Multi-foldable electronic device comprising antenna

Abstract

An electronic device is provided. The electronic device comprises a foldable housing comprising a first housing part, a second housing part, and a third housing part, wherein the first housing part includes a first conductive portion configured to operate as an antenna radiator of the electronic device and a second conductive portion spaced apart from the first conductive portion, and the second housing part includes a third conductive portion and a fourth conductive portion spaced apart from the third conductive portion, the first conductive portion of the first housing part at least partially facing the third conductive portion of the second housing part in a state in which the foldable housing is folded. The electronic device comprises a switching circuit electrically connected to the third conductive portion and the fourth conductive portion of the second housing part, wherein the switching circuit is configured to filter a signal having a frequency corresponding to the operating frequency of the antenna radiator while the first conductive portion of the first housing part operates as the antenna radiator in the folded state.

Description

Multi-foldable electronic device including an antenna

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a foldable electronic device comprising an antenna.

[0002] A multi-foldable electronic device may include a foldable housing. The foldable housing may include a plurality of housing parts that are foldable relative to each other. For example, the foldable housing of the multi-foldable electronic device may include a first housing part, a second housing part rotatably coupled to the first housing part, and a third housing part rotatably coupled to the second housing part.

[0003] The conductive parts of the foldable housing forming the exterior of the multi-foldable electronic device can be used as antenna radiators of the multi-foldable electronic device.

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

[0005] The aspects of the present disclosure are intended to solve at least the problems and / or disadvantages mentioned above and to provide at least the advantages described below. Accordingly, the aspects of the present disclosure provide a foldable electronic device comprising an antenna.

[0006] Additional aspects will be presented in part in the following description, and in part may become apparent from the description or be learned by practicing the presented embodiments.

[0007] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, an electronic device is provided.The electronic device comprises a foldable housing including a first housing part, a second housing part, and a third housing part, wherein each of the first housing part, the second housing part, and the third housing part is rotatably coupled to an adjacent housing part among the first housing part, the second housing part, and the third housing part so as to be able to switch between a folded state and an unfolded state of the foldable housing, wherein, in the unfolded state, the first housing part, the second housing part, and the third housing part are located on substantially the same plane, wherein, in the folded state, the second housing part is located on the first housing part, and wherein, in the folded state, the third housing part is located on the second housing part, wherein, wherein, the first housing part comprises a first conductive portion configured to operate as an antenna radiator of the electronic device, a second conductive portion spaced apart from the first conductive portion, and a first non-conductive portion disposed between the first conductive portion and the second conductive portion, and wherein, The second housing part comprises a third conductive portion, a fourth conductive portion spaced apart from the third conductive portion, and a second non-conductive portion disposed between the third conductive portion and the fourth conductive portion, wherein, in the folded state, the first conductive portion of the first housing part faces at least partially the third conductive portion of the second housing part, and wherein the electronic device comprises a switching circuit electrically connected to the third conductive portion and the fourth conductive portion of the second housing part, wherein, the switching circuit is configured to filter a signal having a frequency corresponding to the operating frequency of the antenna radiator while the first conductive portion of the first housing part operates as the antenna radiator in the folded state.

[0008] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a foldable electronic device is provided. The foldable electronic device comprises a first housing part, a second housing part, and a third housing part, wherein the first housing part is rotatably coupled to a first side of the third housing part and the second housing part is rotatably coupled to a second side of the third housing part, wherein, in the unfolded state of the electronic device, the first housing part, the second housing part, and the third housing part are located substantially on the same plane, wherein, in the folded state of the electronic device, the second housing part is located on the first housing part and the third housing part is located on the second housing part, wherein, the first housing part comprises a first conductive portion configured to operate as an antenna radiator of the electronic device, a second conductive portion spaced apart from the first conductive portion, and a first non-conductive portion disposed between the first conductive portion and the second conductive portion, wherein, the second housing part comprises a third conductive portion, a fourth conductive portion spaced apart from the third conductive portion, and the It includes a second non-conductive portion disposed between a third conductive portion and the fourth conductive portion, wherein, in the folded state, the first conductive portion of the first housing part at least partially faces the second conductive portion of the second housing part, and wherein the foldable electronic device includes a switching circuit electrically connected to the third conductive portion and the fourth conductive portion of the second housing part, wherein, the switching circuit may be configured to filter a signal having a frequency corresponding to the operating frequency of the antenna radiator while the first conductive portion of the first housing part operates as the antenna radiator in the folded state.

[0009] Other aspects, advantages, and important features of the present disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description disclosing various embodiments of the present disclosure together with the accompanying drawings.

[0010] The above and other aspects, features, and advantages of specific embodiments of the present disclosure will become more apparent from the following description together with the accompanying drawings.

[0011] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device in a network environment according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0012] FIG. 2a illustrates a first state of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 2b illustrates a second state of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 2c illustrates a third state of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 3a is a plan view of an electronic device with a flexible display removed according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 3b is a rear view of an electronic device with the rear cover and display removed according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 4a shows an electronic device in a multi-folded state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 4b shows the current flow of an electronic device in a multi-folded state during antenna operation according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 4c is a graph showing the radiation efficiency of an electronic device in a multi-folded state and an unfolded state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIGS. 5A and 5B show the folded state of an electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure and comparative examples.

[0021] FIG. 6 is a drawing showing an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 7a shows an electronic device in an unfolded state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 7b shows housing parts of an electronic device in a multi-folded state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIGS. 7c and 7d show an electronic device in a multi-folded state according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 7e shows a third housing part in which switching circuits are arranged, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] FIG. 8a shows an electronic device in a multi-folded state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] FIG. 8b shows the current flow of an electronic device according to a comparative example and the current flow of an electronic device according to one embodiment when a first antenna according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is in operation.

[0028] FIG. 8c shows the radiation efficiency of a first antenna of an electronic device according to a comparative example and the radiation efficiency of a first antenna of an electronic device according to a comparative example, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] FIG. 9a shows an electronic device in a multi-folded state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0030] FIG. 9b shows the current flow of an electronic device according to a comparative example and the current flow of an electronic device according to one embodiment when the fifth antenna is operated according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] FIG. 9c shows the radiation efficiency of the fifth antenna of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure and the radiation efficiency of the fifth antenna of an electronic device according to a comparative example.

[0032] FIG. 10a shows an electronic device in a multi-folded state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] FIG. 10b shows the current flow of an electronic device according to a comparative example and the current flow of an electronic device according to one embodiment when a third antenna according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is in operation.

[0034] FIG. 10c shows the radiation efficiency of a third antenna of an electronic device according to a comparative example according to an embodiment of the present disclosure and the radiation efficiency of a third antenna of an electronic device according to a comparative example.

[0035] FIG. 10d shows the radiation efficiency of the sixth antenna of an electronic device according to a comparative example according to an embodiment of the present disclosure and the radiation efficiency of the sixth antenna of an electronic device according to a comparative example.

[0036] FIG. 11a shows an electronic device in a multi-folded state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0037] FIG. 11b shows the radiation efficiency of a second antenna of an electronic device according to a comparative example according to an embodiment of the present disclosure and the radiation efficiency of a second antenna of an electronic device according to a comparative example.

[0038] FIG. 12a shows an electronic device in a multi-folded state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0039] FIG. 12b shows the power flow during the operation of the third antenna of an electronic device according to a comparative example according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and the power flow during the operation of the third antenna of an electronic device according to an embodiment.

[0040] FIG. 12c is a graph showing the radiation efficiency of a third antenna of an electronic device according to a comparative example and the radiation efficiency of a third antenna of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0041] FIG. 13a shows an electronic device in a multi-folded state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0042] FIG. 13b shows the current flow during the operation of the first antenna of an electronic device according to a comparative example and the current flow during the operation of the first antenna of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0043] FIG. 13c shows the radiation efficiency of a first antenna of an electronic device according to a comparative example and the radiation efficiency of a first antenna of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0044] FIG. 14a shows an electronic device in a multi-folded state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0045] FIG. 14b shows the current flow during the operation of the third antenna of an electronic device according to a comparative example, and the current flow during the operation of the third antenna of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0046] FIG. 14c shows the radiation efficiency of a third antenna of an electronic device according to a comparative example and the radiation efficiency of a third antenna of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0047] FIG. 14d shows the radiation efficiency of the sixth antenna of an electronic device according to a comparative example and the radiation efficiency of the sixth antenna of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0048] Other aspects, advantages, and important features of the present disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description disclosing various embodiments of the present disclosure together with the accompanying drawings.

[0049] With reference to the accompanying drawings, the following description is provided to facilitate a comprehensive understanding of various embodiments of the present invention as defined by the claims and their equivalents. While this description includes various specific details to aid such understanding, they should be considered merely illustrative. Accordingly, those skilled in the art will recognize that various changes and modifications to the various embodiments described herein may be made without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention. Additionally, descriptions of well-known functions and configurations may be omitted for the sake of clarity and brevity.

[0050] The terms and words used in the following description and claims are not limited to their bibliographic meanings but are used by the inventor merely to facilitate a clear and consistent understanding of the invention. Accordingly, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the following description of various embodiments of the invention is provided for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to limit the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0051] The singular forms "a," "an," and "the" should be understood to include the plural form unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Therefore, for example, a reference to "component surface" includes a reference to one or more of the corresponding surfaces.

[0052] It should be understood that the blocks of each flowchart and combinations of flowcharts may be executed by one or more computer programs containing computer-executable instructions. One or more computer programs as a whole may be stored in a single memory device, or one or more computer programs may be divided into several parts and stored in several different memory devices.

