to a voice input received through a microphone of the electronic device (101). For example, the first state (or the second state) may be changed to the second state (or the first state) in response to an external force applied to the first housing part (210) and / or the second housing part (220) to move the second housing part (220) with respect to the first housing part (210). For example, the first state (or the second state) may be changed to the second state (or the first state) in response to a user input identified from an external electronic device (e.g., earbuds or a smart watch) connected to the electronic device (101). However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0071] The above second state can be illustrated through the description of FIG. 2c and FIG. 2d.

[0072] Figure 2c is a plan view of an exemplary electronic device within a second state.

[0073] Referring to FIG. 2C, the electronic device (101) may be in the second state. For example, in the second state, the second housing part (220) may be movable relative to the first housing part (210) in the second direction (262) among the first direction (261) and the second direction (262). For example, in the second state, the second housing part (220) may not be substantially movable relative to the first housing part (210) in the first direction (261).

[0074] For example, within the second state, the flexible display (230) may provide the display area having the largest size. For example, within the second state, the display area may correspond to an area (230c) including a first display area (230a) and a second display area (230b). For example, the second display area (230b), which was included within the first housing part (210) within the first state, may be exposed within the second state. For example, within the second state, the first display area (230a) may include a flat portion. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the first display area (230a) may also include a curved portion extending from the flat portion and positioned within the edge portion. For example, within the second state, the second display area (230b) may, unlike the first display area (230a) within the first state, include a flat portion among the flat portion and the curved portion. However, this is not limited thereto. For example, the second display area (230b) may also include a curved portion that extends from the flat portion of the second display area (230b) and is positioned within the edge portion.

[0075] For example, the second state may be referred to as a slide-out state or an open state in that at least a portion of the second housing part (220) disposed outside the first housing part (210) extends relative to the first state. For example, the second state may be referred to as an expanded state in that it provides the display area having the largest size. However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0076] For example, the first image sensor (250-1) facing the third direction (263) may move together with the first display area (230a) according to the movement of the second housing part (220) in the first direction (261) when the state of the electronic device (101) changes from the first state to the second state. For example, although not shown in FIG. 2c, one or more second image sensors (250-2) facing the fourth direction (264) may move according to the movement of the second housing part (220) in the first direction (261) when the state of the electronic device (101) changes from the first state to the second state. For example, the relative positional relationship between one or more second image sensors (250-2) and the structure illustrated through the description of FIG. 2d may change according to the movement of one or more second image sensors (250-2). For example, the change in the above relative position relationship can be illustrated through Fig. 2d.

[0077] FIG. 2d is a bottom view of an exemplary electronic device within a second state.

[0078] Referring to FIG. 2d, within the second state, one or more second image sensors (250-2) may be positioned outside the structure. For example, the structure may include an opening (212a). For example, within the second state, one or more second image sensors (250-2) may be positioned outside the opening (212a) in the first plate (212). For example, one or more second image sensors (250-2) may be exposed through the opening (212a) within the first state. For example, because one or more second image sensors (250-2) are positioned outside the first housing part (210) within the second state, one or more second image sensors (250-2) may be exposed within the second state. For example, since one or more second image sensors (250-2) are positioned outside the structure within the second state, the relative positional relationship within the second state may be different from the relative positional relationship within the first state.

[0079] For example, if the electronic device (101) does not include the above structure such as the opening (212a), one or more second image sensors (250-2) may be exposed within the second state among the first state and the second state.

[0080] Although not shown in FIGS. 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D, the electronic device (101) may be in an intermediate state between the first state and the second state. For example, the size of the display area in the intermediate state may be larger than the size of the display area in the first state and smaller than the size of the display area in the second state. For example, the display area in the intermediate state may correspond to an area including a portion of the first display area (230a) and the second display area (230b). For example, in the intermediate state, a portion of the second display area (230b) may be exposed, and another portion (or a remaining portion) of the second display area (230b) may be covered by the first housing part (210) or rolled into the first housing part (210). However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0081] Referring again to FIG. 1, the electronic device (101) may include structures for moving a second housing (e.g., a second housing part (220) of FIG. 2A) of the electronic device (101) relative to a first housing (e.g., a first housing part (210) of FIG. 2A) of the electronic device (101). For example, the structures may be exemplified through the description of FIGS. 3A and 3B.

[0082] Figures 3a and 3b are exploded perspective views of an exemplary electronic device.

[0083] Referring to FIGS. 3A and 3B, the electronic device (101) may include a first housing part (210), a second housing part (220), a flexible display (230), and a driving unit (360).

[0084] For example, the first housing part (210) may include a first cover (311), a first plate (212), and a frame (313).

[0085] For example, the first cover (311) may at least partially form a side portion of an outer surface of the electronic device (101). For example, the first cover (311) may include an opening (311a) for one or more second image sensors (250-2). For example, the first cover (311) may include a surface that supports the first plate (212). For example, the first cover (311) may be coupled with the first plate (212). For example, the first cover (311) may include a frame (313). For example, the first cover (311) may be coupled with the frame (313).

[0086] For example, the first plate (212) may at least partially form a rear portion of the outer surface. For example, the first plate (212) may include an opening (212a) for one or more second image sensors (250-2). For example, the first plate (212) may be disposed on the surface of the first cover (311). For example, the opening (212a) may be aligned with the opening (311a).

[0087] For example, the frame (313) may be at least partially surrounded by the first cover (311).

[0088] For example, the frame (313) can be at least partially wrapped by the flexible display (230). For example, although the frame (313) is at least partially wrapped by the flexible display (230), the position of the frame (313) can be maintained independently of the movement of the flexible display (230). For example, the frame (313) can be arranged with respect to at least some of the components of the flexible display (230). For example, the frame (313) can include rails (313a) that provide (or guide) a path of movement of at least one component of the flexible display (230).

[0089] For example, the frame (313) can be coupled with at least one component of the electronic device (101). For example, the frame (313) can support the battery (189). For example, the battery (189) can be supported through a recess or hole in a surface (313b) of the frame (313). For example, the frame (313) can be coupled with one end of a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB) (325) on a surface of the frame (313). For example, although not explicitly shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, the other end of the FPCB (325) can be connected to the PCB (324) through at least one connector. For example, the PCB (324) may be electrically connected to another PCB (not shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B) that supplies power to the motor (361) via the FPCB (325).

[0090] For example, the frame (313) can be combined with at least one structure of the electronic device (101) for a plurality of states including the first state and the second state. For example, the frame (313) can fasten the motor (361) of the driving unit (360).

[0091] For example, the second housing part (220) may include a second cover (321) and a second plate (322).

[0092] For example, the second cover (321) may be at least partially wrapped by the flexible display (230). For example, the second cover (321) may be combined with at least a portion of the first display area (230a) of the flexible display (230) wrapping the second cover (321).

[0093] For example, the second cover (321) may be coupled with at least one component of the electronic device (101). For example, the second cover (321) may be coupled with a printed circuit board (PCB) (324) including components of the electronic device (101). For example, the PCB (324) may include a processor (120) (not shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B). For example, the second cover (321) may support one or more second image sensors (250-2).

[0094] For example, the second cover (321) can be combined with the second plate (322).

[0095] For example, the second plate (322) may be coupled with the second cover (321) to protect at least one component of the electronic device (101) coupled within the second cover (321) and / or at least one structure of the electronic device (101) coupled within the second cover (321). For example, the second plate (322) may include a structure for the at least one component. For example, the second plate (322) may include one or more openings (326) for one or more second image sensors (250-2). For example, the one or more openings (326) may be aligned with one or more second image sensors (250-2) disposed on the second cover (321). For example, the size of each of the one or more openings (326) may correspond to the size of each of the lenses included in the one or more second image sensors (250-2).

[0096] For example, the electronic device (101) may include a support member (331) for supporting at least a portion of the flexible display (230). For example, the support member (331) may include a plurality of bars. For example, the plurality of bars may be coupled to each other. The support member (331) may support a second display area (230b) of the flexible display (230).

[0097] For example, the driving unit (360) may be configured to provide a first state of the electronic device (101), a second state of the electronic device (101), and a third state of the electronic device (101) between the first state and the second state. The driving unit (360) may include a motor (361), a pinion gear (362), and a rack gear (363).

[0098] For example, the motor (361) may operate based on power from the battery (189). For example, the power may be provided to the motor (361) in response to the user input.

[0099] For example, the pinion gear (362) may be coupled to the motor (361) via a shaft. For example, the pinion gear (362) may be rotated based on the motion of the motor (361) transmitted via the shaft.

[0100] For example, the rack gear (363) can be arranged in relation to the pinion gear (362). For example, teeth of the rack gear (363) can mesh with teeth of the pinion gear (362). For example, the rack gear (363) can be moved in the first direction (261) or the second direction (262) according to the rotation of the pinion gear (362). For example, the rack gear (363) can be coupled with the first housing part (210) or the second housing part (220). For example, the second housing part (220) can be moved in the first direction (261) and the second direction (262) by the rack gear (363) that is moved according to the rotation of the pinion gear (362) due to the operation of the motor (361). For example, the first state of the electronic device (101) can be changed to a state different from the first state (e.g., one or more intermediate states or the second state) through the movement of the second housing part (220) in the first direction (261). For example, the second state of the electronic device (101) can be changed to a state different from the second state (e.g., one or more intermediate states or the first state) through the movement of the second housing part (220) in the second direction (262). For example, the first state being changed to the second state by the driving unit (360) and the second state being changed to the first state by the driving unit (360) can be exemplified through FIGS. 4A and 4B.

[0101] Fig. 4a is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary electronic device in a first state. Fig. 4b is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary electronic device in a second state.

[0102] For example, FIG. 4A is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary electronic device (101) taken along line A-A' of FIG. 2A. For example, FIG. 4B is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary electronic device (101) taken along line B-B' of FIG. 2C.

[0103] Referring to FIGS. 4A and 4B, the motor (361) can be operated based at least in part on the defined user input received within the first state (490). For example, the pinion gear (362) can be rotated in the first rotational direction (411) based at least in part on the operation of the motor (361). For example, the rack gear (363) can be moved in the first direction (261) based at least in part on the rotation of the pinion gear (362) in the first rotational direction (411). For example, the second housing part (220) can be moved in the first direction (261) based at least in part on the movement of the rack gear (363) in the first direction (261). For example, the second cover (321) within the second housing part (220) can be moved based at least in part on the movement of the rack gear (363) in the first direction (261). For example, the flexible display (230) can be moved along the rails (313a). For example, the shape of at least a portion of the plurality of bars of the support member (331) of the flexible display (230) can be changed when the state (490) is changed to the state (495) which is the second state.

[0104] For example, the second display area (230b) of the flexible display (230) may be moved according to the movement of the flexible display (230). For example, the second display area (230b) may be moved through the space between the first cover (311) and the frame (313) when the state (490) is changed to the state (495) according to the user input defined above. For example, the second display area (230b) in the state (495) may be exposed, unlike the second display area (230b) that is rolled into the space in the state (490).

[0105] For example, since the second cover (321) within the second housing part (220) is coupled with the PCB (324) connected to the other end of the FPCB (325) and fixes the rack gear (363), the shape of the FPCB (325) can be changed when the state (490) is changed to the state (495).

[0106] The motor (361) can be operated based at least in part on the defined user input received within the state (495). For example, the pinion gear (362) can be rotated in the second rotational direction (412) based at least in part on the operation of the motor (361). For example, the rack gear (363) can be moved in the second direction (262) based at least in part on the rotation of the pinion gear (362) in the second rotational direction (412). For example, the second housing part (220) can be moved in the second direction (262) based at least in part on the movement of the rack gear (363) in the second direction (262). For example, the flexible display (230) can be moved based at least in part on the movement of the rack gear (363) in the second direction (262). For example, the flexible display (230) can be moved along the rails (313a). For example, the shape of at least a portion of the plurality of bars of the support member (331) of the flexible display (230) can be changed when the state (495) is changed to the state (490). The support member (331) can be moved with respect to the first housing part (210). In the state (490), the support member (331) housed inside the first housing part (210) can be positioned between the first cover (311) and the frame (313). As the support member (331) moves, the flexible display (230) can be moved with respect to the first housing part (210).

[0107] For example, the second display area (230b) of the flexible display (230) can be moved according to the movement of the flexible display (230). For example, the second display area (230b) can be moved through the space between the first cover (311) and the frame (313) when the state (495) is changed to the state (490) according to the user input defined above. For example, the second display area (230b) in the state (490) can be rolled into the space, unlike the second display area (230b) exposed in the state (495).

[0108] For example, since the second cover (321) of the second housing part (220) is coupled with the PCB (324) connected to the other end of the FPCB (325) and fixes the rack gear (363), the shape of the FPCB (325) can be changed when the state (495) is changed to the state (490).

[0109] The exemplary electronic device (101) may be configured to wirelessly communicate with an external electronic device. For example, the external electronic device may include a satellite (e.g., satellite (507) of FIG. 5A). Since the orbit of the satellite (507) is located hundreds to tens of thousands of kilometers above the ground where the electronic device (101) is located, the relative position of the satellite (507) with respect to the electronic device (101) may be upward. In the present disclosure, terms indicating relative positions, such as “upward,” “upper,” and “top,” may be used to indicate the direction in which the electronic device (101) faces the satellite (507).

[0110] For example, when a user holds the electronic device (101) to use the electronic device (101), the relative position of the satellite (507) with respect to the electronic device (101) may be upward of the electronic device (101). For example, the top of the electronic device (101) may represent an edge of the electronic device (101) that is positioned in a direction facing the satellite (507). For example, the upper or upper hemisphere of the electronic device (101) may represent an area positioned upward (e.g., in the +y direction) with respect to an imaginary line passing through the center of the long edge of the electronic device (101). For example, when the electronic device (101) receives a signal from a satellite (507) or transmits and / or receives a signal to a satellite (507), and the radiation pattern of the antenna transmitting and / or receiving the signal has a high top directivity, the upper hemisphere isotropic sensitivity (UHIS) performance of the electronic device (101) may be improved. For example, when the top directivity of the radiation pattern of the antenna is high, the UHIS performance of the electronic device (101) is improved, thereby improving the satellite communication efficiency of the electronic device (101). In the present disclosure, a "state with high top directivity" may be referred to as a state in which the radiation pattern of the antenna has a high top directivity. For example, a state in which the top directivity of the radiation pattern of the antenna is high may be referred to as a state in which the radiation pattern of the antenna is directed upward toward the satellite (507).

