Antenna structure and electronic device comprising same

Abstract

An electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may comprise: a first housing including at least one first conductive portion segmented along at least a portion of the side surface thereof; an antenna carrier having a first antenna pattern electrically connected to the first conductive portion; a fan arranged in the first housing; and a first printed circuit board which is arranged in the first housing and which includes a first communication module electrically connected to the first conductive portion. The antenna carrier can include: a first vent hole formed in at least a portion of the side surface thereof; and a feeding part which is provided on the first antenna pattern and which is electrically connected to the first printed circuit board.

Description

Antenna structure and electronic device including the same

[0001] One embodiment disclosed in this document relates to an antenna structure and an electronic device including the same.

[0002] Thanks to remarkable advancements in information and communication technology and semiconductor technology, the proliferation and use of various electronic devices is rapidly increasing. Recent electronic devices are being developed to enable portability and communication.

[0003] Electronic devices can refer to devices that perform specific functions based on the programs installed on them, such as home appliances, electronic notebooks, portable multimedia players, mobile communication terminals, tablet PCs, audio / video devices, desktop / laptop computers, and car navigation systems. For example, these electronic devices can output stored information as audio or video. As the integration of electronic devices increases and ultra-high-speed, high-capacity wireless communications become widespread, a single electronic device, such as a mobile communication terminal, can now be equipped with a variety of functions. For example, in addition to communication functions, entertainment functions such as games, multimedia functions such as music / video playback, communication and security functions such as mobile banking, and functions such as schedule management and electronic wallets are being integrated into a single electronic device. These electronic devices are becoming smaller so that users can conveniently carry them.

[0004] As mobile communication services expand into the realm of multimedia services, users can now access multimedia services in addition to voice calls and text messages through their electronic devices. To ensure users can enjoy these services without inconvenience, electronic devices are increasingly equipped with larger display panels. Furthermore, foldable electronic devices featuring flexible display panels have recently been introduced.

[0005] 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 related to the present disclosure.

[0006] An electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a first housing including at least one first conductive portion segmented along at least a portion of a side surface, an antenna carrier having a first antenna pattern formed thereon and electrically connected to the first conductive portion, a fan disposed within the first housing, and a first printed circuit board including a first communication module disposed within the first housing and electrically connected to the first conductive portion. The antenna carrier may include a first vent hole formed in at least a portion of a side surface and a feeding portion provided on the first antenna pattern and configured to be electrically connected to the first printed circuit board.

[0007] An electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a first housing including at least one first conductive portion segmented along at least a portion of a side surface, an antenna carrier having a first antenna pattern formed thereon and electrically connected to the first conductive portion through a coupling member, a fan disposed within the first housing, and a first printed circuit board including a first communication module disposed within the first housing and electrically connected to the first conductive portion. The antenna carrier may include a first vent hole formed in at least a portion of a side surface.

[0008] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment according to one embodiment.

[0009] FIG. 2 is a drawing illustrating a front view of an electronic device in an unfolded state according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0010] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a rear and side view of an electronic device in an unfolded state according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0011] FIG. 4 is a drawing illustrating the rear side of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0012] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating the interior of an electronic device in an unfolded state according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an antenna structure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the antenna structure of FIG. 6 taken along line A-A' according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 8 is a drawing illustrating an antenna structure including a feeding section and a ground section according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an antenna structure including a feeding section and a ground section according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 10 is a drawing illustrating an antenna structure including a feeding portion according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 11 is a drawing illustrating a housing and antenna structure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 12 is a front view showing the antenna structure of the first housing according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a first communication module of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating a first communication module disposed within an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 15A is a drawing showing a housing having a second vent hole formed therein, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 15b is a drawing showing an antenna carrier having a first vent hole formed therein, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 16 is a drawing showing an antenna structure including a metal wall according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] Electronic devices according to the embodiments disclosed in this document may be one type of device. The electronic devices may include, for example, portable communication devices (e.g., smartphones), computer devices, portable multimedia devices, portable medical devices, cameras, wearable devices, or home appliances. Electronic devices according to the embodiments of this document are not limited to the aforementioned devices.

[0026] The embodiments of this document and the terminology used herein are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, but should be understood to include 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 (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.

[0027] The term "module" used in one embodiment 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).

[0028] According to one embodiment, 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 one embodiment, 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 one embodiment, 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.

[0029] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment according to one embodiment disclosed in this document.

[0030] 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). According to 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 one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may have at least one of these components (e.g., the connection terminal (178)) omitted, or one or more other components added. In one embodiment, 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)).

[0031] The processor (120) may control at least one other component (e.g., a hardware or software component) of the electronic device (101) connected to the processor (120) by executing, for example, software (e.g., a program (140)), and may perform data processing or calculations. According to one embodiment, as at least a part of the data processing or calculations, 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 a secondary 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 therewith. For example, if the electronic device (101) includes a main processor (121) and a secondary processor (123), the secondary processor (123) may be configured to use less power than the main processor (121) or to be specialized for a specified function. The secondary processor (123) may be implemented separately from the main processor (121) or as a part thereof.

[0032] 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.

[0033] The memory (130) can store data used by at least one component (e.g., a processor (120) or a sensor module (176)) of the electronic device (101). The data can include, for example, software (e.g., a program (140)) and input data or output data for commands related thereto. The memory (130) can include a volatile memory (132) or a non-volatile memory (134).

[0034] 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).

[0035] 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).

[0036] 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.

[0037] The display module (160) can visually provide information to an external device (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (101). The display module (160) may include, for example, a display, a hall area program 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.

[0038] 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).

[0039] 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.

[0040] The interface (177) may support one or more designated protocols that may be used to directly or wirelessly connect the electronic device (101) with an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (102)). In one embodiment, the interface (177) may include, for example, a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB) interface, an SD card interface, or an audio interface.

[0041] 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).

[0042] A haptic module (179) can convert electrical signals into mechanical stimuli (e.g., vibration or movement) or electrical stimuli that a user can perceive through tactile or kinesthetic sensations. In one embodiment, the haptic module (179) can include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0043] 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.

[0044] The power management module (188) can manage power supplied to the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the power management module (188) can be implemented, for example, as at least a part of a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

[0045] 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.

[0046] 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).

[0047] 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) may support 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) may support requirements specified in an electronic device (101), an external electronic device (e.g., an electronic device (104)), or a network system (e.g., a 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.

[0048] 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 one embodiment, 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).

[0049] 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.

[0050] 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)).