[0053] All functions or operations described herein may be processed by a single processor or a combination of processors. A single processor or a combination of processors is a circuit that performs processing and includes an application processor (AP, e.g., a central processing unit (CPU)), a communication processor (CP, e.g., a modem), a graphics processing unit (GPU), a neural processing unit (NPU) (e.g., an artificial intelligence (AI) chip), a Wi-Fi chip, and Bluetooth. TM It includes circuits such as chips, GPS (global positioning system) chips, near-field communication (NFC) chips, connectivity chips, sensor controllers, touch controllers, fingerprint sensor controllers, display drive integrated circuits, audio codec chips, universal serial bus (USB) controllers, camera controllers, image processing integrated circuits (ICs), microprocessor units (MPUs), system-on-chip (SoCs), ICs, etc.

[0054] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device in a network environment according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0055] Referring to FIG. 1, in a network environment (100), an electronic device (101) may communicate with an external electronic device (102) through a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network) or with at least one of an external electronic device (104) or a server (108) through a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the electronic device (101) may communicate with an external electronic device (104) through a server (108). According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, an 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 of the present disclosure, 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 of the present disclosure, 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)).

[0056] The processor (120) can control at least one other component (e.g., a hardware or software component) of the electronic device (101) connected to the processor (120) by executing software (e.g., a program (140)), for example, and can perform various data processing or operations. According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, as at least part of the data processing or operations, the processor (120) can 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 the resulting data in a non-volatile memory (134). According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the processor (120) may include a main processor (121) (e.g., a central processing unit or an application processor) or an auxiliary processor (123) that can operate independently or together with it (e.g., a graphics processing unit, a neural processing unit (NPU), an image signal processor, a sensor hub processor, or a 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 lower 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.

[0057] 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 an embodiment of the present disclosure, 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 an embodiment of the present disclosure, 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.

[0058] 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).

[0059] 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).

[0060] 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).

[0061] 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 an embodiment of the present disclosure, the receiver may be implemented separately from the speaker or as part thereof.

[0062] 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 an embodiment of the present disclosure, 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.

[0063] The audio module (170) can convert sound into an electrical signal or, conversely, convert an electrical signal into sound. According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the audio module (170) can acquire sound through an input module (150) or output sound through an audio output module (155) or an external electronic device (e.g., external electronic device (102)) (e.g., speaker or headphones) that is directly or wirelessly connected to the electronic device (101).

[0064] 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 an embodiment of the present disclosure, 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.

[0065] 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., external electronic device (102)). According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, 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.

[0066] 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., external electronic device (102)). According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, 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).

[0067] 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 an embodiment of the present disclosure, the haptic module (179) may include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electric stimulation device.

[0068] The camera module (180) can capture still images and video. According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the camera module (180) may include one or more lenses, image sensors, image signal processors, or flashes.

[0069] The power management module (188) can manage power supplied to the electronic device (101). According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the power management module (188) can be implemented, for example, as at least part of a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

[0070] The battery (189) can supply power to at least one component of the electronic device (101). According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the battery (189) may include, for example, a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable secondary battery, or a fuel cell.

[0071] 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., external electronic device (102), external 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 an embodiment of the present disclosure, 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) via a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi (wireless fidelity) direct or IrDA (infrared data association)) or a second network (199) (e.g., a legacy cellular network, a 5G (fifth generation) 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).

[0072] The wireless communication module (192) can support 5G networks and next-generation communication technologies following 4G (fourth generation) networks, for example, new radio access technology. 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 a high-frequency band (e.g., mmWave (millimeter wave) 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., external electronic device (104)), or network system (e.g., second network (199)). According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the wireless communication module (192) has a Peak data rate (e.g., 20 Gbps or higher) for realizing eMBB, a loss coverage (e.g., 164 dB or lower) for realizing mMTC, or a U-plane latency (e.g., downlink (DL) and uplink (UL) each of 0) for realizing URLLC.It can support 5ms or less, or round trip 1ms or less.

[0073] An antenna module (197) can transmit a signal or power to an external source (e.g., an external electronic device) or receive it from an external source. According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the antenna module (197) may include an antenna comprising a radiator comprising a conductor or a conductive pattern formed on a substrate (e.g., a PCB). According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the antenna module (197) may include a plurality of antennas (e.g., array antennas). 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 an embodiment of the present disclosure, 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).

[0074] According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, the antenna module (197) may form a mmWave antenna module. According to embodiments of the present disclosure, 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.

[0075] 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.

[0076] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, commands or data may be transmitted or received between an 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 a device of the same or different type as the electronic device (101). According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, all or part of the operations performed on the electronic device (101) may be performed on one or more external electronic devices, such as the external electronic devices (102 or 104) or the server (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 of the present disclosure, 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 an embodiment of the present disclosure, an external electronic device (104) or server (108) may be included within the second network (199). The electronic device (101) may be applied to intelligent services (e.g., smart home, smart city, smart car, or healthcare) based on 5G communication technology and IoT-related technology.

[0077] FIG. 2a illustrates a first state of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2b illustrates a second state of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2c illustrates a third state of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0078] Referring to FIGS. 2a, 2b, and 2c, an electronic device (200) (e.g., electronic device (101)) may include a housing structure (201), a flexible display (240), a first hinge structure (250), a second hinge structure (260), and a display (270) (e.g., a display module (160)). The housing structure (201) may include a first housing part (210), a second housing part (220), and a third housing part (230).

[0079] The first housing part (210) can be rotatably coupled to the second housing part (220) by the first hinge structure (250). The second housing part (220) and the first housing part (210) can be rotated about the first hinge structure (250). While the first housing part (210) is rotated about the first hinge structure (250), the second housing part (220) can be rotated about the first hinge structure (250). For example, when the second housing part (220) and the first housing part (210) are rotated about the first hinge structure (250), the angular displacement of the second housing part (220) may be substantially the same as the angular displacement of the first housing part (210).

[0080] The third housing part (230) can be rotatably coupled to the second housing part (220) by the second hinge structure (260). The second housing part (220) and the third housing part (230) can be rotated about the second hinge structure (260). While the second housing part (220) is rotated about the second hinge structure (260), the third housing part (230) can be rotated about the second hinge structure (260). For example, when the second housing part (220) and the third housing part (230) are rotated about the second hinge structure (260), the angular displacement (or angular change) of the second housing part (220) may be substantially the same as the angular displacement of the third housing part (230).

[0081] The first hinge structure (250) and the second hinge structure (260) can change the state of the electronic device. The first hinge structure (250) and the second hinge structure (260) can provide (or enable) a first state (200a) of the electronic device (200) (or a first state (200a) of the housing structure (201). The first state (200a) of the electronic device (200) (or a first state (200a)) of the housing structure (201) can be described as an unfolded state (or unfolded state) of the electronic device (200) (or housing structure (201)). Within the first state (200a), the front of the first housing part (210), the front of the second housing part (220), and the front of the third housing part (230) can define the front of the electronic device (200). In the first state (200a), the front of the first housing part (210), the front of the second housing part (220), and the front of the third housing part (230) may face in the same direction. In the first state (200a), the electronic device (200) may provide the user with a large display area of ​​the flexible display (240).

[0082] The first hinge structure (250) and the second hinge structure (260) can provide a second state (200b) of the electronic device (200). The second state (200b) of the electronic device (200) can be described as a state in which the electronic device (200) is partially folded and partially unfolded (or a single folding state or a half folding state). For example, in the second state (200b), the front of the second housing part (220) and the front of the third housing part (230) may face in the same direction, and the front of the first housing part (210) and the front of the second housing part (220) may face in opposite directions. For example, in the second state (200b), the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) may be folded, and the second housing part (220) and the third housing part (230) may be unfolded. In the second state (200b), the electronic device (200) can provide visual information through a part of the flexible display (240) (e.g., a third display area (240c)).

[0083] The electronic device (200) can change from a first state (200a) to a third state (200c) through a second state (200b). The electronic device (200) can change from a first state (200a) which is an unfolded state to a second state (200b) which is a partially unfolded state. For example, the electronic device (200) can change from a first state (200a) in which the first housing part (210), the second housing part (220), and the third housing part (230) face the same direction to a second state (200b) in which the front of the first housing part (210) faces the front of the second housing part (220). The electronic device (200) can change from a second state (200b) which is a partially unfolded state to a third state (200c) which is a folded state. For example, when changing from the second state (200b) to the third state (200c), the folded first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) can be placed on the third housing part (230).

[0084] The first hinge structure (250) and the second hinge structure (260) can provide a third state (200c) of the electronic device (200) (or a third state (200c) of the housing structure (201). The third state (200c) of the electronic device (200) (or a third state (200c) of the housing structure (201)) can be described as a folded state (or a folded state or a multi-folded state) of the electronic device (200) (or the housing structure (201)). In the third state (200c), the front of the first housing part (210) and the front of the second housing part (220) may face in opposite directions, and the front of the second housing part (220) and the front of the third housing part (230) may face in opposite directions. In the third state (200c), the front of the first housing part (210) and the front of the third housing part (230) may face each other in the same direction. For example, in the third state (200c), the front of the second housing part (220) may face the front of the first housing part (210), and the front of the third housing part (230) may face the rear of the first housing part (210). In the third state (200c), the rear of the second housing part (220) may be exposed to the outside. A display (270) may be placed on the rear of the second housing part (220). In the third state (200c), the rear of the third housing part (230) may be exposed to the outside. A camera (275) may be placed on the rear of the third housing part (230). In the third state (200c), the electronic device (200) can be folded to improve portability and can provide visual information through a display (270) positioned on the rear of the second housing part (220).

