Wearable device comprising antenna

Abstract

This wearable device comprises: a conductive rear housing into contact with a part of the body of a user; a non-conductive support part arranged on the conductive rear housing; an antenna radiator arranged on the non-conductive support part; a printed circuit board; an antenna contact which is arranged on one surface of the printed circuit board facing the non-conductive support part and which is in contact with the antenna radiator; and a bracket which includes a conductive part spaced apart from the conductive rear housing and which supports the printed circuit board. A signal from the antenna radiator is radiated through a non-conductive path between the conductive rear housing and the conductive part of the bracket.

Description

Wearable device including an antenna

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

[0002] Wearable devices can be worn on a part of the user's body. For example, a wearable device such as a smart watch can be worn on the user's wrist.

[0003] A wearable device may include an antenna used for communication with an external electronic device. For example, the wearable device may include an antenna used for Bluetooth communication with a host device and an antenna used for Wi-Fi communication. The antenna may be positioned within a housing that forms the exterior of the wearable device. The housing of the wearable device may be formed of a conductive material (e.g., metal) for the purpose of improving exterior quality, durability, and ease of manufacturing.

[0004] The above information may be provided as background information to aid in understanding the present disclosure. No claim or determination is made as to whether any of the above is applicable as prior art in connection with the present disclosure.

[0005] A wearable device is provided. The wearable device may include a conductive rear housing that comes into contact with a portion of a user's body when the wearable device is worn. The wearable device may include a non-conductive support portion disposed on the conductive rear housing. The wearable device may include an antenna radiator disposed on the non-conductive support portion. The wearable device may include a printed circuit board supported by the non-conductive support portion. The wearable device may include an antenna contact disposed on a surface of the printed circuit board facing the non-conductive support portion and coming into contact with the antenna radiator. The wearable device may include a bracket that includes a conductive portion spaced apart from the conductive rear housing and supports the printed circuit board. A signal from the antenna radiator may be radiated through a non-conductive path between the conductive rear housing and the conductive portion of the bracket.

[0006] A wearable device is provided. The wearable device may include a display defining at least a portion of a front surface of the wearable device. The wearable device may include a conductive rear housing defining at least a portion of a rear surface of the wearable device and opposite the display. The wearable device may include a non-conductive support portion disposed on the conductive rear housing. The wearable device may include an antenna radiator disposed on the non-conductive support portion. The wearable device may include a bracket including a conductive portion spaced apart from the conductive rear housing, supporting the printed circuit board, and defining at least a portion of a side surface of the wearable device. A signal from the antenna radiator may be radiated through a non-conductive path between the conductive rear housing and the conductive portion of the bracket.

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

[0008] FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of a wearable device according to one embodiment.

[0009] FIG. 3 is a rear perspective view of a wearable device according to one embodiment.

[0010] Figure 4 is an exploded perspective view of a wearable device according to one embodiment.

[0011] FIG. 5 is a front view of a rear housing of a wearable device according to one embodiment.

[0012] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA' of FIG. 2 of a wearable device according to one embodiment.

[0013] FIG. 7 illustrates an electromagnetic field formed around a wearable device according to one embodiment when the antenna is in operation.

[0014] Figure 8 is a graph showing the radiation efficiency of an antenna according to the formation of a non-conductive path.

[0015] Figure 9 is an enlarged view of the X portion of Figure 6.

[0016] Figure 10 is a graph showing the radiation efficiency of an antenna according to the width of the non-conductive path.

[0017] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA' of FIG. 2 of a wearable device according to one embodiment.

[0018] Figure 12 is a graph showing the radiation efficiency of a wearable device according to one embodiment.

[0019] Fig. 13 is a drawing schematically illustrating a wearable device according to one embodiment.

[0020] Fig. 14 is a graph showing the radiation efficiency of an antenna according to the length of the first part and the length of the second part.

[0021] Figure 15a illustrates a slot antenna formed in a conductive rear housing.

[0022] FIG. 15b is a cross-sectional view of a wearable device including a slot antenna.

[0023] Figure 15c is a graph showing the radiation efficiency of the slot antenna of Figure 15a.

[0024] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment according to various embodiments.

[0025] Referring to FIG. 1, in a network environment (100), an electronic device (101) may communicate with an electronic device (102) via a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network), or may communicate with an electronic device (104) or a server (108) via a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may communicate with the electronic device (104) via the server (108). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a processor (120), a memory (130), an input module (150), an audio output module (155), a display module (160), an audio module (170), a sensor module (176), an interface (177), a connection terminal (178), a haptic module (179), a camera module (180), a power management module (188), a battery (189), a communication module (190), a subscriber identification module (196), or an antenna module (197). In 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)).

[0026] 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 calculations. According to one embodiment, as at least a part of the data processing or calculations, the processor (120) may store commands or data received from other components (e.g., a sensor module (176) or a communication module (190)) in a volatile memory (132), process the commands or data stored in the volatile memory (132), and store result data in a non-volatile memory (134). According to one embodiment, the processor (120) may include a main processor (121) (e.g., a central processing unit or an application processor) or a secondary processor (123) (e.g., a graphics processing unit, a neural processing unit (NPU), an image signal processor, a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor)) that can operate independently or together therewith. For example, if the electronic device (101) includes a main processor (121) and a secondary processor (123), the secondary processor (123) may be configured to use less power than the main processor (121) or to be specialized for a specified function. The secondary processor (123) may be implemented separately from the main processor (121) or as a part thereof.

[0027] The auxiliary processor (123) may control at least a part of functions or states associated with at least one component (e.g., a display module (160), a sensor module (176), or a communication module (190)) of the electronic device (101), for example, on behalf of the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an inactive (e.g., sleep) state, or together with the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an active (e.g., application execution) state. In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., an image signal processor or a communication processor) may be implemented as a part of another functionally related component (e.g., a camera module (180) or a communication module (190)). In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., a neural network processing unit) may include a hardware structure specialized for processing artificial intelligence models. The artificial intelligence models may be generated through machine learning. This learning can be performed, for example, in the electronic device (101) itself where artificial intelligence is performed, or can be performed through a separate server (e.g., server (108)). The learning algorithm can include, for example, supervised learning, unsupervised learning, semi-supervised learning, or reinforcement learning, but is not limited to the examples described above. The artificial intelligence model can include multiple artificial neural network layers.The artificial neural network may be one of a deep neural network (DNN), a convolutional neural network (CNN), a recurrent neural network (RNN), a restricted Boltzmann machine (RBM), a deep belief network (DBN), a bidirectional recurrent deep neural network (BRDNN), a deep Q-network, or a combination of two or more of the above, but is not limited to the examples described above. In addition to, or alternatively to, a hardware structure, an artificial intelligence model may include a software structure.

[0028] 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).

[0029] 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).

[0030] 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).

[0031] 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.

[0032] 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.

[0033] 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).

[0034] 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.

[0035] 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.

[0036] 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).

[0037] 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. In one embodiment, the haptic module (179) can include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0038] 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.

[0039] The power management module (188) can manage power supplied to the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the power management module (188) can be implemented, for example, as at least a part of a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

[0040] 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.

[0041] 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).

[0042] 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.

[0043] The antenna module (197) can transmit or receive signals or power to or from an external device (e.g., an external electronic device). In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include an antenna including a radiator formed of a conductor or a conductive pattern formed on a substrate (e.g., a PCB). In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna). In this case, at least one antenna suitable for a communication method used in a communication network, such as the first network (198) or the second network (199), may be selected from the plurality of antennas by, for example, the communication module (190). A signal or power may be transmitted or received between the communication module (190) and an external electronic device through the selected at least one antenna. In some embodiments, in addition to the radiator, another component (e.g., a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) may be additionally formed as a part of the antenna module (197).

[0044] In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may form a mmWave antenna module. In one embodiment, the mmWave antenna module may include a printed circuit board, an RFIC disposed on or adjacent a first side (e.g., a bottom side) of the printed circuit board and capable of supporting a designated high-frequency band (e.g., a mmWave band), and a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna) disposed on or adjacent a second side (e.g., a top side or a side side) of the printed circuit board and capable of transmitting or receiving signals in the designated high-frequency band.

[0045] 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)).

[0046] 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.

[0047] Fig. 2 is a front perspective view of a wearable device according to one embodiment. Fig. 3 is a rear perspective view of a wearable device according to one embodiment.

[0048] According to one embodiment, an electronic device (e.g., electronic device (101) of FIG. 1) may include a wearable device (200) worn on a part of a user's body. For example, the wearable device (200) may be referred to as a wrist-wearable electronic device, a smart watch.

[0049] Referring to FIG. 2, a wearable device (200) according to one embodiment may include a display (202) and a housing assembly (201). The display (202) and the housing assembly (201) may define the exterior of the wearable device (200).

[0050] According to one embodiment, the display (202) may define at least a portion of the front surface (200a) of the wearable device (200) (e.g., the surface of the wearable device (200) facing the +z direction). The display (202) may be configured to display visual information. For example, if the wearable device (200) is a wrist-worn electronic device (e.g., a smart watch), the display (202) may be configured to display time information, date information, as well as activity information of a user wearing the wearable device (200), health information, information related to the state of charge (SOC) of a battery, weather information, and / or notification information related to an event of an electronic device (e.g., a smart phone) wirelessly connected to the wearable device (200). The display (202) may include a display panel (202) and a substantially transparent window disposed on the display panel (202). The display (202) may include, or be adjacent to, a touch sensing circuit, a pressure sensor for measuring the intensity (pressure) of a touch, and / or a fingerprint sensor.