[0051] According to one embodiment, commands or data may be transmitted or received between the electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (104) via a server (108) connected to a second network (199). Each of the external electronic devices (102 or 104) may be the same or a different type of device as the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, all or part of the operations executed in the electronic device (101) may be executed in one or more of the external electronic devices (102, 104, or 108). For example, when the electronic device (101) is to perform a certain function or service automatically or in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device (101) may, instead of or in addition to executing the function or service itself, request one or more external electronic devices to perform the function or at least a part of the service. One or more external electronic devices that receive the request may execute at least a portion of the requested function or service, or an additional function or service related to the request, and transmit the result of the execution to the electronic device (101). The electronic device (101) may process the result as is or additionally and provide it as at least a portion of a response to the request. For this purpose, cloud computing, distributed computing, mobile edge computing (MEC), or client-server computing technology may be used, for example. The electronic device (101) may provide an ultra-low latency service by using distributed computing or mobile edge computing, for example. In one embodiment, the external electronic device (104) may include an Internet of Things (IoT) device. The server (108) may be an intelligent server using machine learning and / or 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.

[0052] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a front side of an electronic device (101) in an unfolded state according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a rear side and a side of an electronic device (101) in an unfolded state according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a rear side of an electronic device (101) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0053] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, the electronic device (101) may include a foldable housing (201) (hereinafter, referred to as the housing (201)) for accommodating components of the electronic device (101), and a flexible or foldable display (202) (hereinafter, referred to as the display (202)) disposed within a space formed by the housing (201). The electronic device (101) may further include an antenna structure, and at least one component (e.g., a conductive portion) of the antenna structure may be positioned within an area of ​​the housing (201). The electronic device (101) may further include various components (e.g., a printed circuit board, a camera module, and a battery) disposed within the housing (201).

[0054] According to one embodiment, the housing (201) may include a first housing (210) and a second housing (220). According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) and / or the second housing (220) may form at least a portion of the exterior of the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the surface on which the display (202) is visually exposed is defined as the front surface (e.g., the first front surface (210a) and the second front surface (220a)) of the electronic device (101) and / or the housing (201). And, the surface opposite to the front surface is defined as the back surface (e.g., the first back surface (210b) and the second back surface (220b)) of the electronic device (101) and / or the housing (201). In addition, the surface surrounding at least a portion of the space between the front surface and the back surface is defined as the side surface (e.g., the first side surface (210c) and the second side surface (220c)) of the electronic device (101).

[0055] According to one embodiment, the first side (210c) of the first housing (210) may include a first-first side (211), a first-second side (212) extending from the first-first side (211) and arranged in a vertical direction with respect to the first-first side (211), and a first-third side (213) extending from the first-second side (212) and arranged in the same direction as the first-first side (211). According to one embodiment, the second side (220c) of the second housing (220) may include a second-first side (221), a second-second side (222) extending from the second-first side (221) and arranged in a vertical direction with respect to the second-first side (221), and a second-third side (223) extending from the second-second side (222) and arranged in the same direction as the second-first side (221).

[0056] According to one embodiment, to reduce the aesthetics of the electronic device (101) and the thickness of the electronic device (101) when folded, at least a portion of the first housing (210) and / or the second housing (220) may be formed of a metal material.

[0057] According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) may include at least one first conductive portion (310) segmented along at least a portion of the first side (210c). For example, the first conductive portion (310) may be a frame formed of a metal material of the first housing (210) and may be utilized as a radiator of an antenna. In one embodiment, in order for the first conductive portion (310) to be utilized as a radiator of an antenna, one end of the first conductive portion (310) may be segmented (e.g., a segmented portion (301)). However, the segmented portion (301) is only one example, and the design of the segmented portion (301) may be variously changed depending on the frequency utilization range of the antenna.

[0058] According to one embodiment, the second housing (220) may include a second conductive portion (320) segmented along at least a portion of the second side (220c). For example, the second conductive portion (320) may be a frame formed of a metal material of the second housing (220) and may be utilized as a radiator of an antenna. In one embodiment, in order for the second conductive portion (320) to be utilized as a radiator of an antenna, one end of the second conductive portion (320) may be segmented (e.g., segmented portion (301)). However, the segmented portion (301) is only one example, and the design of the segmented portion (301) may be variously changed depending on the frequency utilization range of the antenna.

[0059] According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) and / or the second housing (220) may include a second vent hole (214) formed in at least a portion of a side surface (e.g., the first side surface (210c) and the second side surface (220c)). The second vent hole (214) may be formed in a housing (210, 220) having a fan disposed therein. For example, when a fan is disposed inside the first housing (210), the second vent hole (214) may be formed in at least a portion of the first side surface (210c) of the first housing (210). According to one embodiment, the second vent hole (214) may be formed in multiple numbers.

[0060] According to one embodiment, the rear surface of the housing (201) (e.g., the first rear surface (210b) and the second rear surface (220b)) may include a material that does not interfere with antenna radiation. For example, the first rear surface (210b) and the second rear surface (220b) may include glass or an injection-molded material. According to one embodiment, the rear surface of the housing (201) (e.g., the first rear surface (210b) and the second rear surface (220b)) may be formed of at least a portion of a metal material to reduce the aesthetic appeal of the electronic device (101) and the thickness of the electronic device (101) when folded. According to one embodiment, referring to FIG. 4, the rear surface of the housing (e.g., the first rear surface (210b) and the second rear surface (220b)) may include a first region (2011) including a non-metallic material for antenna radiation, and a second region (2012) including a metallic material as an area other than the first region (2011). The first region (2011) may include an area that vertically contacts a side surface of the housing (e.g., the first side surface (210c) and the second side surface (220c)). The first region (2011) may be an edge region that affects antenna radiation. The second region (2012) may mean an area extending from the first region (2011) and excluding the first region (2011). The second region (2012) may be a center region.

[0061] According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) may be rotatably connected to the second housing (220) using a hinge module (203). For example, the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) may each be rotatably connected to the hinge module (203). Accordingly, the electronic device (101) may be changed into a folded state (not shown) or an unfolded state (e.g., FIGS. 2 and 3). In the folded state, the first front surface (210a) may face the second front surface (220a), and in the unfolded state, the direction in which the first front surface (210a) faces may be the same as the direction in which the second front surface (220a) faces. For example, in the unfolded state, the first front surface (210a) may be positioned substantially on the same plane as the second front surface (220a). In one embodiment, the second housing (220) may provide relative motion with respect to the first housing (210).