[0085] The electronic device (200) may further include a key button (239). The key button (239) may be exposed from a structure (e.g., an opening) formed on the side of the third housing part (230) and may partially protrude outside the electronic device (200). The key button (239) may provide physical input to a processing circuit inside the electronic device (200) by pressure transmitted from the outside. The key button (239) may not be included in the electronic device (200) and may be implemented in other forms, such as a soft key displayed on a flexible display (240) or a display (270).

[0086] The key button (239) may be positioned on the side of the third housing part (230) so as to be exposed to the outside in the third state (200c). As the key button (239) is positioned on the side of the third housing part (230), it may be positioned in the direction in which the side of the third housing part (230) faces. Even if the display (270) in the third state (200c) is changed to the first state (200a) by a user, the position of the key button (239) positioned on the side of the third housing part (230) may not be moved. For example, referring to FIG. 2a, in the first state (200a), when the flexible display (240) is viewed from above, the key button (239) may be positioned on the right side. Referring to FIG. 2b, in the third state (200c), when viewing the display (270) from above, the key button (239) can be positioned on the right.

[0087] The flexible display (240) can define the appearance of the electronic device (200) at least partially. The flexible display (240) can be partially disposed within the housing structure (201). The flexible display (240) can define the front of the electronic device (200). The flexible display (240) may include a first unbendable portion (241), a second unbendable portion (242), a third unbendable portion (243), a first bendable portion (244), and a second bendable portion (245). The first unbendable portion (241) of the flexible display (240) can be disposed on the front of the first housing part (210). The second unbendable portion (242) of the flexible display (240) can be disposed on the front of the second housing part (220). A third unbendable portion (243) of the flexible display (240) may be placed on the front of the third housing part (230). A first bendable portion (244) of the flexible display (240) may be placed between the first unbendable portion (241) and the third unbendable portion (243) of the flexible display (240). For example, the first bendable portion (244) of the flexible display (240) may be placed on a first hinge structure (250) connecting the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220). A second bendable portion (245) of the flexible display (240) may be placed between the second unbendable portion (242) and the third unbendable portion (243) of the flexible display (240). For example, the second bendable portion (245) of the flexible display (240) may be placed on a second hinge structure (260) connecting the second housing part (220) and the third housing part (230).

[0088] The first hinge structure (250) and the second hinge structure (260) may have the first unbendable portion (241) of the flexible display (240), the second unbendable portion (242) of the flexible display (240), and the third unbendable portion (243) of the flexible display (240) oriented substantially in the same direction. In the first state (200a), the first bendable portion (244) and the second bendable portion (245) may be positioned in substantially the same horizontal plane as the first unbendable portion (241), the second unbendable portion (242), and the third unbendable portion (243).

[0089] The first hinge structure (250) and the second hinge structure (260) can provide a second state (200b) of the electronic device (200). In the second state (200b), the first unbendable portion (241) of the flexible display (240) may face the second unbendable portion (242) of the flexible display (240), and the third unbendable portion (243) of the flexible display (240) may face the same direction as the second unbendable portion (242) of the flexible display (240). For example, the second unbendable portion (242) and the third unbendable portion (243) may be positioned substantially on the same horizontal plane.

[0090] In the second state (200b), the first bendable portion (244) of the flexible display (240) is bent by the first hinge structure (250), so that the first bendable portion (244) of the flexible display (240) can be folded such that the first unbendable portion (241) of the flexible display (240) and the second unbendable portion (242) of the flexible display (240) face in different directions.

[0091] In the second state (200b), the second bendable portion (245) of the flexible display (240) is maintained in an unfolded state by the second hinge structure (260), so that the second bendable portion (245) of the flexible display (240) can be unfolded such that the second unbendable portion (242) of the flexible display (240) and the third unbendable portion (243) of the flexible display (240) face in the same direction.

[0092] The first hinge structure (250) and the second hinge structure (260) can provide a third state (200c) of the electronic device (200). In the third state (200c), the second unbendable portion (242) of the flexible display (240) faces the first unbendable portion (241) of the flexible display (240), and the third unbendable portion (243) of the flexible display (240) may face the rear of the first housing part (210).

[0093] In the third state (200c), the first bendable portion (244) of the flexible display (240) is bent by the first hinge structure (250), so that the first bendable portion (244) of the flexible display (240) can be folded such that the first unbendable portion (241) of the flexible display (240) and the second unbendable portion (242) of the flexible display (240) face in different directions.

[0094] In the third state (200c), the second bendable portion (245) of the flexible display (240) is bent by the second hinge structure (260), so that the second bendable portion (245) of the flexible display (240) can be folded such that the second unbendable portion (242) of the flexible display (240) and the third unbendable portion (243) of the flexible display (240) face in different directions. The second bendable portion (245) may further include a first deformation portion (245a), a second deformation portion (245b), and a flat portion (245c). The first deformation portion (245a) may be positioned between the planar portion (245c) and the second unbendable portion (242), and the second deformation portion (245b) may be positioned between the planar portion (245c) and the third unbendable portion (243). The planar portion (245c) may be positioned between the first deformation portion (245a) and the second deformation portion (245b). The planar portion (245c) may be supported by a support plate (e.g., the support plate (364) of FIG. 3a) that is distinct from the hinge plates of the second hinge structure (260) (e.g., the third hinge plate (362) and the fourth hinge plate (363) of FIG. 3a). Regardless of the state of the electronic device (200), the planar portion (245c) may remain flat. The first deformation part (245a) and the second deformation part (245b) are unfolded in the first state (200a) and the second state (200b), and in the third state (200c), the first deformation part (245a) and the second deformation part (245b) can be bent so that the second unbendable part (242) and the third unbendable part (243) face in different directions. In the third state (200c), the first housing part (210) can be positioned between the second housing part (220) and the third housing part (230). In the third state (200c), the second bendable part (245) of the flexible display (240) positioned on the second hinge structure (260) can be partially facing the side (210c) of the first housing part (210).

[0095] The display area of ​​the flexible display (240) may include a first display area (240a), a second display area (240b), and a third display area (240c). The display area represents an area capable of providing visual information from the flexible display (240). In a first state (200a), the entire display area of ​​the flexible display (240) may be visible from the front of the housing structure (201). For example, in the first state (200a), the first display area (240a), the second display area (240b), and the third display area (240c) of the flexible display (240) may be visually exposed. The electronic device (200) may provide a large display area to the user that includes the first display area (240a), the second display area (240b), and the third display area (240c).

[0096] In the second state (200b), the display area of ​​the flexible display (240) may be partially visible from the front of the third housing part (230). For example, the third display area (240c) may be visually exposed, while the first display area (240a) and the second display area (240b) may not be visually exposed.

[0097] In the third state (200c), the display area of ​​the flexible display (240) may not be visible. For example, in the third state (200c), the first display area (240a), the second display area (240b), and the third display area (240c) of the flexible display (240) may not be visually exposed.

[0098] In a non-limiting example, when the flexible display (240) is used to display a screen within a first state (200a) of the electronic device (200), the first display area (240a), the second display area (240b), and the third display area (240c) of the flexible display (240) may be activated. In a non-limiting example, within a third state (200c), the first display area (240a), the second display area (240b), and the third display area (240c) of the flexible display (240) may be deactivated. In a non-limiting example, within a second state (200b) of the electronic device (200), when the flexible display (240) is used to display a screen, the third display area (240c) is activated, and the first display area (240a) and the second display area (240b) of the flexible display (240) may be deactivated.

[0099] In a non-limiting example, when the flexible display (240) is used to display a screen within a first state (200a) of the electronic device (200), the first display area (240a), the second display area (240b), and the third display area (240c) of the flexible display (240) may display visual information. In a non-limiting example, within the third state (200c), the first display area (240a), the second display area (240b), and the third display area (240c) of the flexible display (240) may provide a black image. As a non-limiting example, in a second state (200b) of the electronic device (200), when the flexible display (240) is used to display a screen, the third display area (240c) provides visual information, and the first display area (240a) and the second display area (240b) of the flexible display (240) may provide a black image.

[0100] FIG. 3a is a plan view of an electronic device with a flexible display removed according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3b is a rear view of an electronic device with a rear cover and a display removed according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0101] Referring to FIGS. 3a and 3b, the electronic device (200) may include a first hinge structure (250) and a second hinge structure (260). The first width (w1) of the first hinge structure (250) may be narrower than the second width (w2) of the second hinge structure (260). The difference between the first width (w1) of the first hinge structure (250) and the second width (w2) of the second hinge structure (260) may be equal to or greater than the thickness of the first housing part (210). For example, the second hinge structure (260) may have a second width (w2) that is wider than the first width (w1) so that, according to the third state (200c), the first housing part (210) is positioned between the second housing part (220) and the third housing part (230). The first hinge structure (250) may be referred to as a narrow hinge structure in that it has a narrower width than the second hinge structure (260). The second hinge structure (260) may be referred to as a wide hinge structure in that it has a wider width than the first hinge structure (250).