[0051] In one embodiment, at least a portion of the housing assembly (201) may be formed from a conductive material. For example, the housing assembly (201) may be formed from a metallic material. Since metallic materials provide high durability, ease of manufacture, and superior appearance quality, the housing assembly (201) may be formed from a conductive material. The housing assembly (201) may at least partially define the front (200a), side (200b), and back (200c) of the wearable device (200).

[0052] According to one embodiment, the housing assembly (201) may include a conductive rear housing (e.g., the conductive rear housing (210) of FIG. 3), a bracket (220), a conductive front housing (230), and a conductive bezel (240). The conductive rear housing (210), the bracket (220), the conductive front housing (230), and the conductive bezel (240) may be coupled to each other to form at least a portion of the exterior of the wearable device (200).

[0053] According to one embodiment, the bracket (220) may define at least a portion of a side surface (200b) of the wearable device (200) between the front surface (200a) of the wearable device (200) and the back surface (200c) of the wearable device (200). The bracket (220) may include a non-conductive portion (222) exposed to the outside of the wearable device (200) and a conductive portion (e.g., the conductive portion (221) of FIG. 4) coupled to the non-conductive portion (222) and positioned inside the wearable device (200). Electronic components for providing various functions of the wearable device (200) may be disposed inside the bracket (220) or supported by the bracket (220). For example, the wearable device (200) may include a battery disposed inside the bracket (220) and a printed circuit board (e.g., a printed circuit board (450) of FIG. 4) supported by the bracket (220). The bracket (220) may be referred to as a side member, a side wall portion, a lateral frame, or a lateral structure in that it forms at least a portion of a side surface (200b) of the wearable device (200).

[0054] In one embodiment, the conductive front housing (230) can define at least a portion of the front surface (200a) of the wearable device (200). The conductive front housing (230) can be disposed on the bracket (220). For example, the conductive front housing (230) can be disposed on a surface of the non-conductive portion (222) of the bracket (220) facing the front surface (200a) of the wearable device (200). The conductive front housing (230) can include an inner surface (231) having a shape corresponding to a shape of the display (202) and an outer surface (232) having a shape corresponding to a shape of the bracket (220). The inner surface (231) of the conductive front housing (230) can be spaced apart from the display (202) and can laterally surround the display (202). Since the outer surface (232) of the conductive front housing (230) has a shape corresponding to the shape of the bracket (220), the edge of the conductive front housing (230) can be substantially aligned with the edge of the bracket (220). The conductive front housing (230) can be referred to as a front metal or front decoration in terms of forming at least a portion of the front surface (200a) of the wearable device (200).

[0055] According to one embodiment, the conductive bezel (240) can fix and protect the display (202) by covering the peripheral portion of the front surface of the display (202). The conductive bezel (240) can be disposed between the side surface of the display (202) and the conductive front housing (230). The conductive bezel (240) can have a shape corresponding to the shape of the display (202). For example, when the shape of the display (202) is a circular shape, the conductive bezel (240) covering the peripheral portion of the front surface of the display (202) can have a circular shape corresponding to the shape of the display (202). However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the shape of the display (202) can have various shapes, such as an oval or a polygon.

[0056] According to one embodiment, the wearable device (200) may include a key input device (270) for receiving user input. For example, the key input device (270) may include side key buttons (271) and / or a crown (272) disposed on a side (200b) of the housing assembly (201). The side key buttons (271) may be configured to receive user input by being pressed by a user. The crown (272) may be configured to receive user input by being pressed or rotated by a user.

[0057] According to one embodiment, the wearable device (200) may include straps (281) for fixing the wearable device (200) to a part of the user's body. The straps (281) may be coupled to the bracket (220). The straps (281) may be formed as an integral or multiple unit links that are movable to each other, for example, by using a woven material, leather, rubber, urethane, metal, ceramic, or a combination of at least two of the above materials. The straps (281) may be fastened to each other through a fixing member (282), thereby fixing the wearable device (200) to a part of the user's body (e.g., a wrist). In FIGS. 2 and 3, the fixing member (282) is shown as being positioned at the end of one (281a) of the straps (281) and inserted into a fastening hole (283) formed in the other (281b) of the straps (281), but is not limited thereto.

[0058] Referring to FIG. 3, the conductive rear housing (210) may define at least a portion of the rear surface (200c) of the wearable device (200). The conductive rear housing (210) may be opposite a display (e.g., display (202) of FIG. 2). The conductive rear housing (210) may be coupled to a non-conductive portion (222) of a bracket (220). A glass cover (260) may be disposed on the center of the conductive rear housing (210). When the wearable device (200) is worn on a part of a user's body (e.g., a wrist), the conductive rear housing (210) and the glass cover (260) may come into contact with the part of the user's body.

[0059] In one embodiment, the glass cover (260) may be aligned with a sensor disposed within the wearable device (200). For example, the sensor may include, but is not limited to, a photoplethysmography (PPG) sensor configured to obtain data on changes in blood flow within the user's microvessels. The glass cover (260) may be substantially transparent such that light emitted from the sensor within the wearable device (200) may pass through the glass cover (260) to reach the user's body, and light reflected from the user's body may pass through the glass cover (260) to be received by the sensor. The wearable device (200) may further include at least one of a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a color sensor, an infrared (IR) sensor, a biometric sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or an illuminance sensor.

[0060] Figure 4 is an exploded perspective view of a wearable device according to one embodiment.

[0061] Referring to FIG. 4, a wearable device (200) according to one embodiment may include a housing assembly (201), a display (202), one or more antenna radiators (410, 420), display driver integrated circuitry (430), a wireless charging coil (440), and / or a printed circuit board (450).

[0062] According to one embodiment, the housing assembly (201) may include a conductive bezel (240), a conductive front housing (230), a bracket (220), a non-conductive support portion (250), and / or a conductive rear housing (210). At least one of the components of the wearable device (200) illustrated in FIG. 4 may be identical to or similar to at least one of the components of the wearable device (200) of FIG. 2 or FIG. 3, and any redundant description may be omitted.

[0063] In one embodiment, the housing assembly (201) may include a non-conductive support portion (250). The non-conductive support portion (250) may be disposed on a side (211) of the conductive rear housing (210) facing the display (202) (e.g., the side facing the +z direction).

[0064] According to one embodiment, the bracket (220) may include a conductive portion (221) and a non-conductive portion (222). The conductive portion (221) of the bracket (220) may be coupled to the interior of the non-conductive portion (222) of the bracket (220) and may not be exposed to the exterior of the wearable device (200). For example, the non-conductive portion (222) of the bracket (220) may define at least a portion of a side surface (200b) of the wearable device (200).

[0065] According to one embodiment, the display (202) may be electrically connected to a display driving circuit (430). The display driving circuit (430) may be configured to control a plurality of pixels included in the display (202) panel. The display driving circuit (430) may be electrically connected to the display (202) panel through a substrate (431) (e.g., a flexible printed circuit board or a polymer (e.g., polyimide (PI)) substrate).

[0066] According to one embodiment, a wearable device (200) may include components for wireless charging of a battery. For example, the wearable device (200) may include a wireless charging circuit and a wireless charging coil (440). The wireless charging circuit may be configured to receive power transmitted from an external source through the wireless charging coil (440). The wireless charging circuit may be configured to provide the power received through the wireless charging coil (440) to the battery. The wireless charging circuit may be configured to support one or more of various wireless charging methods, including, for example, a magnetic resonance method or a magnetic induction method.

[0067] According to one embodiment, the printed circuit board (450) may include a plurality of conductive layers and a plurality of non-conductive layers alternately laminated with the plurality of conductive layers. The printed circuit board (450) may be configured to provide electrical connections between various electronic components using wires and conductive vias formed on the conductive layers. The printed circuit board (450) may be supported by a non-conductive support portion (250).

[0068] According to one embodiment, the wearable device (200) may include a wireless communication circuit (e.g., a wireless communication module (192) of FIG. 1). The wireless communication circuit may be disposed on a printed circuit board (450). The wireless communication circuit may be configured to communicate with an external electronic device via one or more antenna radiators (410, 420). The one or more antenna radiators (410, 420) may be electrically connected to the printed circuit board (450).

[0069] In one embodiment, the wearable device (200) may include an antenna radiator (410). The antenna radiator (410) may be disposed on a surface (251) of the non-conductive support portion (250) facing the display (202) (e.g., a surface of the non-conductive support portion (250) facing the +z direction). The non-conductive support portion (250) may be disposed between the antenna radiator (410) and the conductive rear housing (210), thereby physically separating the antenna radiator (410) from the conductive rear housing (210). In one embodiment, the antenna radiator (410) may be referred to as an antenna radiator for Bluetooth communication and / or WiFi (wireless fidelity) communication. For example, a wireless communication circuit can communicate with an external electronic device (e.g., a smart phone) via an antenna radiator (410) disposed on a non-conductive support portion (250).