[0111] An exemplary electronic device (101) may be configured to perform satellite communication in a state where the radiation pattern of the antenna has a high upward directivity, in order to improve satellite communication efficiency. Below, descriptions of the structure are provided with reference to the drawings.

[0112] Hereinafter, one or more components to be described with reference to the drawings may be implemented together with components of the electronic device (101) described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 4b. The same reference numerals are assigned to components identical to those described above, and redundant descriptions may be omitted.

[0113] In this disclosure, relative terms such as "front" and "rear" are used for convenience of explanation based on the directions depicted in the drawings and are not intended as absolute terms. For example, "front" and "rear" are used as terms to refer to opposite sides and are not limited to absolute directions.

[0114] Figure 5a illustrates an exemplary electronic device without a flexible display. Figure 5b is a block diagram of the exemplary electronic device. Figure 5c is a graph showing the antenna radiation pattern according to the state of the exemplary electronic device.

[0115] Referring to FIG. 5A, the exemplary electronic device (101) may include a sliderable housing (201) including a first housing part (210) and a second housing part (220). Although not shown in FIG. 5A, the exemplary electronic device (101) may include a driving unit (e.g., a driving unit (360) of FIG. 3A) for driving the second housing part (220). For example, the driving unit (360) may include a motor (e.g., a motor (361) of FIG. 3A), a pinion gear (e.g., a pinion gear (362) of FIG. 3A), and a rack gear (e.g., a rack gear (363) of FIG. 3A).

[0116] For example, the slidable housing (201) may be deformable by a first housing part (210) and a second housing part (220) that are movably coupled. For example, the second housing part (220) may be slidably connected to the first housing part (210). For example, state (501) of FIG. 5A illustrates the electronic device (101) in a first state in which the second housing part (220) is maximally inserted into the interior of the first housing part (210). For example, state (503) of FIG. 5A illustrates the electronic device (101) in a second state in which the second housing part (220) is maximally slid out of the exterior of the first housing part (210). State (502) of FIG. 5A illustrates the electronic device (101) in a third state between the first state and the second state. For example, the third state may include a plurality of intermediate states between the first and second states.

[0117] Within the present disclosure, the size and length of the sliderable housing (201) may be referred to as the size and length of the sliderable housing (201) within the state in which the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) are combined, rather than the size and length of each of the separated first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220).

[0118] For example, within the first state, the size of the second housing part (220) inserted into the first housing part (210) may be maximum. Within the first state in which the size of the second housing part (220) inserted into the first housing part (210) is maximum, the size of the slidable housing (201) may be minimum. For example, within the second state, the size of the second housing part (220) inserted into the first housing part (210) may be minimum. Within the second state in which the size of the second housing part (220) inserted into the first housing part (210) is minimum, the size of the slidable housing (201) may be maximum. For example, within the third state, the size of the second housing part (220) inserted into the first housing part (210) may be smaller than the size of the second housing part (220) within the first state and larger than the size of the second housing part (220) within the second state. Within the third state, the size of the slidable housing (201) may be larger than the size of the slidable housing (201) within the first state and smaller than the size of the slidable housing (201) within the second state.

[0119] For example, the driving unit (360) may be configured to provide a driving force for sliding movement of the second housing part (220) relative to the first housing part (210). For example, the driving unit (360) may enable sliding movement of the second housing part (220) relative to the first housing part (210). For example, the driving unit (360) may be configured to provide the first state, the second state, and the third state of the slidable housing (201) by causing the slide of the second housing part (220).

[0120] For example, the driving unit (360) can move the second housing part (220) so that the second housing part (220) slides out in a first direction (e.g., +y direction) with respect to the first housing part (210). For example, the driving unit (360) can move the second housing part (220) so that the second housing part (220) slides in in a second direction (e.g., -y direction) with respect to the first housing part (210). For example, the second state and the third state can be distinguished based on the slide-out length of the second housing part (220) based on the relative position of the second housing part (220) with respect to the first housing part (210) within the first state. For example, based on the position of the second housing part (220) within the first state, in the second state where the slide-out length of the second housing part (220) is at its maximum, the slide-out length (L2) of the second housing part (220) may be about 65 mm. For example, based on the position of the second housing part (220) within the first state, in the third state, the slide-out length of the second housing part (220) may be greater than 0 mm and less than about 65 mm. For example, in 502 of FIG. 5A, the slide-out length (L1) of the second housing part (220) may be about 30 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0121] Referring to FIG. 5b, an exemplary electronic device (101) may include at least one processor (120), a wireless communication circuit (e.g., the wireless communication module (192) of FIG. 1), an antenna (510), and / or a memory (130).

[0122] For example, at least one processor (120) may include a processing circuit. At least one processor (120) may include an application processor (AP, e.g., a central processing unit (CPU)), a communication processor (CP, e.g., a modem), a graphics processing unit (e.g., a GPU), a neural processing unit (NPU) (e.g., an artificial intelligence (AI) chip), a wireless-fidelity (Wi-Fi) chip, and a Bluetooth TM It may include a chip, a global positioning system (GPS) chip, a near field communication (NFC) chip, connectivity chips, a sensor controller, a touch controller, a finger-print sensor controller, a display drive integrated circuit (DDI), an audio CODEC chip, a universal serial bus (USB) controller, a camera controller, an image processing IC, a microprocessor unit (MPU), a system on chip (SoC), an IC, or a similar circuit.

[0123] For example, the wireless communication circuit (192) may include a radio frequency (RF) transceiver (571) and a radio frequency front end (RFFE) (572).

[0124] For example, at least one processor (120) may generate a baseband signal. At least one processor (120) may control an RF transceiver (571) to process the generated baseband signal. At least one processor (120) may control the RF transceiver (571) to transmit a transmission signal through the antenna (510). At least one processor (120) may control the RF transceiver (571) to transmit the transmission signal in a frequency band that can communicate with an external electronic device.

[0125] For example, the RF transceiver (571) may be implemented as a single chip (e.g., an RFIC chip) or as part of a single package. The RF transceiver (571) may include a digital to analog converter (DAC) for converting a digital signal to an analog signal. The RF transceiver (571) may include a mixer and an oscillator (e.g., a local oscillator (LO)) for up-conversion. The RF transceiver (571) may convert a baseband signal generated by at least one processor (120) into an RF signal. The RF transceiver (571) may include an analog to digital converter (ADC) for converting an analog signal to a digital signal. The RF transceiver (571) may include a mixer and an oscillator for down-conversion. The RF transceiver (571) can convert an RF signal received from the antenna (510) into a baseband signal so that it can be processed by at least one processor (120).

[0126] For example, the RFFE (572) may include a plurality of components electrically connected between the RF transceiver (571) and the antenna (510). For example, the RFFE (572) may include components such as, but not limited to, a coupler, a power amplifier (PA), a low noise amplifier (LNA), a switch circuit, and / or a duplexer.

[0127] For example, the wireless communication circuit (192) may be configured to communicate with an external electronic device using a signal on a designated frequency band. For example, the antenna (510) may be used to transmit and / or receive a signal on a designated frequency band. For example, the antenna (510) may include a feed point to which a feed signal provided from an RF transceiver (571) is provided and a ground point electrically connected to the ground of the electronic device (101). For example, the antenna (510) may include an antenna radiator, which is a physical component for radiating or receiving electromagnetic waves. The antenna radiator is a physical component of the antenna (510) for radiating or receiving electromagnetic waves, and the shape and characteristics of the antenna (510) (e.g., frequency characteristics of the antenna (510)) may be determined by the antenna radiator.

[0128] For example, at least one processor (120) may be operatively connected to the driving unit (360). For example, at least one processor (120) may be configured to provide a control signal to the driving unit (360) to cause the sliding movement of the second housing part (220). For example, the driving unit (360) may provide a driving force for the sliding movement of the second housing part (220) based on the control signal provided from the at least one processor (120). For example, the second housing part (220) may be slid out from the first housing part (210) or slid in to the first housing part (210) by the driving unit (360).

[0129] For example, the memory (130) may include one or more storage media that store instructions. For example, the memory (130) may store information about the orbit of the satellite (507) over time. Since the satellite (507) moves along a designated orbit with respect to the Earth, the relative position of the satellite (507) with respect to the electronic device (101) may change over time. At least one processor (120) may identify the position of the satellite (507) based on the information stored in the memory (130). At least one processor (120) may identify the position of the satellite (507) at the time when satellite communication is performed based on the information about the orbit of the satellite (507) stored in the memory (130). The instructions, when executed by the at least one processor (120), may cause the electronic device (101) to change the upward directivity of the radiation pattern of the antenna (510) to a high state. For example, the instructions, when executed by at least one processor (120), may cause the electronic device (101) to perform operations described or illustrated in FIG. 8, FIG. 9b, FIG. 9c, FIG. 10, FIG. 12a, FIG. 12b, and / or FIG. 14c.

[0130] Referring back to FIG. 5A, the second housing part (220) may include a support member (520) and a side frame (521). For example, the support member (520) may support components (e.g., a printed circuit board, a camera) disposed within the second housing part (220). For example, the side frame (521) may form at least a portion of a side surface of the second housing part (220). For example, the side frame (521) may surround at least a portion of an edge of the support member (520). For example, a plurality of opening regions (e.g., a plurality of opening regions (550) of FIG. 11A) or a slot (560) in which at least a portion of the plurality of opening regions (550) is filled with a non-conductive material may be formed within a portion of the area between the support member (520) and the side frame (521).

[0131] An exemplary electronic device (101) may include a plurality of conductive portions (530). For example, the plurality of conductive portions (530) may be formed along at least a portion of an edge of the second housing part (220). For example, the plurality of conductive portions (530) may be electrically isolated by a plurality of non-conductive portions (540).

[0132] For example, the wireless communication circuit (192) may be configured to communicate with an external electronic device using at least one of the plurality of conductive portions (530). For example, the wireless communication circuit (192) may be configured to power a feed point of at least one of the plurality of conductive portions (530). The at least one conductive portion may be configured to transmit a wireless signal by radiating electromagnetic waves to the outside as it is powered from the wireless communication circuit (192). For example, the at least one conductive portion may operate as an antenna radiator.

[0133] For example, at least one conductive portion used as an antenna radiator may include a ground point electrically connected to the ground of the electronic device (101). For example, the support member (520) may provide the ground of the electronic device (101). For example, the at least one conductive portion may be electrically connected to the support member (520).

[0134] For example, in terms of an RF signal, the ground may be referred to as a conductive region of the sliderable housing (201) as well as the support member (520). For example, since the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) are coupled for sliding movement, in terms of an RF signal, the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) may act as one ground. For example, in terms of an antenna (510) including at least one conductive portion, the sliderable housing (201) may act as one ground.

[0135] For example, since the size of the sliderable housing (201) may be different depending on the first state, the second state, and the third state, the size of the ground, from the perspective of the RF signal, may be determined based on the state of the electronic device (101). For example, in the first state, the size of the ground may be minimum. For example, in the second state, the size of the ground may be maximum. For example, in the third state, the size of the ground may be larger than the ground size in the first state and smaller than the ground size in the second state.

[0136] For example, the radiation pattern of an antenna (510) including at least one conductive portion may vary depending on the size of the sliderable housing (201). For example, since the size of the sliderable housing (201) that acts as a ground for the antenna (510) varies depending on the state of the electronic device (101), the radiation pattern of the antenna (510) may vary depending on a change in the state of the electronic device (101).

[0137] Referring to FIG. 5c, a change in the radiation pattern of the antenna (510) according to the state of the electronic device (101) can be confirmed.

[0138] The graph (500) illustrated in FIG. 5c is a graph that represents the results of measuring the gain of an antenna (510) including at least one conductive portion among a plurality of conductive portions (e.g., the plurality of conductive portions (530) of FIG. 5a) while rotating the elevation angle for an electronic device (101) in a fixed azimuth position (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 5a) on a polar coordinate system. For example, the distance from a pole represents the gain, and the angle with respect to the polar axis represents the elevation angle. For example, an angle of 0 degrees represents the direction in which the top of the electronic device (101) is facing (e.g., the +y direction). For example, an angle of 90 degrees represents the direction in which one side of the electronic device (101) is facing (e.g., the -x direction). For example, an angle of 180 degrees represents the direction in which the bottom of the electronic device (101) is facing (e.g., the -y direction). For example, an angle of 270 degrees represents the direction in which the other side of the electronic device (101) is facing (e.g., +x direction).

[0139] The graph (500) of FIG. 5c shows a radiation pattern based on the gain of the antenna (510) for a signal on a specified frequency band (e.g., about 1.6 GHz) according to a change in elevation angle for an electronic device (101) in a fixed azimuth position.

[0140] The first graph (504) of FIG. 5C represents the radiation pattern of the antenna (510) when the electronic device (101) is in the first state. The second graph (505) of FIG. 5C represents the radiation pattern of the antenna (510) when the electronic device (101) is in the second state. For example, the second state may be referred to as a state in which the slide-out length of the second housing part (220) is about 65 mm. The third graph (506) of FIG. 5C represents the radiation pattern of the antenna (510) when the electronic device (101) is in the third state. For example, the third state may be referred to as a state in which the slide-out length of the second housing part (220) is about 30 mm among a plurality of intermediate states.

[0141] Referring to FIG. 5c, depending on the slide-out length of the second housing part (220), the direction and gain of the main lobe of the radiation pattern may differ. For example, comparing the first graph (504), the second graph (505), and the third graph (506), the main lobe indicated by the third graph (506) may be formed toward the upper portion (e.g., +y direction) of the electronic device (101). The third graph (506) may exhibit the highest gain with respect to the upper portion of the electronic device (101). The third graph (506) may exhibit higher upward directivity than the first graph (504) and the second graph (505).

[0142] For example, when the electronic device (101) receives a signal on a satellite frequency band (e.g., about 1.6 GHz) from a satellite (e.g., satellite (507) of FIG. 5A), the relative position of the satellite (507) to the electronic device (101) may be upward. For example, when the radiation pattern of the antenna (510) has a high upward directivity, satellite communication efficiency may be improved. Referring to FIG. 5C, when the electronic device (101) is in the third state, the upward directivity of the radiation pattern of the antenna (510) is the highest, so that the electronic device (101) may provide improved communication performance when performing satellite communication within the third state. For example, the third state may be referred to as a state in which the upward directivity of the radiation pattern of the antenna (510) is high.

