Electronic device having detachable battery and antenna for short-range wireless communication

Abstract

An electronic device comprises: a display disposed on a front surface of the electronic device; a rear cover forming a rear surface of the electronic device; a first support frame positioned between the rear cover and the display; a second support frame positioned between the display and the first support frame; a battery accommodated in a first space formed between the first support frame and the second support frame; a first antenna accommodated in a second space formed between the first support frame and the second support frame and configured to output a magnetic flux in a second direction perpendicular to a first direction in which the rear surface faces or output the magnetic flux in a direction oblique to the first direction and the second direction; and a first magnetic body accommodated in a third space formed between the rear cover and the first support frame. The first magnetic body accommodated in the third space may be positioned in the third space to, when viewing the rear surface face-to-face, overlap a portion where the magnetic flux is output from the first antenna.

Description

Electronic device having a removable battery and an antenna for short-range wireless communication

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an electronic device having a housing structure that allows a user to detach a battery from the electronic device and an antenna that supports short-range wireless communication.

[0002] A portable electronic device may have a housing structure (hereinafter referred to as a detachable housing structure) that allows a user to detach a battery from the electronic device. For example, the detachable housing structure may include a front cover forming the front of the electronic device where a display is visually exposed, a rear cover forming the rear of the electronic device, and a frame forming the edges (e.g., side bezels) of the electronic device and having a space for accommodating various electronic components and a battery. The rear cover may be configured to be detachable from the frame. The frame may be configured to be detachable from the space accommodating the battery.

[0003] A portable electronic device may have an antenna for near-field wireless communication (e.g., magnetic secure transmission (MST) and / or near field communication (NFC)). The antenna may include a planar type loop antenna and / or a solenoid type loop antenna. A planar type loop antenna may include a conductive pattern (or coil) that causes current to flow clockwise or counterclockwise around a Z-axis perpendicular to the XY plane (e.g., the back of the electronic device). A solenoid type loop antenna may include a conductive pattern (or coil) that causes current to flow clockwise or counterclockwise around an axis perpendicular to the Z-axis (e.g., the X-axis or Y-axis).

[0004] The information described above is provided as related art for the purpose of aiding understanding of the present disclosure. No claim or determination is made as to whether any of the foregoing may be applied as prior art related to the present disclosure.

[0005] The detachable housing structure may have a first receiving space for accommodating electronic components (e.g., processor, or memory) and a second receiving space for accommodating a battery. The first receiving space may be structurally separated from the second receiving space. The frame may have a waterproof structure to prevent water from penetrating into the first receiving space. The rear cover may have a configuration (e.g., rubber) that prevents water from penetrating into the second receiving space when combined with the frame. The antenna may be protected from water by being placed in the first receiving space along with other electronic components. However, since other electronic components are also accommodated in the first receiving space, space constraints may apply. Consequently, the size of the antenna may be reduced, and the antenna's radiation performance may not meet the desired level.

[0006] Electronic devices according to various embodiments of the present disclosure can overcome spatial constraints and improve radiation performance. The technical problems to be solved by the present disclosure are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned technical problems will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description below.

[0007] According to one embodiment, the electronic device comprises: a display disposed on the front of the electronic device; a rear cover forming the rear of the electronic device; a first support frame located between the rear cover and the display; a second support frame located between the display and the first support frame; a battery accommodated in a first space formed between the first support frame and the second support frame; a first antenna accommodated in a second space formed between the first support frame and the second support frame and configured to output magnetic flux in a second direction perpendicular to a first direction toward which the rear faces, or to output magnetic flux in a direction oblique to the first direction and the second direction; and a first magnetic body accommodated in a third space formed between the rear cover and the first support frame. The first magnetic body accommodated in the third space may be located in the third space such that it overlaps with the portion from which the magnetic flux is output from the first antenna when viewed facing the rear.

[0008] Embodiments of the present disclosure may provide an electronic device that overcomes spatial constraints and improves radiation performance. In addition, various effects that can be understood directly or indirectly through this document may be provided.

[0009] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device in a network environment according to various embodiments.

[0010] FIGS. 2a, 2b, 2c, 2d, and 2e illustrate an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0011] FIGS. 3a, 3b, and 3c illustrate a first antenna structure applicable to the first antenna shown in FIGS. 2b and 2e according to one embodiment.

[0012] FIGS. 4a, 4b, and 4c illustrate a second antenna structure applicable to the first antenna shown in FIGS. 2b and 2e according to one embodiment.

[0013] FIGS. 5a, 5b, and 5c illustrate a third antenna structure applicable to the first antenna shown in FIGS. 2b and 2e according to one embodiment.

[0014] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure are described in detail with reference to the drawings so that those skilled in the art can easily practice them. However, the present disclosure may be embodied in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. In relation to the description of the drawings, the same or similar reference numerals may be used for identical or similar components. Furthermore, in the drawings and related descriptions, descriptions of well-known functions and configurations may be omitted for clarity and brevity.