[0070] According to one embodiment, the wearable device (200) may further include another antenna radiator (420). The other antenna radiator (420) may be configured to transmit and / or receive radio frequency (RF) signals on a designated frequency band. For example, the other antenna radiator (420) may be referred to as an antenna radiator for RF signals on a low band (e.g., below about 1 GHz).

[0071] According to one embodiment, when the wearable device (200) is operated while being worn on a part of the user's body, the antenna radiator (410) may electromagnetically interact with the part of the user's body. For example, when the wearable device (200) is worn on the user's wrist, the conductive rear housing (210) may come into contact with the user's wrist. Since the antenna radiator (410) is positioned close to the conductive rear housing (210), it may be positioned close to the user's wrist. As the antenna radiator (410) is positioned close to the user's wrist, the communication performance of the antenna including the antenna radiator (410) may deteriorate.

[0072] A wearable device (200) according to one embodiment may include a structure for radiating a signal toward a side (200b) of the wearable device (200) by the antenna radiator (410) to reduce deterioration of communication performance of the antenna radiator (410). Hereinafter, a wearable device (200) according to one embodiment will be described.

[0073] Fig. 5 is a front view of a rear housing of a wearable device according to one embodiment. Fig. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a wearable device according to one embodiment taken along line AA' of Fig. 2.

[0074] Referring to FIG. 5, the non-conductive support portion (250) may be disposed on one side (211) of the conductive rear housing (210). The one side (211) of the conductive rear housing (210) on which the non-conductive support portion (250) is disposed may face in a direction (e.g., +z direction) toward the display (e.g., display (202) of FIG. 4). The non-conductive support portion (250) may be formed of a non-conductive material to physically separate the conductive portion (221) and the antenna radiator (410). The antenna radiator (410) may be disposed on one side (251) of the non-conductive support portion (250). For example, one side (251) of the non-conductive support portion (250) on which the antenna radiator (410) is placed may face in a direction (e.g., +z direction) toward the display (202).

[0075] According to one embodiment, the antenna radiator (410) may be configured to be powered by a wireless communication circuit (e.g., the wireless communication module (192) of FIG. 1) and communicate with an external electronic device. For example, the antenna radiator (410) may be an antenna radiator for Bluetooth communication or WiFi communication. For pairing the wearable device (200) with an external electronic device (e.g., a smart phone), the antenna radiator (410) may be configured to establish a communication channel with an antenna of the external electronic device. According to one embodiment, the non-conductive support portion (250) may include a mounting portion (510) on which the antenna radiator (410) is disposed. The mounting portion (510) can increase the distance between the conductive portion (e.g., the conductive portion (221) of FIG. 4) of the bracket (e.g., the bracket (220) of FIG. 4) positioned above the non-conductive support portion (250) (e.g., in the +z direction) by being recessed from a portion of one side (251) of the non-conductive support portion (250) toward the conductive rear housing (210) (e.g., toward the -z direction) and the antenna radiator (410).

[0076] Referring to FIG. 6, a printed circuit board (450) on which a wireless communication circuit (e.g., a wireless communication module (192) of FIG. 1) is arranged and an antenna radiator (410) may be electrically connected. The antenna radiator (410) may be arranged on one side (251) of a non-conductive support portion (250). The one side (251) may be referred to as a part of the front surface (e.g., a side facing the +z direction) of the non-conductive support portion (250). The one side (251) may be referred to as a part of the side facing the printed circuit board (450).

[0077] According to one embodiment, the wearable device (200) may include an antenna contact (610) disposed on one side (451) of a printed circuit board (450) facing the non-conductive support portion (250) and in contact with the antenna radiator (410). For example, the antenna contact (610) may be a conductive connecting member (e.g., a conductive pin or a conductive clip) for electrically connecting the printed circuit board (450) and the antenna radiator (410). A wireless communication circuit may be configured to power the antenna radiator (410) through the printed circuit board (450) and the antenna contact (610). The antenna radiator (410) may be configured to radiate a signal based on the power supplied from the wireless communication circuit.

[0078] For example, if a signal radiated from the antenna radiator (410) is radiated toward the conductive rear housing (210) (e.g., toward the -z direction), the signal may be directed toward a part of the user's body. For example, if the wearable device (200) is worn on the user's wrist, the signal from the antenna radiator (410) may be blocked by the user's wrist, or the user's wrist may interfere with the antenna radiator (410). The blockage and interference may deteriorate the communication performance of the antenna radiator (410).

[0079] For example, if a signal radiated from the antenna radiator (410) is radiated toward the display (202) (e.g., toward the +z direction), the signal may be difficult to transmit to an external electronic device due to the conductive portion (221) of the bracket (220), the conductive bezel (240), and the display (202).

[0080] A wearable device (200) according to one embodiment may include a structure in which a non-conductive path (P) (or opening area, non-conductive slot) through which a signal from an antenna radiator (410) is radiated is formed through a side surface (200b) of the wearable device (200).

[0081] In one embodiment, the conductive portion (221) of the bracket (220) may be spaced apart from the conductive rear housing (210) to provide a non-conductive path (P) through which a signal from the antenna radiator (410) radiates to the outside of the wearable device (200). For example, the conductive portion (221) of the bracket (220) and the conductive rear housing (210) may not contact each other but may be spaced apart from each other. As an example, the non-conductive portion (222) of the bracket (220) and / or the non-conductive support portion (250) may be positioned between the conductive portion (221) of the bracket (220) and the conductive rear housing (210). Since the non-conductive portion (222) and / or the non-conductive support portion (250) of the bracket (220) are formed of a non-conductive material, they do not cause electromagnetic interference to the antenna radiator (410), so that performance deterioration of the antenna including the antenna radiator (410) can be reduced.

[0082] For example, when the conductive portion (221) of the bracket (220) and the conductive rear housing (210) are in contact with each other, a non-conductive path (P) through which a signal from the antenna radiator (410) is radiated cannot be formed on the side surface (200b) of the wearable device (200). When the conductive portion (221) of the bracket (220) and the conductive rear housing (210) are in contact with each other, since the side surface (200b) of the wearable device (200) is formed entirely of a conductive material (e.g., metal), a signal from the antenna radiator (410) cannot be radiated to the side surface (200b) of the wearable device (200), which may cause a deterioration in the performance of the antenna including the antenna radiator (410).

[0083] According to one embodiment, since the conductive portion (221) of the bracket (220) and the conductive rear housing (210) are spaced apart from each other, a non-conductive path (P) through which a signal from the antenna radiator (410) is radiated can be formed between the conductive portion (221) of the bracket (220) and the conductive rear housing (210), so that the antenna radiator (410) can be configured to radiate a signal toward the side surface (200b) of the wearable device (200). The non-conductive path (P) may not cause electromagnetic interference to the signal from the antenna radiator (410) because it is not blocked by a component including a conductive material (e.g., the conductive portion (221) of the bracket (220) and the conductive rear housing (210)) and is blocked by a component including a non-conductive material (e.g., the non-conductive portion (222) of the bracket (220) and the non-conductive support portion (250)). Although the non-conductive path (P) is blocked by the non-conductive portion (222) of the bracket (220) and the non-conductive support portion (250), which are formed of a non-conductive material, from a signal perspective, the non-conductive path (P) may be referred to as an opening area and / or a non-conductive slot because it is not blocked by a conductive material that affects the signal.

[0084] According to one embodiment, a wearable device (200) may include a sealant (640) interposed between a conductive portion (221) and a non-conductive support portion (250) of a bracket (220). The sealant (640) may be configured to seal an internal space of the wearable device (200) by being interposed between the conductive portion (221) and the non-conductive support portion (250) of the bracket (220). For example, the sealant (640) may include, but is not limited to, elastic rubber, polymer, or adhesive tape.

[0085] According to one embodiment, since the conductive rear housing (210) is formed of a conductive material (e.g., metal), it may be difficult for a signal from the antenna radiator (410) to be radiated to the conductive rear housing (210). The conductive material forming the conductive rear housing (210) may block an electromagnetic field formed in a direction toward the conductive rear housing (210) that is in contact with a part of the user's body, so that the signal from the antenna radiator (410) is radiated through a non-conductive path (P) between the conductive portion (221) of the bracket (220) and the conductive rear housing (210). As the electromagnetic field formed in the direction toward the conductive rear housing (210) is blocked, the signal from the antenna radiator (410) can be radiated through a non-conductive path (P) formed on the side surface (200b) of the wearable device (200) between the conductive portion (221) of the bracket (220) and the conductive rear housing (210). In one embodiment, the antenna radiator (410) can be designed in the form of an inverted F antenna. The signal from the antenna radiator (410) can be reflected by components formed of a conductive material (e.g., metal), such as the conductive rear housing (210) and the conductive portion (221) of the bracket (220), and radiated through the non-conductive path (P) formed on the side surface (200b) of the wearable device (200).