[0062] According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are arranged on both sides with respect to the folding axis (A) as the center, and may have a shape that is overall symmetrical with respect to the folding axis (A). As described below, the angle between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) may be changed depending on whether the state of the electronic device (101) is in an unfolded state, a folded state, or an intermediate state between the unfolded state and the folded state.

[0063] According to one embodiment, the display (202) may refer to a display in which at least a portion of the display can be transformed into a flat or curved surface. For example, the display (202) may be formed to be variable in response to the relative movement of the second housing (220) with respect to the first housing (210). According to one embodiment, the display (202) may include a folding area (202c), a first display area (202a) disposed on one side (e.g., above (in the +Y direction) of the folding area (202c) illustrated in FIG. 2) with respect to the folding area (202c), and a second display area (202b) disposed on the other side (e.g., below (in the -Y direction) of the folding area (202c) illustrated in FIG. 2). According to one embodiment, the folding area (202c) may be located on the hinge module (203). According to one embodiment, the first display area (202a) may be disposed on the first housing (210), and the second display area (202b) may be disposed on the second housing (220). According to one embodiment, the display (202) may be accommodated in the first housing (210) and the second housing (220).

[0064] However, the division of the regions of the display (202) illustrated in FIG. 2 is exemplary, and the display (202) may be divided into a plurality of regions (for example, four or more or two) depending on the structure or function. For example, in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 2, the regions of the display (202) may be divided by a folding region (202c) extending parallel to the X-axis or a folding axis (A-axis), but in one embodiment, the display (202) may be divided into regions based on another folding region (for example, a folding region parallel to the Y-axis) or another folding axis (for example, a folding axis parallel to the Y-axis). According to one embodiment, the display (202) may be combined with or disposed adjacent to a touch detection circuit, a pressure sensor capable of measuring the intensity (pressure) of a touch, and / or a digitizer configured to detect a magnetic field-type stylus pen.

[0065] According to one embodiment, at least a portion of the display (202) may include a metallic material, such as a metal mesh, for touch operations. According to one embodiment, an edge portion of the display (202) may include a non-metallic material for antenna radiation. According to one embodiment, the display (202) may include a first region (not shown) including a non-metallic material for antenna radiation, and a second region (not shown) including a metallic material as an area other than the first region (not shown). The first region may include an area that vertically contacts a side surface of the housing (e.g., the first side surface (210c) and the second side surface (220c)). The first region may be an edge region that affects antenna radiation. The second region may mean an area extending from the first region and excluding the first region. The second region may be a central region.

[0066] FIG. 5 is a drawing illustrating the interior of an electronic device (101) in an unfolded state according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0067] Referring to FIG. 5, the electronic device (101) may include a foldable housing (201) (hereinafter, referred to as housing (201)) for accommodating components of the electronic device (101), a flexible or foldable display (202) (hereinafter, referred to as display (202)) disposed within a space formed by the housing (201), a fan (204), and printed circuit boards (230, 240). The electronic device (101) may further include an antenna structure, and at least one component (e.g., a conductive portion) of the antenna structure may be formed as an area of ​​the housing (201). The electronic device (101) may further include various components (e.g., a printed circuit board, a camera module, and a battery) disposed within the housing (201).

[0068] Hereinafter, the antenna structure of the first housing (210) will be described. The antenna structure of the second housing (220) may be applied to the antenna structure of the first housing (210).

[0069] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) includes an antenna structure, and the antenna structure may include a plurality of antennas. For example, the antenna structure may include a conductive portion (e.g., a first conductive portion (310)) and an antenna carrier (370). In one embodiment, the antenna structure may be disposed at an edge portion of the first housing (210). For example, the antenna structure may be formed at a left (-X-axis direction) portion and / or a right (+X-axis direction) portion of the first housing (210). Considering the overall structure and shape of the housing (201), the usable area may be wider when the antenna structure is disposed at the left (-X-axis direction) portion and / or the right (+X-axis direction) portion than when the antenna structure is disposed at the upper (+Y-axis direction) portion or the lower (-Y-axis direction) portion. However, this is not limited to the above embodiment, and vertical placement may also be possible depending on the size and structure of the electronic device.

[0070] In one embodiment, the conductive portion (e.g., the antenna pattern) may include at least a portion of a first housing (210) (e.g., the first side (210c)) formed of a conductive material. For example, the first housing (210) may include a first conductive portion (310) formed at least partially of a metal material and a non-conductive portion (hereinafter, a segmented portion (301)) disposed adjacent to each of the conductive portions. At least a portion of the first conductive portion (310) may function as an antenna pattern. In one embodiment, the first conductive portion (310) may include a first-first conductive portion (311), a first-second conductive portion (312), a first-third conductive portion (313), and a first-fourth conductive portion (314).

[0071] In one embodiment, the segmented portion (301) may be a non-conductive portion that provides a different permittivity than the first conductive portion (310). For example, the segmented portion (301) may be filled with an insulating material for insulation, and may include any insulating material including, but not limited to, an elastomeric material, ceramic, mica, glass, plastic, metal oxide, air, and / or other materials that have superior insulating properties compared to metal.

[0072] According to one embodiment, at least a portion of the 1-1 side (211) of the first housing (210) and / or the 1-2 side (212) extending from the 1-1 side (211) can operate as a radiator of the antenna. For example, at least a portion of the 1-1 side (211) and / or the 1-2 side (212) can protect components disposed inside the electronic device (101) and provide a function of operating as an antenna. The conductive portion (311, 314) of the 1-1 side (211) and / or the 1-2 side (212) operating as an antenna can be configured to be electrically connected to a wireless communication circuit (e.g., the wireless communication module (192) of FIG. 1) to transmit and / or receive a radio frequency (RF) signal. For example, the 1-1 side (211) may include the 1-1 conductive portion (311), and the remaining portion of the 1-1 side (211) and / or a portion of the 1-2 side (212) may include the 1-4 conductive portion (314). A segmented portion (301) (e.g., segmented portions (301a to 301n) of FIG. 3) may be positioned at both ends of the 1-1 conductive portion (311) and the 1-4 conductive portion (314). The segmented portion (301) may be positioned between the 1-1 conductive portion (311) and the 1-4 conductive portion (314).