[0015] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device (101) in a network environment (100) according to various embodiments. Referring to FIG. 1, in the network environment (100), the electronic device (101) may communicate with an electronic device (102) through a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network) or may communicate with at least one of an electronic device (104) or a server (108) through 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) through a server (108). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a processor (120), memory (130), input module (150), sound output module (155), display module (160), audio module (170), sensor module (176), interface (177), connection terminal (178), haptic module (179), camera module (180), power management module (188), battery (189), communication module (190), subscriber identification module (196), or antenna module (197). In some embodiments, at least one of these components (e.g., connection terminal (178)) may be omitted from the electronic device (101), or one or more other components may be added. In some embodiments, some of these components (e.g., sensor module (176), camera module (180), or antenna module (197)) may be integrated into a single component (e.g., display module (160)).

[0016] The processor (120) can control at least one other component (e.g., hardware or software component) of the electronic device (101) connected to the processor (120) by executing software (e.g., program (140)), for example, and can perform various data processing or operations. According to one embodiment, as at least part of the data processing or operations, the processor (120) can store commands or data received from other components (e.g., sensor module (176) or communication module (190)) in volatile memory (132), process the commands or data stored in volatile memory (132), and store the resulting data in non-volatile memory (134). According to one embodiment, the processor (120) may include a main processor (121) (e.g., central processing unit or application processor) or an auxiliary processor (123) that can operate independently or together with it (e.g., graphics processing unit, neural processing unit (NPU), image signal processor, sensor hub processor, or communication processor). For example, if the electronic device (101) includes a main processor (121) and an auxiliary processor (123), the auxiliary processor (123) may be configured to use less power than the main processor (121) or to be specialized for a designated function. The auxiliary processor (123) may be implemented separately from the main processor (121) or as part thereof.

[0017] The auxiliary processor (123) may control at least some of the functions or states associated with at least one component of the electronic device (101) (e.g., display module (160), sensor module (176), or communication module (190)) 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. According to one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., image signal processor or communication processor) may be implemented as part of another functionally related component (e.g., camera module (180) or communication module (190)). According to one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., neural network processing unit) may include a hardware structure specialized for processing an artificial intelligence model. The artificial intelligence model may be generated through machine learning. Such learning may be performed, for example, on the electronic device (101) itself where the artificial intelligence model is executed, or through a separate server (e.g., server (108)). The learning algorithm may 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 may include a plurality of artificial neural network layers.An artificial neural network may be 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 the hardware structure, the artificial intelligence model may include a software structure, either additionally or substantially.

[0018] The memory (130) can store various data used by at least one component of the electronic device (101) (e.g., processor (120) or sensor module (176)). The data may include, for example, input data or output data for software (e.g., program (140)) and related commands. The memory (130) may include volatile memory (132) or non-volatile memory (134).

[0019] The program (140) may be stored as software in memory (130) and may include, for example, an operating system (142), middleware (144), or an application (146).

[0020] The input module (150) can receive commands or data to be used for a component of the electronic device (101) (e.g., processor (120)) from outside the electronic device (101) (e.g., user). The input module (150) may include, for example, a microphone, a mouse, a keyboard, a key (e.g., a button), or a digital pen (e.g., a stylus pen).

[0021] The sound output module (155) can output a sound signal to the outside of the electronic device (101). The sound output module (155) may include, for example, a speaker or a receiver. The speaker may be used for general purposes, such as multimedia playback or recording playback. The receiver may be used to receive incoming calls. According to one embodiment, the receiver may be implemented separately from the speaker or as part thereof.

[0022] The display module (160) can visually provide information to an external (e.g., 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 said device. According to 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 the force generated by said touch.

[0023] The audio module (170) can convert sound into an electrical signal or, conversely, convert an electrical signal into sound. According to one embodiment, the audio module (170) can acquire sound through the input module (150) or output sound through the sound output module (155) or an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102)) (e.g., speaker or headphones) connected directly or wirelessly to the electronic device (101).

[0024] The sensor module (176) can detect the operating state of the electronic device (101) (e.g., power or temperature) or the external environmental state (e.g., user state) and generate an electrical signal or data value corresponding to the detected state. According to one embodiment, the sensor module (176) may include, for example, a gesture sensor, a gyroscope sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an accelerometer sensor, a grip sensor, a proximity sensor, a color sensor, an IR (infrared) sensor, a biosensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or an illuminance sensor.

[0025] The interface (177) may support one or more specified protocols that can be used for the electronic device (101) to be connected directly or wirelessly to an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102)). According to 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.

[0026] The connection terminal (178) may include a connector through which the electronic device (101) can 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).

[0027] The haptic module (179) can convert an electrical signal into a mechanical stimulus (e.g., vibration or movement) or an electrical stimulus that can be perceived by the user through tactile or kinesthetic senses. According to one embodiment, the haptic module (179) may include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electric stimulation device.

[0028] The camera module (180) can capture still images and video. According to one embodiment, the camera module (180) may include one or more lenses, image sensors, image signal processors, or flashes.

[0029] 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 part of a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

[0030] The battery (189) can supply power to at least one component of the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the battery (189) may include, for example, a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable secondary battery, or a fuel cell.

[0031] The communication module (190) can support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between an 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 include one or more communication processors that operate independently of the processor (120) (e.g., application processor) and 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., cellular communication module, short-range wireless communication module, or GNSS (global navigation satellite system) communication module) or a wired communication module (194) (e.g., LAN (local area network) communication module, or power line communication module). The corresponding communication module among these communication modules can communicate with an external electronic device (104) through a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, WiFi (wireless fidelity) direct, or IrDA (infrared data association)) or a second network (199) (e.g., 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 may 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 identify or authenticate the electronic device (101) within a communication network such as the first network (198) or the second network (199) using subscriber information (e.g., International Mobile Subscriber Identifier (IMSI)) stored in the subscriber identification module (196).