[0102] The first hinge structure (250) may include a first set of gears (351), a first hinge plate (352), and a second hinge plate (353). The first hinge plate (352) may be coupled to a first support portion (211) of the first housing part (210). The second hinge plate (353) may be coupled to a second support portion (221) of the second housing part (220). The gears (g11, g12, g13, g14) included in the first set of gears (351) may be configured to rotate the first hinge plate (352) and the second hinge plate (353). For example, the gears (g11, g12, g13, g14) included in the first set of gears (351) can rotate the second hinge plate (353) (or the second housing part (220)) in conjunction with the rotation of the first hinge plate (352) (or the first housing part (210)). After the first hinge plate (352) (or the first housing part (210)) is rotated, the gears (g11, g12, g13, g14) included in the first set of gears (351) can be rotated according to the rotation of the first hinge plate (352) (or the first housing part (210)). The second hinge plate (353) (or the second housing part (220)) may be rotated in conjunction with the rotation of the first hinge plate (352) according to the rotation of the gears included in the first set of gears (351). The gears (g11, g12, g13, g14) included in the first set of gears (351) may include a first gear (g11), a second gear (g12), a third gear (g13), and a fourth gear (g14). The first gear (g11) may be positioned adjacent to the first hinge plate (352), and the fourth gear (g14) may be positioned adjacent to the second hinge plate (353). The second gear (g12) and the third gear (g13) may be positioned between the first gear (g11) and the fourth gear (g14).The first gear (g11), the second gear (g12), the third gear (g13), and the fourth gear (g14) can be engaged sequentially. Depending on the first rotational direction (e.g., clockwise) of the first gear (g11), the second gear (g12) engaged with the first gear (g11) can be rotated in a second rotational direction (e.g., counterclockwise) opposite to the first rotational direction. Depending on the second rotational direction of the second gear (g12), the third gear (g13) engaged with the second gear (g12) can be rotated in the first rotational direction. Depending on the first rotational direction of the third gear (g13), the fourth gear (g14) can be rotated in the second rotational direction. As the first gear (g11) and the fourth gear (g14) rotate in different directions, the first housing part (210) connected to the first hinge plate (352) and the second housing part (220) connected to the second hinge plate (353) can be folded or unfolded.

[0103] The second hinge structure (260) may include a second set of gears (361), a third hinge plate (362), a fourth hinge plate (363), and a support plate (364). The third hinge plate (362) may be coupled to the second support portion (221) of the second housing part (220). The fourth hinge plate (363) may be coupled to the third support portion (231) of the third housing part (230). The gears (g21, g22, g23, g24, g25, g26) included in the second set of gears (361) may be configured to rotate the third hinge plate (362) and the fourth hinge plate (363). For example, the gears (g21, g22, g23, g24, g25, g26) included in the second set of gears (361) can rotate the fourth hinge plate (363) (or the third housing part (230)) in conjunction with the rotation of the third hinge plate (362) (or the second housing part (220)). After the third hinge plate (362) (or the second housing part (220)) is rotated, the gears (g21, g22, g23, g24, g25, g26) included in the second set of gears (361) can be rotated according to the rotation of the third hinge plate (362) (or the second housing part (220)). The fourth hinge plate (363) (or the third housing part (230)) can be rotated in conjunction with the rotation of the third hinge plate (362) according to the rotation of the gears (g21, g22, g23, g24, g25, g26) included in the second set (361) of gears.

[0104] The gears (g21, g22, g23, g24, g25, g26) included in the second set (361) of gears may include a first gear (g21), a second gear (g22), a third gear (g23), a fourth gear (g24), a fifth gear (g25), and a sixth gear (g26). The first gear (g21) may be positioned adjacent to the third hinge plate (362), and the sixth gear (g26) may be positioned adjacent to the fourth hinge plate (363). The second gear (g22), the third gear (g23), the fourth gear (g24), and the fifth gear (g25) may be positioned between the first gear (g21) and the sixth gear (g26). The first gear (g21), second gear (g22), third gear (g23), fourth gear (g24), fifth gear (g25), and sixth gear (g26) can be engaged sequentially. Depending on the first rotational direction (e.g., clockwise) of the first gear (g21), the second gear (g22) engaged with the first gear (g21) can be rotated in a second rotational direction (e.g., counterclockwise) opposite to the first rotational direction. Depending on the second rotational direction of the second gear (g22), the third gear (g23) engaged with the second gear (g22) can be rotated in the first rotational direction. Depending on the first rotational direction of the third gear (g23), the fourth gear (g24) can be rotated in the second rotational direction. Depending on the rotation of the fourth gear (g24) in the second rotational direction, the fifth gear (g25) engaged with the fourth gear (g24) can be rotated in the first rotational direction. Depending on the rotation of the fifth gear (g25) in the first rotational direction, the sixth gear (g26) engaged with the fifth gear (g25) can be rotated in the second rotational direction. As the first gear (g21) and the sixth gear (g26) rotate in different directions, the second housing part (220) connected to the third hinge plate (362) and the third housing part (230) connected to the fourth hinge plate (363) can be folded or unfolded.

[0105] The first hinge structure (250) and the second hinge structure (260) may further include a spiral structure. The spiral structure may include a spiral groove formed in each hinge plate or a rotating member connected to the hinge plate and a moving member sliding along the spiral groove. The hinge plates connected to the hinge structure may be configured to rotate by substantially the same angular displacement through the spiral structure.

[0106] The electronic device (200) may include a first printed circuit board (371), a second printed circuit board (372), and a third printed circuit board (373).

[0107] A first printed circuit board (371) may be placed on a first support portion (211) of a first housing part (210). Hardware components within the first housing part (210) may be mounted on the first printed circuit board (371). A second printed circuit board (372) may be placed on a second support portion (221) of a second housing part (220). A third printed circuit board (373) may be placed on a third support portion (231) of a third housing part (230). Hardware components within the third housing part (230) may be mounted on the third printed circuit board (373).

[0108] Hardware components placed on the first printed circuit board (371) can support or operate independently of hardware components placed on the second printed circuit board (372) and / or hardware components placed on the third printed circuit board (373).

[0109] Hardware components placed on the second printed circuit board (372) may support or operate independently of hardware components placed on the first printed circuit board (371) or the third printed circuit board (373). Hardware components placed on the second printed circuit board (372) may include a speaker, a front camera, and / or a display driving circuit.

[0110] Hardware components disposed on the third printed circuit board (373) may include at least one processor including a processing circuit (e.g., application processor (AP), communication processor (CP)), memory including one or more storage media, communication circuits, and a rear camera (275). The rear camera (275) may be exposed through a structure (e.g., an opening) on ​​the rear of the third housing part (230).

[0111] The electronic device (200) may further include a sub-printed circuit board (375) and flexible printed circuit boards (380, 390). The sub-printed circuit board (375) may be placed in at least some of the first housing part (210), the second housing part (220), and the third housing part (230). The flexible printed circuit boards (380, 390) may include a first flexible printed circuit board (380) and a second flexible printed circuit board (390). The first flexible printed circuit board (380) may electrically connect the printed circuit boards placed in each of the housing parts (210, 220, 230). The second flexible printed circuit board (390) may connect the printed circuit board in the housing part where the sub-printed circuit board (375) is placed with the sub-printed circuit board (375) by means of the second flexible printed circuit board (390).

[0112] Components within the electronic device (200) may be connected to at least one processor within the third printed circuit board (373) via flexible printed circuit boards (380, 390). For example, a signal received from an antenna placed in the third housing part (230) may be transmitted to the third printed circuit board (373) where at least one processor (e.g., processor (120)) (e.g., AP or CP) is placed via a signal path (a) provided by the first flexible printed circuit board (380). A driving circuit for a flexible display (240) placed in the first housing part (210) may be connected to the third printed circuit board (373) where at least one processor (e.g., AP) is placed via a sub-printed circuit board (375) and a signal path (b) provided by the first flexible printed circuit board (380). A driving circuit for a display (270) connected to a sub-printed circuit board (375) placed in a second housing part (220) can be electrically connected to a third printed circuit board (373) on which at least one processor (e.g., AP) is placed, through a signal path (c) provided by the sub-printed circuit board (375), the first flexible printed circuit board (380), and the second flexible printed circuit board (390).

[0113] The electronic device (200) may further include batteries (e.g., battery (189)). Each of the batteries may be attached to support parts (211, 221, 231) included in the housing parts (210, 220, 230). The support parts (211, 221, 231) may support rechargeable batteries.

[0114] The arrangement of hardware components is exemplary, and unlike the above, the rear camera (275) and the second printed circuit board (372) may be placed in the third housing part (230), and the third printed circuit board (373) may be placed in the second housing part (220).

[0115] The first housing part (210) and the third housing part (230) are shown to rotate in opposite directions relative to the second housing part (220), but are not limited thereto. For example, while changing from the first state (200a) to the third state (200c), the first housing part (210) may rotate counterclockwise relative to the second housing part (220), and the third housing part (230) may rotate counterclockwise relative to the second housing part (220). As the first housing part (210) and the third housing part (230) rotate in the same direction, a portion of the display area of ​​the flexible display (240) in the second state may be visually exposed.

[0116] FIG. 4a shows an electronic device in a multi-folded state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 4b shows the current flow of an electronic device in a multi-folded state during antenna operation according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 4c is a graph showing the radiation efficiency of an electronic device in a multi-folded state and an unfolded state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0117] Referring to FIG. 4a, a multi-foldable electronic device (400) (hereinafter, electronic device (400)) (e.g., electronic device (200)) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a foldable housing (401).

[0118] The foldable housing (401) may include a plurality of housing parts. Each of the plurality of housing parts may be rotatably coupled to an adjacent housing part so as to be able to switch between the multi-folded state (e.g., third state (200c)) and unfolded state (e.g., first state (200a)) of the foldable housing (401).