[0143] An exemplary electronic device (101) may be configured to identify a state in which the radiation pattern of the antenna (510) has a high upward directivity, and to perform satellite communication within the state in which the upward directivity is high. For example, at least one processor (120) may be configured to control the driving unit (360) to change the sliderable housing (201) to the state in which the upward directivity is high. For example, when the third state is the state in which the upward directivity is high, the at least one processor (120) may control the driving unit (360) so that the electronic device (101) may perform satellite communication within the third state. For example, when the electronic device (101) is within the first state, the at least one processor (120) may control the driving unit (360) so that the second housing part (220) slides out by a length corresponding to the third state. For example, when the electronic device (101) is in the second state, at least one processor (120) can control the driving unit (360) so that the second housing part (220) slides in by a length corresponding to the third state.

[0144] Below, a state with high upward directivity is described.

[0145] Figures 6a, 6b, and 6c schematically illustrate the current flow and electromagnetic field formed in an electronic device. Figures 6d and 6e are graphs showing the modal significance of multiple modes according to frequency for a sliderable housing of a certain length. Figure 6f is a graph showing the modal significance of multiple modes according to a sliderable housing for a specified frequency.

[0146] FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C illustrate a plurality of modes that may be formed in the structure of an exemplary electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 5A). For example, the plurality of modes may be referred to as a distribution pattern of an electromagnetic field determined by the structure of the electronic device (101). For example, the plurality of modes may be identified through characteristic mode analysis to analyze the characteristics of the structure. For example, FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C may illustrate a pattern of current flow and electromagnetic field for a conductive structure corresponding to the structure of a sliderable housing of the electronic device (101) (e.g., the sliderable housing (201) of FIG. 5A). The pattern of current flow and electromagnetic field may be interpreted as being substantially the same as that formed in the electronic device (101). The first mode, second mode, and third mode, which will be described later, can be formed based on the size (e.g., length) of the conductive structure. For example, when the size of the conductive structure changes, the activated mode changes, thereby changing the flow of current. The change in the flow of current can cause a change in the radiation pattern. Through the modes described later, a mode that can strengthen the radiation pattern for a specific frequency band and / or a specific direction can be identified depending on the size (e.g., length of the ground) of the electronic device (101).

[0147] For example, image (601) of FIG. 6A illustrates the flow of current formed in a structure corresponding to the structure of the electronic device (101) in the first mode. Image (602) of FIG. 6A illustrates the distribution pattern of an electromagnetic field formed in a structure corresponding to the structure of the electronic device (101) in the first mode. Image (603) of FIG. 6B illustrates the flow of current formed in a structure corresponding to the structure of the electronic device (101) in the second mode. Image (604) of FIG. 6B illustrates the distribution pattern of an electromagnetic field formed in a structure corresponding to the structure of the electronic device (101) in the second mode. Image (605) of FIG. 6C illustrates the flow of current formed in a structure corresponding to the structure of the electronic device (101) in the third mode. Image (606) of FIG. 6C illustrates the distribution pattern of an electromagnetic field formed in a structure corresponding to the structure of the electronic device (101) in the second mode.

[0148] Referring to FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C, the current flow formed in the electronic device (101) within the first mode, the second mode, and the third mode may be different. For example, referring to the image (601) of FIG. 6A, within the first mode, the current flow may be concentrated on the sides (e.g., the +x direction and the -x direction) of the electronic device (101). Within the first mode, the dominant current flow (L1) may be formed along a direction substantially parallel to the y-axis.

[0149] Referring to image (602) of FIG. 6A, within the first mode, the distribution pattern of the electromagnetic field may be formed strongly on the side of the electronic device (101) where the current is concentrated. Within the first mode, since the current is relatively less concentrated on the upper portion of the electronic device (101) (e.g., in the +y direction), the distribution pattern of the electromagnetic field may be formed weakly on the upper portion of the electronic device (101).

[0150] For example, referring to image (603) of FIG. 6B, within the second mode, the flow of current may be concentrated at the top (e.g., +y direction) and bottom (e.g., -y direction) of the electronic device (101). Within the second mode, the dominant flow of current (L2) may be formed along a direction substantially parallel to the x-axis.

[0151] Referring to image (604) of FIG. 6B, within the second mode, the distribution pattern of the electromagnetic field can be strongly formed at the upper and lower portions of the electronic device (101) where the current is concentrated. Within the second mode, since the current is relatively concentrated at the upper portion of the electronic device (101), the distribution pattern of the electromagnetic field can be strongly formed at the upper portion of the electronic device (101).

[0152] For example, referring to image (605) of FIG. 6c, within the third mode, the current flow may be concentrated on the sides (e.g., +x direction and -x direction) of the electronic device (101). Within the third mode, the dominant current flow is formed toward the center of the electronic device (101), and the current flow at the center of the electronic device (101) may be weak. The dominant current flow (L3) may be formed along a direction substantially parallel to the y-axis.

[0153] Referring to image (606) of FIG. 6c, within the third mode, the distribution pattern of the electromagnetic field may be formed strongly on the side of the electronic device (101) where the current is concentrated, and may be formed weakly at the center of the electronic device (101). Within the third mode, since the current is relatively not concentrated at the upper portion of the electronic device (101) (e.g., in the +y direction), the distribution pattern of the electromagnetic field may be formed weakly at the upper portion of the electronic device (101).

[0154] Referring to FIG. 6B, when the second mode is formed, the upward directivity of the radiation pattern of the antenna (e.g., the antenna (510) of FIG. 5B) may be formed to be the highest. For example, when the electronic device (101) performs satellite communication, when it operates in the second mode, the satellite communication efficiency may be improved. In the case of the exemplary electronic device (101), the size of the slideable housing (e.g., the slideable housing (201) of FIG. 5A) may be changed by the sliding movement of the second housing part (e.g., the second housing part (220) of FIG. 5A). Based on the change in the size of the slideable housing (201), the mode formed in the electronic device (101) may be determined. For example, depending on the slide-out length of the second housing part (220), the contributions of the first mode, the second mode, and the third mode may be different.

[0155] As described above with reference to FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C, the current flows (L1, L2, L3) may be formed differently according to the first mode, the second mode, and / or the third mode. Since the current flows are formed differently, the radiation patterns formed according to the first mode, the second mode, and / or the third mode may be formed differently. For example, the first mode, the second mode, and / or the third mode may be activated based on the length of the ground of the electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 5A). When the length of the ground is changed, the mode formed in the electronic device (101) is changed, thereby causing a current flow corresponding to the changed mode. Based on the current flow, the radiation pattern of the antenna (e.g., the antenna (510) of FIG. 5B) may be changed. For example, as the length of the electronic device (101) is changed, a specified frequency and / or may allow for adjustment of the radiation pattern in a specified direction (e.g., strengthening or changing the radiation pattern).

[0156] The graph (600a) of FIG. 6d represents the modal significance of the first mode, the second mode, and the third mode when the length of the slideable housing (e.g., the slideable housing (201) of FIG. 5a) is about 110 mm with respect to the slide direction (e.g., the y-axis direction of FIG. 5a) of the second housing part (e.g., the second housing part (220) of FIG. 5a). For example, the modal significance may represent the degree to which a characteristic mode of a structure contributes to the electromagnetic response of the structure. The first graph (610) of FIG. 6d represents the modal significance of the first mode with respect to frequency. The second graph (620) of FIG. 6d represents the modal significance of the second mode with respect to frequency. The third graph (630) of FIG. 6d represents the modal significance of the third mode with respect to frequency.

[0157] Referring to FIG. 6D, for a frequency above about 1.6 GHz, the modal significance of the first mode may be the highest, and the modal significance of the third mode may be the lowest. For example, for a frequency above about 1.6 GHz, the modal significance of the second mode may be about 0.62, and the modal significance of the first mode may be about 0.99. For example, when the length of the sliderable housing (201) is about 110 mm, the first mode may be formed most strongly, and therefore the upward directivity of the radiation pattern may be relatively low.

[0158] The graph (600b) of FIG. 6e shows the modal significance of the first mode, the second mode, and the third mode when the length of the slideable housing (201) with respect to the sliding direction of the second housing part (220) (e.g., the first direction or the second direction of FIG. 5a) is about 155 mm. The fourth graph (640) of FIG. 6e shows the modal significance of the first mode with respect to frequency. The fifth graph (650) of FIG. 6e shows the modal significance of the second mode with respect to frequency. The sixth graph (660) of FIG. 6e shows the modal significance of the third mode with respect to frequency.

[0159] Referring to Fig. 6e, for a frequency above about 1.6 GHz, the modal significance of the first mode may be the highest, and the modal significance of the second mode may be the lowest. For example, for a frequency above about 1.6 GHz, the modal significance of the second mode may be about 0.86, and the modal significance of the first mode may be about 0.94. For example, when the length of the sliderable housing (201) is about 155 mm, the first mode may be formed most strongly, and the second mode may be formed most weakly, so the upward directivity of the radiation pattern may be relatively low.

[0160] The graph (600c) of FIG. 6f shows the modal significance of the first mode, the second mode, and the third mode according to the change in the length of the slideable housing (201) with respect to the sliding direction of the second housing part (220) for a frequency of about 1.6 GHz. The seventh graph (670) of FIG. 6f shows the modal significance of the first mode with respect to frequency. The eighth graph (680) of FIG. 6f shows the modal significance of the second mode with respect to frequency. The ninth graph (690) of FIG. 6f shows the modal significance of the third mode with respect to frequency.

[0161] Referring to FIG. 6F, for a frequency of about 1.6 GHz, the first mode may exhibit the highest modal significance within a length range of the sliderable housing (201) of about 110 mm to about 155 mm. For example, the second mode may exhibit the highest modal significance within a length range of the sliderable housing (201) of about 130 mm for a frequency of about 1.6 GHz. For example, the third mode may exhibit modal significance that increases as the length of the sliderable housing (201) increases for a frequency of about 1.6 GHz.

[0162] As described with reference to FIG. 6A, since the upward directivity of the radiation pattern is the highest in the second mode, a state in which the upward directivity of the radiation pattern of the antenna (e.g., the antenna (510) of FIG. 5B) is high can be referred to as a state in which the second mode is formed. Referring to FIGS. 6C, 6E, and 6F, the second mode can exhibit the highest modal significance at a length of the sliderable housing (201) of about 130 mm. Referring to FIG. 6F, even when the length of the sliderable housing (201) is about 130 mm or more, the second mode can have a relatively high modal significance, but since the modal significance of the third mode also increases as the length increases, formation of the second mode can be inhibited. Referring to FIGS. 6A, 6C, 6E, and 6F, when the electronic device (101) has a sliderable housing (201) having a length of about 130 mm, the second mode in which the upward directivity of the radiation pattern is high can be best formed. For example, at least one processor (120) can control the driving unit (360) to change the length of the sliderable housing (201) to about 130 mm in order to change the electronic device (101) to a state in which the upward directivity of the radiation pattern is high. For example, the state in which the upward directivity of the radiation pattern is high can be referred to as a state in which the length of the sliderable housing (201) is about 130 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0163] Fig. 7 is a graph showing the radiation pattern of the antenna according to the slide-out length of the second housing part.

[0164] Referring to FIG. 7, the second housing part (220) can slide out in a first direction (e.g., +y direction) or slide in in a second direction (e.g., -y direction) with respect to the first housing part (210). For example, the driving unit (e.g., the driving unit (360) of FIG. 3A) can be configured to provide a driving force for sliding movement of the second housing part (220).

[0165] As described above, a mode formed in the electronic device (101) can be determined based on the length of the slideable housing (201) with respect to the slide direction (e.g., the first direction or the second direction) of the second housing part (220). The length of the slideable housing (201) can be changed based on the slide-out length of the second housing part (220). For example, in a first state in which the length of the slideable housing (201) is minimum, the slide-out length of the second housing part (220) can be minimum (e.g., 0). For example, in a second state in which the length of the slideable housing (201) is maximum, the slide-out length of the second housing part (220) can be maximum (e.g., about 65 mm).

[0166] The graph (700) illustrated in FIG. 7 is a graph that represents the results of measuring the gain of an antenna (e.g., antenna (510) of FIG. 5b) including at least one conductive portion among a plurality of conductive portions (530) while rotating the elevation angle with respect to an electronic device (101) in a fixed azimuth position, on a polar coordinate system. The gain may be a gain for a signal on a specified frequency band (e.g., approximately 1.6 GHz).

[0167] The first graph (701) of Fig. 7 represents the radiation pattern of the antenna (510) when the slide-out length of the second housing part (220) is 0. The state where the slide-out length is 0 may be referred to as a first state in which the second housing part (220) is fully inserted into the first housing part (210). The second graph (702) of Fig. 7 represents the radiation pattern of the antenna (510) when the slide-out length of the second housing part (220) is about 10 mm. The third graph (703) of Fig. 7 represents the radiation pattern of the antenna (510) when the slide-out length of the second housing part (220) is about 20 mm. The fourth graph (704) of Fig. 7 represents the radiation pattern of the antenna (510) when the slide-out length of the second housing part (220) is about 25 mm. The fifth graph (705) of FIG. 7 shows the radiation pattern of the antenna (510) when the slide-out length of the second housing part (220) is about 40 mm.

[0168] Referring to the graph (700), as the slide-out length of the second housing part (220) changes, the radiation pattern of the antenna (510) may also change. For example, the first graph (701) shows the lowest gain for an elevation angle of 0 degrees (e.g., +y direction), and therefore, when the slide-out length of the second housing part (220) is 0, the antenna (510) may have the lowest upward directivity. The second graph (702), the third graph (703), and the fourth graph (704) show high gain for an elevation angle of 0 degrees, and therefore, when the length of the second housing part (220) is about 10 mm to about 25 mm, the antenna (510) may have a relatively high upward directivity. The fifth graph (705) may exhibit a higher gain than the first graph (701) for an elevation angle of 0 degrees, but may exhibit a lower gain than the second graph (702), the third graph (703), and the fourth graph (704). For example, as the slide-out length of the second housing part (220) increases, the upward directivity may decrease as the state of the electronic device (101) approaches the second state from the third state. As described with reference to FIG. 5C, it can be confirmed that the result corresponds to the highest upward directivity of the radiation pattern of the antenna (510) when the electronic device (101) is in the third state.