[0032] The wireless communication module (192) can support 5G networks and next-generation communication technologies following 4G networks, for example, new radio access technology. NR access technology can support high-speed transmission of high-capacity data (enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB)), minimization of terminal power and connection of multiple terminals (massive machine type communications (mMTC)), or high reliability and low latency (ultra-reliable and low-latency communications (URLLC)). The wireless communication module (192) can support a high-frequency band (e.g., mmWave band) to achieve a high data transmission rate, for example. The wireless communication module (192) can support various technologies for securing performance in the high-frequency band, such as beamforming, massive MIMO (multiple-input and multiple-output), 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), external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (104)), or network system (e.g., second network (199)). According to one embodiment, the wireless communication module (192) may support a Peak data rate (e.g., 20 Gbps or more) for eMBB realization, loss coverage (e.g., 164 dB or less) for mMTC realization, or U-plane latency (e.g., downlink (DL) and uplink (UL) each 0.5 ms or less, or round trip 1 ms or less) for URLLC realization.

[0033] An antenna module (197) can transmit a signal or power to or from an external source (e.g., an external electronic device). According to one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include an antenna comprising a radiator made of a conductor or a conductive pattern formed on a substrate (e.g., a PCB). According to 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 a first network (198) or a second network (199), may be selected from the plurality of antennas, for example, by a 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. According to some embodiments, in addition to the radiator, other components (e.g., a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) may be additionally formed as part of the antenna module (197).

[0034] According to various embodiments, the antenna module (197) may form a mmWave antenna module. According to one embodiment, the mmWave antenna module may include a printed circuit board, an RFIC disposed on or adjacent to a first surface (e.g., bottom surface) of the printed circuit board and capable of supporting a specified high frequency band (e.g., mmWave band), and a plurality of antennas (e.g., array antennas) disposed on or adjacent to a second surface (e.g., top surface or side surface) of the printed circuit board and capable of transmitting or receiving a signal of the specified high frequency band.

[0035] At least some of the above components can be connected to each other via a communication method between peripheral devices (e.g., bus, GPIO (general purpose input and output), SPI (serial peripheral interface), or MIPI (mobile industry processor interface)) and exchange signals (e.g., commands or data) with each other.

[0036] According to one embodiment, commands or data may be transmitted or received between the electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (104) through 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 performed on the electronic device (101) may be performed on one or more of the external electronic devices (102, 104, or 108). For example, if the electronic device (101) needs to perform a function or service automatically or in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device (101) may request one or more external electronic devices to perform at least part of the function or service instead of performing the function or service itself or additionally. One or more external electronic devices that receive the above request may execute at least part of the requested function or service, or 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 provide the result as is or additionally processed as at least part of the response to the request. For this purpose, for example, cloud computing, distributed computing, mobile edge computing (MEC), or client-server computing technology may be used. The electronic device (101) may provide ultra-low latency services using, for example, distributed computing or mobile edge computing. In another embodiment, the external electronic device (104) may include an Internet of Things (IoT) device. The server (108) may be an intelligent server using machine learning and / or neural networks. According to one embodiment, the external electronic device (104) or the server (108) may be included within a 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.

[0037] FIG. 2a illustrates the rear view of an electronic device (200) according to one embodiment. FIG. 2b is a perspective view showing the components of the electronic device (200) of FIG. 2a separated and arranged. FIG. 2c illustrates a rear cover (232) of the electronic device (200). FIG. 2d illustrates the outer surface of the first support frame (271a, 272b) and the battery (210) with the rear cover (232) separated from the electronic device (200). FIG. 2e is a cross-sectional view of the electronic device (200) of FIG. 2a cut in the TT' direction.

[0038] Referring to FIGS. 2a, 2b, 2c, 2d, and 2e, an electronic device (200) (e.g., electronic device (101) of FIG. 1) may include a battery (210) (e.g., battery (189) of FIG. 2), a first antenna (220) for short-range wireless communication, a housing structure (230), a first magnetic body (240), a display (250) (e.g., display module (160) of FIG. 1), and a printed circuit board (261, 262).

[0039] According to one embodiment, the housing structure (230) may include a front cover (or, first cover) (231), a rear cover (or, second cover) (232), and a frame (233). The front cover (231) may form the front of the electronic device (200), and the rear cover (232) may form the rear of the electronic device (400) facing in a direction opposite to the direction facing the front (e.g., z-axis direction) (e.g., -z-axis direction). The frame (233) may include a first support frame (271), a second support frame (272), and a side frame (or, side bezel structure) (273). The side frame (273) may be made of a combination of metal (e.g., SUS) and a polymer and may form the rim of the electronic device (200) (or, a side surrounding the space between the front and the rear).