[0073] According to one embodiment, at least a portion of the 1-3 side (213) of the first housing (210) and / or the 1-2 side (212) extending from the 1-3 side (213) can operate as a radiator of the antenna. For example, at least a portion of the 1-3 side (213) and / or the 1-2 side (212) can protect components disposed inside the electronic device (101) and provide a function of operating as an antenna. The conductive portion (313, 312) of the 1-3 side (213) and / or the 1-2 side (212) operating as an antenna can be configured to be electrically connected to a wireless communication circuit (e.g., the wireless communication module (192) of FIG. 1) to transmit and / or receive a radio frequency (RF) signal. For example, the 1-3 side (213) may include the 1-2 conductive portion (312), and the remaining portion of the 1-3 side (213) and / or a portion of the 1-2 side (212) may include the 1-3 conductive portion (313). A segmented portion (301) may be positioned between the 1-3 conductive portion (313) and the 1-2 conductive portion (312). The segmented portions (301) may be positioned at both ends of the 1-3 conductive portion (313) and the 1-2 conductive portion (312).

[0074] According to one embodiment, an antenna carrier (370) can be coupled with a first conductive portion (310). The antenna carrier (370) is an assembly bracket for coupling with a rear surface of the housing (e.g., the first rear surface (210b) and the second rear surface (220b)) and can function as a radiator of the antenna together with the first conductive portion (310). The configuration and coupling relationship of the antenna carrier (370) will be described in detail below.

[0075] According to one embodiment, a fan (204) as a heat dissipation device may be disposed inside the first housing (210) or the second housing (220). Since the electronic device (101) according to the present invention is a high-performance electronic device that uses power of 10 W or more, a fan (204) may be disposed in the electronic device (101) for the heat dissipation performance of the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the fan (204) may be disposed in a central portion inside a housing (e.g., the first housing (210) or the second housing (220)). For example, the fan (204) may be disposed in a central portion inside the first housing (210) so as to draw in outside air into the inside of the first housing (210) to dissipate heat generated in the electronic device (101). When the fan (204) is driven, the heat generation of the electronic device (101) can be controlled by sucking in air from the outside and supplying the sucked air to the inside of the first housing (210). According to one embodiment, the air that has been drawn into the inside of the first housing (210) through the fan (204) can receive the heat of the electronic device (101) and be discharged through the second vent hole (214) formed in at least a portion of the first side (210c) of the first housing (210). The fan (204) can also control the heat generation of the electronic device (101) by supplying outside air to the inside of the first housing (210). In addition, conversely, the heat generation of the electronic device (101) can be controlled by exhausting the air inside the first housing (210) to the outside. For example, heat generated from a heat source placed on a printed circuit board or an internal component of an electronic device (101) such as a display is filled inside the first housing (210), and the heated air inside the first housing (210) can be dissipated by being discharged from the inside of the first housing (210) to the outside by driving a fan (204).According to one embodiment, when the internal air of the first housing (210) is discharged to the outside, a heat transfer member (not shown) for transferring heat to the inside of the first housing (210), specifically, a heat transfer member containing carbon such as a graphite sheet or graphene, a metal member such as a copper sheet or an aluminum sheet, and a heat transfer member using a catalyst such as a heat pipe, may be mounted. However, the arrangement position of the fan (204) is not limited, and when it is arranged in the second housing (220), a vent hole (e.g., the second vent hole (214) of FIG. 3) may be formed on the second side of the second housing (220) (e.g., the second side (220c) of FIG. 3).

[0076] According to one embodiment, a first printed circuit board (230) disposed within a first housing (210) and a second printed circuit board (240) disposed within a second housing (220) may be equipped with a processor, a memory, a communication module (330, 340), and / or an interface. The processor may include, for example, one or more of a central processing unit, an application processor, a graphics processing unit, an image signal processor, a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor. The memory may include, for example, a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB) interface, an SD card interface, and / or an audio interface. The interface may electrically or physically connect the electronic device (101) to an external electronic device (101), and may include a USB connector, an SD card / MMC connector, or an audio connector.

[0077] In one embodiment, the flexible printed circuit board (235) can electrically connect a component (e.g., a first printed circuit board (230)) located in the first housing (210) and a component (e.g., a second printed circuit board (240)) located in the second housing (220). In one embodiment, the flexible printed circuit board (235) can cross the hinge module (203). For example, a portion of the flexible printed circuit board (235) can be positioned within the first housing (210) and another portion can be positioned within the second housing (220).

[0078] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a plurality of communication modules (e.g., 330, 340) to support a plurality of different wireless access technologies. According to one embodiment, the first printed circuit board (230) may be disposed on one side within the first housing (210) and include a first communication module (330) electrically connected to the first conductive portion (310), and the second printed circuit board (240) may be disposed on one side within the second housing (220) and include a second communication module (340) electrically connected to the second conductive portion (320). For example, the first communication module (330) and the second communication module (340) may support separate networks. For example, the first communication module (330) may be a 5G wireless communication module, and the second communication module (340) may be a wifi module. The 5G communication module can transmit and receive 5G signals to and from a 5G base station via a 5G mobile communication network. However, the types of the first communication module (330) and the second communication module (340) are not limited, and the first communication module (330) may be a Wi-Fi module and the second communication module (340) may be a 5G wireless communication module. According to one embodiment, when the size of the electronic device (101) is sufficiently large, both the first communication module (330) and the second communication module (340) may be placed in the first housing (210) or the second housing (220) (not shown).

[0079] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an antenna structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A' of the antenna structure of FIG. 6 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an antenna structure including a feeding portion and a ground portion according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an antenna structure including a feeding portion and a ground portion according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an antenna structure including a feeding portion according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating a housing and an antenna structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0080] Referring to FIGS. 6 to 11, the electronic device (101) may include a foldable housing (201) (hereinafter, referred to as housing (201)) for accommodating components of the electronic device (101), a flexible or foldable display (202) (hereinafter, referred to as display (202)) disposed within a space formed by the housing (201), a fan (204), and printed circuit boards (230, 240). The electronic device (101) may further include an antenna structure, and at least one component (e.g., a conductive portion) of the antenna structure may be positioned in one area of ​​the housing (201). The electronic device (101) may further include various components (e.g., a printed circuit board, a camera module, and a battery) disposed within the housing (201).

[0081] In one embodiment, the antenna carrier (370) can be coupled with the first conductive portion (310). In one embodiment, the antenna carrier (370) can be coupled with the first conductive portion (310) to form one antenna band. In one embodiment, the antenna carrier (370) can include a first antenna pattern (371) electrically connected with the first conductive portion (310). In one embodiment, the antenna carrier (370) can be designed to be coupled with the first conductive portion (310) to form one pattern. The antenna carrier (370) can be an assembly bracket for coupling with the rear surface of the housing (e.g., the first rear surface (210b) and the second rear surface (220b)) and can act as a radiator of the antenna together with the first conductive portion (310).

