Wearable electronic device including antenna

Abstract

The present invention relates to a wearable electronic device comprising: a housing including a first frame that includes a conductive material, a second frame that is spaced apart from the first frame in a first direction and includes a conductive material, and a side member that is arranged between the first frame and the second frame and includes a non-conductive material; a printed circuit board arranged on the housing; a wireless communication circuit electrically connected to the first frame and the second frame to transmit and receive a wireless signal in at least one frequency band; a first antenna member electrically connecting the first frame to the wireless communication circuit; and a second antenna member electrically connecting the second frame to the wireless communication circuit.

Description

Wearable electronic device including an antenna

[0001] Various embodiments disclosed in this document relate to a wearable electronic device including an antenna.

[0002] With technological advancements, wearable electronic devices (e.g., smartwatches) are becoming increasingly widespread, following user terminals such as smartphones and tablets. Wearable electronic devices may include smartwatches, which are worn on a user's body (e.g., wrist) and perform various functions. Wearable electronic devices can perform wireless communication functions. For example, a wearable electronic device may have an exterior that utilizes a metal housing as an antenna radiator to transmit and / or receive wireless communication signals.

[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-described matters constitute prior art related to the present disclosure.

[0004] Wearable electronic devices, such as smartwatches, require compact designs due to their inherent functionality. These devices may require antenna installation techniques that efficiently utilize limited internal space. For example, wearable electronic devices can transmit and receive wireless signals by utilizing at least a portion of the housing forming the device's exterior as an antenna radiator. For example, wearable electronic devices can support 3G, LTE, GPS, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth frequency bands through the housing.

[0005] Wearable electronic devices require antenna functionality in a variety of environments (e.g., across various frequency bands). Therefore, wearable electronic devices may require novel antenna structures capable of performing antenna functions across various frequency bands.

[0006] Meanwhile, when the housing is used as an antenna radiator, a strong electric field may be generated in the space between the housing where the display is placed and the display panel. To improve display visibility, the BM (black matrix) area of ​​the display is gradually decreasing. In this case, the space between the housing and the display panel may decrease. For example, the A / A (active area) area of ​​the display panel may increase as the BM area is expanded to the area where the BM area is reduced. Therefore, the space between the display panel and the housing may decrease. In this case, the intensity of the current generated in the space between the housing and the display panel may be reduced or the flow of current may be interrupted, which may reduce or deteriorate the antenna function through the housing.

[0007] 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.

[0008] According to one embodiment disclosed in the present document, a wearable electronic device may include a housing including a first frame including a conductive material, a second frame spaced apart from the first frame in a first direction and including a conductive material, and a side member disposed between the first frame and the second frame and including a non-conductive material. In one embodiment, the wearable electronic device may include a printed circuit board disposed in the housing. In one embodiment, the wearable electronic device may include a wireless communication circuit disposed on the printed circuit board and electrically connected to the first frame and the second frame to transmit or receive a wireless signal in at least one frequency band. In one embodiment, the wearable electronic device may include a first antenna member electrically connecting the wireless communication circuit and the first frame. In one embodiment, the wearable electronic device may include a second antenna member electrically connecting the wireless communication circuit and the second frame.

[0009] According to one embodiment disclosed in the present document, a wearable electronic device may include a housing including a first frame including a conductive material, a second frame spaced apart from the first frame in a first direction and including a conductive material, and a side member disposed between the first frame and the second frame and including a non-conductive material. In one embodiment, the wearable electronic device may include a first segment portion segmented into a plurality of parts and having an insulating material disposed thereon. In one embodiment, the wearable electronic device may include a second segment portion segmented into a plurality of parts and having an insulating material disposed thereon. In one embodiment, the wearable electronic device may include a printed circuit board disposed in the housing. In one embodiment, the wearable electronic device may include a wireless communication circuit disposed on the printed circuit board and electrically connected to the first frame and the second frame to transmit or receive a wireless signal in at least one frequency band. In one embodiment, the wearable electronic device may include a first antenna member electrically connecting the wireless communication circuit and the first frame. In one embodiment, the wearable electronic device may include a second antenna member electrically connecting the wireless communication circuit and the second frame.

[0010] According to one embodiment disclosed in the present document, the housing may be segmented into a plurality of parts. For example, the housing may include a first frame including a conductive material, a second frame including a conductive material, and a side member disposed between the first frame and the second frame and including a non-conductive material. The first frame and the second frame may be electrically connected to a wireless communication circuit of a printed circuit board and may be used as an antenna radiator. Accordingly, the wearable electronic device may transmit or receive wireless communication signals in various frequency bands by segmenting the housing into a plurality of parts.

[0011] Additionally, since a side member including a non-conductive material is positioned between the first and second frames, the flow of current generated in the space between the first and second frames during wireless communication via the first and / or second frames can be facilitated. Accordingly, a certain level of antenna radiation performance can be secured in a predetermined resonant frequency band via the first and second frames.

[0012] The effects that can be obtained from the present disclosure are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects that are not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure belongs from the description below.

[0013] In connection with the description of the drawings, the same or similar reference numerals may be used for identical or similar components.

[0014] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment according to various embodiments.

[0015] FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 3 is a rear perspective view of a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] Figure 4 is an exploded perspective view of the wearable electronic device illustrated in Figure 2.

[0018] FIG. 5A is a front perspective view of a housing of a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 5b is an exploded perspective view of a housing according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 6a, FIG. 6b and FIG. 7 are drawings illustrating an antenna arrangement structure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] Figure 8 is a configuration diagram of a switching circuit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] Fig. 9 is a graph showing the radiation performance of the antenna in the antenna arrangement structure of Figs. 6a and 6b.

[0023] FIGS. 10A to 10D are cross-sectional views taken along line AA of FIG. 5A, and are drawings illustrating a connection structure between a first frame and a wireless communication circuit and a connection structure between a second frame and a wireless communication circuit.

[0024] In the following description, various embodiments of this document are described with reference to the attached drawings. It should be understood that the various embodiments of this document and the terminology used herein are not intended to limit the technical features described herein to specific embodiments, but rather encompass various modifications, equivalents, or alternatives of the embodiments.

[0025] In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components. The singular form of the noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of said items, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0026] In this document, phrases such as "A or B," "at least one of A and B," "or at least one of B," "A, B, or C," "at least one of A, B, and C," and "at least one of B or C" can each include any one of the items listed together in that phrase, or all possible combinations thereof. Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used merely to distinguish the corresponding component from other corresponding components and do not limit the corresponding components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order). When a component (e.g., a first) is referred to as "coupled" or "connected" to another (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] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device (101) within a network environment (100) according to various embodiments. Referring to FIG. 1, in the network environment (100), the electronic device (101) may communicate with the electronic device (102) via a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network), or may communicate with at least one of the electronic device (104) or the 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)).

[0028] 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.

[0029] 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, on the electronic device (101) itself where the artificial intelligence model is executed, 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.

[0030] The memory (130) can store various data used by at least one component (e.g., processor (120) or sensor module (176)) of the electronic device (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).

[0031] The program (140) may be stored as software in the memory (130) and may include, for example, an operating system (142), middleware (144), or an application (146).