[0040] A printed circuit board (261, 262) may be positioned to be supported by a first support frame (271) and / or a second support frame (272). The first support frame (271) may be coupled to a side frame (271). The first support frame (271) may include a structure (e.g., metal, and / or polymer) extending from the side frame (273). The first support frame (271) may be formed of, for example, a metal and / or non-metal material (e.g., a polymer). A display (250) may be placed on one side (the side facing the z-axis) of the second support frame (272), and a printed circuit board (261, 262) may be placed on the other side (the side facing the z-axis).

[0041] According to one embodiment, the printed circuit boards (261, 262) may include a first board (or, main board) (261) and a second board (or, sub board) (262) respectively positioned on both sides with the battery (210) in the center. For example, the first board (261) may be positioned adjacent to the first side (211) of the battery (210) facing the y-axis direction, and the second board (262) may be positioned adjacent to the second side (212) of the battery (210) facing the y-axis direction.

[0042] The first support frame (271) may include a first substrate support area (or, alternatively expressed as a first substrate support member) (271a) that supports the first substrate (261) and a second substrate support area (or, alternatively expressed as a second substrate support member) (271b) that supports the second substrate (262). The battery (210) may be placed in a space formed in the electronic device (200) by the frame (233) to be supported by the first support frame (271) and / or the second support member (272). The battery (210) may include a rechargeable secondary battery as a component that supplies power to a system (e.g., processor, memory, or camera) of the electronic device (200). For example, the battery (210) may be located between the first substrate (261) and the second substrate (262) when viewed from the rear side in the z-axis direction. For example, a battery (210) (e.g., a battery pack) may include at least one battery cell and a terminal connected to the electrode of said battery cell. The terminal may be electrically connected to a first substrate (261) and / or a second substrate (262) for charging the battery cell and supplying power to a system of the electronic device (200) (e.g., a processor, memory, or camera).

[0043] According to one embodiment, the frame (233) may be configured to form a first space (291), a second space (292), and a third space (293). Referring to FIGS. 2b and 2e, in the frame (233), a first support frame (271) may be located between the rear cover (232) and the display (250). In the frame (233), a second support frame (272) may be located between the display (250) and the first support frame (271). The first space (291) is formed between the first support frame (271) and the second support frame (272) and may accommodate a battery (210). The second space (292) is formed between the first support frame (271) and the second support frame (272) and may accommodate a first antenna (220). The third space (293) is formed between the rear cover (232) and the first support frame (271) and can accommodate the first magnetic body (240).

[0044] According to one embodiment, the first antenna (220) may be accommodated in a second space (292) together with a first substrate (261) on which a plurality of electronic components (e.g., processor, memory, or camera) (299a, 299b, 299c; see FIG. 2d) are disposed. For example, the plurality of electronic components (299a, 299b, 299c) may be shielded by shield cans (261a, 261b; see FIG. 2e). In one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a first magnetic body (240) to increase the area to which the magnetic flux generated from the first antenna (220) reaches and to induce the magnetic field in a rearward direction (-Z axis direction). The first magnetic body (240) can be accommodated in a third space (293) rather than in a second space (292) that must be accommodated together with the first substrate (261) and the first antenna (220), thereby being relatively less constrained by space.

[0045] According to one embodiment, the first antenna (220) may be configured to output magnetic flux in a second direction (Y-axis direction) perpendicular to the first direction (-Z-axis direction) toward which the rear faces, or to output magnetic flux in a direction oblique to the first direction and the second direction. In one embodiment, the first magnetic body (240) housed in the third space (293) may be positioned in the third space (293) such that, when viewed facing the rear, it overlaps with the portion of the first antenna (220) housed in the second space (292) from which magnetic flux is output. In FIGS. 2d and 2e, reference numeral 201 indicates the overlapping area (or overlapping region) between the first magnetic body (240) and the first antenna (220). The overlapping area (201) may differ depending on where the magnetic body (240) is located in the third space (293) and where the first antenna (220) is located in the second space (292). The larger the overlapping area (201), the larger the area reached by the magnetic flux generated from the first antenna (220).

[0046] According to one embodiment, the distance between the first magnetic body (240) and the first antenna (220) may be affected by the thickness of the first support frame (271). In FIG. 2e, reference numeral 202 indicates the distance between the first magnetic body (240) and the first antenna (220). For example, the distance (202) may be determined by the gap between the surface on which the first magnetic body (240) is placed (e.g., the -Z-axis direction surface) and the surface on which the first antenna (220) is placed (e.g., the +Z-axis direction surface) in the first substrate support area (271a). For example, the shorter the distance (202), the larger the area reached by the magnetic flux generated from the first antenna (220).

[0047] In combination with the overlapping area (201) and the distance (202), the first magnetic body (240) may be located in the third space (293) and the first antenna (220) may be located in the second space (292) such that the overlapping area (201) is as large as possible and the distance (202) is as short as possible. Accordingly, the radiation performance of the electronic device (200) having spatial constraints may be improved.

[0048] According to one embodiment, the first support frame (271) may be configured to be detachable from the rear cover (232). Additionally, the first support frame (271) may be configured to be detachable from the battery (210). Due to this detachable structure, a small gap may exist between the second support frame (271) and the rear cover (232), and water may penetrate into the first space (291) in which the battery (210) is housed through this gap. Means to prevent water from penetrating into the first space (291) may be provided in the electronic device (300). According to one embodiment, the rear cover (232) may include a packing structure (e.g., a packing made of rubber material) (280; see FIG. 2c and 2e) that prevents water from penetrating into the first space (291) when combined with the first support frame (271). According to one embodiment, the first support frame (271) may be configured to have a waterproof structure that prevents water from penetrating into the second space (292) in which the first antenna (220) and a plurality of electronic components (291a, 291b, 291c; see FIG. 2d) are accommodated.