[0082] According to one embodiment, the antenna carrier (370) can be electrically connected to the first conductive portion (310) through a coupling member (380). For example, the coupling member (380) can be a member such as a screw or a hook. According to one embodiment, at least one hole (372) can be formed in the first antenna pattern (371) formed in the antenna carrier (370). A side surface (210c) of the housing including the first conductive portion (310) can extend toward the inner portion of the electronic device (101) and can be arranged to overlap the first antenna pattern (371) in the Z-axis direction. The coupling member (380) can be arranged to penetrate the at least one hole (372) formed in the first antenna pattern (371) and can be in contact with at least a portion of the housing (201) extending from the first conductive portion (310). However, the position of the coupling member (380) is not limited by the above embodiment, and may be designed in various ways depending on the frequency of the antenna. For example, the frequency of the antenna may be changed and / or tuned by changing the position of the coupling member (380).

[0083] In one embodiment, the antenna structure may further include a fitting portion (350) and a ground portion (360). In one embodiment, the feeding portion (350) of the antenna structure is a point where power is supplied and is electrically connected to the antenna carrier (370) through a feeding line (351) to transmit current to the antenna carrier (370) and the first conductive portion (310). For example, a transmit / receive (Tx / Rx) terminal of a wireless communication circuit disposed on the antenna carrier (370) may be connected in series with the feeding portion (350) to communicate. The wireless communication circuit may include any type of element, such as a switch, a resistive element, a capacitive element, an inductive element, or any combination thereof, for selectively providing series coupling with the feeding portion (350). In one embodiment, the feeding portion (350) of the antenna structure may be in contact with the antenna carrier (370). According to one embodiment, one end of the feeding portion (350) may be connected to the antenna carrier (370), and the other end may be connected to the first printed circuit board (230). For example, the feeding portion (350) may be a clip (e.g., a c-clip) disposed at an edge of the antenna carrier (370) that is electrically connected to the first printed circuit board (230). For example, the feeding portion (350) may be a coaxial cable that is electrically connected to the first printed circuit board (230). For example, the feeding portion (350) may be a portion that extends inward from the first side (e.g., the first side (210c) of FIG. 3).

[0084] According to one embodiment, the ground portion (360) of the antenna structure may be electrically connected to the antenna carrier (370). According to one embodiment, the ground portion (360) of the antenna structure may be in contact with the antenna carrier (370). According to one embodiment, one end of the ground portion (360) may be connected to the antenna carrier (370), and the other end may be connected to the first printed circuit board (230). For example, the ground portion (360) may be a conductive member such as a clip (e.g., a c-clip), a coaxial cable, a wire, or a screw, which is arranged at an edge of the antenna carrier (370) that is electrically connected to the first printed circuit board (230).

[0085] According to one embodiment, the first antenna pattern (371) may be connected to a coupling member (380), a feeding member (350), and / or a ground member (360). For example, referring to FIG. 8, the first antenna pattern (371) connected to the 1-4 conductive portion (314) may be disposed adjacent to a portion of the 1-1 side (211) and / or the 1-2 side (212). The coupling member (380) may be connected to a portion of the first antenna pattern (371) disposed adjacent to the 1-1 side (211). The feeding member (350) and the ground member (360) may be connected to a portion of the first antenna pattern (371) disposed adjacent to the 1-2 side (212). The feeding member (350) may be a coaxial cable connected to the first antenna pattern (371). The ground portion (360) may be a screw disposed at the edge of the first antenna pattern (371). For example, referring to FIG. 9, the first antenna pattern (371) connected to the 1-2 conductive portion (312) may be disposed adjacent to a portion of the 1-3 side surface (213). The coupling member (380) may be connected to a portion of the first antenna pattern (371) disposed adjacent to the 1-3 side surface (213). The feeding portion (350) may be connected to a portion of the first antenna pattern (371) disposed adjacent to the 1-3 side surface (213). The feeding portion (350) may be a coaxial cable connected to the first antenna pattern (371). The ground portion (360) may be connected to at least a portion of the first antenna pattern (371) disposed adjacent to at least a portion of the feeding portion (350). The ground portion (360) may be a screw positioned at the edge of the first antenna pattern (371). For example, referring to FIG. 10, the first antenna pattern (371) may be configured as a coupling pattern without a ground such as a coupling member (380) or a ground portion (360).

[0086] According to one embodiment, the first antenna pattern (371) may be a pattern for forming a resonance when combined with the first conductive portion (310). For example, when the first conductive portion (310) of FIG. 8 is a first band (low band, LB), the first antenna pattern (371) may be at least one of a second band (mid band, MB), a third band (high band, HB), and a fourth band (ultra high band, UHB). For example, when the first conductive portion (310) of FIG. 9 is a fourth band (ultra high band, UHB), the first antenna pattern (371) may be at least one of a first band (low band, LB), a second band (mid band, MB), and a third band (high band, HB). However, the band of the first conductive portion (310) and the first antenna pattern (371) is not limited by the above embodiment, and the combination of the first conductive portion (310) and the first antenna pattern (371) can be designed in various ways depending on the segment length of the first conductive portion (310) and the shape of the first antenna pattern (371).

[0087] According to one embodiment, with reference to FIG. 11, at least a portion of the first antenna pattern (371) may be disposed in a first area (2011) of a rear surface of the housing (e.g., the first rear surface (210b) and the second rear surface (220b)). According to one embodiment, the feeding portion (350) connected to the first antenna pattern (371) may be disposed in the first area (2011) of a rear surface of the housing (e.g., the first rear surface (210b) and the second rear surface (220b)).

[0088] FIG. 12 is a front view illustrating an antenna structure of a first housing according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a first communication module of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating a first communication module disposed within an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0089] Referring to FIGS. 12 to 14, the electronic device (101) may include a foldable housing (201) (hereinafter, referred to as housing (201)) for accommodating components of the electronic device (101), a flexible or foldable display (202) (hereinafter, referred to as display (202)) disposed within a space formed by the housing (201), a fan (204), and printed circuit boards (230, 240). The electronic device (101) may further include an antenna structure, and at least one component (e.g., a conductive portion) of the antenna structure may be positioned in one area of ​​the housing (201). The electronic device (101) may further include various components (e.g., a printed circuit board, a camera module, and a battery) disposed within the housing (201).