[0032] The 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).

[0033] 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.

[0034] 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.

[0035] 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).

[0036] 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.

[0037] 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.

[0038] 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).

[0039] 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.

[0040] 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.

[0041] The power management module (188) can manage power supplied to the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the power management module (188) can be implemented as, for example, at least a part of a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

[0042] 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.

[0043] 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).

[0044] 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.

[0045] The antenna module (197) can transmit or receive signals or power to or from an external device (e.g., an external electronic device). In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include an antenna including a radiator formed of a conductor or a conductive pattern formed on a substrate (e.g., a PCB). In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna). In this case, at least one antenna suitable for a communication method used in a communication network, such as the first network (198) or the second network (199), may be selected from the plurality of antennas, for example, by the communication module (190). A signal or power may be transmitted or received between the communication module (190) and an external electronic device via the at least one selected antenna. In some embodiments, in addition to the radiator, another component (e.g., a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) may be additionally formed as a part of the antenna module (197). According to various embodiments, the antenna module (197) may form a mmWave antenna module. In one embodiment, the mmWave antenna module may include a printed circuit board, an RFIC disposed on or adjacent a first side (e.g., a bottom side) of the printed circuit board and capable of supporting a designated high-frequency band (e.g., a mmWave band), and a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna) disposed on or adjacent a second side (e.g., a top side or a side side) of the printed circuit board and capable of transmitting or receiving signals in the designated high-frequency band.

[0046] 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)).

[0047] According to one embodiment, commands or data may be transmitted or received between the electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (104) via a server (108) connected to a second network (199). Each of the external electronic devices (102 or 104) may be the same or a different type of device as the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, all or part of the operations executed in the electronic device (101) may be executed in one or more of the external electronic devices (102, 104, or 108). For example, when the electronic device (101) is to perform a certain function or service automatically or in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device (101) may, instead of or in addition to executing the function or service itself, request one or more external electronic devices to perform the function or at least a part of the service. One or more external electronic devices that receive the request may execute at least a portion of the requested function or service, or an additional function or service related to the request, and transmit the result of the execution to the electronic device (101). The electronic device (101) may process the result as is or additionally and provide it as at least a portion of a response to the request. For this purpose, cloud computing, distributed computing, mobile edge computing (MEC), or client-server computing technology may be used, for example. The electronic device (101) may provide an ultra-low latency service by using distributed computing or mobile edge computing, for example. In another embodiment, the external electronic device (104) may include an Internet of Things (IoT) device. The server (108) may be an intelligent server utilizing machine learning and / or a neural network. According to one embodiment, the external electronic device (104) or the server (108) may be included in the second network (199).The electronic device (101) can be applied to intelligent services (e.g., smart home, smart city, smart car, or healthcare) based on 5G communication technology and IoT-related technology.

[0048] FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of a wearable electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 is a rear perspective view of a wearable electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0049] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, an electronic device (200) according to one embodiment may include a housing (210) including a first side (or front side) (210A), a second side (or back side) (210B), and a side surface (210C) surrounding a space between the first side (210A) and the second side (210B), and a fastening member (250, 260) connected to at least a portion of the housing (210) and configured to detachably fasten the electronic device (200) to a part of a user's body (e.g., a wrist, an ankle, etc.). In another embodiment (not shown), the housing (210) may also refer to a structure forming a portion of the first side (210A), the second side (210B), and the side surface (210C) of FIG. 2. In one embodiment, the first side (210A) may be formed by a front plate (201) that is at least partially substantially transparent (e.g., a glass plate including various coating layers, or a polymer plate). The second side (210B) may be formed by a substantially opaque back plate (207). The back plate (207) may be formed of, for example, coated or colored glass, ceramic, polymer, metal (e.g., aluminum, stainless steel (STS), or magnesium), or a combination of at least two of the foregoing materials. The side surface (210C) may be formed by a side bezel structure (or “side member”) (206) that is coupled to the front plate (201) and the back plate (207) and includes a metal and / or a polymer. In some embodiments, the back plate (207) and the side bezel structure (206) may be formed integrally and include the same material (e.g., a metal material such as aluminum). The above-mentioned fastening member (250, 260) may be formed of various materials and shapes. The integral and multiple unit links may be formed to be mutually movable by a combination of at least two of the above-mentioned materials, such as woven fabric, leather, rubber, urethane, metal, ceramic, or a combination of the above-mentioned materials.

[0050] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include at least one of a display (220, see FIG. 4), an audio module (205, 208), a sensor module (211), a key input device (202, 203, 204), and a connector hole (209). In some embodiments, the electronic device (200) may omit at least one of the components (e.g., the key input device (202, 203, 204), the connector hole (209), or the sensor module (211)) or may additionally include other components.

[0051] The display (220) may be exposed, for example, through a significant portion of the front plate (201). The shape of the display (220) may correspond to the shape of the front plate (201), and may be in various shapes such as circular, oval, or polygonal. The display (220) 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 fingerprint sensor.

[0052] The audio module (205, 208) may include a microphone hole (205) and a speaker hole (208). The microphone hole (205) may have a microphone positioned therein for acquiring external sounds, and in some embodiments, multiple microphones may be positioned therein to detect the direction of the sounds. The speaker hole (208) may be used as an external speaker and a receiver for calls.

[0053] The sensor module (211) can generate an electric signal or data value corresponding to an internal operating state of the electronic device (200) or an external environmental state. The sensor module (211) can include, for example, a biometric sensor module (211) (e.g., an HRM sensor) disposed on the second surface (210B) of the housing (210). The electronic device (200) can further include at least one of a sensor module not shown, for example, a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a color sensor, an IR (infrared) sensor, a biometric sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or an illuminance sensor.

[0054] The key input devices (202, 203, 204) may include a wheel key (202) disposed on a first side (210A) of the housing (210) and rotatable in at least one direction, and / or a side key button (202, 203) disposed on a side surface (210C) of the housing (210). The wheel key may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the front plate (202). In other embodiments, the electronic device (200) may not include some or all of the above-mentioned key input devices (202, 203, 204), and the key input devices (202, 203, 204) that are not included may be implemented in another form, such as a soft key, on the display (220). The connector hole (209) may include another connector hole (not shown) that may accommodate a connector (e.g., a USB connector) for transmitting and receiving power and / or data with an external electronic device, and may accommodate a connector for transmitting and receiving audio signals with the external electronic device. The electronic device (200) may further include, for example, a connector cover (not shown) that covers at least a portion of the connector hole (209) and blocks the inflow of external foreign substances into the connector hole.

[0055] The fastening member (250, 260) can be detachably fastened to at least a portion of the housing (210) using a locking member (251, 261). The fastening member (250, 260) can include one or more of a fixing member (252), a fixing member fastening hole (253), a band guide member (254), and a band fastening ring (255).