[0049] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a second antenna (282) that supports other short-range communication. The second antenna (282) may be positioned between the rear cover (232) and the battery (210) so as not to overlap with the first magnetic body (240) when viewed from the rear. For example, the second antenna (282) may be attached to one side of the battery (210) facing the rear cover (232). For example, one of the first antenna (220) and the second antenna (282) may be used as an antenna for MST. For example, the other of the first antenna (220) and the second antenna (282) may be used as an antenna for NFC.

[0050] FIGS. 3a, 3b, and 3c illustrate a first antenna structure (300) applicable to the first antenna (220) shown in FIGS. 2b and 2e according to one embodiment. FIG. 3a illustrates the front view of the first antenna structure (300). FIG. 3b is a cross-sectional view of the first antenna structure (300) of FIG. 3a cut in the AA' direction. FIG. 3b also illustrates the side view of the first antenna structure (300) and the direction of the magnetic field generated from the first antenna structure (300). FIG. 3c illustrates the magnetic field generated from the first antenna structure (300) being diffused by an adjacent first magnetic body (301).

[0051] Referring to FIGS. 3a and 3b, the first antenna structure (300) may include an FPCB (310) and a second magnetic body (320). The FPCB (310) may include a first layer (or, first FPCB) (311) and a second layer (or, second FPCB) (312). A first conductive pattern (331) may be formed on the first layer (311) as part of a first feed pad (321), a second feed pad (321), and a coil (331, 332). A second conductive pattern (332) may be formed on the second layer (312) as part of a coil (331, 332). The first power supply pad (321) and the second power supply pad (321) can be electrically connected to a short-range wireless communication circuit (e.g., MST communication circuit) mounted on a printed circuit board (e.g., the first board (261)). The first conductive pattern (331) can be connected to the second conductive pattern (332) through a plurality of vias (340). The second magnetic body (320) can be placed between the first layer (311) and the second layer (312) so as not to overlap with the plurality of vias (340) when viewing the FPCB (310) in the Z-axis direction. When current is fed from the short-range wireless communication circuit to the power supply pad (321 or 322), the current (333) can flow from the coils (331, 332) in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction around the Y-axis (an axis perpendicular to the direction in which the rear face is facing). Accordingly, magnetic flux (350) can be emitted in the Y-axis direction. The direction of the magnetic flux (350) can change depending on the direction in which current flows from the coils (331, 332).

[0052] Referring to FIG. 3c, a first magnetic body (301) (e.g., the first magnetic body (240) in FIG. 2d and 2e) may be positioned adjacent to the first antenna structure (300). Accordingly, the magnetic flux (350) may be diffused over a wider area through the first magnetic body (301). According to one embodiment, the first magnetic body (301) is positioned on the first antenna structure (300) in the -Z axis direction so that the magnetic flux (350) may be diffused in an oblique direction in the -Z axis direction (the direction facing the rear) and the Y axis direction (the direction facing the side). Compared to FIG. 3b, it can be seen that the magnetic flux (350) is diffused over a wider area. Accordingly, an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1) can perform short-range wireless communication over a relatively wide area using a first antenna structure (300) and a first magnetic body (301).

[0053] FIGS. 4a, 4b, and 4c illustrate a second antenna structure (400) applicable to the first antenna (220) shown in FIGS. 2b and 2e according to one embodiment. FIG. 4a illustrates the front view of the second antenna structure (400). FIG. 4b is a cross-sectional view of the second antenna structure (400) of FIG. 4a cut in the BB' direction. FIG. 4b also illustrates the side view of the second antenna structure (400) and the direction of the magnetic field generated from the second antenna structure (400). FIG. 4c illustrates the magnetic field generated from the second antenna structure (400) being diffused by an adjacent first magnetic body (401).

[0054] Referring to FIGS. 4a and 4b, the second antenna structure (400) may include an FPCB (410) and a second magnetic body (421, 422). A first conductive pattern (431) may be formed on one side (411) of the FPCB (410) as part of a first feed pad (451), a second feed pad (452), and a coil (431, 432). A second conductive pattern (432) may be formed on the other side (412) of the FPCB (410) as part of a coil (431, 432). The first feed pad (451) and the second feed pad (452) may be electrically connected to a short-range wireless communication circuit (e.g., an MST communication circuit) mounted on a printed circuit board (e.g., a first board (261)). The second magnetic body (421, 422) may include a first magnetic member (421) and a second magnetic member (422) that are physically separated from each other. The first magnetic member (421) may be located on the FPCB (410) when the FPCB (410) is viewed in the Z-axis direction. The second magnetic member (422) may be located below the FPCB (410) when the FPCB (410) is viewed in the Z-axis direction. In one embodiment, one surface (411) and the other surface (412) may be referred to or understood as a first layer or a second layer.