[0169] In addition to the examples described above, the radiation pattern of the antenna (510) may vary depending on the slide-out length of the second housing part (220). For example, the memory (130) may store information regarding the radiation pattern of the antenna (510) depending on the slide-out length of the second housing part (220).

[0170] For example, the electronic device (101) can receive a signal from a satellite (507) or transmit a signal to the satellite (507). When the electronic device (101) performs satellite communication, if the upward directivity of the radiation pattern of the antenna (510) is in a high state, the satellite communication efficiency can be improved.

[0171] For example, based on the wireless communication circuit (192) performing communication with an external electronic device (e.g., satellite (507)) using a signal on a designated frequency band (e.g., about 1.6 GHz), at least one processor (120) can change the electronic device (101) to a third state by controlling the driving unit (360). As the state of the electronic device (101) changes to the third state, satellite communication efficiency can be improved. For example, at least one processor (120) can identify the performance of the communication based on identifying the execution of an application that provides communication with the satellite (507).

[0172] In the above description, the third state is described as the state in which the upward directivity of the radiation pattern of the antenna (510) is the highest, but it is not limited thereto. For example, depending on the characteristics of the electronic device (101) (e.g., the structure or material of the housing) or the frequency band, the upward directivity of the radiation pattern of the antenna (510) may be high within the first state or the third state. In this case, at least one processor (120) may change the electronic device (101) to the first state or the second state.

[0173] Figure 8 is a flow chart showing the operation of an exemplary electronic device controlling a driving unit.

[0174] The operations illustrated in FIG. 8 may be performed when instructions stored in a memory (e.g., memory (130) of FIG. 5b) are individually or collectively executed by at least one processor (e.g., at least one processor (120) of FIG. 5b).

[0175] Referring to FIG. 8, in operation 801, at least one processor (120) may obtain location information related to the location of an external electronic device stored in a memory (130).

[0176] For example, an external electronic device may be referenced as a satellite (e.g., satellite (507) of FIG. 5A). The satellite (507) revolves around the Earth along an orbit, and since the Earth on which the electronic device (e.g., electronic device (101) of FIG. 5A) is located rotates, the relative positional relationship between the electronic device (101) and the satellite (507) may change over time. For example, the memory (130) may store position information related to the position of the satellite (507). The position information related to the position of the satellite (507) may include information about the orbit of the satellite (507). For example, at least one processor (120) may be configured to obtain position information related to the position of the satellite (507) stored in the memory (130) based on a wireless communication circuit (e.g., wireless communication circuit (192) of FIG. 5B) performing satellite communication using a signal on a designated frequency band (e.g., about 1.6 GHz).

[0177] In operation 803, at least one processor (120) can identify a state in which the upward directivity of the radiation pattern of the antenna (e.g., the antenna (510) of FIG. 5b) is high based on the acquired location information.

[0178] For example, at least one processor (120) may be configured to identify a state in which the upward directivity of the radiation pattern of the antenna (510) is high based on the location information of the satellite (507) and the location information (e.g., latitude and longitude) of the electronic device (101). For example, when the location information of the satellite (507) is identified, a relative positional relationship (e.g., azimuth and elevation angles of the satellite (507)) between the electronic device (101) and the satellite (507) may be determined based on the location information of the electronic device (101) and the location information of the satellite (507). For example, the memory (130) may store information regarding the state in which the upward directivity is high based on the relative location information of the electronic device (101) and the satellite (507). For example, information about the state of high upward directivity according to the relative positional relationship may be referred to as information about the slide-out length of the second housing part (e.g., the second housing part (220) of FIG. 5A) corresponding to the relative positional relationship between A and B, when the positional information of the electronic device (101) is A and the positional information of the satellite (507) is B. For example, at least one processor (120) may obtain information about the slide-out length of the second housing part (220) based on identifying the state stored in the memory (130).

[0179] In operation 805, at least one processor (120) may control a driving unit (e.g., driving unit (360) of FIG. 3A) to change the electronic device (101) to a state with high upward orientation.

[0180] For example, at least one processor (120) may be configured to control the driving unit (360) to change the electronic device (101) to the state with high upward directivity acquired in operation 803. For example, at least one processor (120) may provide a control signal to the driving unit (360) based on information about the slide-out length of the second housing part (220), so that the second housing part (220) slides out by the length. For example, the driving unit (360) may operate to slide the second housing part (220) out by the length based on receiving the control signal. By the operation of the driving unit (360), the second housing part (220) slides out by the length, so that the state of the electronic device (101) may be changed to the state with high upward directivity. If the state of the electronic device (101) is within the state of high upward directivity, the driving unit (360) may not operate even if it receives the control signal.

[0181] By the operations illustrated in FIG. 8, when the electronic device (101) performs satellite communication, the state of the electronic device (101) may be within a state in which the upward directivity of the radiation pattern of the antenna (510) is high. For example, when a user executes an application for satellite communication, the driving unit (360) may be operated by at least one processor (120), thereby causing the sliding movement of the second housing part (220). The exemplary electronic device (101) may improve satellite communication efficiency by performing satellite communication within the state in which the upward directivity is high.

[0182] Figure 9a illustrates the relative positional relationship between an exemplary electronic device and an external electronic device. Figure 9b is a flowchart illustrating the operation of an exemplary electronic device to identify a state of high upward orientation over time. Figure 9c is a flowchart illustrating the operation of an exemplary electronic device to change the slide-out length.

[0183] Referring to FIG. 9a, the relative positional relationship between the electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (e.g., satellite (507)) may change over time.

[0184] Since the satellite (507) revolves around the Earth along an orbit, and the Earth on which the electronic device (101) is located rotates, the relative positional relationship between the electronic device (101) and the satellite (507) may change over time. For example, a memory (e.g., memory (130) of FIG. 5B) may store positional information related to the position of the satellite (507). The positional information regarding the position of the satellite (507) may include information about the orbit of the satellite (507).

[0185] For example, at a first timing, the satellite (507) may be positioned at a first position (P1) in the orbit. As time elapses from the first timing to the second timing, the satellite (507) may orbit along the orbit. For example, at the second timing, the satellite (507) may be positioned at a second position (P2) in the orbit, so that the relative position between the electronic device (101) and the satellite (507) may change. For example, if the electronic device (101) does not move from the position of the electronic device (101) at the first timing, the relative position between the electronic device (101) and the satellite (507) may change due to the rotation of the Earth.

[0186] For example, when the radiation pattern of the antenna (e.g., the antenna (510) of FIG. 5B) is directed toward the satellite (507), the satellite communication efficiency of the electronic device (101) may be improved. For example, when the directivity of the antenna (510) is directed toward the satellite (507), transmission and / or reception of signals between the electronic device (101) and the satellite (507) may be smoothly performed. As described with reference to FIG. 7, since the radiation pattern of the antenna (510) is changed by adjusting the slide-out length of the second housing part (e.g., the second housing part (220) of FIG. 5A), the directivity of the antenna (510) may be finely adjusted. The exemplary electronic device (101) may control a driving unit (e.g., a driving unit (360) of FIG. 3A) to adjust the radiation pattern of the antenna (510) according to a change in the position of the satellite (507) while performing satellite communication.

[0187] The operations illustrated in FIG. 9b can be performed when instructions stored in a memory (e.g., memory (130) of FIG. 5b) are individually or collectively executed by at least one processor (e.g., at least one processor (120) of FIG. 5b).

[0188] Referring to FIG. 9B, in operation 901, at least one processor (120) may identify first location information indicating a relative location of an external electronic device with respect to an electronic device (e.g., electronic device (101) of FIG. 5A).

[0189] For example, at least one processor (120) may obtain location information regarding the location of the satellite (507) stored in the memory (130) at a first timing based on a wireless communication circuit (e.g., the wireless communication circuit (192) of FIG. 5B) performing communication with a satellite (e.g., the satellite (507) of FIG. 5A). For example, the first timing may be, but is not limited to, a timing at which an application for providing satellite communication is executed. When the location information is obtained, at least one processor (120) may identify first location information (e.g., azimuth and elevation) indicating a relative location of the satellite (507) with respect to the electronic device (101) based on location information (e.g., latitude and longitude) of the electronic device (101). For example, the electronic device (101) may include a global positioning system (GPS) sensor used to identify location information of the electronic device (101). Referring to FIG. 9A, the elevation angle (910) may be referred to as the angle formed by the line connecting the satellite (507) and the electronic device (101) with respect to the horizontal plane. The azimuth angle (920) may be referred to as the clockwise angle between the line extending from the point where the satellite (507) is projected vertically on the horizontal plane toward the electronic device (101) and the line in the direction of the North Pole.

[0190] In operation 903, at least one processor (120) may identify a first slide-out length for a first housing part (e.g., the first housing part (210) of FIG. 5A) of a second housing part (e.g., the second housing part (220) of FIG. 5A) corresponding to a state in which the directivity of the antenna (510) is directed toward the external electronic device, based on the first location information.

[0191] For example, when first position information indicating a relative positional relationship between the electronic device (101) and the satellite (507) is identified, a state in which the radiation pattern of the antenna (510) is directed toward the satellite (507) can be determined. For example, the memory (130) can store information about the radiation pattern of the antenna (510) according to the slide-out length of the second housing part (220). For example, at least one processor (120) can identify a state in which the directivity of the radiation pattern of the antenna (510) is directed toward the external electronic device (e.g., a state in which the upward directivity of the radiation pattern is high) based on the identified first position information and the information about the radiation pattern of the antenna (510) according to the slide-out length of the second housing part (220) stored in the memory (130). When the state is identified, a first slide-out length of the second housing part (220) corresponding to the state can be determined with respect to the first housing part (210). For example, at least one processor (120) can identify the first slide-out length.

[0192] In operation 905, at least one processor (120) may control a driving unit (e.g., driving unit (360) of FIG. 3A) to cause a slide movement of the second housing part (220) by the first slide-out length.

[0193] For example, at least one processor (120) may control the driving unit (360) to slide the second housing part (220) by the identified first slide-out length. For example, at least one processor (120) may provide a control signal to the driving unit (360). For example, the driving unit (360) may cause the slide movement of the second housing part (220) to slide by the first slide-out length based on reception of the control signal. For example, the second housing part (220) may slide by the first slide-out length by sliding out in the first direction or sliding in in the second direction.

[0194] For example, the electronic device (101) can perform satellite communication while the second housing part (220) is slid by the first slide-out length. Since the first slide-out length is a state in which the directivity of the antenna (510) is directed toward the satellite (507), satellite communication efficiency can be improved.

[0195] In operation 907, at least one processor (120) may identify second location information indicating a relative location of an external electronic device with respect to the electronic device (101) at a second timing after a specified time has elapsed.

[0196] For example, when a specified time elapses, the positions of the electronic device (101) and the satellite (507) may change. For example, the satellite (507) may orbit along an orbit. For example, the position of the electronic device (101) may change due to the user's movement or the Earth's rotation. For example, at a second timing when a specified time elapses, at least one processor (120) may identify second position information through position information regarding the position of the satellite (507) stored in the memory (130) and position information of the electronic device (101).

[0197] In operation 909, at least one processor (120) may identify a second slide length of the second housing part (220) relative to the first housing part (210) corresponding to a state in which the directivity of the antenna (510) is directed toward the external electronic device, based on the second location information.

[0198] Action 909 may correspond to action 903. For example, at least one processor (120) may identify a state in which the directivity of the radiation pattern of the antenna (510) is directed toward an external electronic device (e.g., a state in which the upward directivity of the radiation pattern is high) based on the identified second location information and information about the radiation pattern of the antenna (510) according to the slide-out length of the second housing part (220) stored in the memory (130).

[0199] In operation 911, at least one processor (120) can control the driving unit (360) based on the difference between the first slide-out length and the second slide-out length.

[0200] For example, over time, a difference may occur between the first location information at the first timing and the second location information at the second timing. For example, if the location of the electronic device (101) has not changed or the specified time is relatively short compared to the orbital period of the satellite (507), the difference may be small. For example, if the difference is small, the difference between the first slide-out length and the second slide-out length may be small because the directivity of the antenna (510) toward the satellite (507) is substantially the same or similar. In this case, at least one processor (120) may control the driving unit (360) to maintain the slide-out length of the second housing part (220) at the first slide-out length.

[0201] For example, if the position of the electronic device (101) has changed or the specified time is relatively long compared to the orbital period of the satellite (507), the difference may be large. For example, if the difference is large, the directivity of the antenna (510) toward the satellite (507) may be different. If the states are different, the difference between the first slide-out length and the second slide-out length may be large. In this case, in order to change the state of the electronic device (101) to a state with higher satellite communication efficiency, at least one processor (120) may control the driving unit (360) to change the slide-out length of the second housing part (220) to the second slide-out length.

[0202] The operation illustrated in FIG. 9c may be performed when instructions stored in a memory (e.g., memory (130) of FIG. 5b) are individually or collectively executed by at least one processor (e.g., at least one processor (120) of FIG. 5b).

[0203] In this disclosure, expressions such as "more than" or "less than" may be used to determine whether a specific condition is satisfied or fulfilled. However, this is merely an example and does not exclude the use of expressions such as "more than" or "less than." Conditions described as "more than" may be replaced with "more than", and conditions described as "less than" may be replaced with "less than."

[0204] Referring to FIG. 9c, at operation 902, at least one processor (120) can identify a difference between the first slide-out length and the second slide-out length.

[0205] For example, at least one processor (120) may be configured to compare the first slide-out length and the second slide-out length and identify the difference.

[0206] At operation 904, at least one processor (120) may identify whether the difference exceeds a threshold length.

[0207] For example, at least one processor (120) may compare a difference between the first slide-out length and the second slide-out length with a threshold length and determine whether the difference exceeds the threshold length. For example, the threshold length may be determined based on the extent to which a change in the radiation pattern of the antenna (510) due to the difference affects satellite communication efficiency. For example, the difference exceeding the threshold length may be referred to as causing a change in the radiation pattern of the antenna (510) due to the difference to an extent that affects satellite communication efficiency.

[0208] If the above difference exceeds the threshold length, operation 906 may be performed, and if the above difference does not exceed the threshold length, operation 908 may be performed.

[0209] In operation 906, at least one processor (120) can control the driving unit (360) to cause the slide movement of the second housing part (220) by the second slide out length.