[0056] The fixing member (252) can be configured to fix the housing (210) and the fastening members (250, 260) to a part of the user's body (e.g., wrist, ankle, etc.). The fastening member fastening hole (253) can fix the housing (210) and the fastening members (250, 260) to a part of the user's body in response to the fastening member (252). The band guide member (254) is configured to limit the range of movement of the fastening member (252) when the fastening member (252) is fastened to the fastening member fastening hole (253), thereby allowing the fastening members (250, 260) to be fastened in close contact with a part of the user's body. The band fixing ring (255) can limit the range of movement of the fastening members (250, 260) when the fastening member (252) and the fastening member fastening hole (253) are fastened.

[0057] Figure 4 is an exploded perspective view of the wearable electronic device illustrated in Figure 2.

[0058] Referring to FIG. 4, the electronic device (400) may include a side bezel structure (410), a wheel key (420), a front plate (201), a display (220), a first antenna (450), a second antenna (455), a support member (460) (e.g., a bracket), a battery (470), a printed circuit board (480), a sealing member (490), a rear plate (493), and fastening members (495, 497). At least one of the components of the electronic device (400) may be identical to or similar to at least one of the components of the electronic device (200) of FIG. 2 or FIG. 3, and a redundant description thereof will be omitted below. The support member (460) may be disposed inside the electronic device (400) and connected to the side bezel structure (410), or may be formed integrally with the side bezel structure (410). The support member (460) may be formed of, for example, a metallic material and / or a non-metallic (e.g., a polymer) material. The support member (460) may have a display (220) coupled to one surface and a printed circuit board (480) coupled to the other surface. The printed circuit board (480) may be equipped with a processor (e.g., the processor (120) of FIG. 1), a memory (e.g., the memory (130) of FIG. 1), and / or an interface (e.g., the interface (177) of FIG. 1). The processor may include, for example, one or more of a central processing unit, an application processor, a GPU (graphics processing unit), an application processor signal processing unit, or a communication processor.

[0059] The memory may include, for example, volatile memory or non-volatile memory. The interface 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 (400) to an external electronic device, for example, and may include a USB connector, an SD card / MMC connector, or an audio connector.

[0060] The battery (470) is a device for supplying power to at least one component of the electronic device (400), and may include, for example, a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable secondary battery, or a fuel cell. At least a portion of the battery (470) may be disposed substantially on the same plane as, for example, the printed circuit board (480). The battery (470) may be disposed integrally within the electronic device (200), or may be disposed detachably from the electronic device (200).

[0061] The first antenna (450) may be positioned between the display (220) and the support member (460). The first antenna (450) may include, for example, a near field communication (NFC) antenna, a wireless charging antenna, and / or a magnetic secure transmission (MST) antenna. The first antenna (450) may, for example, perform short-range communication with an external device, wirelessly transmit and receive power required for charging, and transmit a magnetic-based signal including a short-range communication signal or payment data. In another embodiment, the antenna structure may be formed by a portion or a combination of the side bezel structure (410) and / or the support member (460).

[0062] In one embodiment, a second antenna (455) (e.g., the second antenna (455) of FIG. 4 and / or the second antenna (455) of FIG. 6B) may be disposed between the circuit board (480) and the back plate (493). The second antenna (455) may include, for example, a near field communication (NFC) antenna, a wireless charging antenna, and / or a magnetic secure transmission (MST) antenna. The second antenna (455) may, for example, perform short-range communication with an external device, wirelessly transmit and receive power required for charging, and transmit a magnetic-based signal including a short-range communication signal or payment data. In another embodiment, the antenna structure may be formed by a portion or a combination of the side bezel structure (410) and / or the back plate (493).

[0063] A sealing member (490) may be positioned between the side bezel structure (410) and the rear plate (493). The sealing member (490) may be configured to block moisture and foreign substances from entering the space surrounded by the side bezel structure (410) and the rear plate (493) from the outside.

[0064] FIG. 5A is a front perspective view of a housing of a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 5B is an exploded perspective view of the housing according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0065] According to one embodiment, as illustrated in FIGS. 5A and 5B , a housing (510) (e.g., the housing (210) of FIG. 2 , the side bezel structure (206) of FIG. 2 , and / or the side bezel structure (410) of FIG. 4 ) of a wearable electronic device (500) (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1 , the electronic device (200) of FIG. 2 , and / or the electronic device (400) of FIG. 4 ) may include a first frame (511), a second frame (512), and a side member (513). In one embodiment, the first frame (511), the second frame (512), and the side member (513) may form an exterior of the wearable electronic device (500) together with a back plate (593) (e.g., the back plate (593) of FIG. 6B and / or the back plate (493) of FIG. 4 ). In one embodiment, the first frame (511) and the second frame (512) can be spaced apart from each other. For example, the second frame (512) can be spaced apart from the first frame (511) in a first direction (e.g., the first direction of FIG. 5B ). In one embodiment, the side member (513) can be positioned between the first frame (511) and the second frame (512). In other words, the housing (510) can be segmented into the first frame (511) and the second frame (512) by positioning the side member (513) between the first frame (511) and the second frame (512).

[0066] In one embodiment, the display (520) (e.g., the display of FIG. 4) may have an edge covered by a bezel portion (501). In one embodiment, the bezel portion (501) may include a non-conductive material and / or a conductive material. In one embodiment, the bezel portion (501) may be formed separately from the first frame (511) and may be positioned on the inside of the first frame (511) to cover the edge of the display (520). In one embodiment, the bezel portion (501) may be a part of the first frame (511).

[0067] In one embodiment, the display (520) may be supported at least in part by the mounting portion (5131) of the side member (513) and / or the first frame (511). In one embodiment, the outer periphery of the display (520) may be supported by the side member (513). In one embodiment, the mounting portion (5131) may be formed to extend toward the inner space along the outer periphery of the side member (513). In one embodiment, the display (520) may be surrounded at the outer periphery by the first frame (511) and at least in part supported by the first frame (511). In one embodiment, the display (520) may be supported at least in part by the first frame (511) and at least in part by the mounting portion (5131) of the side member (513).

[0068] In one embodiment, when the display (520) is placed on the side member (513), the phenomenon of the display (520) being detached from the first frame (511) due to corrosion of the first frame (511) can be prevented compared to when the display (520) is placed only on the first frame (511).

[0069] According to one embodiment, the frames (511, 512) and the side members (513) of the housing (510) may be formed of different materials. In one embodiment, the first frame (511) and the second frame (512) may be formed of a conductive material (e.g., metal). For example, the first frame (511) and the second frame (512) may be formed of an alloy including at least one of aluminum, stainless steel (STS, SUS), iron, magnesium, and titanium. In one embodiment, the side members (513) may be formed of a non-conductive material (e.g., non-metal). For example, the side members (513) may be formed of a non-metallic material such as a synthetic resin, ceramic, polymer, or engineering plastic. In addition, the first frame (511) and the second frame (512) may be formed of various types of conductive materials. In addition, the side members (513) may be formed of various types of non-conductive materials.

[0070] According to one embodiment, the first frame (511), the second frame (512), and the side member (513) can be combined in various ways. In one embodiment, the housing (510) can be formed as a structure assembled with the first frame (511) - the side member (513) - the second frame (512) through a double injection process. Accordingly, the first frame (511), the side member (513), and the second frame (512) can be combined with each other through a double injection process. The above-described method is an example, and the first frame (511), the second frame (512), and the side member (513) can be combined in various ways, such as bonding using an adhesive, bonding using welding, or integrated bonding using bolts.