[0055] The first conductive pattern (431) may be arranged in a form that is wound multiple times on one side (411) of the FPCB (410) in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction around the Z-axis. When viewing the FPCB (410) in the Z-axis direction, the FPCB (410) may be divided into an upper region (410a) where the upper part (e.g., +Y-axis direction) of the first conductive pattern (431) is located, a lower region (410b) where the lower part (e.g., -Y-axis direction) of the first conductive pattern (431) is located, and a middle region (410c) where the middle part of the first conductive pattern (431) is located.

[0056] The first magnetic member (421) may be located above the upper region (410a) when viewing the FPCB (410) in the Z-axis direction. The second magnetic member (422) may be located below the lower region (410b) when viewing the FPCB (410) in the Z-axis direction. The first magnetic member (421) may extend from the upper region (410a) to the middle region (410c) when viewing the FPCB (410) in the Z-axis direction. The second magnetic member (422) may extend from the lower region (410b) to the middle region (410c) when viewing the FPCB (410) in the Z-axis direction. A portion of the first magnetic member (421) may overlap with a portion of the second magnetic member (421) when viewing the middle region (410c) in the Z-axis direction. In FIG. 4a and FIG. 4b, the portion indicated by reference numeral 401 represents the overlapping area between the first magnetic member (421) and the second magnetic member (422).

[0057] In one embodiment, the first conductive pattern (431) may be connected to the second conductive pattern (432) through a plurality of vias (440). When current is fed from a short-range wireless communication circuit to a feed pad (451 or 452), current may flow from the coils (431, 432) clockwise or counterclockwise around the Z-axis (an axis parallel to the direction in which the rear face is facing). Accordingly, magnetic flux (460) may be emitted in the Z-axis (or -Z-axis) direction. The direction of the magnetic flux (460) may be changed obliquely by the second magnetic body (421, 422) located above and below the coils (431, 432). The direction of the magnetic flux (460) may change according to the direction in which current flows from the coils (431, 432).

[0058] Referring to FIG. 4c, the first magnetic body (401) (e.g., the first magnetic body (240) in FIG. 2d and 2e) may be positioned adjacent to the second antenna structure (400). Accordingly, the magnetic flux (460) may be diffused over a wider area through the first magnetic body (401). According to one embodiment, the first magnetic body (401) is positioned on the second antenna structure (400) in the -Z axis direction so that the magnetic flux (460) may be diffused obliquely in the -Z axis direction (the direction facing the rear) and the Y axis direction (the direction facing the side). Compared to FIG. 4b, it can be seen that the magnetic flux (460) is diffused over a wider area. Accordingly, an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1) can perform short-range wireless communication over a relatively wide area by using a second antenna structure (400) and a first magnetic body (401).

[0059] FIGS. 5a, 5b, and 5c illustrate a third antenna structure (500) applicable to the first antenna (220) shown in FIGS. 2b and 2e according to one embodiment. FIG. 5a illustrates the front view of the third antenna structure (500). FIG. 5b is a cross-sectional view of the third antenna structure (500) of FIG. 5a cut in the CC' direction. FIG. 5b also illustrates the side view of the third antenna structure (500) and the direction of the magnetic field generated from the third antenna structure (500). FIG. 5c illustrates the magnetic field generated from the third antenna structure (500) being diffused by an adjacent first magnetic body (501).

[0060] Referring to FIGS. 5a and 5b, the third antenna structure (500) may include an FPCB (510) and a second magnetic body (521, 522, 523). A first conductive pattern (531) may be formed on one side (511) of the FPCB (510) as part of a first feed pad (551), a second feed pad (552), and a coil (531, 532). A second conductive pattern (532) may be formed on the other side (512) of the FPCB (510) as part of a coil (531, 532). The first feed pad (551) and the second feed pad (552) may be electrically connected to a short-range wireless communication circuit (e.g., an MST communication circuit) mounted on a printed circuit board (e.g., a first board (261)). The second magnetic body (521, 522, 523) may include a first magnetic part (or, magnetic member) (521), a second magnetic part (522), and a third magnetic part (523). The first magnetic part (521) may be located on the FPCB (510) when viewed in the Z-axis direction of the FPCB (510). The second magnetic part (522) may be located below the FPCB (510) when viewed in the Z-axis direction of the FPCB (510).

[0061] The first conductive pattern (531) may be arranged in a form that is wound multiple times on one side (511) of the FPCB (510) in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction around the Z-axis. When viewing the FPCB (510) in the Z-axis direction, the FPCB (510) may be divided into an upper region (510a) where the upper part (e.g., +Y-axis direction) of the first conductive pattern (531) is located, a lower region (510b) where the lower part (e.g., -Y-axis direction) of the first conductive pattern (531) is located, and a middle region (510c) where the middle part of the first conductive pattern (531) is located. A hole (or, opening) (571) may be formed in the middle region (510c). The third magnetic part (523) may extend from the first magnetic part (521) to the second magnetic part (522) through the hole (571).

[0062] In one embodiment, the first conductive pattern (531) may be connected to the second conductive pattern (532) through a plurality of vias (540). When current is fed from a short-range wireless communication circuit to a feed pad (551 or 552), current may flow from the coils (531, 532) clockwise or counterclockwise around the Z-axis (an axis parallel to the direction in which the rear face is facing). Accordingly, magnetic flux (560) may be emitted in the Z-axis (or -Z-axis) direction. The direction of the magnetic flux (560) may be changed obliquely by the first magnetic member (521) and the second magnetic member (522) located above and below the coils (531, 532). The direction of the magnetic flux (560) may change according to the direction in which current flows from the coils (531, 532).