[0086] In one embodiment, the non-conductive path (P) may be formed along a first edge (620) of the conductive rear housing (210) facing the bracket (220) and a second edge (630) of the conductive portion (221) facing the conductive rear housing (210). For example, the second edge (630) may be spaced apart from the entire first edge (620), and the non-conductive path (P) may be formed between the entire first edge (620) and the entire second edge (630). If the first edge (620) and the second edge (630) have a substantially rectangular shape, the non-conductive path (P) may be formed along an edge of the rectangle. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, when the conductive rear housing (210) and the conductive portion (221) of the bracket (220) are partially in contact, a non-conductive path (P) may be formed between a portion of the first edge (620) and a portion of the second edge (630), and the remaining portion of the first edge (620) and the remaining portion of the second edge (630) may be in contact with each other. The structure in which the conductive rear housing (210) and the conductive portion (221) of the bracket (220) are partially in contact will be described later with reference to FIG. 13.

[0087] FIG. 7 illustrates an electromagnetic field formed around a wearable device according to one embodiment when the antenna is in operation.

[0088] Referring to FIG. 7, when an antenna radiator (e.g., the antenna radiator (410) of FIG. 6) is powered, a radiation current may flow in the antenna radiator (410), and an electromagnetic field may be formed in the space around the antenna radiator (410) due to the flow of the radiation current. A signal from the antenna radiator (410) may be radiated in the form of an electromagnetic wave through the electromagnetic field. Since the signal is radiated to an area where the electromagnetic field is strongly concentrated, the area where the electromagnetic field is strongly concentrated may be referred to as an area where the signal from the antenna radiator (410) is radiated. In FIG. 7, an area with a dark shade indicates an area with a strong electromagnetic field. For example, the electromagnetic field of an area filled with a relatively dark concentration is higher than the electromagnetic field of an area filled with a relatively light concentration.

[0089] According to one embodiment, when the antenna radiator (410) is powered, an electromagnetic field may be strongly formed at the side surface (200b) of the wearable device (200). When the wearable device (200) is worn on a part of the user's body, the conductive rear housing (210) in contact with the part of the user's body may block the electromagnetic field formed toward the part of the user's body. Since the conductive portion (e.g., the conductive portion (221) of FIG. 6) of the bracket (220) and the conductive rear housing (210) are spaced apart from each other at the side surface (200b) of the wearable device (200), the electromagnetic field may be strongly formed at the side surface (200b) of the wearable device (200). For example, the electromagnetic field may be strongly formed between the conductive portion (221) of the bracket (220) and the conductive rear housing (210). A signal from the antenna radiator (410) can be radiated through the side (200b) of the wearable device (200) where a strong electromagnetic field is formed. A signal from the antenna radiator (410) can be radiated through a non-conductive path (e.g., a non-conductive path (P) of FIG. 6) formed between the conductive portion (221) of the bracket (220) and the conductive rear housing (210).

[0090] According to one embodiment, since the wearable device (200) operates while being worn on a part of the user's body, the communication performance when the wearable device (200) is worn on a part of the user's body may be more important than the communication performance when the wearable device (200) is not worn on a part of the user's body (e.g., in a free state). When the wearable device (200) is close to a part of the user's body, the performance of the antenna including the antenna radiator (410) may deteriorate due to the influence of the part of the user's body. According to one embodiment, when the antenna operates, a strong electromagnetic field is formed on the side surface (200b) of the wearable device (200) and a weak electromagnetic field is formed in the direction in which the antenna is in contact with a part of the user's body, so that a signal from the antenna radiator (410) may be radiated to the side surface (200b) of the wearable device (200). As the above signal is radiated to the side (200b) of the wearable device (200), the deterioration of communication performance caused by the user's body is reduced, so that the communication performance of the wearable device (200) can be improved.

[0091] Figure 8 is a graph showing the radiation efficiency of an antenna according to the formation of a non-conductive path.

[0092] As described above, in a wearable device according to one embodiment (e.g., the wearable device (200) of FIG. 6), a conductive portion (e.g., the conductive portion (221) of FIG. 6) of a bracket (e.g., the bracket (220) of FIG. 6) and a conductive rear housing (e.g., the conductive rear housing (210) of FIG. 6) may not contact each other and may be spaced apart from each other to form a non-conductive path (e.g., the non-conductive path (P) of FIG. 6) through which a signal is radiated from an antenna radiator (e.g., the antenna radiator (410) of FIG. 6). The non-conductive path (P) may be formed between the conductive portion (221) of the bracket (220) and the conductive rear housing (210) that are spaced apart from each other.

[0093] Referring to Fig. 8, when the conductive portion (221) of the bracket (220) and the conductive rear housing (210) come into contact with each other, a non-conductive path (P) is not formed, so the communication performance of the antenna including the antenna radiator (410) may deteriorate. The x-axis of the graph (800) of Fig. 8 represents the frequency of the signal (unit: GHz (giga hertz)), and the y-axis of the graph (800) represents the radiation efficiency of the antenna (unit: dB (decibel)).

[0094] The first graph (810) of FIG. 8 is a graph showing the radiation efficiency according to the frequency of an antenna including an antenna radiator (410) included in a wearable device (200) according to one embodiment. The wearable device (200) according to one embodiment may include a structure in which a conductive portion (221) of a bracket (220) and a conductive rear housing (210) do not contact each other but are spaced apart from each other. The second graph (820) of FIG. 8 is a graph showing the radiation efficiency according to the frequency of an antenna including an antenna radiator (410) included in a wearable device according to a comparative example. The wearable device according to the comparative example may include a structure in which a conductive portion (221) of a bracket (220) and a conductive rear housing (210) do not contact each other but are in contact with each other. A wearable device according to a comparative example may be referred to as a device in which a non-conductive path (P) of a wearable device (200) according to one embodiment is filled with a conductive material (e.g., metal).

[0095] Referring to the graph (800) of FIG. 8, the first graph (810) shows higher radiation efficiency than the second graph (820). As described above, the antenna including the antenna radiator (410) can be used for Bluetooth communication and / or WiFi communication. The frequency band for Bluetooth communication and / or WiFi communication may be about 2.4 GHz to about 2.5 GHz. For a frequency between about 2.4 GHz and about 2.5 GHz, the first graph (810) shows higher radiation efficiency by about 8 dB to about 10 dB than the second graph (820). In the wearable device according to the comparative example, since the antenna radiator (410) is disposed within the housing assembly (201) formed of a conductive material (e.g., metal), it may be difficult to form a non-conductive path (P) through which a signal from the antenna radiator (410) is radiated. Since the non-conductive path (P) is used as a path through which the signal from the antenna radiator (410) is transmitted to the outside of the wearable device, a difference in the radiation performance of the wearable device may be caused depending on the formation of the non-conductive path (P). For example, in the case where the non-conductive path (P) is difficult to form, as in the wearable device according to the comparative example, since the signal from the antenna radiator (410) disposed inside the wearable device is difficult to transmit to the outside of the wearable device, it may be difficult to establish a communication channel between the external electronic device and the wearable device, low radiation efficiency may be exhibited, and radiation performance may deteriorate. In the case of the wearable device (200) according to one embodiment, since the signal from the antenna radiator (410) can be transmitted from the inside of the wearable device (200) to the outside of the wearable device (200) through the non-conductive path (P), the radiation performance of the wearable device (200) may be improved. In one embodiment, the radiation performance of the wearable device may vary significantly depending on the formation of the non-conductive path (P).

[0096] According to one embodiment, a wearable device (200) may have a non-conductive path (P) formed for a signal from an antenna by separating the conductive portion (221) of the bracket (220) and the conductive rear housing (210) from each other. Since the signal may be radiated through the non-conductive path (P), the communication performance of the wearable device (200) may be improved.

[0097] Fig. 9 is an enlarged view of the X portion of Fig. 6. Fig. 10 is a graph showing the radiation efficiency of an antenna according to the width of a non-conductive path.

[0098] Referring to FIG. 9, in one embodiment, the non-conductive support portion (250) may include a recessed portion (510) that is recessed toward the conductive rear housing (210). For example, one side (251) of the non-conductive support portion (250) facing the display (e.g., the display (202) of FIG. 6) (e.g., the side of the non-conductive support portion (250) facing the +z direction) may not be flat and may be recessed in the opposite direction (e.g., the -z direction) to the display (202). The antenna radiator (410) may be disposed on the recessed portion (510) that is recessed toward the conductive rear housing (210).

[0099] According to one embodiment, a signal from the antenna radiator (410) may be radiated through a non-conductive path (P) between the conductive portion (221) of the bracket (220) and the conductive rear housing (210). In order for the signal from the antenna radiator (410) to be effectively radiated through the non-conductive path (P), a width of the non-conductive path (P) of a certain width may be required. Since the non-conductive path (P) is formed between the conductive portion (221) of the bracket (220) and the conductive rear housing (210), the width of the non-conductive path (P) may correspond to the gap between the conductive portion (221) of the bracket (220) and the conductive rear housing (210). Depending on the gap, the radiation efficiency of the antenna including the antenna radiator (410) may vary.