[0071] According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (500) may include a printed circuit board (580) (e.g., printed circuit board (480) of FIG. 4, printed circuit board (580) of FIG. 6B) disposed inside a housing (510). In one embodiment, the printed circuit board (580) may include at least one wireless communication circuit (F) (e.g., communication module (190) of FIG. 1, wireless communication module (192) of FIG. 1). According to one embodiment, the wireless communication circuit (F) may include a radio frequency IC (RFIC). As described below, the wireless communication circuit (F) may transmit a power supply signal to a first frame (511) and a second frame (512) of the housing (510) that are electrically connected through a power supply path. Therefore, the first frame (511) and the second frame (512) may operate as antennas through the wireless communication circuit (F). In one embodiment, a radio frequency IC (RFIC) may transmit a radio signal (RF signal) processed in a communication module (190) to a first frame (511) and a second frame (512), or transmit a radio signal received in the first frame (511) and a second frame (512) to the communication module.

[0072] In one embodiment, the first frame (511) and the second frame (512) of the housing (510) may be an antenna radiator that is electrically connected to a wireless communication circuit (F) and operates as an antenna. In one embodiment, when the first frame (511) and the second frame (512) operate as an antenna, the current distribution may be densely distributed in the space between the first frame (511) and the second frame (512). Since a side member (513) including a non-conductive material is positioned between the first frame (511) and the second frame (512), the flow of current generated in the space between the first frame (511) and the second frame (512) during wireless communication through the first frame (511) and / or the second frame (512) may be smooth. Therefore, a certain level of antenna radiation performance may be secured in a predetermined resonant frequency band through the first frame (511) and the second frame (512).

[0073] In one embodiment, a support member (560) (e.g., a bracket) (e.g., support member (460) of FIG. 4 and / or support member (560) of FIG. 10A) may be disposed inside the housing (510). In one embodiment, the support member (560) may be disposed between the first frame (511) and the printed circuit board (580) inside the housing (510). For example, the support member (560) may be positioned in a second direction opposite to the first direction with respect to the printed circuit board (580). In one embodiment, the support member (560) may be formed integrally with the side member (513).

[0074] In one embodiment, the wearable electronic device (500) may include a wireless communication circuit (F) and an antenna member (e.g., a first antenna member (711), 712, 713) and a second antenna member (730)) that electrically connect the first frame (511) and the second frame (512) to each other so that the first frame (511) and the second frame (512) may operate as antennas. In one embodiment, the wireless communication circuit (F) may be electrically connected to the first frame (511) via the first antenna member (711, 712, 713) (e.g., a conductive clip (e.g., a C-clip), a conductive socket, a conductive adhesive member). In one embodiment, the wireless communication circuit (F) may be electrically connected to the second frame (512) via the second antenna member (730) (e.g., a conductive clip, a conductive socket, and a conductive adhesive member). The structure in which the wireless communication circuit (F) and the first frame (511) and the second frame (512) are electrically connected will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 10a to 10d, which will be described later.

[0075] FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 7 are diagrams illustrating an antenna arrangement structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 8 is a configuration diagram of a switching circuit according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 9 is a graph illustrating the radiation performance of the antenna in the antenna arrangement structure of FIGS. 6A and 6B.

[0076] According to one embodiment, the first frame (511) and the second frame (512) of the housing (510) (e.g., the housing (210) of FIG. 2, the side bezel structure (206) of FIG. 2, and / or the side bezel structure (410) of FIG. 4) may be an antenna radiator that is electrically connected to a wireless communication circuit (F) (e.g., the communication module (190), the wireless communication module (192) of FIG. 1) disposed on a printed circuit board (580) (e.g., the printed circuit board (480) of FIG. 4)) and operates as an antenna. In one embodiment, the first frame (511) and the second frame (512) may be electrically connected to the wireless communication circuit (F) and operate as an antenna that operates in at least one band. In one embodiment, the wireless communication circuit (F) may transmit or receive a wireless signal to or from an external electronic device in the same frequency band or different frequency bands through the first frame (511) and the second frame (512). In one embodiment, a side member (513) including a non-conductive material is disposed between the first frame (511) and the second frame (512), so that the first frame (511) and the second frame (512) may not be electrically coupled. Accordingly, the first frame (511) and the second frame (512) may transmit or receive a wireless signal in a preset resonant frequency band.

[0077] According to one embodiment, the first frame (511) and the second frame (512) may be operated as antennas supporting frequency bands of 3G (generation), LTE (long term evolution), GPS (global positioning system) and / or Wifi by being powered through the wireless communication circuit (F). For example, the first frame (511) and the second frame (512) may be operated as antennas supporting frequency bands of low band (e.g., about 600 MHz to 1 GHz), mid band (e.g., about 1.5 GHz to 2.2 GHz), high band (e.g., about 2.2 GHz to 2.7 GHz), GPS (global positioning system) (e.g., L1 frequency, L2 frequency, L3 frequency, L4 frequency, L5 frequency), and Wifi band (e.g., about 2.4 GHz, about 5 to 6 GHz) by being powered through the wireless communication circuit (F).

[0078] According to one embodiment, the electrical length of the antenna can be determined by the location of a feed point where a wireless signal is fed (e.g., a first point (L1) of the first frame (511) and a second point (L5) of the second frame (512) of FIGS. 6A and 6B) to a ground point where a wireless signal exits the antenna (e.g., a second point (L2) of the first frame (511) of FIG. 6A, a third point (L3) of the first frame (511) of FIG. 7, a second point (L5) of the second frame (512) of FIGS. 6A and 7, and / or a third point (L6) of the second frame (512) of FIGS. 6A and 7). In one embodiment, the resonant frequency can be shifted by adjusting the electrical length of the antenna. For example, the first frame (511) and the second frame (512) can operate as multi-band antennas in different frequency bands depending on the location of the feed point connected to the wireless communication circuit (F), the number of feed points, the location of the ground point, and the number of ground points.

[0079] In one embodiment, referring to FIGS. 6A and 6B, the first frame (511) may be electrically connected to a wireless communication circuit (F) at a first point (L1) (e.g., a feeding point). In one embodiment, the first frame (511) may be electrically connected to a ground (G) of a printed circuit board (580) at a second point (L2) (e.g., a ground point). In one embodiment, the antenna length of the first frame (511) may be determined by the electrical length between the first point (L1) and the second point (L2). The first frame (511) may be operated as a multi-band antenna in different frequency bands depending on the number and positions of the feeding points and the ground points.

[0080] In one embodiment, referring to FIG. 7, the first frame (511) may be electrically connected to the ground (G) of the printed circuit board (580) at a third point (L3) (e.g., a ground point) in addition to the first point (L1), which is a feeding point, and the second point (L2), which is a ground point. Accordingly, the first frame (511) may be operated as a multi-band antenna in different frequency bands based on the number and positions of the feeding points and ground points. The above-described structure is merely an example, and the positions and numbers of the feeding points and ground points connected to the first frame (511) may vary depending on the resonant frequency band.