[0063] Referring to FIG. 5c, the first magnetic body (501) (e.g., the first magnetic body (240) in FIG. 2d and 2e) may be positioned adjacent to the third antenna structure (500). Accordingly, the magnetic flux (560) may be diffused over a wider area through the first magnetic body (501). According to one embodiment, the first magnetic body (501) is positioned on the third antenna structure (500) in the -Z axis direction so that the magnetic flux (560) may be diffused obliquely in the -Z axis direction (the direction facing the rear) and the Y axis direction (the direction facing the side). Compared to FIG. 5b, it can be seen that the magnetic flux (560) is diffused over a wider area. Accordingly, an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1) can perform short-range wireless communication over a relatively wide area by using a third antenna structure (500) and a first magnetic body (501).

[0064] The antenna structure (300, 400, 500) described above can be applied as a first antenna (220) and can also be applied as a second antenna (282). The antenna structure (300, 400, 500) described above may include a conductive pattern (or coil) as a planar type loop antenna that causes current to flow clockwise or counterclockwise around a Z-axis perpendicular to the XY plane (e.g., the rear surface of an electronic device). The magnetic flux generated from the planar type loop antenna can be diffused through the magnetic body (301, 401, 501) described above.

[0065] According to one embodiment, an electronic device (e.g., electronic device (200)) comprises: a display disposed on the front of the electronic device; a rear cover forming the rear of the electronic device; a first support frame located between the rear cover and the display; a second support frame located between the display and the first support frame; a battery accommodated in a first space formed between the first support frame and the second support frame; a first antenna accommodated in a second space formed between the first support frame and the second support frame and configured to output magnetic flux in a second direction perpendicular to a first direction toward which the rear faces, or to output magnetic flux in a direction oblique to the first direction and the second direction; and a first magnetic body accommodated in a third space formed between the rear cover and the first support frame. The first magnetic body accommodated in the third space may be located in the third space such that it overlaps with the portion from which the magnetic flux is output from the first antenna when viewed facing the rear.

[0066] The electronic device may further include a second antenna. The second antenna may be positioned between the battery and the rear cover so as not to overlap with the first magnetic material when viewed facing the rear. The second antenna may be attached to the battery. One of the first antenna and the second antenna may support near field communication (NFC) and the other may support magnetic secure transmission (MST).

[0067] The rear cover may be separated from the first support frame. The battery may be separated from the first support frame. The rear cover may include a packing structure that prevents water from penetrating into the first space in which the battery is accommodated when combined with the first support frame. The first support frame may have a waterproof structure that prevents water from penetrating into the second space.

[0068] The first antenna may include a coil; and a second magnetic body extending in the second direction.

[0069] According to one embodiment, the first antenna (e.g., the first antenna structure (300)) may include a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB) comprising a first layer and a second layer. In the first antenna, the coil may include a first conductive pattern formed on the first layer; and a second conductive pattern formed on the second layer. In the first antenna, the second magnetic body may be disposed between the first layer and the second layer. The first conductive pattern may be electrically connected to the second conductive pattern such that current flows clockwise or counterclockwise around an axis parallel to the second direction.

[0070] According to one embodiment, in the first antenna (e.g., second antenna structure (400)), the coil may be configured so that the current flows in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction around an axis parallel to the first direction. In the first antenna, the second magnetic body may include a first magnetic member disposed over a part of the coil; and a second magnetic member physically separated from the first magnetic member and disposed under another part of the coil. The first magnetic member may overlap with the second magnetic member at the center of the coil when viewed facing the rear side. The coil may be formed on a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB).

[0071] According to one embodiment, in the first antenna (e.g., third antenna structure (500)), the coil may be configured such that the current flows in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction around an axis parallel to the first direction. In the first antenna, the second magnetic body may include a first magnetic member disposed over a part of the coil; a second magnetic member disposed under another part of the coil; and a third magnetic member extending from the first magnetic member to the second magnetic member through the center of the coil. The coil may be formed on a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB).

[0072] In the above explanation, prefixes such as “first,” “second,” and “third” are intended merely to distinguish components of the same name and are not assigned any special meaning in themselves, such as importance or order.

[0073] In the present disclosure, the expression 'connection' means not only a direct connection between components, but also an electrical connection where other components (e.g., resistors, inductors, etc.) are present between components.

[0074] In the present disclosure, the magnetic material may be composed of a ferromagnetic material with high permeability. For example, the magnetic material may include nickel, cobalt, iron, or mu-metal. The magnetic material may be referred to by other terms depending on its form. For example, it may be implemented as a thin plate in a rectangular shape as shown in FIG. 2b. Accordingly, it may be referred to as a magnetic sheet.

[0075] The electronic device according to the various embodiments disclosed in this document may be of various forms. The electronic device may include, for example, a portable communication device (e.g., a smartphone), a computer device, a portable multimedia device, a portable medical device, a camera, a wearable device, or a consumer electronics device. The electronic device according to the embodiments of this document is not limited to the devices described above.