[0119] For example, the foldable housing (401) may include a first housing part (410) (e.g., a third housing part (230)), a second housing part (420) (e.g., a first housing part (210)), and a third housing part (430) (e.g., a second housing part (220)). For example, the first housing part (410) may be rotatably coupled to a first side of the third housing part (430). For example, the second housing part (420) may be rotatably coupled to a second side of the third housing part (430) opposite to the first side. The foldable housing (401) may include a first hinge structure (441) (e.g., a second hinge structure (260)) that rotatably connects a first housing part (410) and a third housing part (430), and a second hinge structure (442) (e.g., a first hinge structure (250)) that rotatably connects a second housing part (420) and a third housing part (430).

[0120] As illustrated in FIG. 4a, in the multi-folded state of the electronic device (400), a second housing part (420) may be placed on the first housing part (410), and a third housing part (430) may be placed on the second housing part (420). Although not illustrated, in the unfolded state of the electronic device (400) (e.g., first state (200a)), the first housing part (410), the second housing part (420), and the third housing part (430) may be located substantially on the same plane.

[0121] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the first housing part (410) may include a plurality of conductive portions forming at least a portion of the side of the first housing part (410), and one or more non-conductive portions interposed between the plurality of conductive portions. For example, the first housing part (410) may include a first conductive portion (411), a second conductive portion (412), a third conductive portion (413), a first non-conductive portion (416), and a second non-conductive portion (417).

[0122] A second conductive portion (412) may be positioned between a first conductive portion (411) and a third conductive portion (413). The second conductive portion (412) may be spaced apart from the first conductive portion (411), and a first non-conductive portion (416) may be positioned between the first conductive portion (411) and the second conductive portion (412). For example, the first non-conductive portion (416) may extend from a first end of the first conductive portion (411) to a first end of the second conductive portion (412). A third conductive portion (413) may be spaced apart from the second conductive portion (412), and a second non-conductive portion (417) may be positioned between the second conductive portion (412) and the third conductive portion (413). For example, the second non-conductive portion (417) may extend from the second end of the second conductive portion (412) to the first end of the third conductive portion (413). The first conductive portion (411), the first non-conductive portion (416), the second conductive portion (412), the second non-conductive portion (417), and the third conductive portion (413) may form a part of the side of the first housing part (410), for example, the upper or lower side of the first housing part (410), without limitation.

[0123] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the second housing part (420) may include a plurality of conductive portions forming at least a portion of the side of the second housing part (420), and one or more non-conductive portions interposed between the plurality of conductive portions. For example, the second housing part (420) may include a first conductive portion (421), a second conductive portion (422), a third conductive portion (423), a first non-conductive portion (426), and a second non-conductive portion (427).

[0124] A second conductive portion (422) may be positioned between a first conductive portion (421) and a third conductive portion (423). The second conductive portion (422) may be spaced apart from the first conductive portion (421), and a first non-conductive portion (426) may be positioned between the first conductive portion (421) and the second conductive portion (422). For example, the first non-conductive portion (426) may extend from a first end of the first conductive portion (421) to a first end of the second conductive portion (422). A third conductive portion (423) may be spaced apart from the second conductive portion (422), and a second non-conductive portion (427) may be positioned between the second conductive portion (422) and the third conductive portion (423). For example, the second non-conductive portion (427) may extend from the second end of the second conductive portion (422) to the first end of the third conductive portion (423). The first conductive portion (421), the first non-conductive portion (426), the second conductive portion (422), the second non-conductive portion (427), and the third conductive portion (423) may form a part of the side of the second housing part (420), for example, the upper or lower side of the second housing part (420), without limitation.

[0125] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the third housing part (430) may include a plurality of conductive portions forming at least a portion of the side of the third housing part (430), and one or more non-conductive portions interposed between the plurality of conductive portions. For example, the third housing part (430) may include a first conductive portion (431), a second conductive portion (432), a third conductive portion (433), a first non-conductive portion (436), and a second non-conductive portion (437).

[0126] A second conductive portion (432) may be positioned between a first conductive portion (431) and a third conductive portion (433). The second conductive portion (432) may be spaced apart from the first conductive portion (431), and a first non-conductive portion (436) may be positioned between the first conductive portion (431) and the second conductive portion (432). For example, the first non-conductive portion (436) may extend from a first end of the first conductive portion (431) to a first end of the second conductive portion (432). A third conductive portion (433) may be spaced apart from the second conductive portion (432), and a second non-conductive portion (437) may be positioned between the second conductive portion (432) and the third conductive portion (433). For example, the second non-conductive portion (437) may extend from the second end of the second conductive portion (432) to the first end of the third conductive portion (433). The first conductive portion (431), the first non-conductive portion (436), the second conductive portion (432), the second non-conductive portion (437), and the third conductive portion (433) may form a part of the side of the third housing part (430), for example, the upper or lower side of the third housing part (430), without limitation.

[0127] In the multi-folded state of the electronic device (400), the first conductive portion (411) of the first housing part (410) may at least partially face the first conductive portion (421) of the second housing part (420). In the multi-folded state of the electronic device (400), the second conductive portion (412) of the first housing part (410) may at least partially face the second conductive portion (422) of the second housing part (420). In the multi-folded state of the electronic device (400), the third conductive portion (413) of the first housing part (410) may at least partially face the third conductive portion (423) of the second housing part (420).

[0128] In the multi-folded state of the electronic device (400), the first conductive portion (431) of the third housing part (430) may at least partially face the first conductive portion (421) of the second housing part (420). In the multi-folded state of the electronic device (400), the second conductive portion (432) of the third housing part (430) may at least partially face the second conductive portion (422) of the second housing part (420). In the multi-folded state of the electronic device (400), the third conductive portion (433) of the third housing part (430) may at least partially face the third conductive portion (423) of the second housing part (420).

[0129] In the multi-folded state of the electronic device (400), the first gap (g1) between the first housing part (410) and the second housing part (420) may be, for example, about 0.3 mm or less, without limitation. In the multi-folded state of the electronic device (400), the second gap (g2) between the second housing part (420) and the third housing part (430) may be, for example, about 0.6 mm or less, without limitation.

[0130] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, at least one of the first conductive portion (411), the second conductive portion (412), and the third conductive portion (413) of the first housing part (410) may be used as an antenna radiator of the electronic device (400). For example, a wireless communication circuit (e.g., a wireless communication module (192)) of the electronic device (400) may transmit and / or receive an RF (radio frequency) signal through at least one of the first conductive portion (411), the second conductive portion (412), and the third conductive portion (413) of the first housing part (410).

[0131] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, at least one of the first conductive portion (431), the second conductive portion (432), and the third conductive portion (433) of the third housing part (430) may be used as an antenna radiator of the electronic device (400). For example, the wireless communication circuit of the electronic device (400) may transmit and / or receive an RF (radio frequency) signal through at least one of the first conductive portion (431), the second conductive portion (432), and the third conductive portion (433) of the third housing part (430).

[0132] In the multi-folded state of the electronic device (400), when the conductive part of the first housing part (410) operates as an antenna, the current flowing through the conductive part of the first housing part (410) can be induced into the conductive part of the adjacent second housing part (420). Additionally, in the multi-folded state of the electronic device (400), when the conductive part of the third housing part (430) operates as an antenna, the current flowing through the conductive part of the third housing part (430) can be induced into the conductive part of the adjacent second housing part (420).

[0133] For example, referring to FIG. 4b, in a multi-folded state of the electronic device (400), the third conductive part (413) of the first housing part (410) can operate as an antenna (A3) including a feed point (F) and a ground point (G). In the drawings, the feed point (F) may be a point where the antenna (or the conductive part) is electrically connected to the wireless communication circuit, and the ground point (G) may be a point where the antenna (or the conductive part) is electrically connected to the ground of the electronic device (400). However, the locations of the feed point (F) and the ground point (G) are not limited by the illustrated example, and the locations of the feed point (F) and the ground point (G) may be interchanged or formed at a different location from the illustrated example.

[0134] As the third conductive part (413) operates as an antenna (A3), as illustrated in region (R), the current flowing through the third conductive part (413) of the first housing part (410) can be induced into the conductive parts of the second housing part (420) and the third housing part (430) adjacent to the third conductive part (413). To reduce the thickness of the electronic device (400), the first gap (g1) between the first housing part (410) and the second housing part (420), and the second gap (g2) between the second housing part (420) and the third housing part (430) can be reduced, and the induced current can be increased. The current induced into the adjacent conductive parts can create parasitic components and simultaneously reduce the efficiency of the antenna. For example, referring to FIG. 4c, the radiation efficiency (4C1) of the antenna (A3) in the multi-folded state of the electronic device (400) may be lower than the radiation efficiency (4C1) of the antenna (A3) in the unfolded state of the electronic device (400).

[0135] FIGS. 5a and 5b show a folded state of an electronic device according to a comparative example according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 6 is a drawing showing an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0136] Referring to FIG. 5a, an electronic device (500) according to a comparative example may include a first housing part (510) and a second housing part (520) rotatable relative to the first housing part (510). When the electronic device (500) is folded so that the first housing part (510) and the second housing part (520) face each other, the conductive portion (511) of the first housing part (510) may operate as an antenna radiator. When the conductive portion (511) of the first housing part (510) operates as a first antenna radiator, the conductive portion (521) of the second housing part (520) may be used as a second antenna radiator by changing the electrical characteristics of the conductive portion (521) of the second housing part (520) aligned with the conductive portion (511) of the first housing part (510). Accordingly, the degradation of antenna performance that may occur as a result of current flowing in the conductive part (511) of the first housing part (510) being induced into the conductive part (521) of the second housing part (520) can be prevented or reduced.