[0090] According to one embodiment, the first communication module (330) may be disposed on one side of the first housing (210) rather than the center part due to the fan (204) disposed in the center part of the first housing (210). For example, the first communication module (330) may be disposed on the left side (-X-axis direction) or the right side (+X-axis direction) of the center part of the first housing (210). However, since the first communication module (330) is disposed on one side, each of the first conductive portions (310) disposed along the first side (210c) of the first housing (210) may have different distances from the first communication module (330), which may cause an imbalance in antenna performance. The antenna structure according to the present invention can reduce antenna performance deviation by limiting the antenna type and the position according to the antenna type. However, this is not limited to the first communication module (330), and may also be applied when the second communication module (340) is placed in the same housing as the fan (204) or is placed on one side by another component placed in the second housing (220).

[0091] According to one embodiment, referring to FIG. 13, the first communication module (330) may include a plurality of first ports (331). For example, the first communication module (330), which is a 5G wireless communication module, may include four or more first ports (331). According to one embodiment, the first ports (331) may include a first-first port (331a), a first-second port (331b), a first-third port (331c), and a first-fourth port (331d). Each port of the first communication module (330) has an operating frequency assigned to it, and the conductive portion connected to the corresponding port may be designed according to the corresponding frequency. For example, among the frequency bands supported by the first communication module (330), the first band (low band, LB) can be supported by two ports, and the second band (mid band, MB), the third band (high band, HB), and the fourth band (ultra high band, UHB) can be supported by all four ports. For example, in the case of three antennas including a transmission that radiates a radio frequency signal, the transmitting and receiving antenna 1-1 port (331a) can support the second band (mid band, MB), the transmitting and receiving antenna 1-3 port (331c) can support the fourth band (ultra high band, UHB), and the transmitting and receiving antenna 1-4 port (331d) can support the first band (low band, LB).For example, if there are two antennas including a transmitter that radiates a radio frequency signal, the 1-1 port (331a) and the 1-4 port (331d) can all support the 1st band (low band, LB), the 2nd band (mid band, MB), the 3rd band (high band, HB), and the 4th band (ultrahigh band, UHB), and the 1-2 port (331b) and the 1-3 port (331c) can all support the 2nd band (mid band, MB), the 3rd band (high band, HB), and the 4th band (ultrahigh band, UHB).

[0092] According to one embodiment, the distinction between wavelength and antenna length according to frequency band is as follows.

[0093] For example, the first band (low band, LB) is approximately 600 to 1000 MHz, and since it operates in a relatively low frequency band, the wavelength is long, and the physical length of the conductive part (antenna pattern) electrically connected to it may also be longer than that of the second to fourth bands. However, the frequency bands supported by each port are not limited to this, and may change depending on whether transmission and / or reception are performed.

[0094] For example, the wavelength of the first band (low band, LB) may be approximately 40 cm to 45 cm, and the length of the connected conductive portion (antenna pattern) may be approximately 10 cm to 13 cm. For example, the wavelength of the first band (low band, LB) may be approximately 43 cm, and the length of the connected conductive portion (antenna pattern) may be approximately 11 cm.

[0095] For example, the second band (mid band, MB) may be approximately 1700 to 2100 MHz, the wavelength may be approximately 15 to 20 cm, and the length of the connected conductive portion (antenna pattern) may be approximately 2 to 6 cm. For example, the second band (mid band, MB) may be approximately 1800 MHz, the wavelength may be approximately 17 cm, and the length of the connected conductive portion (antenna pattern) may be approximately 4 cm.

[0096] For example, the third band (high band, HB) is approximately 2300 to 2700 MHz, the wavelength is approximately 10 to 15 cm, and the length of the connected conductive part (antenna pattern) can be approximately 2 to 4 cm. For example, the second band (mid band, MB) is approximately 2400 MHz, the wavelength is approximately 12.5 cm, and the length of the connected conductive part (antenna pattern) can be approximately 3 cm.

[0097] For example, the fourth band (ultrahigh band, UHB) is approximately 3000 to 4000 MHz, the wavelength is approximately 3 cm to 7 cm, and the length of the connected conductive part (antenna pattern) can be approximately 1 cm to 2 cm. For example, the second band (mid band, MB) is approximately 3500 MHz, the wavelength is approximately 5 cm, and the length of the connected conductive part (antenna pattern) can be approximately 1.25 cm.

[0098] According to one embodiment, the first communication module (330) electrically connected to the first conductive portion (310) may be disposed on a side other than the central portion of the first housing (210) by the fan (204) disposed in the central portion of the first housing (210). For example, the distance between the 1-1 conductive portion (311), the 1-4 conductive portion (314) disposed on the left side (-X-axis direction) of the first housing (210) and the first communication module (330) may be closer than the distance between the 1-3 conductive portion (313) and the 1-2 conductive portion (312) disposed on the right side (+X-axis direction) of the first housing (210) and the first communication module (330). For example, the 1-1 conductive portion (311) and the 1-4 conductive portion (314) may be disposed at a relatively short distance (L1) from the 1st communication module (330), and the 1-3 conductive portion (313) and the 1-2 conductive portion (312) may be disposed at a relatively long distance (L2) from the 1st communication module (330).

[0099] According to one embodiment, an antenna positioned at a distance from the first communication module (330) may be used as a first band (low band, LB) antenna. The higher the frequency, the greater the loss may be due to the distance from the first communication module (330). Therefore, the first band (low band, LB) antenna having a relatively low frequency may be positioned at a distance. The distance between the first communication module (330) and the 1-1 conductive portion (311) (or the 1-4 conductive portion (314)) may be closer than the distance between the first communication module (330) and the 1-2 conductive portion (312) (or the 1-3 conductive portion (313)). The length (first length) of the 1-1 conductive portion (311) (or the 1-4 conductive portion (314)) may be shorter than the length (second length) of the 1-2 conductive portion (312) (or the 1-3 conductive portion (313)).

[0100] In one embodiment, an antenna positioned remotely from the first communication module (330) can be used as a transmitting / receiving antenna and a first band (low band, LB) antenna. Since the transmitting function has better performance than the receiving function, a transmitting antenna with relatively better performance can be positioned remotely.

[0101] For example, if there are three antennas including a transmitter that radiates a radio frequency signal, the transmit and receive antenna 1-1 port (331a) can support a second band (mid band, MB), the transmit and receive antenna 1-3 port (331c) can support a fourth band (ultrahigh band, UHB), and the transmit and receive antenna 1-4 port (331d) can support a first band (low band, LB). For example, the 1-2 conductive portion (312) at a distance can be connected to the 1-4 port (331d) that supports the first band (low band, LB) and includes a transmit and receive function.