[0076] The various embodiments of this document and the terms used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, and should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutions of said 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 said items unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise. In this document, phrases such as "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" may each include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase, or all possible combinations thereof. Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used simply to distinguish said components from other said components and do not limit said components in any other aspect (e.g., importance or order). Where any (e.g., 1st) component is referred to as "coupled" or "connected" to another (e.g., 2nd) component, with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicationly," it means that said any component may be connected to said other component directly (e.g., via a wire), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0077] The term “module” as used in the 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, for example. A module may be a component formed integrally, or a minimum unit of said component or a part thereof that performs one or more functions. According to one embodiment, a module may be implemented in the form of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0078] Various embodiments of the present document may be implemented as software (e.g., program (140)) comprising one or more instructions stored in a storage medium (e.g., internal memory (136) or external memory (138)) readable by a machine (e.g., electronic device (101)). For example, a processor (e.g., processor (120)) of the machine (e.g., electronic device (101)) may call at least one of the one or more instructions stored in the storage medium and execute it. This enables the machine to be operated 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 that can be executed by an interpreter. The storage medium readable by the machine may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, 'non-temporary' simply means that the storage medium is a tangible device and does not contain a signal (e.g., electromagnetic waves), and the term does not distinguish between cases where data is stored semi-permanently and cases where it is stored temporarily.

[0079] According to one embodiment, the method according to the various embodiments disclosed herein may be provided by being included in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded between a seller and a buyer 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 an application store (e.g., Play Store). TM It can be distributed online (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) through ) or directly between two user devices (e.g., smartphones). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product may be temporarily stored or temporarily created on a device-readable storage medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or a relay server.

[0080] According to various embodiments, each component (e.g., module or program) of the components described above may include a singular or multiple entities, and some of the multiple entities may be separated and placed in other components. According to various embodiments, one or more of the components or operations of the aforementioned components may be omitted, or one or more other components or operations may be added. Generally or additionally, multiple components (e.g., module or program) may be integrated into a single component. In this case, the integrated component may perform one or more functions of each of the multiple components in the same or similar manner as those performed by the corresponding component among the multiple components prior to integration. According to various embodiments, operations performed by the module, program, or other components 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 an electronic device, A display positioned on the front of the above electronic device; A rear cover forming the rear of the above electronic device; A first support frame located between the rear cover and the display; A second support frame located between the display and the first support frame; A battery accommodated in a first space formed between the first support frame and the second support frame; A first antenna configured to be accommodated in a second space formed between the first support frame and the second support frame, and to output magnetic flux in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction in which the rear face faces, or to output magnetic flux in a direction oblique to the first direction and the second direction; and It includes a first magnetic body accommodated in a third space formed between the rear cover and the first support frame, and The first magnetic body accommodated in the third space is located in the third space such that it overlaps with the portion from which the magnetic flux is output from the first antenna when viewed facing the rear side. Electronic device.

2. In claim 1, further comprising a second antenna, The second antenna is positioned between the battery and the rear cover so as not to overlap with the first magnetic body when viewed facing the rear side. Electronic device.

3. In claim 2, the second antenna is attached to the battery. Electronic device.

4. In claim 1, the first support frame is configured to be separable from the rear cover. Electronic device.

5. In claim 4, the first support frame is configured to be detachable from the battery. Electronic device.

6. In Paragraph 5, The above rear cover is an electronic device comprising a packing structure that prevents water from penetrating into the first space in which the battery is accommodated when combined with the first support frame.

7. In Paragraph 4, The first support frame has a waterproof structure that prevents water from penetrating into the second space. Electronic device.

8. In any one of claims 1 to 7, the first antenna is, coil; and An electronic device comprising a second magnetic body extended in the second direction.

9. In claim 8, the first antenna comprises a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB) including a first layer and a second layer, and In the first antenna, the coil comprises a first conductive pattern formed on the first layer; and a second conductive pattern formed on the second layer, and In the first antenna, the second magnetic body is disposed between the first layer and the second layer, and The first conductive pattern is electrically connected to the second conductive pattern such that current flows clockwise or counterclockwise around an axis parallel to the second direction. Electronic device.

10. In Paragraph 8, In the first antenna, the coil is configured such that the current flows in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction around an axis parallel to the first direction, and In the first antenna, the second magnetic body comprises a first magnetic member disposed over a portion of the coil; and a second magnetic member physically separated from the first magnetic member and disposed under another portion of the coil. The first magnetic member is one that overlaps with the second magnetic member at the center of the coil when viewed facing the rear surface. Electronic device.

11. In claim 10, the coil is formed on an FPCB (flexible printed circuit board), Electronic device.

12. In Paragraph 8, In the first antenna, the coil is configured such that the current flows in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction around an axis parallel to the first direction, and An electronic device comprising: a first magnetic member disposed over a portion of the coil; a second magnetic member disposed under another portion of the coil; and a third magnetic member extending from the first magnetic member to the second magnetic member through the center of the coil.

13. In claim 12, the coil is formed on an FPCB (flexible printed circuit board), Electronic device.

14. In claim 1, the first antenna supports MST (magnetic secure transmission) or NFC (near field communication). Electronic device.

15. In claim 2, one of the first antenna and the second antenna supports NFC (near field communication) and the other supports MST (magnetic secure transmission). Electronic device.

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