[0100] According to one embodiment, the conductive rear housing (210) may be formed by cutting one side (211) of the conductive rear housing (210) facing the display (202) (e.g., the side of the conductive rear housing (210) facing the +z direction) to form a cutting surface (910) to increase the width of the non-conductive path (P). As the cutting surface (910) is formed, the height at which the one side of the conductive rear housing (210) is positioned may be reduced, and thus the height of the conductive rear housing (210) may be reduced. Since the one side of the conductive rear housing (210) faces the bracket (220), when the one side is cut, the gap between the conductive portion (221) of the bracket (220) and the conductive rear housing (210) may be increased. As the gap is increased, the width of the non-conductive path (P) may be increased. By cutting the above-described one side of the conductive rear housing (210), a gap can be formed between the bracket (220) and the conductive rear housing (210), and the non-conductive support portion (250) can fill the gap. The non-conductive support portion (250) can be in contact with the cutting surface (910).

[0101] Referring to FIG. 10, the radiation efficiency of an antenna including an antenna radiator (410) may vary depending on the width of a non-conductive path (e.g., the non-conductive path (P) of FIG. 6). The x-axis of the graph (1000) of FIG. 10 represents the frequency of a signal (unit: GHz), and the y-axis of the graph (1000) represents the radiation efficiency of the antenna (unit: dB).

[0102] As described above, an antenna including an antenna radiator (e.g., antenna radiator (410) of FIG. 9) may be used for Bluetooth communication and / or WiFi communication. The frequency band for Bluetooth communication and / or WiFi communication may be about 2.4 GHz to about 2.5 GHz.

[0103] The first graph (1010) of FIG. 10 is a graph showing the radiation efficiency of the antenna when a cutting surface (e.g., a cutting surface (910) of FIG. 9) is not formed on the conductive rear housing (e.g., the conductive rear housing (210) of FIG. 9) (e.g., when one surface of the conductive rear housing (210) is not cut).

[0104] The second graph (1020) of Fig. 10 is a graph showing the radiation efficiency of the antenna when the one side of the conductive rear housing (210) is cut by about 0.5 mm. When the one side of the conductive rear housing (210) is cut by about 0.5 mm, the cut surface (910) can be formed at a first position (e.g., the first position (P1) of Fig. 9) within Fig. 9.

[0105] The third graph (1030) of Fig. 10 is a graph showing the radiation efficiency of the antenna when the one side of the conductive rear housing (210) is cut by about 1.0 mm. When the one side of the conductive rear housing (210) is cut by about 1.0 mm, the cut surface (910) can be formed at a second position (e.g., the second position (P2) of Fig. 9) within Fig. 9.

[0106] The fourth graph (1040) of Fig. 10 is a graph showing the radiation efficiency of the antenna when the one side of the conductive rear housing (210) is cut by about 1.5 mm. When the one side of the conductive rear housing (210) is cut by about 1.5 mm, the cut surface (910) can be formed at a third position (e.g., the third position (P3) of Fig. 9) within Fig. 9.

[0107] The fifth graph (1050) of Fig. 10 is a graph showing the radiation efficiency of the antenna when the one side of the conductive rear housing (210) is cut by about 2.0 mm. When the one side of the conductive rear housing (210) is cut by about 2.0 mm, the cut surface (910) can be formed at the fourth position (e.g., the fourth position (P4) of Fig. 9) within Fig. 9.

[0108] The sixth graph (1060) of FIG. 10 is a graph showing the radiation efficiency of the antenna when the one side of the conductive rear housing (210) is cut by about 2.5 mm. When the one side of the conductive rear housing (210) is cut by about 2.5 mm, the cut surface (910) can be formed at the fifth position (e.g., the fifth position (P5) of FIG. 9) within FIG. 9.

[0109] The seventh graph (1070) of Fig. 10 is a graph showing the radiation efficiency of the antenna when the one side of the conductive rear housing (210) is cut by about 3.0 mm. When the one side of the conductive rear housing (210) is cut by about 3.0 mm, the cut surface (910) can be formed at the sixth position (e.g., the fifth position (P6) of Fig. 9) within Fig. 9.

[0110] Referring to the graph (1000) of FIG. 10, in a Bluetooth communication and / or WiFi communication frequency band (e.g., about 2.4 GHz to about 2.5 GHz), the sixth graph (1060) and the seventh graph (1070) may exhibit relatively low radiation efficiency. In a Bluetooth communication and / or WiFi communication frequency band, the first graph (1010), the second graph (1020), the third graph (1030), the fourth graph (1040), and the fifth graph (1050) may exhibit relatively high radiation efficiency. If the cutting height is too large, the shielding effect of the electromagnetic field formed in the direction toward the conductive rear housing (210) that comes into contact with a part of the user's body may be reduced, thereby lowering the radiation efficiency of the antenna including the antenna radiator (410). For example, if the cutting height is about 3.0 mm or more, the blocking effect of the conductive rear housing (210) may be reduced, thereby lowering the radiation efficiency of the antenna. According to one embodiment, the cutting height of the conductive rear housing (210) may be about 2.0 mm or less.

[0111] According to one embodiment, the position of the cutting surface (910) may be adjusted depending on the type, size, purpose, and / or body part of the wearable device (200) worn by the user. According to one embodiment, the position of the cutting surface (910) may be adjusted so as to block the influence of the user's body and ensure smooth radiation to the side (200b) of the wearable device (200).

[0112] Fig. 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA' of Fig. 2 of a wearable device according to one embodiment. Fig. 12 is a graph showing the radiation efficiency of a wearable device according to one embodiment.

[0113] Referring to FIG. 11, a wearable device (200) according to one embodiment may further include another antenna radiator (420).

[0114] In one embodiment, at least a portion of the other antenna radiator (420) may be disposed on another side (252) of the non-conductive support portion (250) facing the conductive rear housing (210) (e.g., a side of the non-conductive support portion (250) facing the -z direction). The other antenna radiator (420) may be configured to transmit and / or receive radio frequency (RF) signals over a designated frequency band. For example, the other antenna radiator (420) may be referred to as an antenna radiator for RF signals over a low band (e.g., below about 1 GHz).

[0115] According to one embodiment, when another antenna radiator (420) is disposed on the other side (252) of the non-conductive support portion (250), the radiation efficiency of an antenna including an antenna radiator (410) disposed on one side of the non-conductive support portion (250) can be improved.

[0116] Referring to FIG. 12, as another antenna radiator (420) is arranged, the radiation efficiency of the antenna including the antenna radiator (410) can be improved. The first graph (1210) of FIG. 12 is a graph showing the radiation efficiency of the antenna including the antenna radiator (410) in a wearable device (200) including the antenna radiator (410) and another antenna radiator (420). The second graph (1220) of FIG. 12 is a graph showing the radiation efficiency of the antenna including the antenna radiator (410) in a wearable device (200) including only the antenna radiator (410) and not including another antenna radiator (420).

[0117] Comparing the first graph (1210) and the second graph (1220) of FIG. 12, the first graph (1210) may exhibit relatively higher radiation efficiency than the second graph (1220). As described above, the antenna including the antenna radiator (410) may be used for Bluetooth communication and / or WiFi communication. The frequency band for Bluetooth communication and / or WiFi communication may be from about 2.4 GHz to about 2.5 GHz. For frequencies between about 2.4 GHz and about 2.5 GHz, the first graph (1210) exhibits radiation efficiency that is about 1 dB higher than the second graph (1220). As another antenna radiator (420) is disposed on the other side (252) of the non-conductive support portion (250), the radiation efficiency of the antenna including the antenna radiator (410) may be improved. According to one embodiment, the wearable device (200) can transmit and / or receive signals on a designated frequency band (e.g., low band) using another antenna radiator (420), and the communication performance of the antenna including the antenna radiator (410) can be improved due to the other antenna radiator (420).

[0118] Fig. 13 is a schematic diagram illustrating a wearable device according to one embodiment. Fig. 14 is a graph illustrating the radiation efficiency of an antenna according to the length of the first portion and the length of the second portion.

[0119] An enlarged view (1300) of a wearable device (200) illustrated in FIG. 13 is a drawing in which a non-conductive portion of the bracket (220) (e.g., the non-conductive portion (222) of FIG. 6) is omitted, and schematically illustrates a conductive portion (221) of the bracket (220), a conductive rear housing (210), and a non-conductive support portion (250).

[0120] According to one embodiment, the non-conductive path (P) may be formed along a portion between the conductive portion (221) of the bracket (220) and the conductive rear housing (210). For example, if the conductive portion (221) of the bracket (220) and the conductive rear housing (210) include a portion in contact, the non-conductive path (P) may not be formed in the contacted portion, but may be formed in the remaining portion that is not in contact.

[0121] In one embodiment, the conductive portion (221) of the bracket (220) and the conductive rear housing (210) may be in partial contact. For example, a first edge (620) of the conductive rear housing (210) facing the bracket (220) and a second edge (630) of the conductive portion (221) facing the conductive rear housing (210) may be partially spaced apart. The first edge (620) and the second edge (630) being at least partially spaced apart may be referred to as including a portion where the first edge (620) and the second edge (630) are in contact with each other and a portion where they are spaced apart from each other.