[0210] For example, at least one processor (120) may control the driving unit (360) to cause the second housing part (220) to slide by the second slide-out length based on identifying that the difference exceeds the threshold length. For example, the at least one processor (120) may provide a control signal to the driving unit (360). For example, the driving unit (360) may cause the second housing part (220) to slide by the second slide-out length based on receiving the control signal. For example, the second housing part (220) may slide by the driving unit (360) from the first slide-out length to the second slide-out length.

[0211] For example, the electronic device (101) can improve satellite communication efficiency by finely adjusting the slide-out length of the second housing part (220) while performing satellite communication. For example, by sliding the second housing part (220) to the second slide-out length, the electronic device (101) can perform satellite communication in a state where the directivity of the antenna (510) is directed toward the satellite (507). By performing satellite communication in the above state, the efficiency of satellite communication can be improved.

[0212] At operation 908, at least one processor (120) can control the driving unit (360) to maintain the slide-out length of the second housing part (220).

[0213] For example, at least one processor (120) may control the driving unit (360) to maintain the second slide-out length based on identifying that the difference is less than or equal to a threshold length. For example, the second housing part (220) may maintain a state of sliding to the first slide-out length identified at the first timing. For example, in operation 908, unless the sliding movement of the second housing part (220) is caused by an external force, the at least one processor (120) may not control the driving unit (360). Since the difference between the first slide-out length and the second slide-out length is small, if the state in which the directivity of the antenna (510) is directed toward the satellite (507) is substantially maintained, power consumption due to unnecessary control of the driving unit (360) may be reduced.

[0214] Figure 10 is a flowchart illustrating a process by which an exemplary electronic device searches for a state with high upward directivity.

[0215] As described above, based on the slide-out length of the second housing part (e.g., the second housing part (220) of FIG. 5A), the radiation pattern of the antenna (e.g., the antenna (510) of FIG. 5B) can be changed. Since the difference in directivity of the antenna (510) due to the change in the radiation pattern of the antenna (510) affects the satellite communication efficiency, the satellite communication efficiency can be improved by controlling the driving unit (e.g., the driving unit (360) of FIG. 3A) so that the electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 5A) changes the upward directivity of the radiation pattern of the antenna (510) to a high state. For example, a memory (e.g., a memory (130) of FIG. 5B) may store information about a radiation pattern of an antenna (510) according to a slide-out length of a second housing part (220), and at least one processor (120) may identify a state of high upward directivity based on the information. In one example, if the information is not stored in the memory (130), the electronic device (101) may detect a state of high upward directivity based on performing satellite communication.

[0216] In operation 1001, at least one processor (120) can control the driving unit (360) to change the electronic device (101) into a first state, a second state, and a third state, respectively, over a specified period of time.

[0217] For example, at least one processor (120) may slide the second housing part (220) to search for a state in which the upward directivity of the radiation pattern of the antenna (510) is high. For example, at least one processor (120) may control the driving unit (360) to change the electronic device (101) to the first state, the second state, and / or the third state based on the wireless communication circuit (192) performing satellite communication. For example, when performing satellite communication is initiated, the electronic device (101) may change to the first state, the second state, and / or the third state over a specified period of time. For example, when the electronic device (101) starts performing satellite communication within the first state, the second housing part (220) may slide out, so that the electronic device (101) may change from the first state to the third state to the second state over a specified period of time. For example, the electronic device (101) may be in a first state, a third state, and a second state for a specified period of time. For example, the wireless communication circuit (192) may receive a signal from a satellite (507) within the first state, the second state, and the third state through operation 1001.

[0218] In operation 1003, at least one processor (120) may identify a quality of a signal received from an external electronic device within the first state, the second state, and the third state.

[0219] For example, at least one processor (120) may identify the quality of a signal received from a satellite (507) within a first state, a second state, and a third state to search for a state in which the upward directivity of the radiation pattern of the antenna (510) is high. For example, at least one processor (120) may identify a first reception quality indicating a reception quality of a first signal received within the first state, a second reception quality indicating a reception quality of a second signal received within the second state, and a third reception quality indicating a reception quality of a third signal received within the third state. For example, the third reception quality may include qualities for a plurality of signals. For example, since the third state includes a plurality of intermediate states, the at least one processor (120) may identify a plurality of third reception qualities that are distinguished at specified lengths (e.g., 5 mm) within the third state.

[0220] For example, in the present disclosure, signal quality may include at least one of RSRP (reference signal received power), BRSRP (beam reference signal received power), RSRQ (reference signal received quality), RSSI (received signal strength indicator), SINR (signal to interference and noise ratio), CINR (carrier to interference and noise ratio), SNR (signal to noise ratio), EVM (error vector magnitude), BER (bit error rate), and BLER (block error rate). In addition to the examples described above, other terms having equivalent technical meanings or other metrics indicating channel quality may be used.

[0221] In operation 1005, at least one processor (120) may control the driving unit (360) based on the quality of the signal.

[0222] For example, at least one processor (120) may compare a first reception quality, a second reception quality, and a third reception quality. For example, at least one processor (120) may be configured to control the driving unit (360) based on the state of the electronic device (101) corresponding to the signal exhibiting the highest quality as a result of the comparison.

[0223] For example, a high signal quality may be referred to as a case where a signal quality value related to a signal size is large or a signal quality value related to an error rate is small. For example, a smooth wireless communication environment can be ensured as the signal quality is high. For example, when the reception quality of the third signal is high, it may be referred to as a case where, within the third state, the radiation pattern of the antenna (510) has the highest upward directivity. For example, when the third reception quality includes a plurality of reception qualities obtained for each specified length, at least one processor (120) may identify a state corresponding to a signal exhibiting the highest reception quality among the plurality of third reception qualities. For example, at least one processor (120) may identify a slide-out length of the second housing part (220) corresponding to the state based on identifying the state. For example, the at least one processor (120) may be configured to control the driving unit (360) so that the second housing part (220) slides out by the identified slide-out length.

[0224] An exemplary electronic device (101) can detect a state in which the upward directivity of the radiation pattern of the antenna (510) is high through the operations illustrated in FIG. 10, and perform satellite communication based on the state.

[0225] Figures 11a, 11b, 11c, and 11d illustrate various structures of an exemplary second housing part.

[0226] Referring to FIG. 11A, an electronic device (e.g., electronic device (101) of FIG. 5A) may include a plurality of conductive portions (530) formed along at least a portion of edges of a second housing part (220). For example, the plurality of conductive portions (530) may be electrically separated by a plurality of non-conductive portions (540). For example, the second housing part (220) may include a support member (520) and a side frame (521).

[0227] For example, the second housing part (220) may include a first edge (551), a second edge (552), a third edge (553), and a fourth edge (554). For example, the first edge (551) may be disposed in a slide-out direction (e.g., +y direction) of the second housing part (220). For example, the second edge (552) may be disposed perpendicular to the first edge (551) from one end of the first edge (551). For example, the third edge (553) may be opposite to the second edge (552). For example, the first edge (551) may be an edge in the +y direction. For example, the second edge (552) may be an edge in the -x direction. For example, the third edge (553) may be an edge in the +x direction. For example, the fourth edge (554) may be opposite to the first edge (551). For example, the fourth edge (554) may be an edge in the -y direction.

[0228] For example, the plurality of conductive portions (530) can be formed at least partially along the first edge (551), the second edge (552), and the third edge (553). Referring to FIG. 11A, the plurality of conductive portions (530) can include a first conductive portion (531) and a second conductive portion (532). For example, the first conductive portion (531) can be formed between a first non-conductive portion (541) within the second edge (552) and a second non-conductive portion (542) within the first edge (551). For example, the second conductive portion (532) can be formed between a second non-conductive portion (542) and a third non-conductive portion (543) within the third edge (553).

[0229] For example, the second housing part (220) may include a plurality of opening areas (550) between the support member (520) and the side frame (521). For example, the support member (520) and the side frame (521) may be partially separated by the plurality of opening areas (550). For example, when a non-conductive material is filled within the plurality of opening areas (550), at least a portion of the plurality of opening areas (550) may be referred to as a slot (560) or slit for electrically isolating the plurality of conductive portions (530) and the support member (520). For example, the slot (560) may include, but is not limited to, PC (poly carbonate). For example, the slot (560) may also form a plurality of non-conductive portions (540) by filling between the plurality of conductive portions (530). For example, a plurality of non-conductive portions (540) formed between a plurality of conductive portions (530) can limit the length of the conductive portion that acts as an antenna radiator as a dielectric.

[0230] For example, the first conductive portion (531) may include a first feed point (F1) electrically connected to the wireless communication circuit (192). For example, the second conductive portion (532) may include a second feed point (F2) and / or a third feed point (F3) electrically connected to the wireless communication circuit (192). For example, when a first signal is provided from the wireless communication circuit (192) to the first feed point (F1), the first conductive portion (531) may operate as an antenna radiator for transmitting the first signal. For example, when a first signal is provided from the wireless communication circuit (192) to the second feed point (F2), the second conductive portion (532) may operate as an antenna radiator for transmitting the second signal. For example, when a third signal is provided from a wireless communication circuit (192) to a third feed point (F3), the second conductive portion (532) can operate as an antenna radiator for transmitting the third signal.

[0231] For example, the first conductive portion (531) and the second conductive portion (532) can be used as an antenna radiator of a satellite antenna (510) for satellite communication because they are positioned at the upper portion (e.g., in the +y direction) of the second housing part (220). For example, since the satellite (507) is positioned upward (e.g., in the +y direction) with respect to the electronic device (101), an antenna including at least a portion of the first conductive portion (531) and an antenna including at least a portion of the second conductive portion (532) can be suitable for transmitting a signal in the upward direction. For example, the wireless communication circuit (192) can be configured to communicate with the satellite (507) by feeding the second feed point (F2) or the third feed point (F3) of the second conductive portion (532).

[0232] For example, the segmented structures of the second housing part (220) can be implemented in various ways. Even if the segmented structure of the second housing part (220) is changed, at least one processor (120) can identify a state in which the upward directivity of the radiation pattern is high by utilizing the change in the radiation pattern according to the slide-out length of the second housing part (220). Hereinafter, various structures of the second housing part (220) are described.

[0233] Referring to FIG. 11B, the side surfaces (e.g., the second edge (552) and the third edge (553)) of the second housing part (220) may have an asymmetrical structure. For example, the second non-conductive portion (542) formed within the first edge (551) may be formed in the center portion of the first edge (551). For example, the first non-conductive portion (541) may be positioned closer to the first edge (551) than the third non-conductive portion (543). For example, the distance between the first edge (551) and the first non-conductive portion (541) may be smaller than the distance between the first edge (551) and the third non-conductive portion (543).

[0234] For example, the first conductive portion (531) and / or the second conductive portion (532), which are formed at least partially within the first edge (551), may operate as an antenna radiator for a satellite antenna. For example, the wireless communication circuit (192) may be configured to communicate with the satellite (507) by feeding the first feed point (F1) of the first conductive portion (531) and / or the second feed point (F2) of the second conductive portion (532).

[0235] Referring to FIG. 11C, a plurality of non-conductive portions may be formed within the first edge (551). For example, the plurality of conductive portions (530) may include a first conductive portion (531), a second conductive portion (532), a third conductive portion (533), and / or a fourth conductive portion (534). For example, the first conductive portion (531) may be formed between a first non-conductive portion (541) within the second edge (552) and a second non-conductive portion (542) within the first edge (551). For example, the second conductive portion (532) may be formed between the second non-conductive portion (542) and a third non-conductive portion (543) within the first edge (551). For example, the third conductive portion (533) may be formed between the third non-conductive portion (543) and the fourth non-conductive portion (544) within the third edge (553). For example, the fourth conductive portion (534) may be formed between the first non-conductive portion (541) and the point (P) where the side frame (521) and the support member (520) come into contact.

[0236] For example, the second conductive portion (532) and / or the third conductive portion (533), which are formed at least partially within the first edge (551), may operate as an antenna radiator for a satellite antenna. For example, the wireless communication circuit (192) may be configured to communicate with the satellite (507) by feeding the second feed point (F2) of the second conductive portion (532) and / or the third feed point (F3) of the third conductive portion (533).

[0237] Referring to FIG. 11D, a plurality of non-conductive portions may be formed within a side surface (e.g., a second edge (552) and a third edge (553)) of the second housing part (220). For example, the plurality of conductive portions (530) may include a first conductive portion (531), a second conductive portion (532), a third conductive portion (533), a fourth conductive portion (534), and / or a fifth conductive portion (535). For example, the first conductive portion (531) may be formed between a first non-conductive portion (541) within the second edge (552) and a second non-conductive portion (542) within the second edge (552). For example, the second conductive portion (532) may be formed between the second non-conductive portion (542) and the third non-conductive portion (543) within the first edge (551). For example, the third conductive portion (533) may be formed between the third non-conductive portion (543) and the fourth non-conductive portion (544) within the third edge (553). For example, the fourth conductive portion (534) may be formed between the first non-conductive portion (541) and the fifth non-conductive portion (545) within the second edge (552). For example, the fifth conductive portion (535) may be formed between the fourth non-conductive portion (544) and the sixth non-conductive portion (546) within the third edge (553).

[0238] For example, the first conductive portion (531), the second conductive portion (532), and / or the third conductive portion (533), which are formed at least partially within the first edge (551), may operate as an antenna radiator for a satellite antenna. For example, the wireless communication circuit (192) may be configured to communicate with the satellite (507) by feeding the first feed point (F1) of the first conductive portion (532), the second feed point (F2) of the second conductive portion (532), and / or the third feed point of the third conductive portion (533).

[0239] The above-described descriptions may be substantially equally applied to the second housing part (220) illustrated in FIGS. 11A to 11D . For example, an antenna including at least a portion of a conductive portion at least partially disposed within the first edge (551) of the upper portion may be used for satellite communication. For example, at least one processor (120) may control the driving unit (360) based on a state in which the upward directivity of the radiation pattern of the antenna (510) is high, thereby improving satellite communication efficiency.

[0240] Figures 12a and 12b illustrate an example of a screen for guiding the relative position of a satellite for satellite communication.

[0241] Referring to FIG. 12A, the screen (1210), the screen (1220), the screen (1230), and / or the screen (1240) may be displayed on a flexible display of the electronic device (101) (e.g., the display (230) of FIG. 3A).

[0242] For example, on screen (1210), the electronic device (101) may display text (1201) and / or a button (1203) on the screen (1210).