[0081] According to one embodiment not shown in the drawing, the first frame (511) can be segmented into a plurality of parts having different lengths. For example, the first frame (511) can include at least one segment. In one embodiment, the first frame (511) can be electrically segmented by placing an insulating member in the segment. In one embodiment, the insulating member can include a material having low conductivity or a material having low permittivity. The first frame (511) can be segmented into a plurality of parts having different lengths through the segments. In this way, the segmented first frame (511) can be operated as an antenna in a plurality of different resonant frequency bands.

[0082] In one embodiment, referring to FIGS. 6A and 6B, the second frame (512) may be electrically connected to the wireless communication circuit (F) at a first point (L4) (e.g., a feed point). In one embodiment, the second frame (512) may be electrically connected to a ground (G) of a printed circuit board (580) at a second point (L5) (e.g., a ground point). In one embodiment, the antenna length of the second frame (512) may be determined by the electrical length between the first point (L4) and the second point (L5) of the second frame (512). The second frame (512) may be operated as a multi-band antenna in different frequency bands depending on the number and positions of the feed points and the ground points.

[0083] In one embodiment, referring to FIG. 7, the second frame (512) may be electrically connected to the ground (G) of the printed circuit board (580) at a third point (L6) (e.g., a ground point) in addition to the first point (L4), which is a feeding point, and the second point (L5), which is a ground point. Accordingly, the second frame (512) may be operated as a multi-band antenna in different frequency bands based on the number and positions of the feeding and grounding points. The above-described structure is merely an example, and the positions and numbers of the feeding and grounding points connected to the second frame (512) may be varied depending on the resonant frequency band.

[0084] According to one embodiment not shown in the drawing, the second frame (512) can be segmented into a plurality of parts having different lengths. For example, the second frame (512) can include at least one segment. In one embodiment, the second frame can be electrically segmented by placing an insulating member in the segment. The second frame (512) can be segmented into a plurality of parts having different lengths through the segment. In this way, the segmented second frame (512) can be operated as an antenna in a plurality of different resonant frequency bands.

[0085] According to one embodiment, as illustrated in FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 7, the wearable electronic device (500) includes a first switching circuit (S1) disposed in an electrical path (6101) connecting a second point (L2) of a first frame (511) and a ground (G) of a printed circuit board (580), a second switching circuit (S2) disposed in an electrical path (6101) connecting a third point (L3) of the first frame (511) and a ground (G) of a printed circuit board (580), a third switching circuit (S3) disposed in an electrical path (6101) connecting a second point (L5) of a second frame (512) and a ground (G) of a printed circuit board (580), and / or a fourth switching circuit (S4) disposed in an electrical path (6101) connecting a third point (L6) of the second frame (512) and a ground (G) of a printed circuit board (580). It may include a switching circuit (S4).

[0086] In one embodiment, referring to FIG. 8 described below, switching circuits (S1, S2, S3, S4) (e.g., variable circuits) may include a switch (610) for electrically connecting at least one of a plurality of elements (620) (D1, D2... Dn, open)) or for opening a corresponding electrical path (6101). In one embodiment, the plurality of elements may include capacitors and / or inductors having different element values.

[0087] In one embodiment, the switching circuits (S1, S2, S3, S4) can selectively connect the first frame (511) and / or the second frame (512) to at least one ground (G). For example, referring to FIG. 8 described below, the switch (610) of the switching circuits (S1, S2, S3, S4) can electrically open the ground (G) connected to the first frame (511) and / or electrically open the ground (G) connected to the second frame (512) so that the first frame (511) and the second frame (512) can resonate in a designated frequency band. This allows the positions of the ground points of the first frame (511) and / or the second frame (512) to be varied, thereby varying the electrical length of the antenna. The variation of the electrical length of the antenna can change the resonant frequency.

[0088] In one embodiment, a processor (e.g., processor (120) of FIG. 1) may control the first switching circuit (S1) and / or the second switching circuit (S2) so that the resonant frequency band operated in the first frame (511) can be varied based on status information of the wearable electronic device (500). For example, the processor (120) may check the signal strength of the wireless communication circuit (F) and, based on a certain level of signal strength not being secured in a specific resonant frequency band, adjust the resonant frequency band operated in the first frame (511) through the switching circuits (S1, S2). In one embodiment, the processor (120) may adjust the resonant frequency band operated in the first frame (511) to optimize power consumption of the wearable electronic device (500). In one embodiment, the processor (120) can control the switching circuits (S1, S2) to adjust the resonant frequency operated in the first frame (511) so as to transmit or receive a wireless communication signal in a specific band. In addition, the processor (120) can control the switching circuits (S1, S2) based on various status information of the wearable electronic device (500) to adjust the resonant frequency band operated in the first frame (511).

[0089] In one embodiment, referring to FIG. 7 and FIG. 8 described below, the first switching circuit (S1) can open or connect an electrical path (6101) connecting a second point (L2) of the first frame (511) and the ground (G) under the control of the processor (120). The second switching circuit (S2) can open or connect an electrical path (6101) connecting a third point (L3) of the first frame (511) and the ground (G) under the control of the processor (120). Accordingly, the wireless communication circuit (F) can vary the resonant frequency by changing the electrical length of the first frame (511) through the switching circuits (S1, S2, S3, S4).

[0090] In one embodiment, the processor (120) may control the third switching circuit (S3) and / or the fourth switching circuit (S4) so ​​that the resonant frequency band operated in the second frame (512) can be varied based on the status information of the wearable electronic device (500). For example, the processor (120) may check the signal strength of the wireless communication circuit (F) and adjust the resonant frequency band operated in the second frame (512) through the switching circuits (S3, S4) based on the fact that a certain level of signal strength is not secured in a specific resonant frequency band. In one embodiment, the processor (120) may adjust the resonant frequency band operated in the second frame (512) to optimize power consumption of the wearable electronic device (500). In one embodiment, the processor (120) may control the switching circuits (S3, S4) to adjust the resonant frequency operated in the second frame (512) so that a wireless communication signal can be transmitted or received in a specific band. In addition, the processor (120) can control the switching circuit (S3, S4) based on various status information of the wearable electronic device (500) to adjust the resonant frequency band operated in the second frame (512).

[0091] In one embodiment, referring to FIG. 7, the third switching circuit (S3) can open or connect an electrical path (6101) connecting the second point (L5) of the second frame (512) and the ground (G) under the control of the processor (120). The fourth switching circuit (S4) can open or connect an electrical path (6101) connecting the third point (L6) of the second frame (512) and the ground (G) under the control of the processor (120). Accordingly, the wireless communication circuit (F) can vary the resonant frequency by changing the electrical length of the second frame (512) through the switching circuits (S1, S2, S3, S4).

[0092] The number of switching circuits (S1, S2, S3, S4) described above is merely an example, and the number of switching circuits may vary depending on the number of grounding points connected to the first frame (511) and the number of grounding points connected to the second frame (512).