[0122] For example, the second portion (631) of the second edge (630) of the conductive portion (221) may be spaced apart from the first portion (621) of the first edge (620) of the conductive rear housing (210). The second portion (631) may face the first portion (621). For example, the gap between the first portion (621) and the second portion (631) may have an approximate “L” shape. The non-conductive path (P) may be formed along the gap between the first portion (621) of the first edge (620) and the second portion (631) of the second edge (630). As illustrated in the enlarged view (1300) of FIG. 13, the portion where the conductive rear housing (210) and the conductive portion (221) are partially spaced apart may be referred to as a non-conductive slot (1310). The non-conductive slot (1310) may be referred to as a portion that provides a non-conductive path (P) through which a signal is transmitted to the outside of the wearable device (200). For example, as the first portion (621) and the second portion (631) are spaced apart from each other, a non-conductive path (P) through which a signal from the antenna radiator (410) can be radiated may be formed. For the non-conductive path (P), the first portion (621) and the second portion (631) may be adjacent to the antenna radiator (410). The remaining portion of the first edge (620) excluding the first portion (621) (e.g., the third portion (622)) and the remaining portion of the second edge (630) excluding the second portion (631) (e.g., the fourth portion (632)) may be in contact with each other.

[0123] According to one embodiment, even if the conductive rear housing (210) and the conductive portion (221) of the bracket (220) are not completely spaced apart but are partially spaced apart, a non-conductive path (P) through which a signal from the antenna radiator (410) is radiated can be formed. When the first portion (621) and the second portion (631) are arranged adjacent to the antenna radiator (410), the signal from the antenna radiator (410) can be radiated through the non-conductive path (P) formed between the first portion (621) and the second portion (631). Since the signal can be transmitted to the outside of the wearable device (200) through the non-conductive slot (1310), the length (L) of the non-conductive slot (1310) can be an area in which the non-conductive path (P) can be formed. For example, the length (L) of the non-conductive slot (1310) may correspond to the boundary of the third portion (622) of the first edge (620) from the boundary of the first portion (621) of the first edge (620) (or, from the boundary of the second portion (631) of the second edge (630) to the boundary of the fourth portion (632) of the second edge (630). For example, the length (L) of the non-conductive slot (1310) may be referred to as the sum (e.g., L1 + L2) of the first length (L1) of the +y-direction-oriented portion of the non-conductive slot (1310) and the second length (L2) of the +x-direction-oriented portion of the non-conductive slot (1310).

[0124] The graph (1400) of FIG. 14 is a graph showing the radiation efficiency of an antenna including an antenna radiator (410) according to a first length and a second length, assuming that the first length (e.g., the first length (L1) of FIG. 13) and the second length (e.g., the second length (L2) of FIG. 13) are substantially the same. The x-axis of the graph (1400) represents the frequency of a signal (unit: GHz), and the y-axis of the graph (1400) represents the radiation efficiency of the antenna (unit: dB).

[0125] The first graph (1410) of FIG. 14 shows the radiation efficiency of the antenna when the first length and the second length are about 6 mm. For example, when the first length and the second length are about 6 mm, the length (e.g., length (L) of FIG. 13) of the non-conductive slot (e.g., non-conductive slot (1310) of FIG. 13) may be about 12 mm. The second graph (1420) shows the radiation efficiency of the antenna when the first length and the second length are about 12 mm. For example, when the first length and the second length are about 12 mm, the length of the non-conductive slot may be about 24 mm. The third graph (1430) shows the radiation efficiency of the antenna when the first length and the second length are about 18 mm. For example, when the first length and the second length are approximately 18 mm, the length of the non-conductive slot may be approximately 36 mm. The fourth graph (1440) represents the radiation efficiency of the antenna when the first length and the second length are approximately 24 mm. For example, when the first length and the second length are approximately 24 mm, the length of the non-conductive slot may be approximately 48 mm.

[0126] Referring to FIG. 14, as the length of the non-conductive slot (e.g., the sum of the first length and the second length) increases, the resonant frequency of the antenna may change. As the length of the non-conductive slot increases, the resonant frequency of the antenna may be lowered (low-shifted). As described above, an antenna including an antenna radiator (e.g., the antenna radiator (410) of FIG. 6) may be used for Bluetooth communication and / or WiFi communication. The frequency band for Bluetooth communication and / or WiFi communication may be about 2.4 GHz to about 2.5 GHz. As the first length and the second length increase, the resonant frequency of the antenna may come closer to about 2.4 GHz to about 2.5 GHz. The first graph (1410) shows a resonant frequency between about 2.8 GHz and about 2.9 GHz, and the second graph (1420) shows a resonant frequency of about 2.6 GHz. Since the first graph (1410) and the second graph (1420) represent resonant frequencies that are different from the frequency band for Bluetooth communication and / or WiFi communication (e.g., about 2.4 GHz to about 2.5 Hz), it may be difficult to secure the performance of the antenna when the first length and the second length are about 6 mm or about 12 mm. Since the third graph (1430) and the fourth graph (1440) represent resonant frequencies that are included in the frequency band for Bluetooth communication and / or WiFi communication (e.g., about 2.4 GHz to about 2.5 Hz), the performance of the antenna may be secured when the first length and the second length are about 18 mm or about 24 mm. According to one embodiment, the lengths of the first portion (621) and the second portion (631) may be about 18 mm or more.

[0127] When the first length and the second length are about 18 mm or about 24 mm, securing the performance of the antenna can be explained in terms of the phase of the electromagnetic wave formed by the antenna. For example, since a conductive rear housing (e.g., the conductive rear housing (210) of FIG. 6) in which a non-conductive slot is not formed is formed of a conductive material (e.g., metal), electromagnetic waves may be reflected by the conductive rear housing. The electromagnetic waves reflected by the conductive rear housing may cancel out the electromagnetic waves radiated from the antenna, thereby degrading the performance of the antenna. If the first length and the second length are about 6 mm or about 12 mm, it may be difficult to secure the performance of the antenna due to the reflected electromagnetic waves. When the phase of the reflected electromagnetic wave and the phase of the electromagnetic wave radiated from the antenna are substantially the same, cancellation of the electromagnetic waves is not substantially caused, and thus securing the performance of the antenna can be possible.

[0128] When the phase of the reflected electromagnetic wave shifts by an integer multiple of the wavelength of the electromagnetic wave, the phase of the electromagnetic wave reflected by the conductive rear housing may be substantially the same as the phase of the electromagnetic wave radiated from the antenna. When the wavelength of the electromagnetic wave is w, since the phase is inverted when the electromagnetic wave is reflected by the conductive rear housing, the phase of the reflected electromagnetic wave may shift by about 0.5w. When the first length and the second length are about 0.25w in terms of the propagation of the electromagnetic wave, the phase of the electromagnetic wave may shift by about 0.5w (e.g., 0.25w + 0.25w) while the electromagnetic wave reaches the conductive rear housing and is reflected before reaching the antenna radiator. When the permittivity is about √2.8, the first length and the second length may be about 0.15w (e.g., √2.8 x 0.15 = 0.25) so that the first length and the second length are formed to be about 0.25w. Since the frequency of the signal transmitted and / or received through the antenna is about 2.4 GHz to about 2.5 GHz, considering the wavelength for the frequency, the first length and the second length may be formed to be about 18 mm or longer.

[0129] For example, when the first length and the second length are about 6 mm, the phase shift amount of the electromagnetic wave reflected by the conductive rear housing may be about 0.66 w. For example, when the first length and the second length are about 12 mm, the phase shift amount of the electromagnetic wave reflected by the conductive rear housing may be about 0.82 w. When the first length and the second length are about 6 mm or about 12 mm, the phase difference between the electromagnetic wave reflected by the conductive rear housing and the electromagnetic wave radiated from the antenna radiator is about 0.34 w or about 0.18 w, so the performance of the antenna may be deteriorated due to the cancellation of the electromagnetic wave.

[0130] For example, when the first length and the second length are about 18 mm, the phase shift of the electromagnetic wave reflected by the conductive rear housing may be about 0.98 w. For example, when the first length and the second length are about 24 mm, the phase shift of the electromagnetic wave reflected by the conductive rear housing may be about 1.15 w. When the first length and the second length are about 18 mm or about 24 mm, the phase difference between the electromagnetic wave reflected by the conductive rear housing and the electromagnetic wave radiated from the antenna radiator is about 0.02 w or about 0.15 w, so that the cancellation of the electromagnetic wave is reduced, and the performance of the antenna can be secured. The first length and the second length can be understood as about 0.15 times the wavelength of the signal, assuming that the permittivity of the non-conductive slot is 1. The first length and the second length may be approximately 18 mm or more, but embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto. For example, the first length and the second length may be adjusted depending on the permittivity of the non-conductive slot, the resonant frequency of the signal transmitted and / or received through the antenna, and the structure of the wearable device.

[0131] Fig. 15a illustrates a slot antenna formed in a conductive rear housing. Fig. 15b is a cross-sectional view of a wearable device including a slot antenna. Fig. 15c is a graph showing the radiation efficiency of the slot antenna of Fig. 15a.

[0132] In the embodiments described above, the wireless communication circuit (e.g., the wireless communication module (192) of FIG. 1) is described as being configured to supply power to an antenna radiator (e.g., the antenna radiator (410) of FIG. 6), but is not limited thereto.