[0137] Referring to FIG. 5b, the first housing part (510) of the electronic device (500) according to the comparative example may further include another conductive part (512) spaced apart from the conductive part (511). When the electronic device (500) is in a folded state, the conductive part (511) may function as an antenna (A51). Alternatively, when the electronic device (500) is in a folded state, the conductive part (511) and the other conductive part (512) may be electrically connected through an electrical path (550), and the conductive part (511) and the other conductive part (512) may function together as an antenna (A52). However, while this method may be effective for increasing the radiation performance of the antenna when the electronic device (500) is unfolded, it may be difficult to solve the problem of increased induced current when the electronic device (500) is in a folded state. In addition, the method of increasing the antenna volume by connecting a conductive part (511) and another conductive part (512) is effective for low band antennas (e.g., about 1 GHz or less), but is not suitable for application to antennas in a relatively high frequency band.

[0138] Referring to FIG. 6, since the first housing part (410) is connected to the second housing part (420) through the third housing part (430), it may be difficult to utilize the second housing part (420) facing the first housing part (410) as an antenna radiator when the electronic device (400) is in a folded state. This may be because when the wireless communication circuit of the electronic device (400) is placed in the first housing part (410), the physical distance between the wireless communication circuit and the second housing part (420) is long, resulting in significant loss. Even if the second housing part (420) is used as an antenna, the sides of the second housing part (420) are blocked by the first hinge structure (441) and the second hinge structure (442), and the top and bottom surfaces of the second housing part (420) are blocked by the first housing part (410) and the third housing part (430), so there are limitations in improving the antenna performance of the first housing part (410) by using the second housing part (420) as an antenna radiator.

[0139] Examples of electronic devices (400) capable of controlling currents generated from the first housing part (410) and the third housing part (430) by utilizing the second housing part (420), which is difficult to utilize as an antenna radiator, are shown below.

[0140] FIG. 7a shows an electronic device in an unfolded state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 7b shows housing parts of an electronic device in a multifolded state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 7c and FIG. 7d show an electronic device in a multifolded state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 7e shows a third housing part in which switching circuits are arranged according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0141] Referring to FIGS. 7a, 7b, and 7c, the first conductive portion (411) of the first housing part (410) can operate as a first antenna (A1), the second conductive portion (412) of the first housing part (410) can operate as a second antenna (A2), and the third conductive portion (413) of the first housing part (410) can operate as a third antenna (A3).

[0142] The first conductive portion (431) of the third housing part (430) can operate as a fourth antenna (A1-1), the second conductive portion (432) of the third housing part (430) can operate as a fifth antenna (A2-1), and the third conductive portion (433) of the third housing part (430) can operate as a sixth antenna (A3-1). In FIG. 7a, the antennas (A1, A2, and A3) of the electronic device (400) are shown in a structure positioned at the top of the first housing part (410), but are not limited thereto. For example, the antennas (A1, A2, and A3) of the electronic device (400) may be provided at the bottom of the first housing part (410). As another example, in addition to the antennas (A1, A2, and A3) provided at the top of the first housing part (410), additional antennas may be provided at the bottom of the first housing part (410).

[0143] Referring to FIG. 7a, the antennas (A1-1, A2-1, and A3-1) of the electronic device (400) are shown in a structure where they are positioned on the top of the third housing part (430), but are not limited thereto. For example, the antennas (A1-1, A2-1, and A3-1) of the electronic device (400) may be provided on the bottom of the third housing part (430). As another example, in addition to the antennas (A1-1, A2-1, and A3-1) provided on the top of the third housing part (430), additional antennas may be provided on the bottom of the third housing part (430).

[0144] Referring to FIG. 7b, in a multi-folded state of the electronic device (400), each of the antennas (A1, A2, A3, A1-1, A2-1, and A3-1) of the electronic device (400) may operate separately or simultaneously with at least one of the antennas (A1, A2, A3, A1-1, A2-1, and A3-1).

[0145] Referring to FIG. 7b and FIG. 7c, an electronic device (400) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a first switching circuit (450) that electrically connects a first conductive portion (421) and a second conductive portion (422) of a second housing part (420) and / or a second switching circuit (460) that electrically connects a second conductive portion (422) and a third conductive portion (423) of the second housing part (420). For example, circuits such as the first switching circuit (450) and the second switching circuit (460) may be placed within a printed circuit board (e.g., the printed circuit board (770) of FIG. 7e) within the electronic device (400) and may be electrically connected to the conductive portions (421, 422, and 423) of the second housing part (420).

[0146] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the first switching circuit (450) may be configured to reduce and / or block the current induced from the conductive parts of the first housing part (410) to the conductive parts of the second housing part (420) when the conductive parts of the first housing part (410) operate as antennas. Additionally, the first switching circuit (450) may be configured to reduce and / or block the current induced from the conductive parts of the third housing part (430) to the conductive parts of the second housing part (420) when the conductive parts of the third housing part (430) operate as antennas. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the first switching circuit (450) may include one or more filter circuits for reducing and / or blocking the current induced to the conductive parts of the second housing part (420). For example, the one or more filter circuits of the first switching circuit (450) may include lumped elements. For example, the one or more filter circuits may be circuits outside the first switching circuit (450), in which case the first switching circuit (450) may be electrically connected to and operated by the one or more filter circuits. For example, the first switching circuit (450) may include a filter or lumped elements, or may be electrically connected to and operated by such circuits or circuit components.

[0147] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the second switching circuit (460) may be configured to reduce and / or block the current induced from the conductive parts of the first housing part (410) to the conductive parts of the second housing part (420) when the conductive parts of the first housing part (410) operate as antennas. Additionally, the second switching circuit (460) may be configured to reduce and / or block the current induced from the conductive parts of the third housing part (430) to the conductive parts of the second housing part (420) when the conductive parts of the third housing part (430) operate as antennas. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the second switching circuit (460) may include one or more filter circuits for reducing and / or blocking the current induced to the conductive parts of the second housing part (420). For example, the one or more filter circuits of the second switching circuit (460) may include lumped elements. For example, the one or more filter circuits may be circuits outside the second switching circuit (460), in which case the second switching circuit (460) may be electrically connected to and operate with the one or more filter circuits. For example, the second switching circuit (460) may include a filter or lumped elements, or may be electrically connected to and operate with such circuits or circuit components.

[0148] For example, referring to FIG. 7d, the first switching circuit (450) may include at least one of the first circuit (451), the second circuit (452), the third circuit (453), and / or the fourth circuit (454). Each of the first circuit (451), the second circuit (452), the third circuit (453), and the fourth circuit (454) may be referred to as a filter or a filter circuit. For example, the filter or the filter circuit may be included in or connected to each of the first circuit (451), the second circuit (452), the third circuit (453), and the fourth circuit (454).

[0149] The first switching circuit (450) can optionally electrically connect the first conductive part (421) and the second conductive part (422) of the second housing part (420) through at least one of the first circuit (451), the second circuit (452), the third circuit (453), and / or the fourth circuit (454).

[0150] For example, the first switching circuit (450) can electrically connect the first conductive part (421) and the second conductive part (422) of the second housing part (420) through the first circuit (451) while the first conductive part (411) of the first housing part (410) is operating as the first antenna (A1). The first circuit (451) of the first switching circuit (450) can be configured to filter a signal having a frequency corresponding to the operating frequency of the first antenna (A1). For example, the first circuit (451) of the first switching circuit (450) may be configured to reduce and / or block the generation of the signal corresponding to the operating frequency of the first antenna (A1) from the first conductive part (411) of the first housing part (410) to the conductive parts (e.g., the first conductive part (421) and / or the second conductive part (422)) of the second housing part (420) by filtering the signal corresponding to the operating frequency of the first antenna (A1). The first circuit (451) may include one or more lumped elements configured to reduce and / or block the generation of the signal corresponding to the operating frequency of the first antenna (A1) from the first housing part (410) to the second housing part (420). For example, the first circuit (451) may include an LC filter (or LC filter circuit) having the operating frequency of the first antenna (A1) and / or a frequency band including the same as the cut-off frequency.

[0151] For example, the first switching circuit (450) can electrically connect the first conductive part (421) and the second conductive part (422) of the second housing part (420) through the second circuit (452) while the second conductive part (412) of the first housing part (410) is operating as the second antenna (A2). The second circuit (452) of the first switching circuit (450) can be configured to filter a signal having a frequency corresponding to the operating frequency of the second antenna (A2). For example, the second circuit (452) of the first switching circuit (450) may be configured to reduce and / or block the generation of the signal corresponding to the operating frequency of the second antenna (A2) from the second conductive part (412) of the first housing part (410) to the conductive parts (e.g., the first conductive part (421) and / or the second conductive part (422)) of the second housing part (420) by filtering the signal corresponding to the operating frequency of the second antenna (A2). The second circuit (452) may include one or more lumped elements configured to reduce and / or block the generation of the signal corresponding to the operating frequency of the second antenna (A2) from the first housing part (410) to the second housing part (420). For example, the second circuit (452) may include an LC filter (or LC filter circuit) having the operating frequency of the second antenna (A2) and / or a frequency band including the same as the cutoff frequency.