[0102] FIG. 15A is a drawing illustrating a housing having a second vent hole formed therein, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 15B is a drawing illustrating an antenna carrier having a first vent hole formed therein, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0103] Referring to FIGS. 15A and 15B , the electronic device (101) may include a foldable housing (201) (hereinafter, referred to as housing (201)) for accommodating components of the electronic device (101), a flexible or foldable display (202) (hereinafter, referred to as display (202)) disposed within a space formed by the housing (201), a fan (204), and printed circuit boards (230, 240). The electronic device (101) may further include an antenna structure, and at least one component (e.g., a conductive portion) of the antenna structure may be positioned within an area of ​​the housing (201). The electronic device (101) may further include various components (e.g., a printed circuit board, a camera module, and a battery) disposed within the housing (201).

[0104] In one embodiment, referring to FIG. 15A, a side surface of the first housing (210) (e.g., the first side surface (210c) and the second side surface (220c)) may include a second vent hole (214). In one embodiment, referring to FIG. 15B, in order to reduce interference with airflow through the second vent hole (214) when at least a portion of the second vent hole (214) is blocked by a component disposed within the housing, the antenna carrier (370) may include a first vent hole (390) on one surface facing the side surface of the housing (e.g., the first side surface (210c) and the second side surface (220c)). In one embodiment, the first vent hole (390) and the second vent hole (214) may be arranged to at least partially face each other. By forming a first vent hole (390) corresponding to the second vent hole (214) in the antenna carrier (370) facing the side surface of the first housing (210) (e.g., the first side surface (210c) and the second side surface (220c)), at least a portion of the second vent hole (214) may not be blocked by internal components disposed within the housing.

[0105] FIG. 16 is a drawing showing an antenna structure including a metal wall according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0106] Referring to FIG. 16, the electronic device (101) may include a foldable housing (201) (hereinafter, referred to as housing (201)) for accommodating components of the electronic device (101), a flexible or foldable display (202) (hereinafter, referred to as display (202)) disposed within a space formed by the housing (201), a fan (204), and printed circuit boards (230, 240). The electronic device (101) may further include an antenna structure, and at least one component (e.g., a conductive portion) of the antenna structure may be positioned within an area of ​​the housing (201). The electronic device (101) may further include various components (e.g., a printed circuit board, a camera module, and a battery) disposed within the housing (201).

[0107] According to one embodiment, the ground portion of the antenna structure (e.g., the ground portion (360) of FIG. 9) may include a metal wall (361). The metal wall (361) may be configured such that electrons do not flow into the interior of the electronic device (101), but flow outward from the electronic device (101), and radiation occurs at an edge portion of the electronic device. The metal wall (361) may shield noise. According to one embodiment, the metal wall (361) may include a first portion (3611) in contact with the display (202), a second portion (3612) extending downward (in the -Z direction) from the first portion (3611), and a third portion (3613) extending vertically from the second portion (3612) and being parallel to the first portion (3611). For example, a metal wall (361) may have a 'ㄷ' shape when viewed from the side.

[0108] In one embodiment, the metal wall (361) can be electrically connected to the display (202) including metal, the front surface of the housing (201) including metal (e.g., the first front surface (210a) and the second front surface (220a)), or the rear surface of the housing (201) including metal (e.g., the first rear surface (210b) and the second rear surface (220b)) by an electrical connection member (362). In one embodiment, in order for the housing (201) including metal to operate in a desired frequency band, the metal wall (361) must be placed at a corresponding position of the housing (201), and a separate electrical connection member (362) can be placed to enable physical contact between at least a portion of the housing (201) and the metal wall (361). In one embodiment, the electrical connection member (362) may include a first electrical connection member (3621) in contact with a first portion (3611) of the metal wall (361) and a second electrical connection member (3622) in contact with a third portion (3613) of the metal wall (361). For example, the second electrical connection member (3622) may be in contact with a front surface of the housing (201) (e.g., the first front surface (210a) and the second front surface (220a)), and the first electrical connection member (3621) may be in contact with a back surface of the housing (201) (e.g., the first back surface (210b) and the second back surface (220b)) and / or at least a portion of the display (202). For example, the electrical connecting member (362) may include at least one of a thin cable (e.g., a metal wire), a flexible printed circuit board, a conductive polyon tape, a conductive gasket, and a C-clip conductive tape.

[0109] An electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a first housing including at least one first conductive portion (310) segmented along at least a portion of a side surface, an antenna carrier (370) having a first antenna pattern formed thereon and electrically connected to the first conductive portion (310), a fan disposed within the first housing, and a first printed circuit board including a first communication module disposed within the first housing and electrically connected to the first conductive portion. The antenna carrier (370) may include a first vent hole (390) formed at at least a portion of a side surface, and a feeding portion (350) provided on the first antenna pattern and configured to be electrically connected to the first printed circuit board.

[0110] According to one embodiment, the first housing includes a second vent hole (214) formed in at least a portion of the side surface, and the first vent hole and the second vent hole may be arranged to face each other at least partially.

[0111] According to one embodiment, the rear surface of the first housing (210b in FIG. 3) may include a first region (2011 in FIG. 4) comprising a non-metallic material, and a second region (2012 in FIG. 4) extending from the first region and comprising a metal material.

[0112] According to one embodiment, the antenna carrier (370 of FIG. 6) can be electrically connected to the first conductive portion via a coupling member (380 of FIG. 6).

[0113] In one embodiment, the joining member may comprise either a screw or a hook.

[0114] In one embodiment, the feeding portion may comprise any one of a clip (e.g., a c-clip), a coaxial cable, or a portion extending inwardly from the side surface.

[0115] According to one embodiment, the antenna carrier may further include a ground portion (360) provided on the first antenna pattern and configured to be electrically connected to the first printed circuit board.

[0116] In one embodiment, the ground portion may comprise any one of a clip (e.g., a c-clip), a coaxial cable, a wire, or a screw.

[0117] According to one embodiment, the feeding portion may be positioned at a position corresponding to the first area of ​​the rear surface of the first housing.

[0118] According to one embodiment, the first conductive portion and the antenna carrier may be formed to operate as a radiator of the antenna.

[0119] In one embodiment, the first conductive portion may be configured to transmit or receive a radio frequency signal.

[0120] According to one embodiment, the ground portion may include a metal wall (361 in FIG. 16) including a first portion (3611 in FIG. 16) in contact with the flexible display (202 in FIG. 3), a second portion (3612 in FIG. 16) extending vertically from the first portion, and a third portion (3613 in FIG. 16) extending vertically from the second portion and parallel to the first portion.