[0133] Referring to FIG. 15A, a wearable device (200) may have a non-conductive slot (1501) formed in a conductive rear housing (210). For example, the non-conductive slot (1501) may be formed adjacent to an edge of the conductive rear housing (210). The non-conductive slot (1501) may be formed as an opening, or may be formed by filling the opening with a non-conductive material. The non-conductive slot (1501) may be formed along at least a portion of the magnetic edge of the conductive rear housing (210). In FIG. 15A, the non-conductive slot (1501) is illustrated as being formed along a portion of the +y-direction-facing edge of the conductive rear housing (210) and a portion of the +x-direction-facing edge, but is not limited thereto. As the non-conductive slot (1501) is powered, a slot antenna (1502) including the non-conductive slot (1501) can be formed.

[0134] According to one embodiment, the length (1503) of the non-conductive slot (1501) may be referred to as the sum of a first length (1504) of a first portion (1501a) of the non-conductive slot (1501) facing the +y direction and a second length (1505) of a second portion (1501b) of the non-conductive slot (1502) facing the +x direction. Depending on the length (1503) of the non-conductive slot (1501), the frequency characteristics of the slot antenna (1502) may be changed.

[0135] Referring to FIG. 15B, a wireless communication circuit (e.g., a wireless communication module (192) of FIG. 1) may be configured to communicate with an external electronic device (e.g., a smart phone) by supplying power to a feed point of a non-conductive slot (1501). For example, the wearable device (200) may include a feed connection portion (1506) electrically connecting the feed point of the non-conductive slot (1501) and a printed circuit board (450), and a ground connection portion (1507) electrically connecting the printed circuit board (450) and a conductive portion (221) of the bracket (220). The ground connection portion (1507) may electrically connect a slot antenna (e.g., a slot antenna (1502) of FIG. 15A) and a ground by electrically connecting a ground layer of the printed circuit board (450) to the conductive portion (221) that functions as a ground. A wireless communication circuit disposed on a printed circuit board (450) may be configured to power a non-conductive slot (1501) via the printed circuit board (450) and a power connection (1506). As the non-conductive slot (1501) is powered, a slot antenna including the non-conductive slot (1501) may be formed.

[0136] The graph (1500) of FIG. 15c is a graph showing the radiation efficiency of a slot antenna (e.g., a slot antenna (1502) of FIG. 15a) formed by a non-conductive slot (e.g., a non-conductive slot (1501) of FIG. 15a). The x-axis of the graph (1500) represents the frequency of a signal (unit: GHz), and the y-axis of the graph (1500) represents the radiation efficiency of the antenna (unit: dB).

[0137] As described above, the length of the non-conductive slot (e.g., length (1503) in FIG. 15a) may be referred to as the sum of a first length (e.g., first length (1504) in FIG. 15a) of a first portion (e.g., first portion (1501a) in FIG. 15a) forming the non-conductive slot and a second length (e.g., second length (1505) in FIG. 15a) of a second portion (e.g., second portion (1501b) in FIG. 15a) forming the non-conductive slot. Referring to FIG. 15c, as the length of the non-conductive slot increases, the resonant frequency of the antenna may be lowered (low-shifted).

[0138] The first graph (1510) of FIG. 15c shows the radiation efficiency of the slot antenna when the first and second lengths are approximately 6 mm. The second graph (1520) shows the radiation efficiency of the slot antenna when the first and second lengths are approximately 12 mm. The third graph (1530) shows the radiation efficiency of the slot antenna when the first and second lengths are approximately 18 mm. The fourth graph (1540) shows the radiation efficiency of the slot antenna when the first and second lengths are approximately 24 mm.

[0139] Referring to FIG. 15c, as the first length and the second length increase, the resonant frequency of the slot antenna may change. The slot antenna may be used for Bluetooth communication and / or WiFi communication. The frequency band for Bluetooth communication and / or WiFi communication may be from about 2.4 GHz to about 2.5 GHz. As the first length and the second length increase, the resonant frequency of the slot antenna may come closer to about 2.4 GHz to about 2.5 GHz.

[0140] For the first graph (1510) and the second graph (1520), relatively low radiation efficiency is shown in the band of about 2.4 GHz to about 2.5 GHz. The first graph (1510) shows a radiation efficiency of about -13 dB to about -14 dB in the band of about 2.4 GHz to about 2.5 Hz. The second graph (1520) shows a radiation efficiency of about -21 dB to about -23 dB in the band of about 2.4 GHz to about 2.5 Hz. When the first length and the second length are about 6 mm or about 12 mm, it may be difficult to secure the performance of the slot antenna.

[0141] For the third graph (1530) and the fourth graph (1540), relatively high radiation efficiency is shown in the band of about 2.4 GHz to about 2.5 Hz. The third graph (1530) shows a radiation efficiency of about -9 dB to about -6 dB in the band of about 2.4 GHz to about 2.5 Hz. The fourth graph (1540) shows a radiation efficiency of about -7 dB to about -6 dB in the band of about 2.4 GHz to about 2.5 Hz. When the first length and the second length are about 18 mm or about 24 mm, the performance of the slot antenna can be secured.

[0142] According to one embodiment, the length of the first portion (e.g., the first portion (1501a) of FIG. 15a) and the second portion (e.g., the second portion (1501b) of FIG. 15a) may be about 18 mm or more.

[0143] A wearable device (200) is provided. The wearable device (200) may include a conductive rear housing (210) that comes into contact with a part of a user's body when the wearable device (200) is worn. The wearable device (200) may include a non-conductive support portion (250) disposed on the conductive rear housing (210). The wearable device (200) may include an antenna radiator (410) disposed on the non-conductive support portion (250). The wearable device (200) may include a printed circuit board (450) supported by the non-conductive support portion (250). The wearable device (200) may include an antenna contact (610) disposed on one side (451) of the printed circuit board (450) facing the non-conductive support portion (250) and in contact with the antenna radiator (410). The wearable device (200) may include a conductive portion (221) spaced apart from the conductive rear housing (210) and a bracket (220) supporting the printed circuit board (450). A signal from the antenna radiator (410) may be radiated through a non-conductive path (P) between the conductive rear housing (210) and the conductive portion (221) of the bracket (220). According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the housing assembly (201) forming the exterior of the wearable device (200) may be formed of a conductive material (e.g., metal) to provide high durability, ease of manufacture, and excellent exterior quality. The conductive portion (221) of the bracket (220) and the conductive rear housing (210) may be spaced apart from each other so that a signal from the antenna radiator (410) disposed within the housing assembly (201) can be radiated to the outside of the wearable device (200). The signal from the antenna radiator (410) can be radiated through a non-conductive path (P) formed between the conductive portion (221) of the bracket (220) and the conductive rear housing (210).The conductive rear housing (210) that comes into contact with a part of the user's body (e.g., wrist) is formed of a conductive material, thereby blocking an electromagnetic field formed from the antenna radiator (410) toward a part of the user's body. As the electromagnetic field formed toward a part of the user's body is blocked, a non-conductive path (P) can be formed on the side (200b) of the wearable device (200), and the signal can be radiated to the side (200b) of the wearable device (200).

[0144] In one embodiment, the conductive rear housing (210) may include a first edge (620) facing the bracket (220). The conductive portion (221) of the bracket (220) may include a second edge (630) that is at least partially spaced apart from the first edge (620) and facing the conductive rear housing (210). The non-conductive path (P) may be formed along a path between the first edge (620) of the conductive rear housing (210) and the second edge (630) of the conductive portion (221).

[0145] According to one embodiment, the non-conductive path (P) may be formed along a first portion (621) of the first edge (620) and a second portion (631) of the second edge (630). The second portion (631) of the second edge (630) may be spaced apart from the first portion (621) of the first edge (620) and may face the first portion (621) of the first edge (620).

[0146] According to one embodiment, a third portion (622) of the first edge (620), which is different from the first portion (621) of the first edge (620), may be in contact with a fourth portion (632) of the second edge (630), which is different from the second portion (631) of the second edge (630).

[0147] According to one embodiment, the first portion (621) of the first edge (620) and the second portion (631) of the second edge (630) may be adjacent to the antenna radiator (410).

[0148] According to one embodiment, the non-conductive support portion (250) may include a mounting portion (510) that is recessed from a portion of one side (251) of the non-conductive support portion facing the printed circuit board toward the conductive rear housing (210). The antenna radiator (410) may be disposed on the mounting portion (510).

[0149] According to one embodiment, the conductive rear housing (210) may include a cutting surface (910) formed by cutting one side (211) of the conductive rear housing (210) facing the bracket (220) to increase the width of the non-conductive path (P). The height at which the one side (211) is cut may be 2.0 mm or less.

[0150] According to one embodiment, the bracket (220) may include a non-conductive portion (222) coupled to the conductive portion (221) and defining a side surface (200b) of the wearable device (200). The non-conductive portion (222) may be in contact with the conductive rear housing (210) to form an internal space of the wearable device (200).

[0151] According to one embodiment, the wearable device (200) may further include a sealant (640) interposed between the conductive portion (221) and the non-conductive support portion (250) and configured to seal the internal space of the wearable device (200).

[0152] In one embodiment, the wearable device (200) may further include a display (202) that is opposite the conductive rear housing (210) and at least partially defines a front surface (200a) of the wearable device (200).