[0152] For example, the first switching circuit (450) can electrically connect the first conductive part (421) and the second conductive part (422) of the second housing part (420) through the third circuit (453) while the first conductive part (431) of the third housing part (430) is operating as the fourth antenna (A1-1). The third circuit (453) of the first switching circuit (450) can be configured to filter a signal having a frequency corresponding to the operating frequency of the fourth antenna (A1-1). For example, the third circuit (453) of the first switching circuit (450) may be configured to reduce and / or block the generation of the signal corresponding to the operating frequency of the fourth antenna (A1-1) from the first conductive part (431) of the third housing part (430) to the conductive parts (e.g., the first conductive part (421) and / or the second conductive part (422)) of the second housing part (420) by filtering the signal corresponding to the operating frequency of the fourth antenna (A1-1). The third circuit (453) may include one or more lumped elements configured to reduce and / or block the generation of the signal corresponding to the operating frequency of the fourth antenna (A1-1) from the third housing part (430) to the second housing part (420). For example, the third circuit (453) may include an LC filter (or LC filter circuit) having the operating frequency of the fourth antenna (A1-1) and / or a frequency band including it as the cutoff frequency.

[0153] For example, the first switching circuit (450) can electrically connect the first conductive part (421) and the second conductive part (422) of the second housing part (420) through the fourth circuit (454) while the second conductive part (432) of the third housing part (430) is operating as the fifth antenna (A2-1). The fourth circuit (454) of the first switching circuit (450) can be configured to filter a signal having a frequency corresponding to the operating frequency of the fifth antenna (A2-1). For example, the fourth circuit (454) of the first switching circuit (450) may be configured to reduce and / or block the generation of the signal corresponding to the operating frequency of the fifth antenna (A2-1) from the second conductive part (432) of the third housing part (430) to the conductive parts (e.g., the first conductive part (421) and / or the second conductive part (422)) of the second housing part (420) by filtering the signal corresponding to the operating frequency of the fifth antenna (A2-1). The fourth circuit (454) may include one or more lumped elements configured to reduce and / or block the generation of the signal corresponding to the operating frequency of the fifth antenna (A2-1) from the third housing part (430) to the second housing part (420). For example, the fourth circuit (454) may include an LC filter (or LC filter circuit) having the operating frequency of the fifth antenna (A2-1) and / or a frequency band including it as the cutoff frequency.

[0154] For example, the second switching circuit (460) may include at least one of the first circuit (461), the second circuit (462), the third circuit (463), and / or the fourth circuit (464). Each of the first circuit (461), the second circuit (462), the third circuit (463), and the fourth circuit (464) may be referred to as a filter or a filter circuit.

[0155] The second switching circuit (460) can optionally electrically connect the second conductive part (422) and the third conductive part (423) of the second housing part (420) through at least one of the first circuit (461), the second circuit (462), the third circuit (463), and / or the fourth circuit (464).

[0156] For example, the second switching circuit (460) can electrically connect the second conductive part (422) and the third conductive part (423) of the second housing part (420) through the first circuit (461) while the second conductive part (412) of the first housing part (410) is operating as the second antenna (A2). The first circuit (461) of the second switching circuit (460) can be configured to filter a signal having a frequency corresponding to the operating frequency of the second antenna (A2). For example, the first circuit (461) of the second switching circuit (460) may be configured to reduce and / or block the generation of the signal corresponding to the operating frequency of the second antenna (A2) from the second conductive part (412) of the first housing part (410) to the conductive parts (e.g., the second conductive part (422) and / or the third conductive part (423)) of the second housing part (420) by filtering the signal corresponding to the operating frequency of the second antenna (A2). The first circuit (461) may include one or more lumped elements configured to reduce and / or block the generation of the signal corresponding to the operating frequency of the second antenna (A2) from the first housing part (410) to the second housing part (420). For example, the first circuit (461) may include an LC filter (or LC filter circuit) having the operating frequency of the second antenna (A2) and / or a frequency band including the same as the cutoff frequency.

[0157] For example, the second switching circuit (460) can electrically connect the second conductive part (422) and the third conductive part (423) of the second housing part (420) through the second circuit (462) while the third conductive part (413) of the first housing part (410) is operating as the third antenna (A3). The second circuit (462) of the second switching circuit (460) can be configured to filter a signal having a frequency corresponding to the operating frequency of the third antenna (A3). For example, the second circuit (462) of the second switching circuit (460) may be configured to reduce and / or block the generation of the signal corresponding to the operating frequency of the third antenna (A3) from the third conductive part (413) of the first housing part (410) to the conductive parts (e.g., the second conductive part (422) and / or the third conductive part (423)) of the second housing part (420) by filtering the signal corresponding to the operating frequency of the third antenna (A3). The second circuit (462) may include one or more lumped elements configured to reduce and / or block the generation of the signal corresponding to the operating frequency of the third antenna (A3) from the first housing part (410) to the second housing part (420). For example, the second circuit (462) may include an LC filter (or LC filter circuit) having the operating frequency of the third antenna (A3) and / or a frequency band including it as the cutoff frequency.

[0158] For example, the second switching circuit (460) can electrically connect the second conductive part (422) and the third conductive part (423) of the second housing part (420) through the third circuit (463) while the second conductive part (432) of the third housing part (430) is operating as the fifth antenna (A2-1). The third circuit (463) of the second switching circuit (460) can be configured to filter a signal having a frequency corresponding to the operating frequency of the fifth antenna (A2-1). For example, the third circuit (463) of the second switching circuit (460) may be configured to reduce and / or block the generation of the signal corresponding to the operating frequency of the fifth antenna (A2-1) from the second conductive part (432) of the third housing part (430) to the conductive parts (e.g., the second conductive part (422) and / or the third conductive part (423)) of the second housing part (420) by filtering the signal corresponding to the operating frequency of the fifth antenna (A2-1). The third circuit (463) may include one or more lumped elements configured to reduce and / or block the generation of the signal corresponding to the operating frequency of the fifth antenna (A2-1) from the third housing part (430) to the second housing part (420). For example, the third circuit (463) may include an LC filter (or LC filter circuit) having the operating frequency of the fifth antenna (A2-1) and / or a frequency band including it as the cutoff frequency.

[0159] For example, the second switching circuit (460) can electrically connect the second conductive part (422) and the third conductive part (423) of the second housing part (420) through the fourth circuit (464) while the third conductive part (433) of the third housing part (430) is operating as the sixth antenna (A3-1). The fourth circuit (464) of the second switching circuit (460) can be configured to filter a signal having a frequency corresponding to the operating frequency of the sixth antenna (A3-1). For example, the fourth circuit (464) of the second switching circuit (460) may be configured to reduce and / or block the generation of the signal corresponding to the operating frequency of the sixth antenna (A3-1) from the third conductive part (433) of the third housing part (430) to the conductive parts (e.g., the second conductive part (422) and / or the third conductive part (423)) of the second housing part (420) by filtering the signal corresponding to the operating frequency of the sixth antenna (A3-1). The fourth circuit (464) may include one or more lumped elements configured to reduce and / or block the generation of the signal corresponding to the operating frequency of the sixth antenna (A3-1) from the third housing part (430) to the second housing part (420). For example, the fourth circuit (464) may include an LC filter (or LC filter circuit) having the operating frequency of the sixth antenna (A3-1) and / or a frequency band including it as the cutoff frequency.

[0160] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the first switching circuit (450) is described as including a first filter circuit (451), a second filter circuit (452), a third filter circuit (453), and a fourth filter circuit (454) corresponding to, respectively, a first conductive portion (411) (or first antenna (A1)) of the first housing part (410), a second conductive portion (412) (or second antenna (A2)) of the first housing part (410), a first conductive portion (431) (or fourth antenna (A1-1)) of the third housing part (430), and a second conductive portion (432) (or fifth antenna (A2-1)) of the third housing part (430), but is not limited thereto. For example, the first antenna (A1) using the first conductive portion (411) of the first housing part (410) may be configured to operate in multiple bands. For example, the operating frequency of the first antenna (A1) using the first conductive portion (411) of the first housing part (410) may include a first frequency and a second frequency different from the first frequency. In this case, the first filter circuit (451) of the first switching circuit (450) corresponding to the first conductive portion (411) (or the first antenna (A1)) may include a filter circuit configured to cut off the first frequency and another filter circuit configured to cut off the second frequency, or may include a single filter circuit configured to cut off the first frequency and the second frequency.

[0161] In another example, the operating frequency of the first antenna (A1) using the first conductive portion (411) of the first housing part (410) may be a third frequency, and the operating frequency of the fourth antenna (A1-1) using the first conductive portion (431) of the third housing part (430) may be a fourth frequency substantially the same as the third frequency. In this case, the first filter circuit (451) of the first switching circuit (450) corresponding to the first conductive portion (411) of the first housing part (410) (or the first antenna (A1)) and the third filter circuit (453) of the first switching circuit (450) corresponding to the first conductive portion (431) of the third housing part (430) (or the fourth antenna (A1-1)) may be integrated into a single filter circuit configured to cut off the third frequency and the fourth frequency.

[0162] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the second switching circuit (460) is described as including a first filter circuit (461), a second filter circuit (462), a third filter circuit (463), and a fourth filter circuit (464) corresponding to, respectively, the second conductive portion (412) (or second antenna (A2)) of the first housing part (410), the third conductive portion (413) (or third antenna (A3)) of the first housing part (410), the second conductive portion (432) (or fifth antenna (A2-1)) of the third housing part (430), and the third conductive portion (433) (or sixth antenna (A3-1)) of the third housing part (430), but is not limited thereto. For example, the second antenna (A2) using the second conductive portion (412) of the first housing part (410) may be configured to operate in multiple bands. For example, the operating frequency of the second antenna (A2) using the second conductive portion (412) of the first housing part (410) may include a fifth frequency and a sixth frequency different from the fifth frequency. In this case, the first filter circuit (461) of the second switching circuit (460) corresponding to the second conductive portion (412) (or the second antenna (A2)) may include a filter circuit configured to cut off the fifth frequency and another filter circuit configured to cut off the sixth frequency, or may include a single filter circuit configured to cut off the fifth frequency and the sixth frequency.