[0121] According to one embodiment, the second housing (220 of FIG. 3) may further include a second conductive portion (320 of FIG. 3) segmented along at least a portion of a side surface and providing relative movement with respect to the first housing, a flexible display (202 of FIG. 3) formed to vary in response to the relative movement of the second housing with respect to the first housing, and a second printed circuit board (240 of FIG. 4) disposed within the second housing and including a second communication module (340 of FIG. 4) electrically connected to the second conductive portion.

[0122] According to one embodiment, the first conductive portion includes a first-first conductive portion (311 in FIG. 5) having a first length, and a first-second conductive portion (312 in FIG. 5) having a second length longer than the first length, and a distance between the first communication module and the first-first conductive portion may be closer than a distance between the first communication module and the first-second conductive portion.

[0123] According to one embodiment, the first-second conductive portion may be an antenna of a first band (low band, LB), and the first-first conductive portion may be an antenna of a higher frequency than the first band.

[0124] An electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a first housing including at least one first conductive portion (310) segmented along at least a portion of a side surface, an antenna carrier (370) having a first antenna pattern formed thereon and electrically connected to the first conductive portion (310) through a coupling member (380 in FIG. 6), a fan disposed within the first housing, and a first printed circuit board including a first communication module disposed within the first housing and electrically connected to the first conductive portion. The antenna carrier may include a first vent hole (390) formed in at least a portion of a side surface.

[0125] According to one embodiment, the antenna carrier may further include a feeding portion (350) provided on the first antenna pattern and configured to be electrically connected to the first printed circuit board.

[0126] According to one embodiment, the first housing includes a second vent hole (214) formed in at least a portion of the side surface, and the first vent hole and the second vent hole may be arranged to face each other at least partially.

[0127] According to one embodiment, the rear surface of the first housing (210b in FIG. 3) may include a first region (2011 in FIG. 4) comprising a non-metallic material, and a second region (2012 in FIG. 4) extending from the first region and comprising a metal material.

[0128] In one embodiment, the joining member may comprise either a screw or a hook.

[0129] The technical tasks to be achieved in this document are not limited to the technical tasks mentioned above, and other technical tasks not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary knowledge in the technical field to which this document belongs from the description below.

[0130] Electronic devices typically utilize segmented antennas, which can pose physical constraints since the side segments of the housing are typically used as antenna patterns. High-performance electronic devices, such as laptops, may include a fan for heat dissipation and vent holes for convection within and outside the electronic device. However, if the fan is located centrally in the electronic device, the communication module may be positioned on one side, resulting in different distances between the antenna and the communication module, potentially leading to an imbalance in antenna performance.

[0131] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, by combining a conductive portion of a segmented antenna and an antenna carrier to form a single antenna band, the physical constraints of the segmented antenna can be reduced and various frequency bands can be designed. To reduce antenna performance imbalances due to distance differences between the antenna and the communication module, the antenna layout and design can be designed to take into account the distance differences between the antenna and the communication module.

[0132] However, the problem to be solved in this disclosure is not limited to the problem mentioned above, and may be expanded in various ways without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. In electronic devices, A first housing comprising at least one first challenging portion (310) segmented along at least a portion of a side surface; An antenna carrier (370) having a first antenna pattern formed thereon and electrically connected to the first conductive portion (310); A fan disposed within the first housing; A first printed circuit board including a first communication module disposed within the first housing and electrically connected to the first conductive portion; The above antenna carrier (370) A first vent hole (390) formed on at least a portion of the side; and An electronic device including a feeding unit (350) provided on the first antenna pattern and configured to be electrically connected to the first printed circuit board.

2. In paragraph 1, The above first housing includes a second vent hole (214) formed on at least a portion of the side surface, An electronic device wherein the first vent hole and the second vent hole are arranged to face each other at least partially.

3. In either of paragraphs 1 and 2, An electronic device in which the rear surface of the first housing (210b in FIG. 3) includes a first region (2011 in FIG. 4) including a non-metallic material, and a second region (2012 in FIG. 4) extending from the first region and including a metal material.

4. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 3, An electronic device in which the antenna carrier (370 of FIG. 6) is electrically connected to the first conductive portion through a coupling member (380 of FIG. 6).

5. In paragraph 4, An electronic device wherein the above-mentioned joining member comprises either a screw or a hook.

6. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 5, An electronic device wherein the feeding portion comprises one of a clip (e.g., a c-clip), a coaxial cable, or a portion extending inwardly from the side surface.

7. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 6, An electronic device, wherein the antenna carrier further includes a ground portion (360) provided on the first antenna pattern and configured to be electrically connected to the first printed circuit board.

8. In paragraph 7, An electronic device wherein the ground portion includes any one of a clip (e.g., a c-clip), a coaxial cable, a wire, or a screw.

9. In paragraph 3, An electronic device in which the feeding portion is positioned at a position corresponding to the first area on the rear surface of the first housing.

10. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 9, An electronic device in which the first conductive portion and the antenna carrier are formed to operate as a radiator of the antenna.

11. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 10, The first conductive portion is an electronic device configured to transmit or receive a radio frequency signal.

12. In paragraph 7, An electronic device including a metal wall (361 in FIG. 16) including a first portion (3611 in FIG. 16) in contact with a flexible display (202 in FIG. 3), a second portion (3612 in FIG. 16) extending in a vertical direction from the first portion, and a third portion (3613 in FIG. 16) extending in a vertical direction from the second portion and parallel to the first portion.

13. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 12, A second housing (220 of FIG. 3) providing relative motion to the first housing and including a second conductive portion (320 of FIG. 3) segmented along at least a portion of a side surface; A flexible display (202 in FIG. 3) formed to vary in response to the relative movement of the second housing with respect to the first housing; An electronic device further comprising a second printed circuit board (240 of FIG. 4) disposed within the second housing and including a second communication module (340 of FIG. 4) electrically connected to the second conductive portion.

14. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 13, The first conductive portion includes a first-first conductive portion (311 in FIG. 5) having a first length, and a first-second conductive portion (312 in FIG. 5) having a second length longer than the first length. An electronic device wherein the distance between the first communication module and the first-first conductive portion is shorter than the distance between the first communication module and the first-second conductive portion.

15. In paragraph 14, The above 1-2 challenging part is an antenna of the first band (low band, LB), An electronic device wherein the above-mentioned first-first challenging part is an antenna having a frequency higher than the first band.

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