[0093] Figure 8 is a configuration diagram of a switching circuit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0094] According to one embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 8, at least one of the switching circuits (S1, S2, S3, S4) may include at least one switch (610) and / or a plurality of passive elements (620) (D1, D2 ... open)) having different element values ​​that are electrically connected to an electrical path (6101) by the at least one switch (610) or that disconnect the electrical path (6101). According to one embodiment, the plurality of passive elements (620) may include capacitors having various capacitance values ​​and / or inductors having various inductance values. According to one embodiment, at least one switch (610) may be connected to the electrical path (6101) through an element having a designated element value under the control of a processor (e.g., the processor (120) of FIG. 1). In one embodiment, the switching circuits (S1, S2, S3, S4) may short-circuit the corresponding electrical path (6101) via the switch (610). According to one embodiment, at least one switch (610) may include a micro-electro mechanical systems (MEMS) switch. According to one embodiment, the MEMS switch has a perfect turn on / off characteristic because it performs a mechanical switching operation by an internal metal plate, and thus may not substantially affect the change in the radiation characteristics of the antenna. In one embodiment, at least one switch (610) may include a slingle pole single throw (SPST), a single pole double throw (SPDT), or a switch including three or more throws.

[0095] Fig. 9 is a graph showing the radiation performance of the antenna in the antenna arrangement structure of Figs. 6a and 6b.

[0096] According to one embodiment, the graph of FIG. 9 is a graph showing the radiation performance of an antenna of a wearable electronic device (500) (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1, the electronic device (200) of FIG. 2, and / or the electronic device (400) of FIG. 4) based on the number and positions of the feeding points and grounding points of the first frame (511) shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B and the number and positions of the feeding points and grounding points of the second frame (512). In one embodiment, the graph showing the radiation performance of the antenna of FIG. 9 may be a comparison of the antenna radiation performance (660) in a comparative embodiment in which the first frame (511) and the second frame (512) are integrally formed with the antenna radiation performance (670, 680) in a case in which the first frame (511) and the second frame (512) shown in FIG. 5A are physically segmented.

[0097] In one embodiment, referring to FIG. 9, it can be confirmed that the first frame (511) has a relatively high antenna radiation performance (670) in the low band region (640) (e.g., about 600 MHz to 1000 MHz) and the mid band region (650) (e.g., about 1500 MHz to 1900 MHz) compared to the antenna radiation performance (660) of the comparative example in which the first frame (511) and the second frame (512) are formed integrally.

[0098] In one embodiment, referring to FIG. 9, it can be confirmed that the second frame (512) has a relatively high antenna radiation performance (680) in the low band region (640) (e.g., about 600 MHz to 1000 MHz) and the mid band region (650) (e.g., about 1500 MHz to 1900 MHz) compared to the antenna radiation performance (660) of the comparative example in which the first frame (511) and the second frame (512) are formed integrally.

[0099] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the housing (510) (e.g., the housing (210) of FIG. 2, the side bezel structure (206) of FIG. 2, and / or the side bezel structure (410) of FIG. 4) may be segmented into a plurality of parts. For example, the housing (510) may physically segment the first frame (511) and the second frame (512) by arranging a side member (513) between the first frame (511) and the second frame (512) made of a conductive material. The physically segmented first frame (511) and the second frame (512) may be electrically connected to a wireless communication circuit (F) and thus may be used as an antenna radiator. The wearable electronic device (500) may transmit or receive wireless communication signals in various frequency bands through the first frame (511) and the second frame (512).

[0100] FIGS. 10A to 10D are cross-sectional views taken along line AA of FIG. 5A, and are drawings illustrating the connection structure of the first frame (511) and the wireless communication circuit (F) and the connection structure of the second frame (512) and the wireless communication circuit (F).

[0101] According to one embodiment, as illustrated in FIGS. 10A to 10D , a wearable electronic device (500) (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1 , the electronic device (200) of FIG. 2 , and / or the electronic device (400) of FIG. 4 ) may include a first antenna member (711, 712, 713) connecting a wireless communication circuit (F) and a first frame (511) such that the first frame (511) can operate as an antenna, and a second antenna member (730) connecting the wireless communication circuit (F) and the second frame (512) such that the second frame (512) can operate as an antenna.

[0102] In one embodiment, the second frame (512) may be electrically connected to the wireless communication circuit (F) via a second antenna member (730) (e.g., a conductive clip, a conductive socket, and / or a conductive adhesive member). For example, the second frame (512) may be powered by the wireless communication circuit (F) via the second antenna member (730). Hereinafter, a structure for electrically connecting the first frame (511) and the wireless communication circuit (F) will be described in detail.

[0103] According to one embodiment, as illustrated in FIGS. 10A and 10B , a wireless communication circuit (F) (e.g., the wireless communication circuit (F) of FIGS. 6A , 6B , and / or 7 ) disposed on a printed circuit board (580) may be electrically connected to a first frame (511) via a conductive portion (562) of a fixing member (720) - a supporting member (560) (e.g., a supporting member (460) of FIG. 4 ) - a first conductive connecting member (711) (e.g., a first antenna member (711, 712, 713)). In one embodiment, the supporting member (560) may include a conductive portion (562) comprising a conductive material. In one embodiment, the conductive portion (562) may be formed to extend from the front surface (e.g., the surface facing the display (520)) of the support member (560) to the back surface (e.g., the surface facing the printed circuit board (580) (e.g., the surface facing the printed circuit board (480) of FIG. 4)). In one embodiment, the conductive portion (562) may have a conduit (e.g., a second connecting hole (561)) into which a fixing member (720) (e.g., a screw, a screw) formed of a conductive material (e.g., a metal) may be inserted. In one embodiment, the support member (560) and the printed circuit board (580) may be arranged inside the housing (510) (e.g., the housing (210) of FIG. 2, the side bezel structure (206) of FIG. 2, and / or the side bezel structure (410) of FIG. 4) such that the first connecting hole (581) and the second connecting hole (561) correspond to each other. In one embodiment, the fixing member (720) can be inserted into the first connection hole (581) of the printed circuit board (580) and the second connection hole (561) of the support member (560). The wireless communication circuit (F) of the printed circuit board (580) can be connected to the conductive portion (562) of the support member (560) through the fixing member (720).In one embodiment, referring to FIGS. 10A and 10B , a first conductive connecting member (711) (e.g., a conductive clip (7111) in FIG. 10A , a conductive adhesive member (7112) in FIG. 10B ) may be disposed between the support member (560) and the first frame (511) to electrically connect the conductive portion (562) of the support member (560) and the first frame (511). In one embodiment, referring to FIG. 10A , the first conductive connecting member (711) may be a conductive clip (7111). In one embodiment, referring to FIG. 10B , the first conductive connecting member (711) may be a conductive adhesive member (7112) (e.g., a tape). In addition, the first conductive connection member (711) can be changed into various mechanisms that electrically connect the conductive portion (562) of the support member (560) including a conductive material and the first frame (511). Accordingly, the wireless communication circuit (F) can be electrically connected to the first frame (511) through the fixing member (720) - the conductive portion (562) of the support member (560) - the first conductive connection member (711). The first frame (511) can transmit or receive a wireless signal in at least one resonant frequency band by being powered by the wireless communication circuit (F).