[0243] For example, on the screen (1220), the electronic device (101) may display a first indicator (1221), a second indicator (1211), text (1223), and / or a button (1225) on the screen (1220).

[0244] For example, on the screen (1230), the electronic device (101) may display a first indicator (1221), a second indicator (1211), text (1233), and / or a button (1225) on the screen (1230).

[0245] For example, on the screen (1240), the electronic device (101) may display a first indicator (1221), a second indicator (1211), text (1243), and / or a button (1225) on the screen (1240).

[0246] The first indicator (1221) may indicate the position of a satellite (e.g., satellite (507) of FIG. 5A). For example, the first indicator (1221) may indicate the relationship between the position of a satellite positioned above the electronic device (101) and the actual position of the satellite. The second indicator (1211) may include an object indicating a direction (e.g., a circular window). For example, the second indicator (1211) may indicate the approximate direction of the satellite and the direction in which the electronic device (101) should move.

[0247] For example, a user may execute an application for performing satellite communication via the electronic device (101). For example, satellite communication may be utilized in situations where cellular communication or network communication requiring a base station is difficult. For example, satellite communication may be utilized when the electronic device (101) receives a signal from a satellite navigation device (e.g., GPS, global positioning system) and / or when the electronic device (101) services a non-terrestrial network using 5G non-terrestrial networks (5G NTN). The electronic device (101) may provide emergency rescue services by utilizing a connection to a satellite when the terrestrial network is idle.

[0248] For example, the electronic device (101) can identify the direction information of the satellite based on the location information of the electronic device (101) and the location information of the satellite. The electronic device (101) can display an indicator (e.g., a second indicator (1211)) for guiding the location of the electronic device (101) based on the direction information of the satellite and the direction information of the electronic device (101) on a guide screen displayed through the flexible display (230). The user can change the direction of the electronic device (101) based on the guide screen. The antenna of the electronic device (101) can be arranged to face the satellite as the direction of the electronic device (101) changes.

[0249] Below, a screen (e.g., screen (1210) to screen (1280)) displayed to guide the position of the electronic device (101) so that the antenna is positioned toward the satellite is described.

[0250] For example, on the screen (1210), the electronic device (101) can execute an application for satellite communication. For example, the application for satellite communication can be referred to as an application for transmitting a message to a satellite. The electronic device (101) can provide guidance on the satellite search function by displaying text (1201) through the flexible display (230). For example, the electronic device (101) can display the text (1201), such as 'Align your phone with the satellite to send and receive messages', on the flexible display (230). For example, the electronic device (101) can display a button (1203) on the flexible display (230) to initiate the satellite search function of the application for satellite communication. When an input to the above button (1203) is identified, the electronic device (101) can perform a satellite search function.

[0251] The screen (1220) may be displayed when movement of the electronic device (101) is required. For example, on the screen (1220), the electronic device (101) may display a satellite outside a specified range on the flexible display (230). The specified range may be an angular range within which the satellite can be displayed on the screen of the electronic device (101). The electronic device (101) may indicate the position of the satellite through the first indicator (1221). For example, on the screen (1220), the electronic device (101) may display a second indicator (1221) on the flexible display (230) to guide the direction. On the screen (1220), the electronic device (101) may guide the user in the direction of movement of the electronic device (101) through text (1223). For example, the electronic device (101) may display text (1223) such as 'Move your phone along the satellite' on the flexible display (230). Additionally, the electronic device (101) may display a phrase indicating that transmission is in progress (e.g., sending messages) on the flexible display (230).

[0252] The screen (1230) may be displayed when a change in the direction and / or posture of the electronic device (101) is required. For example, on the screen (1230), the electronic device (101) may display a first indicator (1221) indicating the position of a satellite and a second indicator (1211) for guiding the direction on the flexible display (230). On the screen (1230), the electronic device (101) may guide the user on the direction and / or posture of the electronic device (101) through text (1233). For example, the electronic device (101) may display text (1233) such as 'Turn right to face the satellite' on the flexible display (230). Additionally, the electronic device (101) may display a phrase indicating that it is transmitting (e.g., sending messages) on the flexible display (230).

[0253] The screen (1240) may be displayed when a change in the position (e.g., height) of the electronic device (101) is required. For example, on the screen (1240), the electronic device (101) may display a first indicator (1221) identified based on the direction information of the electronic device (101) and the direction information of the satellite within the screen (1240). For example, the first indicator (1221) may be a visual object indicating the position of the satellite. For example, the first indicator (1221) may include an icon (e.g., an icon depicting a satellite). However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0254] For example, the difference between the direction information of the electronic device (101) displaying the screen (1240) and the direction information of the satellite may be outside a specified range. The first indicator (1221) may point to a point outside the flexible display to indicate a satellite outside the specified range. The specified range may be an angular range within which the satellite can be displayed within the screen of the electronic device (101).

[0255] For example, the electronic device (101) may display the second indicator (1211) for guiding the direction of the electronic device (101) within the screen (1240). For example, the second indicator (1211) may be a visual object for providing guidance on the direction of the electronic device (101). For example, the second indicator (1211) may be displayed in the form of a dotted circle and an arrow near the dotted circle. However, the embodiment of the present disclosure may not be limited thereto. For example, in the screen (1240), the electronic device (101) may display the text (1243), such as 'Move up to face the satellite', on the flexible display (230). In the above screen (1240), the electronic device (101) can display the button (1225) for stopping the satellite search function on the flexible display (230). When an input to the button (1225) is identified, the electronic device (101) can stop the satellite search function.

[0256] Referring to FIG. 12b, the screen (1250), the screen (1260), the screen (1270), and / or the screen (1280) may be displayed on the flexible display (230) of the electronic device (101).

[0257] For example, the electronic device (101) can display text (1253), a button (1225), a first indicator (1251), and / or a second indicator (1211) on the screen (1250). The electronic device (101) can display text (1263), a button (1225), a first indicator (1264a), and / or a second indicator (1264b) on the screen (1260). The electronic device (101) can display text (1273), a button (1225), a first indicator (1264a), and / or a second indicator (1264b) on the screen (1270). The electronic device (101) can display text (1283), a button (1225), and / or an indicator (1284) on the screen (1280).

[0258] For example, in the screen (1250), the difference between the direction information of the electronic device (101) and the direction information of the satellite may be within a specified range. For example, the first indicator (1251) corresponding to the satellite may be displayed within the screen (1250). The shape of the first indicator (1251) when the difference between the direction information of the electronic device (101) and the direction information of the satellite is within a specified range may be different from the shape of the first indicator (e.g., the first indicator (1221) of FIG. 12A) when the difference between the direction information of the electronic device (101) and the direction information of the satellite is outside the specified range. For example, the first indicator (1221) when the difference between the direction information of the electronic device (101) and the direction information of the satellite is outside the specified range may be displayed on the periphery of the specified range of the screen (e.g., the screen (1220) of FIG. 12A) and may be an icon pointing to a point outside the screen. For example, when the difference between the direction information of the electronic device (101) and the direction information of the satellite is within a specified range, the first indicator (1251) may be an icon indicating a point within the screen. In addition, a portion (e.g., an arrow) of the second indicator (1211) for providing a guide for the direction of the electronic device (101) may be deleted on the flexible display (230). When a satellite is displayed on the screen of the electronic device (101), the second indicator (1211) may provide a '+' within a circle to indicate a center line for the satellite. The electronic device (101) may provide guidance for the direction of the electronic device (101) by displaying the text (1253). The electronic device (101) can display text (1253) such as 'move your phone align satellite in a circle' on the flexible display (230).In the above screen (1250), the electronic device (101) can display the button (1225) for stopping the satellite search function on the flexible display (230). When an input to the button (1225) is identified, the electronic device (101) can stop the satellite search function.

[0259] For example, in screen (1260), the electronic device (101) can identify the first indicator (1264a) and the second indicator (1264b) overlapping on the screen (1260) due to a change in the direction of the electronic device (101). For example, the electronic device (101) can change the state of the first indicator (1264a) based on identifying the first indicator (1264a) and the second indicator (1264b) overlapping on the screen (1260). For example, the state (e.g., state according to transparency, state according to color, state according to shape, or state according to complexity) of the second indicator (1264b) and the first indicator (1264a) overlapped on the screen (1260) may be different from the state (e.g., state according to transparency, state according to color, state according to shape, or state according to complexity) of the second indicator (1264b) and the first indicator (1264a) spaced apart from the screen (1260). For example, the electronic device (101) may change the state of the second indicator (1264b) based on identifying the first indicator (1264a) and the second indicator (1264b) overlapped on the screen (1260). For example, the state (e.g., transparency, color, shape, or complexity) of the first indicator (1264a) and the second indicator (1264b) overlapping on the screen (1260) may be different from the state (e.g., transparency, color, shape, or complexity) of the first indicator (1264a) and the second indicator (1264b) spaced apart on the screen (1260). For example, on the screen (1260), the electronic device (101) may display text (1263), such as 'To improve your signal, center the circle', on the flexible display (230).In the above screen (1260), the electronic device (101) can display the button (1225) for stopping the satellite search function on the flexible display (230). When an input to the button (1225) is identified, the electronic device (101) can stop the satellite search function.

[0260] For example, based on identifying a difference between the direction information of the electronic device (101) within the second range specified above and the direction information of the satellite, on the screen (1270), the electronic device (101) may transmit a signal including the content of the message to the satellite through the wireless communication circuit (e.g., the wireless communication circuit (192) of FIG. 5B). For example, the electronic device (101) may visually display the state of the electronic device (101) transmitting and / or receiving a signal on the flexible display (230) based on a change in the characteristic (e.g., color, rotation, or transparency) of the first indicator (1264a). For example, the electronic device (101) may visually display the state of the electronic device (101) transmitting a signal on the flexible display (230) based on a change in the characteristic (e.g., color, rotation, or transparency) of the second indicator (1264b). For example, the color of the second indicator (1264b) may change based on a regular cycle. For example, the second indicator (1264b) may be displayed to rotate according to a regular cycle. For example, in the screen (1270), the electronic device (101) may display the text (1273), such as 'maintain position to send and receive', on the flexible display (230). In the screen (1270), the electronic device (101) may display the button (1225) for stopping the satellite search function on the flexible display (230). When an input to the button (1225) is identified, the electronic device (101) may stop the satellite search function.

[0261] For example, in the screen (1280), the electronic device (101) may indicate a failure in transmitting and / or receiving a message via satellite communication through the flexible display (230). For example, the electronic device (101) may indicate a failure in transmitting and / or receiving a message by displaying the indicator (1284) on the flexible display (230). For example, in the screen (1280), the electronic device (101) may display text (1283), such as 'retry pointing to the other satellite', on the flexible display (230). In the screen (1280), the electronic device (101) may display a button (1225) for stopping the satellite search function on the flexible display (230). When an input to the above button (1225) is identified, the electronic device (101) may stop the satellite search function.

[0262] For example, satellite orientation information may be referred to as satellite angle information. Satellite orientation information may include satellite height information and satellite distance information. Satellite height information may include satellite elevation information. Satellite distance information may include satellite azimuth information.

[0263] Although the electronic device (101) described above has been described as including a sliderable housing (201), it is not limited thereto. For example, the structure of the electronic device (101) may vary. For example, the electronic device (101) may include a foldable housing (e.g., the foldable housing (1301) of FIG. 13A). Hereinafter, an electronic device (101) including a foldable housing will be described. Except for differences in the structure of the deformable housing, the descriptions regarding the electronic device (101) described above can be substantially identically applied to the electronic device (101) described below.

[0264] Figure 13a illustrates an unfolded state of an exemplary electronic device. Figure 13b illustrates intermediate states and a folded state of an exemplary electronic device.

[0265] Referring to FIGS. 13A and 13B, the electronic device (101) may include a foldable housing (1301). For example, the foldable housing (1301) may include a first housing part (1310) and a second housing part (1320).

[0266] For example, the first housing part (1310) and the second housing part (1320) may be rotatably coupled with respect to the folding axis (f). For example, the second housing part (1320) may be rotatably coupled to the first housing part (1310). For example, the electronic device (101) may include a hinge structure (1365) for rotatably connecting the first housing part (1310) and the second housing part (1320). For example, the hinge structure (1365) may enable the electronic device (101) to change from an unfolding state to a folding state. For example, the hinge structure (1365) may enable the electronic device (101) to change from a folding state to an unfolding state. For example, the hinge structure (1365) can maintain the electronic device (101) in an intermediate state between the unfolded state and the folded state. The intermediate state may be referred to as a state between the folded state and the unfolded state.

[0267] For example, the unfolded state may be referred to as the first state. For example, the folded state may be referred to as the second state. For example, the intermediate state may be referred to as the third state.

[0268] For example, the electronic device (101) may include a flexible display (1330). The flexible display (1330) may be disposed on a first housing part (1310) and a second housing part (1320). For example, the flexible display (1330) may include a first region (1331), a second region (1332), and a third region (1333). The first region (1331) may be disposed on the first housing part (1310). The second region (1332) may be disposed on the second housing part (1320). The third region (1333) may be disposed between the first region (1331) and the second region (1332). The third region (1333) may be disposed along a folding axis (f).

[0269] For example, the electronic device (101) can provide a first state in which the first housing part (1310) and the second housing part (1320) are fully folded out by the hinge structure (1365). For example, referring to FIG. 13A, the electronic device (101) can be in the first state. For example, the first state can mean a state in which a first direction (1391) toward which the first region (1331) faces corresponds to a second direction (1392) toward which the second region (1332) faces. For example, within the first state, the first direction (1391) can be parallel to the second direction (1392). For example, within the first state, the first direction (1391) can be substantially the same as the second direction (1392).

[0270] For example, within the first state, the first region (1331) may form substantially the same plane as the second region (1332). For example, the angle (A1) between the first region (1331) and the second region (1332) within the first state may be approximately 180 degrees. For example, the first state may refer to a state in which substantially the entire display area of ​​the flexible display (1330) may be provided on a single plane. For example, the first state may refer to a state in which the first region (1331), the second region (1332), and the third region (1333) may all be provided on a single plane. For example, the first state may be referred to as an outspread state or an outspreading state. Below, different states of the electronic device (101) based on angles (e.g., angles (A2, A3, A4) of FIG. 13b) are described. For example, the angles may be replaced with angles between the first housing part (1310) and the second housing part (1320).