[0153] According to one embodiment, the wearable device (200) may further include a conductive front housing (230) having an inner surface (231) that has a shape corresponding to a shape of the display (202), is spaced apart from the display (202), and laterally surrounds the display (202) and an outer surface (232) that has a shape corresponding to a shape of the bracket (220). The conductive front housing (230) may be disposed on the non-conductive portion (222) of the bracket (220).

[0154] According to one embodiment, the wearable device (200) may further include a conductive bezel (240) that covers an edge portion of the front surface of the display (202) and is positioned between the display (202) and the conductive front housing (230).

[0155] According to one embodiment, it may be disposed on one side (251) of the non-conductive support portion (250) facing the bracket (220). The wearable device (200) may further include another antenna radiator (420) disposed on the other side (252) of the non-conductive support portion (250) opposite to the one side (251).

[0156] In one embodiment, the antenna radiator (410) may be configured to function as an antenna radiator for Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. The other antenna radiator (420) may be configured to function as an antenna radiator for transmitting or receiving signals on a designated frequency band.

[0157] According to one embodiment, the wearable device (200) may further include a wireless communication circuit (192) disposed on the printed circuit board (450). The antenna radiator (410) may be electrically connected to the wireless communication circuit (192) through the printed circuit board (450) and the antenna contact (610).

[0158] A wearable device (200) is provided. The wearable device (200) may include a display (202) defining at least a portion of a front surface (200a) of the wearable device (200). The wearable device (200) may include a conductive rear housing (210) defining at least a portion of a rear surface (200c) of the wearable device (200) and opposite the display (202). The wearable device (200) may include a non-conductive support portion (250) disposed on the conductive rear housing (210). The wearable device (200) may include an antenna radiator (410) disposed on the non-conductive support portion (250). The wearable device (200) may include a bracket (220) that includes a conductive portion (221) spaced apart from the conductive rear housing (210), supports the printed circuit board (450), and defines at least a portion of a side surface (200b) of the wearable device (200). A signal from the antenna radiator (410) may be radiated through a non-conductive path (P) between the conductive rear housing (210) and the conductive portion (221) of the bracket (220).

[0159] According to one embodiment, the wearable device (200) may further include a printed circuit board (450). The wearable device (200) may further include an antenna contact (610) disposed on one side (451) of the printed circuit board (450) facing the non-conductive support portion (250) and in contact with the antenna radiator (410). The wearable device (200) may further include a wireless communication circuit (192) disposed on the printed circuit board (450). The antenna radiator (410) may be electrically connected to the wireless communication circuit (192) through the printed circuit board (450) and the antenna contact (610).

[0160] According to one embodiment, the bracket (220) may include a non-conductive portion (222) coupled to the conductive portion (221) and defining a side surface (200b) of the wearable device (200). The non-conductive portion (222) may be in contact with the conductive rear housing (210) to form an internal space of the wearable device (200).

[0161] According to one embodiment, the non-conductive path (P) may be formed along a first portion (621) of the first edge (620) and a second portion (631) of the second edge (630). The second portion (631) of the second edge (630) may be spaced apart from the first portion (621) of the first edge (620) and may face the first portion (621) of the first edge (620).

[0162] According to one embodiment, the wearable device (200) may further include a conductive bezel (240) that covers an edge portion of the front surface of the display (202) and is positioned between the side surface of the display (202) and the conductive front housing (230).

[0163] Electronic devices according to the various embodiments disclosed in this document may take various forms. Electronic devices may include, for example, portable communication devices (e.g., smartphones), computer devices, portable multimedia devices, portable medical devices, cameras, electronic devices, or home appliances. Electronic devices according to the embodiments of this document are not limited to the aforementioned devices.

[0164] 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.

[0165] The term "module" used in various embodiments of this document may include a unit implemented in hardware, software, or firmware, and may be used interchangeably with terms such as logic, logic block, component, or circuit. A module may be an integral component, or a minimum unit or part of such a component that performs one or more functions. For example, according to one embodiment, a module may be implemented in the form of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0166] Various embodiments of the present document may be implemented as software (e.g., a program (140)) including one or more instructions stored in a storage medium (e.g., an internal memory (136) or an external memory (138)) readable by a machine (e.g., an electronic device (101)). For example, a processor (120) (e.g., the processor (120)) of a machine (e.g., an electronic device (101)) may call at least one instruction among the one or more instructions stored from the storage medium and execute it. This enables the machine to operate to perform at least one function according to the at least one called instruction. The one or more instructions may include code generated by a compiler or code executable by an interpreter. The machine-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, 'non-transitory' simply means that the storage medium is a tangible device and does not contain signals (e.g., electromagnetic waves), and the term does not distinguish between cases where data is stored semi-permanently or temporarily on the storage medium.

[0167] According to one embodiment, the method according to various embodiments disclosed in this document may be provided as a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded between sellers and buyers as a product. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a device-readable storage medium (e.g., compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM)) or may be provided through an application store (e.g., Play Store). TM ) or directly between two user devices (e.g., smart phones), online distribution (e.g., downloading or uploading). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product may be temporarily stored or temporarily created in a device-readable storage medium, such as a memory (130) of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or an intermediary server.

[0168] According to various embodiments, each component (e.g., a module or a program) of the above-described components may include one or more entities, and some of the entities may be separated and placed in other components. According to various embodiments, one or more components or operations of the aforementioned components may be omitted, or one or more other components or operations may be added. Alternatively or additionally, a plurality of components (e.g., a module or a program) may be integrated into a single component. In such a case, the integrated component may perform one or more functions of each of the plurality of components identically or similarly to those performed by the corresponding component among the plurality of components prior to the integration. According to various embodiments, the operations performed by a module, program, or other component may be executed sequentially, in parallel, iteratively, or heuristically, or one or more of the operations may be executed in a different order, omitted, or one or more other operations may be added.

Claims

1. In wearable devices, A conductive rear housing that comes into contact with a part of the user's body when the wearable device is worn; A non-conductive support portion disposed on the above conductive rear housing; An antenna radiator disposed on the above non-conductive support portion; A printed circuit board supported by the above non-conductive support portion; An antenna contact disposed on one side of the printed circuit board facing the non-conductive support portion and in contact with the antenna radiator; and A conductive portion spaced apart from the conductive rear housing, and a bracket supporting the printed circuit board, The signal from the above antenna radiator is, radiated through a non-conductive path between the conductive rear housing and the conductive portion of the bracket; Wearable devices.

2. In paragraph 1, The above challenging rear housing, including a first edge facing the bracket, The conductive portion of the above bracket is, a second edge at least partially spaced from the first edge and facing the conductive rear housing; The above non-challenging path is, formed along the first edge of the conductive rear housing and the second edge of the conductive portion; Wearable devices.

3. In paragraph 2, The above non-challenging path is, It is formed along the first part of the first edge and the second part of the second edge, The second part of the second edge is, spaced apart from the first portion of the first edge and facing the first portion of the first edge, Wearable devices.

4. In paragraph 3, A third portion of the first edge, which is different from the first portion of the first edge, Contacting a fourth portion of the second edge, which is different from the second portion of the second edge, Wearable devices.

5. In paragraph 3 or 4, The first part of the first edge and the second part of the second edge, Adjacent to the above antenna radiator, Wearable devices.

6. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 5, The above non-conductive support portion is, A mounting portion is included that is recessed toward the conductive rear housing from a portion of one side of the non-conductive support portion facing the printed circuit board, The above antenna radiator is, Placed on the above-mentioned settling portion, Wearable devices.

7. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 6, The above challenging rear housing, In order to increase the width of the non-conductive path, a cutting surface is formed by cutting one side facing the bracket, The height at which the above surface is cut is 2.0mm or less, Wearable devices.

8. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 7, The above brackets are, A non-conductive portion coupled to the conductive portion and defining a side surface of the wearable device, The above non-conductive part is, In contact with the above conductive rear housing, forming an internal space of the wearable device, Wearable devices.

9. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 8, Further comprising a sealing member interposed between the conductive portion and the non-conductive support portion of the bracket, configured to seal the internal space of the wearable device. Wearable devices.

10. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 9, Opposite to the above challenging rear housing, further comprising a display at least partially defining the front surface of the wearable device; Wearable devices.

11. In paragraph 10, A conductive front housing having a shape corresponding to the shape of the display, spaced apart from the display, including an inner surface surrounding the side of the display and an outer surface having a shape corresponding to the shape of the bracket, and further comprising a conductive front housing disposed on the bracket. Wearable devices.

12. In paragraph 10 or 11, Further comprising a conductive bezel covering the edge portion of the front side of the display and positioned between the display and the conductive front housing. Wearable devices.

13. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 12, The above antenna radiator is, is disposed on one side of the non-conductive support portion facing the bracket, The above wearable device, Further comprising another antenna radiator disposed on the other side of the non-conductive support portion opposite to the one side of the non-conductive support portion; Wearable devices.

14. In paragraph 13, The above antenna radiator is, configured to function as an antenna radiator for Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, The above other antenna radiators are, configured to function as an antenna radiator for transmitting or receiving signals on a designated frequency band; Wearable devices.

15. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 14, Further comprising a wireless communication circuit disposed on the printed circuit board, The above antenna radiator is, electrically connected to the wireless communication circuit through the printed circuit board and the antenna contact, Wearable devices.

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