[0104] According to one embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 10C, a battery plate (571) including a conductive material may be disposed on the support member (560). In one embodiment, the battery plate (571) may be fixed to the support member (560) so as to cover the battery (570) (e.g., the battery (470) of FIG. 4) between the support member (560) and the display (520) (e.g., the display (220) of FIG. 4). Since the battery (570) is fixed in position to the support member (560) through the battery plate (571), it may not be detached from the support member (560).

[0105] In one embodiment, a first conductive connecting member (711) (e.g., a conductive clip (7111) of FIG. 10A and / or a conductive adhesive member (7112) of FIG. 10C) may be disposed between the battery plate (571) and the first frame (511) and may be in contact with the battery plate (571) and the first frame (511). Accordingly, the wireless communication circuit (F) may be electrically connected to the first frame (511) through the fixing member (720), the conductive portion (562) of the support member (560), the battery plate (571), and the first conductive connecting member (711). The first frame (511) may be powered by the wireless communication circuit (F) to transmit or receive a wireless signal in at least one resonant frequency band.

[0106] According to one embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 10d, the support member (560) may include a front surface facing the display (520), a back surface facing the printed circuit board (580), and a side surface surrounding a space between the front surface and the back surface. In one embodiment, the wireless communication circuit (F) may be electrically connected to the first frame (511) via the side surface of the support member (560). In one embodiment, the first antenna member (711, 712, 713) electrically connecting the wireless communication circuit (F) and the first frame (511) may include a second conductive connection member (712) and a third conductive connection member (713). In one embodiment, the second conductive connection member (712) (e.g., a conductive clip, a conductive socket) may be disposed on the printed circuit board (580) and electrically connected to the wireless communication circuit (F). In one embodiment, the third conductive connection member (713) (e.g., a conductive clip) may be disposed at least partially on the back, side, and front surfaces of the support member (560) to be in contact with the first frame (511) and the second conductive connection member (712). Accordingly, the wireless communication circuit (F) may be electrically connected to the first frame (511) through the second conductive connection member (712) and the third conductive connection member (713). The first frame (511) may transmit or receive a wireless signal in at least one resonant frequency band by being powered by the wireless communication circuit (F). In one embodiment, the support member (560) of FIG. 10D may not include the conductive portion (562), but may not be limited thereto.

[0107] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a wearable electronic device (101, 200, 400, 500) may include a housing (206, 210, 410, 510) including a first frame (511) including a conductive material, a second frame (512) spaced apart from the first frame in a first direction and including a conductive material, and a side member (513) disposed between the first frame and the second frame and including a non-conductive material. In one embodiment, the wearable electronic device may include a printed circuit board (480, 580) disposed in the housing. In one embodiment, the wearable electronic device may include a wireless communication circuit (F, 192) disposed on the printed circuit board and electrically connected to the first frame and the second frame to transmit or receive a wireless signal in at least one frequency band. In one embodiment, the wearable electronic device may include a first antenna member (711, 712, 713) electrically connecting the wireless communication circuit and the first frame. In one embodiment, the wearable electronic device may include a second antenna member (730) electrically connecting the wireless communication circuit and the second frame.

[0108] In one embodiment, the first frame may be electrically connected to at least one ground (G). In one embodiment, the wireless communication circuit may transmit or receive wireless signals in a plurality of different frequency bands through the first frame.

[0109] In one embodiment, the wearable electronic device may include a switching circuit (S1, S2) arranged in an electrical path connecting the first frame and the at least one ground. In one embodiment, the wearable electronic device may further include at least one processor (120) that controls the switching circuit based on status information of the wearable electronic device.

[0110] In one embodiment, the second frame may be electrically connected to at least one ground (G). In one embodiment, the wireless communication circuit may transmit or receive wireless signals in a plurality of different frequency bands through the second frame.

[0111] In one embodiment, the wearable electronic device may further include a switching circuit (S3, S4) arranged in an electrical path connecting the second frame and the at least one ground. In one embodiment, the wearable electronic device may further include at least one processor (120) that controls the switching circuit based on status information of the wearable electronic device.

[0112] In one embodiment, the wearable electronic device may further include a support member (460, 560) including a conductive portion (562) and disposed in the housing and positioned in a second direction opposite to the first direction with respect to the printed circuit board.

[0113] In one embodiment, the support member may be formed integrally with the side member of the housing.

[0114] In one embodiment, the wearable electronic device may further include a first connection hole (581) formed in the printed circuit board. In one embodiment, the wearable electronic device may further include a second connection hole (561) formed in the conductive portion of the support member and corresponding to the first connection hole. In one embodiment, the wearable electronic device may further include a fixing member (720) passing through the first connection hole and the second connection hole and including a conductive material. In one embodiment, the first antenna member may include a first conductive connection member (711) electrically connecting the conductive portion and the first frame.

[0115] In one embodiment, the first conductive connecting member may be one of a conductive clip (7111) and a conductive adhesive member (7112) that contact the conductive portion of the support member and the first frame.

[0116] In one embodiment, the wearable electronic device may further include a battery plate (571) comprising a conductive material and covering a battery (470, 570) of the wearable electronic device disposed on the support member, at least a portion of which is in contact with the conductive portion. In one embodiment, the first conductive connecting member may be in contact with the first frame and the battery plate.

[0117] In one embodiment, the support member may include a front surface, a back surface opposite the front surface and facing the printed circuit board, and a side surface surrounding a space between the front surface and the back surface. In one embodiment, the first antenna member may include a second conductive connection member (712) disposed on the printed circuit board and electrically connected to the wireless communication circuit, and a third conductive connection member (713) at least a portion of which is disposed on the side surface of the support member and in contact with the first frame and the second conductive connection member.

[0118] In one embodiment, the second antenna member may be one of a conductive clip and a conductive adhesive member.

[0119] In one embodiment, the wearable electronic device may further include a display (220, 520) that is wrapped around the first frame and disposed on the side member.

[0120] In one embodiment, the first frame and the second frame may transmit or receive wireless signals in different frequency bands.

[0121] In one embodiment, the wireless communication circuit can transmit or receive a wireless signal in at least one of a Low band, a Mid band, and a High band frequency band via at least one of the first frame and the second frame.

[0122] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a wearable electronic device (101, 200, 400, 500) may include a housing (206, 210, 410, 510) including a first frame (511) including a conductive material, a second frame (512) spaced apart from the first frame in a first direction and including a conductive material, and a side member (513) disposed between the first frame and the second frame and including a non-conductive material. In one embodiment, the wearable electronic device may include a first segment portion that segments the first frame into a plurality of parts and has an insulating material disposed thereon. In one embodiment, the wearable electronic device may include a second segment portion that segments the second frame into a plurality of parts and has an insulating material disposed thereon. In one embodiment, the wearable electronic device may include a printed circuit board (480, 580) disposed in the housing. In one embodiment, the wearable electronic device may include a wireless communication circuit (F, 192) disposed on the printed circuit board and electrically connected to the first frame and the second frame to transmit or receive a wireless signal in at least one frequency band. In one embodiment, the wearable electronic device may include a first antenna member (711, 712, 713) electrically connecting the wireless communication circuit and the first frame. In one embodiment, the wearable electronic device may include a second antenna member (730) electrically connecting the wireless communication circuit and the second frame.