[0271] Referring to FIG. 13b, the exemplary electronic device (101) can provide a second state in which the first housing part (1310) and the second housing part (1320) are folded by the hinge structure (1365).

[0272] For example, the electronic device (101) may be in a third state between the first state and the second state. For example, state (1300A) and state (1300B) may be referred to as the third state. For example, state (1300C) may be referred to as the second state. Within the third state and the second state, the first direction (1391) toward which the first region (1331) faces may be different from the second direction (1392) toward which the second region (1332) faces. For example, within the third state and the second state, the third region (1333) may be at least partially bent.

[0273] For example, within state (1300A), the angle between the first direction (1391) and the second direction (1392) may be about 45 degrees. For example, within state (1300B), the angle between the first direction (1391) and the second direction (1392) may be about 150 degrees. For example, within the second state (1300C), the angle between the first direction (1391) and the second direction (1392) may be substantially 180 degrees. For example, within state (1300A), the angle (A2) between the first region (1331) and the second region (1332) may be about 135 degrees. For example, within state (1300B), the angle (A3) between the first region (1331) and the second region (1332) may be about 30 degrees. For example, in state (1300C), the angle (A4) between the first region (1331) and the second region (1332) may be substantially 0 degrees. For example, the second state may be referred to as a folded state. For example, the second state may provide a state (1300C) in which the first direction (1391) is substantially opposite to the second direction (1392). For example, state (1300C) may mean a state in which the flexible display (1330) is obscured within the field of view of a user looking at the electronic device (101). However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0274] Figure 14a illustrates the states of an exemplary electronic device including a foldable housing. Figure 14b is a graph showing the radiation pattern of an antenna according to the states of the exemplary electronic device. Figure 14c illustrates an example screen for guiding the folding angle of the exemplary electronic device.

[0275] For example, the electronic device (101) may include a sensor (e.g., a first sensor (1451) and / or a second sensor (1452)). For example, the sensor may be used to identify a folding angle between the first housing part (1310) and the second housing part (1320). For example, the sensor may include at least one of a 6-axis sensor, a posture sensor, a geomagnetic sensor, a hall sensor, a proximity sensor, an infrared (IR) sensor, or an illuminance sensor. For example, the sensor may include, but is not limited to, a first sensor (1451) disposed within the first housing part (1310) and / or a second sensor (1452) disposed within the second housing part (1320).

[0276] For example, the sensor may be configured to provide data representing a folding angle between the first housing part (1310) and the second housing part (1320) to at least one processor (e.g., at least one processor (120) of FIG. 1). The at least one processor (120) may be configured to identify the folding angle based on the data provided from the sensor. The at least one processor (120) may be configured to identify whether the identified folding angle corresponds to a specified folding angle included in the folding information. For example, the at least one processor (120) may be configured to maintain or stop displaying the folding information displayed through the flexible display (1330) based on whether the folding angle corresponds to the specified folding angle.

[0277] Referring to FIG. 14A, the electronic device (101) may be in a first state, a second state, and a third state. For example, state (1401) of FIG. 14A may be referred to as a second state. For example, states (1402) and (1403) of FIG. 14A may be referred to as a third state. For example, state (1404) of FIG. 14A may be referred to as a first state. Depending on the state of the electronic device (101), the angle between the first housing part (1310) and the second housing part (1320) may be different. For example, in state (1401), the first housing part (1310) and the second housing part (1320) may be substantially parallel. For example, within state (1402), the angle between the first housing part (1310) and the second housing part (1320) may be substantially a right angle (e.g., about 90 degrees). For example, within state (1403), the angle between the first housing part (1310) and the second housing part (1320) may be an obtuse angle (e.g., about 120 degrees). For example, within state (1402), the angle between the first housing part (1310) and the second housing part (1320) may be substantially a straight angle (e.g., about 180 degrees).

[0278] For example, based on the state of the electronic device (101), the radiation pattern of the antenna (e.g., the antenna (510) of FIG. 5B) may be different. The graph (1400) illustrated in FIG. 14B is a graph that represents the results of measuring the gain of the antenna (510) while rotating the elevation angle for the electronic device (101) in a fixed azimuth position on a polar coordinate system. The gain may be a gain for a signal on a specified frequency band (e.g., approximately 1.6 GHz).

[0279] The first graph (1410) of FIG. 14b shows a radiation pattern of the antenna (510) in a second state (e.g., state (1401) of FIG. 14a) in which the first housing part (1310) and the second housing part (1320) are folded. The second graph (1420) of FIG. 14b shows a radiation pattern of the antenna (510) in a third state (e.g., state (1402) of FIG. 14a) in which the angle between the first housing part (1310) and the second housing part (1320) is about 90 degrees. The third graph (1430) of FIG. 14b shows a radiation pattern of the antenna (510) in a third state (e.g., state (1403) of FIG. 14a) in which the angle between the first housing part (1310) and the second housing part (1320) is about 120 degrees. The fourth graph (1440) of FIG. 14b shows the radiation pattern of an antenna (e.g., antenna (510) of FIG. 5b) in a first state (e.g., state (1404) of FIG. 14a) in which the angle between the first housing part (1310) and the second housing part (1320) is about 180 degrees.

[0280] Referring to graph (1400), depending on the angle between the first housing part (1310) and the second housing part (1320), the direction and gain of the main lobe of the radiation pattern may differ. For example, the first graph (1410) may indicate the lowest upward directivity. For example, the second graph (1420) may indicate the highest upward directivity. For example, the upward directivity indicated by the third graph (1430) may be higher than the upward directivity indicated by the first graph (1410). Referring to graph (1400), the upward directivity of the radiation pattern of the antenna (510) may be higher in the third state, which is an intermediate state, than in the first state or the second state.

[0281] For example, an electronic device (101) including a foldable housing (e.g., the foldable housing (1301) of FIG. 13A) may perform satellite communication. For example, when the electronic device (101) performs satellite communication, at least one processor (120) may be configured to identify a state in which the upward directivity of the radiation pattern of the antenna (510) is high and provide a screen including a visual object for guiding the state through a flexible display (1330).

[0282] Referring to FIG. 14C, based on a wireless communication circuit (e.g., a wireless communication circuit (192) of FIG. 5B) performing communication with an external electronic device (e.g., a satellite (507) of FIG. 5A) using a signal on a designated frequency band (e.g., about 1.6 GHz), at least one processor (e.g., at least one processor (120) of FIG. 5B) may provide a screen for guiding a state in which the upward directivity of the radiation pattern of the antenna (510) is high through the flexible display (1330). For example, the at least one processor (120) may display a screen including text (1461) and / or an image (1462) guiding a user to adjust a folding angle through the flexible display (1330). For example, at least one processor (120) may be configured to display text (1461) such as 'Fold the smartphone 120 degrees' and / or an image (1462) of the electronic device (101) folded in a highly upward-oriented state through the flexible display (1330). The user may intuitively recognize that the folding angle needs to be adjusted through the text (1461) and / or the image (1462). As the user additionally adjusts the folding angle by rotating the second housing part (1320) with respect to the first housing part (1310), the folding angle may correspond to the specified folding angle. At least one processor (120) may stop displaying folding information based on identifying that the folding angle corresponds to a specified folding angle using a sensor (e.g., the first sensor (1451) and / or the second sensor (1452) of FIG. 14A).

[0283] In the above description, the folding information has been described as being displayed through the flexible display (1330), but is not limited thereto. For example, the electronic device (101) may provide the folding information through an audio signal. For example, the electronic device (101) may provide the folding information to the user by providing an audio signal such as, "Fold the smartphone 120 degrees." In addition, the electronic device (101) may provide the folding information to the user using various methods. For example, the folding information may be displayed through a cover display (1336) that is distinct from the flexible display (1330). For example, when the foldable housing (1301) is in a folded state, when instructions are individually or collectively executed by at least one processor (120), the electronic device (101) may display the folding information through the cover display (1336). For example, folding information may be displayed through at least one of the flexible display (1330) or the cover display (1336).

[0284] Figure 15 illustrates exemplary electronic devices of a deformable structure.

[0285] For example, the feature of identifying a state in which the upward directivity of the radiation pattern of an antenna (e.g., the antenna (510) of FIG. 5b) is high and providing the state can be applied to electronic devices (101) of various structures.

[0286] For example, the device (1510) and the device (1520) of FIG. 15 may include three housing parts. For example, the three housing parts may be rotatably coupled. For example, in the case of the device (1510), with respect to the first housing part (1501) located in the center, the second housing part (1502) and the third housing part (1503) on either side may have a structure that folds inward. For example, in the case of the device (1520), with respect to the first housing part (1501) located in the center, the second housing part (1502) may be folded inward, and the third housing part (1503) may be folded outward.

[0287] For example, the device (1510) and the device (1520) of FIG. 15 may have a state in which the upward directivity of the radiation pattern of the antenna (510) is high. For example, since the radiation pattern of the antenna (510) may change due to angles (A1, A2) between three housing parts (1501, 1502, 1503), the upward directivity of the radiation pattern of the antenna (510) may be high within a specific state. For example, at least one processor (120) may guide the state in which the upward directivity of the radiation pattern of the antenna (510) is high in the device (1510) and the device (1520) through the flexible display (1504).

[0288] For example, the device (1530) of FIG. 15 may have a housing having a partially rollable structure. For example, with respect to the first housing part (1501), the second housing part (1502) may be rolled. For example, when the second housing part (1502) is fully unfolded, the first housing part (1501) and the second housing part (1502) may be flat. For example, the second housing part (1502) may be at least partially rolled with respect to the first housing part (1501). The device (1530) of FIG. 15 may have a state in which the upward directivity of the radiation pattern of the antenna (510) is high. For example, since the radiation pattern of the antenna may change depending on the length of the rollup of the second housing part (1502), the upward directivity of the radiation pattern of the antenna (510) may be high within a specific state. For example, at least one processor (120) can guide the high upward orientation state of the device (1530) through the flexible display (1504).

[0289] Figure 16a illustrates states of an exemplary electronic device. Figure 16b illustrates the rear side of the exemplary electronic device.

[0290] For example, the reception power received through the antenna can be calculated based on the following [Mathematical Formula 1].

[0291]

[0292] (P T : Transmit power, G T : Gain of the transmitting antenna, G R : gain of receiving antenna, R: distance, f: frequency, PLF: polarization loss factor)

[0293] Referring to the above [Mathematical Formula 1], the received power may depend on the polarization loss factor (PLF). The polarization loss factor is an indicator of power loss due to the difference in polarization characteristics between the transmitting antenna and the receiving antenna. The polarization loss factor may be '1' when the polarization characteristics of the transmitting antenna and the polarization characteristics of the receiving antenna match. The polarization loss factor may be '0' when the polarization characteristics of the transmitting antenna and the polarization characteristics of the receiving antenna are completely mismatched. In order to increase communication efficiency, the polarization characteristics of the transmitting antenna and the polarization characteristics of the receiving antenna may be required to be identical (correlated).

[0294] Circularly polarized signals can be suitable for long-distance communication because they have less propagation loss than linearly polarized signals. Since the satellite (507) is located hundreds to tens of thousands of kilometers above the ground where the electronic device (101) is located, the antenna of the satellite (507) can have circular polarization characteristics to reduce signal loss. For example, the antenna of the satellite (507) can be configured to radiate right-handed circular polarization (RHCP) to increase the efficiency of satellite communication. When the antenna of the electronic device (101) performing satellite communication has circular polarization characteristics, the efficiency of satellite communication of the electronic device (101) can be improved because it matches the polarization characteristics of the antenna of the satellite (507).

[0295] Referring to FIG. 16A, the exemplary electronic device (101) may include a housing (1620) that does not deform and maintains a fixed shape. For example, unlike the aforementioned sliderable housing (e.g., the sliderable housing (201) of FIG. 5A) and foldable housing (e.g., the foldable housing (1301) of FIG. 13A), the housing (1620) may have a structure that maintains a bar shape and cannot be deformed.

[0296] For example, the flexible display (1610) may be movable. For example, state (1601) of FIG. 16A may be referred to as a first state in which the display area of ​​the flexible display (1610) is minimal. Within the first state, a portion of the flexible display (1610) may be positioned on the front surface (e.g., the surface in the +z direction) of the housing (1620), and another portion of the flexible display (1610) may be positioned on the lower surface (e.g., the surface in the -y direction) and the back surface (e.g., the surface in the -z direction) of the housing (1620).

[0297] For example, the state (1602) of FIG. 16A may be referred to as a second state in which the display area of ​​the flexible display (1610) is maximized. In the first state, another portion of the flexible display (1610) that was positioned on the bottom and side surfaces of the housing (1620) may be positioned at least partially on the front surface of the housing (1620) in the second state. For example, the flexible display (1610) may move in a first direction (e.g., +y direction) in the first state. As the flexible display (1610) moves in the first direction, the area of ​​the flexible display (1610) positioned on the front surface of the housing (1620) may increase. For example, in the second state, the flexible display (1610) may move in a second direction (e.g., -y direction). As the flexible display (1610) moves in the second direction, the area of ​​the flexible display (1610) positioned on the front side of the housing (1620) may be reduced. Although not shown, the electronic device (101) may be in a third state between the first state and the second state.

[0298] Referring to FIG. 16B, the exemplary electronic device (101) may include a conductive pattern (1630). For example, the conductive pattern (1630) may be formed on one side of a flexible display (1610). For example, the side of the flexible display (1610) on which the conductive pattern (1630) is formed may be referred to as a side of the flexible display (1610) facing the housing (1620). For example, the side may be a back side (e.g., a side in the -z direction) of the flexible display (1610).

[0299] For example, the conductive pattern (1630) can function as an antenna radiator. For example, the polarization characteristic of the antenna (510) including the conductive pattern (1630) can be circular polarization. The exemplary electronic device (101) can have high satellite communication efficiency by radiating a circular polarization signal through the conductive pattern (1630).