[0123] In one embodiment, the wearable electronic device may further include a plurality of switching circuits (S1, S2, S3, S4) arranged in an electrical path connecting the first frame and at least one ground (G) and an electrical path connecting the second frame and at least one ground. In one embodiment, the wearable electronic device may further include at least one processor (120) that controls the plurality of switching circuits based on status information of the wearable electronic device.

[0124] In one embodiment, the wearable electronic device may further include a support member (460, 560) including a conductive portion (562) and disposed in the housing and positioned in a second direction opposite to the first direction with respect to the printed circuit board. In one embodiment, the wearable electronic device may further include a first connection hole (581) formed in the printed circuit board. In one embodiment, the wearable electronic device may further include a second connection hole (561) formed in the conductive portion of the support member and corresponding to the first connection hole. In one embodiment, the wearable electronic device may further include a fixing member (720) passing through the first connection hole and the second connection hole and including a conductive material. In one embodiment, the first antenna member may include a first conductive connection member (711) electrically connecting the conductive portion and the first frame.

[0125] In one embodiment, the wearable electronic device may further include a battery plate (571) comprising a conductive material and covering a battery (470, 570) of the wearable electronic device disposed on the support member, at least a portion of which is in contact with the conductive portion. In one embodiment, the first conductive connecting member may be in contact with the battery plate and the first frame.

[0126] In one embodiment, the wearable electronic device may further include a support member (460, 560) including a conductive portion (562) and disposed in the housing and positioned in a second direction opposite to the first direction with respect to the printed circuit board. In one embodiment, the support member may include a front surface, a rear surface opposite the front surface and facing the printed circuit board, and a side surface surrounding a space between the front surface and the rear surface. In one embodiment, the first antenna member may include a second conductive connection member (712) disposed on the printed circuit board and electrically connected to the wireless communication circuit, and a third conductive connection member (713) at least a portion of which is disposed on a side surface of the support member and in contact with the first frame and the second conductive connection member.

[0127] According to one embodiment disclosed in the present document, the housing (510) may be segmented into a plurality of parts. For example, the housing (510) may include a first frame (511) including a conductive material, a second frame (512) including a conductive material, and a side member (513) disposed between the first frame and the second frame and including a non-conductive material. The first frame (511) and the second frame (512) may be electrically connected to a wireless communication circuit (F) of a printed circuit board (580) (e.g., the communication module (190) of FIG. 1 and / or the wireless communication module (192) of FIG. 1) and may be used as an antenna radiator. Accordingly, the wearable electronic device (500) may transmit or receive wireless communication signals in various frequency bands by segmenting the housing into a plurality of parts.

[0128] In addition, since a side member (513) including a non-conductive material is positioned between the first frame (511) and the second frame (512), the flow of current generated in the space between the first frame (511) and the second frame (512) during wireless communication through the first frame (511) and / or the second frame (512) can be smooth. Accordingly, a certain level of antenna radiation performance can be secured in a predetermined resonant frequency band through the first frame (511) and the second frame (512).

[0129] 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.

[0130] 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 arranged 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.

[0131] It will be appreciated that the present invention contemplates and encompasses embodiments based on any combination of two or more of the disclosed embodiments, as well as embodiments comprising any combination of the features disclosed herein. That is, the absence of an explicit indication that two features or two embodiments can be combined does not imply that such a combination is not envisioned, but rather that such a combination is intended to be included herein.

Claims

1. In a wearable electronic device (101, 200, 400, 500), A housing (206, 210, 410, 510) comprising a first frame (511) comprising a conductive material, a second frame (512) spaced apart in a first direction with respect to the first frame and comprising a conductive material, and a side member (513) disposed between the first frame and the second frame and comprising a non-conductive material; A printed circuit board (480, 580) placed in the above housing; A wireless communication circuit (F, 192) arranged on the printed circuit board and electrically connected to the first frame and the second frame to transmit or receive a wireless signal in at least one frequency band; A first antenna member (711, 712, 713) electrically connecting the wireless communication circuit and the first frame; and A wearable electronic device comprising a second antenna member (730) electrically connecting the wireless communication circuit and the second frame.

2. In paragraph 1, The above first frame is, electrically connected to at least one ground (G), The above wireless communication circuit, A wearable electronic device that transmits or receives wireless signals in multiple different frequency bands through the first frame.

3. In paragraph 2, A switching circuit (S1, S2) disposed in an electrical path connecting the first frame and at least one ground; and A wearable electronic device further comprising at least one processor (120) for controlling the switching circuit based on status information of the wearable electronic device.

4. In paragraph 1 or 2, The above second frame, electrically connected to at least one ground (G), The above wireless communication circuit, A wearable electronic device that transmits or receives wireless signals in multiple different frequency bands through the second frame.

5. In paragraph 4, A switching circuit (S3, S4) disposed in an electrical path connecting the second frame and at least one ground; and A wearable electronic device further comprising at least one processor (120) for controlling the switching circuit based on status information of the wearable electronic device.

6. In paragraph 1, A wearable electronic device further comprising a support member (460, 560) including a conductive portion (562) and positioned in the housing in a second direction opposite to the first direction with respect to the printed circuit board.

7. In paragraph 6, The above support member is, A wearable electronic device formed integrally with the side member of the housing.

8. In paragraph 6, A first connecting hole (581) formed in the printed circuit board; A second connecting hole (561) formed in the conductive portion of the support member and corresponding to the first connecting hole; and Further comprising a fixing member (720) that passes through the first connecting hole and the second connecting hole and includes a conductive material; The above first antenna member, A wearable electronic device comprising a first conductive connecting member (711) electrically connecting the conductive portion and the first frame.

9. In paragraph 8, The above first conductive connecting member is, A wearable electronic device, wherein the conductive portion of the support member is one of a conductive clip (7111) and a conductive adhesive member (7112) that contacts the first frame.

10. In paragraph 8, Further comprising a battery plate (571) comprising a conductive material and covering the battery (470, 570) of the wearable electronic device disposed on the support member, at least a portion of which is in contact with the conductive portion; The above first conductive connecting member is, A wearable electronic device in contact with the first frame and the battery plate.

11. In paragraph 6, The above support member is, a front surface, the opposite side of the front surface and including a back surface facing the printed circuit board, and a side surface surrounding the space between the front surface and the back surface; The above first antenna member, A second conductive connecting member (712) disposed on the printed circuit board and electrically connected to the wireless communication circuit, and A wearable electronic device comprising a third conductive connection member (713) at least partly disposed on a side surface of the support member and in contact with the first frame and the second conductive connection member.

12. In paragraph 1, The above second antenna member, A wearable electronic device comprising any one of a conductive clip and a conductive adhesive member.

13. In paragraph 1, A wearable electronic device further comprising a display (220, 520) that is wrapped through the first frame and placed on the side member.

14. In paragraph 1, A wearable electronic device wherein the first frame and the second frame transmit or receive wireless signals in different frequency bands.

15. In paragraph 1, The first frame is divided into a plurality of parts, and the first segments are provided with insulating material; and A wearable electronic device further comprising a second segment portion in which an insulating material is arranged by segmenting the second frame into a plurality of segments.

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