[0300] An electronic device (101) is provided. The electronic device (101) may include at least one processor (120). The electronic device (101) may include a memory (130) that stores instructions. The electronic device (101) may include an antenna (510). The electronic device (101) may include a sliderable housing (201) that includes a first housing part (210) and a second housing part (220) that is slidably connected to the first housing part (210). The electronic device (101) may include a wireless communication circuit (192) configured to transmit a signal on a specified frequency band to an external electronic device or receive the signal from the external electronic device via the antenna (510). The electronic device (101) may include a driving unit (360) configured to provide a driving force for sliding movement of the second housing part (220) relative to the first housing part (210). The driving unit (360) may include a first state in which the size of the slideable housing (201) formed by the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) is minimum, a second state in which the size of the slideable housing (201) is maximum, and a third state between the first state and the second state. The above instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor (120), may cause the electronic device (101) to identify a state in which the top directivity of the radiation pattern of the antenna (510) is high among the first state, the second state, and the third state, based on the wireless communication circuit (192) performing communication with the external electronic device.The above instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor (120), may cause the electronic device (101) to control the driving unit (360) to change the state of the antenna (510) to a state in which the upward directivity of the radiation pattern of the antenna (510) is high.

[0301] For example, the memory (130) may store location information related to the location of the external electronic device. The instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor (120), may cause the electronic device (101) to obtain the location information stored in the memory (130). The instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor (120), may cause the electronic device (101) to identify a state in which the upward directivity of the radiation pattern of the antenna (510) is high based on the obtained location information. The instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor (120), may cause the electronic device (101) to control the driving unit (360) to change the state in which the upward directivity of the radiation pattern of the antenna (510) is high.

[0302] For example, the memory (130) may store location information related to a location of the external electronic device. The instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor (120), may cause the electronic device (101) to identify, at a first timing, first location information indicating a relative location of the external electronic device with respect to the electronic device (101), based on the location information stored in the memory (130). The instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor (120), may cause the electronic device (101) to identify, based on the first location information, a first slide-out length of the second housing part (220) with respect to the first housing part (210), corresponding to a state in which the directivity of the antenna (510) is directed toward the external electronic device. The above instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor (120), may cause the electronic device (101) to control the driving unit (360) to cause the second housing part (220) to slide along the first slide-out length.

[0303] For example, the instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor (120), may cause the electronic device (101) to identify second position information indicating a relative position of the external electronic device with respect to the electronic device (101) at a second timing after a specified time has elapsed from the first timing, within a state in which the second housing part (220) is slid by the first slide-out length. The instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor (120), may cause the electronic device (101) to identify, based on the second position information, a second slide-out length of the second housing part (220) with respect to the first housing part (210), which corresponds to a state in which the directivity of the antenna (510) is directed toward the external electronic device. The above instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor (120), may cause the electronic device (101) to control the driving unit (360) based on a difference between the first slide-out length and the second slide-out length.

[0304] For example, the instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor (120), may cause the electronic device (101) to control the driving unit (360) to cause the second housing part (220) to slide by the second slide-out length based on a difference between the first slide-out length exceeding a threshold length and the second slide-out length.

[0305] For example, the instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor (120), may cause the electronic device (101) to control the driving unit (360) to maintain the slide-out length of the second housing part (220) based on a difference between the first slide-out length and the second slide-out length that is less than a threshold length.

[0306] For example, the instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor (120), may cause the electronic device (101) to control the driving unit (360) to change the electronic device (101) into the first state, the second state, and the third state, respectively, over a specified period of time based on the wireless communication circuit (192) performing communication with the external electronic device. The instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor (120), may cause the electronic device (101) to identify a quality of a signal received from the external electronic device within the first state, the second state, and the third state. The instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor (120), may cause the electronic device (101) to control the driving unit (360) based on the quality of the signal.

[0307] For example, the instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor (120), may cause the electronic device (101) to compare the quality of a first signal received within the first state, the quality of a second signal received within the second state, and the quality of a third signal received within the third state. The instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor (120), may cause the electronic device (101) to control the driving unit (360) based on the state of the electronic device (101) corresponding to the signal exhibiting the highest quality.

[0308] For example, the electronic device (101) may further include a plurality of conductive portions (530) formed along at least a portion of the edges of the second housing part (220). The wireless communication circuit (192) may be configured to communicate with the external electronic device using at least one of the plurality of conductive portions (530).

[0309] For example, the second housing part (220) may include a first edge (551) arranged in the slide-out direction of the second housing part (220), a second edge (552) perpendicular to the first edge (551), and a third edge (553) opposite to the second edge (552).

[0310] For example, the plurality of conductive portions (530) may include a first conductive portion (531) formed between a first non-conductive portion (541) within the second edge (552) and a second non-conductive portion (542) within the first edge (551), and a second conductive portion (532) formed between the second non-conductive portion (542) and a third non-conductive portion (543) within the third edge (553).

[0311] For example, the first non-conductive portion (541) may be positioned closer to the first edge (551) than the third non-conductive portion (543).

[0312] For example, the second housing part (220) may further include a side frame (521) forming the first edge (551), the second edge (552), and the third edge (553). The second housing part (220) may further include a support member (520) wrapped by the side frame (521). The plurality of conductive portions (530) may include a first conductive portion (531) formed between a first non-conductive portion (541) in the second edge (552) and a second non-conductive portion (542) in the first edge (551). The plurality of conductive portions (530) may include a second conductive portion (532) formed between the second non-conductive portion (542) and a third non-conductive portion (543) in the first edge (551). The plurality of conductive portions (530) may include a third conductive portion (533) formed between the third non-conductive portion (543) and a fourth non-conductive portion (544) within the third edge (553). The plurality of conductive portions (530) may include a fourth conductive portion (534) formed between the first non-conductive portion (541) and a point where the side frame (521) and the support member (520) come into contact.

[0313] For example, the plurality of conductive portions (530) may include a first conductive portion (531) formed between a first non-conductive portion (541) within the second edge (552) and a second non-conductive portion (542) within the second edge (552). The plurality of conductive portions (530) may include a second conductive portion (532) formed between the second non-conductive portion (542) and a third non-conductive portion (543) within the first edge (551). The plurality of conductive portions (530) may include a third conductive portion (533) formed between the third non-conductive portion (543) and a fourth non-conductive portion (544) within the first edge (551). The plurality of conductive portions (530) may include a fourth conductive portion (534) formed between the fourth non-conductive portion (544) and a fifth non-conductive portion (545) within the third edge (553). The plurality of conductive portions (530) may include a fifth conductive portion (535) formed between the fifth non-conductive portion (545) and a sixth non-conductive portion (546) within the third edge (553).

[0314] For example, the wireless communication circuit (192) may be configured to communicate with the external electronic device by using a conductive portion formed at least partially on the first edge (551) among the plurality of conductive portions (530).

[0315] For example, the above-mentioned frequency band may include a satellite communication frequency band. The external electronic device may include a satellite (507).

[0316] For example, the memory (130) may store location information related to the location of the external electronic device. The electronic device (101) may further include a flexible display (1610) disposed on the sliderable housing (201). The at least one processor (120) may be configured to guide the location of the electronic device (101) aligned with the external electronic device through the flexible display (1610) based on the location information stored in the memory (130).

[0317] An electronic device (101) is provided. The electronic device (101) may include at least one processor (120). The electronic device (101) may include an antenna (510). The electronic device (101) may include a wireless communication circuit (192) configured to communicate with an external electronic device using a signal on a designated frequency band. The electronic device (101) may include a foldable housing (1301) including a first housing part (1310) and a second housing part (1320). The electronic device (101) may include a flexible display (1610) including a first region disposed on the first housing part (1310), a second region disposed on the second housing part (1320), and a third region between the first region and the second region. The electronic device (101) may include a hinge structure (1365) configured to provide a first state in which a first direction toward the first region corresponds to a second direction toward the second region by rotatably connecting the first housing part (1310) and the second housing part (1320) about a folding axis, a second state in which the first direction is opposite to the second direction, and a third state between the second state and the first state. The instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor (120), may cause the electronic device (101) to identify an angle between the first region (1331) and the second region (1332) in which the upward directivity of the radiation pattern of the antenna (510) is high based on the wireless communication circuit (192) performing communication with the external electronic device using a signal on the designated frequency band.The above instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor (120), may cause the electronic device (101) to display a screen for guiding the identified angle through the flexible display (1330).

[0318] For example, the electronic device (101) may further include a sensor (1451, 1452) configured to provide data representing a folding angle between the first region (1331) and the second region (1332) to the at least one processor (120).

[0319] For example, the instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor (120), may cause the electronic device (101) to stop displaying the screen based on identifying that the folding angle corresponds to an angle at which the upward directivity of the radiation pattern of the antenna (510) is high.

[0320] 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, electronic devices, or home appliances. Electronic devices according to the embodiments of this document are not limited to the aforementioned devices.

[0321] 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 one component from another, and do not limit the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order). When a component (e.g., a first component) is referred to as "coupled" or "connected" to another component (e.g., a second component), with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicatively," it means that the component can be connected to the other component directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0322] The term "module" 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. 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).

[0323] 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 (120) (e.g., the processor (120)) of a 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.

[0324] According to one embodiment, the method according to 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 a memory (130) of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or a relay server.

[0325] 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.

Claims

1. In electronic devices, At least one processor comprising processing circuitry; A memory including one or more storage media for storing instructions; antenna; A sliderable housing comprising a first housing part and a second housing part slidably connected to the first housing part; A wireless communication circuit configured to transmit a signal on a designated frequency band to an external electronic device or to receive the signal from the external electronic device through the antenna; and Including a driving unit configured to provide a driving force for sliding movement of the second housing part relative to the first housing part; The above driving part, It is configured to provide a first state in which the size of the sliderable housing formed by the first housing part and the second housing part is minimum, a second state in which the size of the sliderable housing is maximum, and a third state between the first state and the second state, The above instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor, cause the electronic device to: Based on the above wireless communication circuit performing communication with the external electronic device, among the first state, the second state, and the third state, a state in which the top directivity of the radiation pattern of the antenna is high is identified, Controlling the driving unit to change the upward directivity of the radiation pattern of the antenna to a high state, Electronic devices.

2. In paragraph 1, The above memory is, Store location information related to the location of the external electronic device, The above instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor, cause the electronic device to: Obtain the location information stored in the above memory, Based on the acquired location information, the state in which the upward directivity of the radiation pattern of the antenna is high is identified, Controlling the driving unit to change the directional directivity of the radiation pattern of the antenna to a high state, Electronic devices.

3. In either of paragraphs 1 and 2, The above memory is, Store location information related to the location of the external electronic device, The above instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor, cause the electronic device to: Based on the location information stored in the memory, at a first timing, first location information indicating a relative location of the external electronic device with respect to the electronic device is identified, Based on the first location information, a first slide-out length of the second housing part corresponding to a state in which the directivity of the antenna is directed toward the external electronic device is identified for the first housing part, Controlling the driving unit to cause the slide movement of the second housing part by the length of the first slide out, Electronic devices.

4. In paragraph 3, The above instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor, cause the electronic device to: In a state where the second housing part is slid by the first slide-out length, at a second timing after a specified time has elapsed from the first timing, second position information indicating the relative position of the external electronic device with respect to the electronic device is identified, Based on the second location information, a second slide-out length of the second housing part relative to the first housing part is identified corresponding to a state in which the directivity of the antenna is directed toward the external electronic device, causing the driving unit to be controlled based on the difference between the first slide-out length and the second slide-out length, Electronic devices.

5. In paragraph 4, The above instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor, cause the electronic device to: Based on the difference between the first slide-out length exceeding the critical length and the second slide-out length, causing the driving unit to be controlled so as to cause the slide movement of the second housing part by the second slide-out length. Electronic devices.

6. In either of paragraphs 4 and 5, The above instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor, cause the electronic device to: Based on the difference between the first slide-out length and the second slide-out length less than the critical length, causing the driving unit to be controlled so as to maintain the slide-out length of the second housing part. Electronic devices.

7. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 6, The above instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor, cause the electronic device to: Based on the wireless communication circuit performing communication with the external electronic device, the driving unit is controlled to change the electronic device into the first state, the second state, and the third state, respectively, over a specified period of time. Within the first state, the second state, and the third state, identifying the quality of a signal received from the external electronic device, Based on the quality of the above signal, causing the driving unit to be controlled, Electronic devices.

8. In paragraph 7, The above instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor, cause the electronic device to: Comparing the quality of a first signal received within the first state, the quality of a second signal received within the second state, and the quality of a third signal received within the third state, causing said driving unit to be controlled based on the state of said electronic device corresponding to the signal indicating the highest quality; Electronic devices.

9. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 8, Further comprising a plurality of conductive portions formed along at least a portion of the edges of the second housing part; The above wireless communication circuit, configured to communicate with the external electronic device by using at least one of the plurality of challenging portions; Electronic devices.

10. In paragraph 9, The above second housing part, A first edge arranged in the slide-out direction of the second housing part, a second edge perpendicular to the first edge, and including a third edge opposite to the second edge, Electronic devices.

11. In paragraph 10, The above multiple challenging parts are: a first conductive portion formed between a first non-conductive portion within the second edge and a second non-conductive portion within the first edge, and Including a second conductive portion formed between the second non-conductive portion and the third non-conductive portion within the third edge; Electronic devices.

12. In paragraph 11, The above first non-conductive portion is, Located closer to the first edge than the third non-conductive portion, Electronic devices.

13. In any one of paragraphs 10 to 12, The above second housing part, a side frame forming the first edge, the second edge, and the third edge, and Further comprising a support member wrapped by the above side frame, The above multiple challenging parts are: A first conductive portion formed between a first non-conductive portion within the second edge and a second non-conductive portion within the first edge; A second conductive portion formed between the second non-conductive portion and the third non-conductive portion within the first edge; a third conductive portion formed between the third non-conductive portion and the fourth non-conductive portion within the third edge, and From the first non-conductive portion, a fourth conductive portion formed between the point where the side frame and the support member come into contact, Electronic devices.

14. In any one of paragraphs 10 to 13, The above multiple challenging parts are: A first conductive portion formed between a first non-conductive portion within the second edge and a second non-conductive portion within the second edge; A second conductive portion formed between the second non-conductive portion and the third non-conductive portion within the first edge; A third conductive portion formed between the third non-conductive portion and the fourth non-conductive portion within the first edge; a fourth conductive portion formed between the fourth non-conductive portion and the fifth non-conductive portion within the third edge, and Including a fifth conductive portion formed between the fifth non-conductive portion and the sixth non-conductive portion within the third edge, Electronic devices.

15. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 14, The above specified frequency band is, Includes satellite communication frequency bands, The above external electronic device, including satellites, Electronic devices.

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