[0163] In another example, the operating frequency of the second antenna (A2) using the second conductive portion (412) of the first housing part (410) may be the seventh frequency, and the operating frequency of the fifth antenna (A2-1) using the second conductive portion (432) of the third housing part (430) may be the eighth frequency, which is substantially the same as the seventh frequency. In this case, the first filter circuit (461) of the second switching circuit (460) corresponding to the second conductive portion (412) of the first housing part (410) (or the second antenna (A2)) and the third filter circuit (463) of the second switching circuit (460) corresponding to the second conductive portion (432) of the third housing part (430) (or the fifth antenna (A2-1)) may be integrated into a single filter circuit configured to cut off the seventh frequency and the eighth frequency.

[0164] Referring to FIG. 7e, an electronic device (400) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a printed circuit board (770) disposed within a second housing part (420). For example, a first switching circuit (450) and a second switching circuit (460) may be disposed on the printed circuit board (770).

[0165] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the first conductive portion (421) of the second housing part (420) may include a portion (721a) that protrudes inwardly from the second housing part (420) (or protrudes toward the printed circuit board (770)).

[0166] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the second conductive portion (422) of the second housing part (420) may include a first portion (722a) protruding inwardly into the second housing part (420) (or protruding toward the printed circuit board (770)) and a second portion (722b) protruding inwardly into the second housing part (420) (or protruding toward the printed circuit board (770)).

[0167] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the third conductive portion (423) of the second housing part (420) may include a portion (723a) that protrudes inwardly from the second housing part (420) (or protrudes toward the printed circuit board (770)).

[0168] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the first switching circuit (450) may be electrically connected to a portion (721a) of the first conductive portion (421) and a first portion (722a) of the second conductive portion (422).

[0169] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the second switching circuit (460) may be electrically connected to the second portion (722b) of the second conductive portion (422) and the portion (723a) of the third conductive portion (423).

[0170] FIG. 8a shows an electronic device in a multi-folded state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 8b shows the current flow of an electronic device according to a comparative example and the current flow of an electronic device according to an embodiment when a first antenna is operated according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 8c shows the radiation efficiency of the first antenna of the electronic device according to a comparative example and the radiation efficiency of the first antenna of the electronic device according to a comparative example according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0171] Block (8B1) of FIG. 8b shows the current flow of an electronic device according to a comparative example that does not include a first switching circuit (450) when the first antenna (A1) is in operation, and block (8B2) of FIG. 8b shows the current flow of an electronic device (400) according to an embodiment that includes a first switching circuit (450) when the first antenna (A1) is in operation.

[0172] Graph (8C1) of FIG. 8c shows the total radiation efficiency of the first antenna (A1) of an electronic device according to a comparative example that does not include the first switching circuit (450), and graph (8C2) of FIG. 8c shows the total radiation efficiency of the first antenna (A1) of an electronic device (400) according to an embodiment that includes the first switching circuit (450).

[0173] Referring to FIG. 8a, in a multi-folded state of the electronic device (400), the first conductive portion (411) of the first housing part (410) can operate as the first antenna (A1). The first switching circuit (450) can reduce and / or block current from being induced from the first conductive portion (411) of the first housing part (410) to the conductive portions of the second housing part (420) (e.g., the first conductive portion (421) and / or the second conductive portion (422)) when the first antenna (A1) operates in the multi-folded state of the electronic device (400). For example, the first antenna (A1) can operate in a specific frequency band of about 1 GHz or less (e.g., a specific band within the low band). For example, the first switching circuit (450) can electrically connect the first conductive part (421) and the second conductive part (422) of the second housing part (420) through a filter circuit (e.g., a band stop filter) (e.g., the first filter circuit (451)) having a cutoff frequency of about 1 GHz when the first antenna (A1) is operating.

[0174] Accordingly, the current flowing through the housing part operating as an antenna may be reduced and / or prevented from being induced into an adjacent housing part. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 8b, when the first antenna (A1) is operating, the current (block (8B2)) induced from the first conductive part (411) of the electronic device (400) according to one embodiment including the first switching circuit (450) to the first conductive part (421) and the second conductive part (422) of the second housing part (420) may be reduced compared to the current (block (8B1)) induced from the first conductive part (411) of the electronic device according to a comparative example not including the first switching circuit (450) to the first conductive part (421) and the second conductive part (422) of the second housing part (420).

[0175] Accordingly, the performance of the first antenna (A1) can be improved. For example, as shown in FIG. 8c, the total radiation efficiency (graph (8C2)) of the first antenna (A1) of an electronic device (400) according to one embodiment including the first switching circuit (450) can be improved compared to the total radiation efficiency (graph (8C1)) of the first antenna (A1) of an electronic device according to a comparative example not including the first switching circuit (450) (e.g., within a low band of about 1 GHz or less).

[0176] FIG. 9a shows an electronic device in a multi-folded state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 9b shows the current flow of an electronic device according to a comparative example and the current flow of an electronic device according to one embodiment when a fifth antenna is operated according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 9c shows the radiation efficiency of the fifth antenna of the electronic device according to a comparative example and the radiation efficiency of the fifth antenna of the electronic device according to a comparative example according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0177] Block (9B1) of FIG. 9b shows the current flow of an electronic device according to a comparative example that does not include a first switching circuit (450) when the fifth antenna (A2-1) is in operation, and block (9B2) of FIG. 9b shows the current flow of an electronic device (400) according to an embodiment that includes a first switching circuit (450) when the fifth antenna (A2-1) is in operation.

[0178] Graph (9C1) of FIG. 9c shows the total radiation efficiency of the fifth antenna (A2-1) of an electronic device according to a comparative example that does not include the first switching circuit (450), and graph (9C2) of FIG. 9c shows the total radiation efficiency of the fifth antenna (A2-1) of an electronic device (400) according to an embodiment that includes the first switching circuit (450).

[0179] Referring to FIG. 9a, in a multi-folded state of the electronic device (400), the second conductive portion (432) of the third housing part (430) can operate as a fifth antenna (A2-1). The first switching circuit (450) can reduce and / or block current from being induced from the second conductive portion (432) of the third housing part (430) to the conductive portions of the second housing part (420) (e.g., the first conductive portion (421) and / or the second conductive portion (422)) when the fifth antenna (A2-1) operates in the multi-folded state of the electronic device (400). For example, the fifth antenna (A2-1) can operate in a specific frequency band of about 1.5 GHz or less (e.g., the GPS L1 band of 1575.42 MHz). For example, the first switching circuit (450) can electrically connect the first conductive part (421) and the second conductive part (422) of the second housing part (420) through a filter circuit (e.g., high pass filter) (e.g., fourth filter circuit (454)) configured to cut off a frequency band of about 1.5 GHz or less when the fifth antenna (A2-1) is operating.

[0180] Accordingly, the current flowing through the housing part operating as an antenna may be reduced and / or prevented from being induced into an adjacent housing part. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 9b, when the fifth antenna (A2-1) is in operation, the current (block (9B2)) induced from the second conductive part (432) of the third housing part (430) of the electronic device (400) according to one embodiment including the first switching circuit (450) to the first conductive part (421) and the second conductive part (422) of the second housing part (420) may be reduced compared to the current (block (9B1)) induced from the second conductive part (432) of the third housing part (430) of the electronic device according to a comparative example not including the first switching circuit (450) to the first conductive part (421) and the second conductive part (422) of the second housing part (420).

[0181] Accordingly, the performance of the fifth antenna (A2-1) can be improved. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 9c, the total radiation efficiency (graph (9C2)) of the fifth antenna (A2-1) of an electronic device (400) according to one embodiment including the first switching circuit (450) can be improved compared to the total radiation efficiency (graph (9C1)) of the fifth antenna (A2-1) of an electronic device according to a comparative example not including the first switching circuit (450) (e.g., within the GPS L1 band of 1575.42 MHz).

[0182] FIG. 10a shows an electronic device in a multi-folded state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 10b shows the current flow of an electronic device according to a comparative example and the current flow of an electronic device according to one embodiment when a third antenna is operated according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 10c shows the radiation efficiency of the third antenna of the electronic device according to a comparative example and the radiation efficiency of the third antenna of the electronic device according to a comparative example according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 10d shows the radiation efficiency of the sixth antenna of the electronic device according to a comparative example and the radiation efficiency of the sixth antenna of the electronic device according to a comparative example according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0183] Block (10B1) of FIG. 10b shows the current flow of an electronic device according to a comparative example that does not include a second switching circuit (460) when the third antenna (A3) is in operation, and block (10B2) of FIG. 10b shows the current flow of an electronic device (400) according to an embodiment that includes a second switching circuit (460) when the third antenna (A3) is in operation.

[0184] Graph (10C1) of FIG. 10c shows the total radiation efficiency of the third antenna (A3) of an electronic device according to a comparative example that does not include the second switching circuit (460), and graph (10C2) of FIG. 10c shows the total radiation efficiency of the third antenna (A3) of an electronic device (400) according to an embodiment that includes the second switching circuit (460).

[0185] Graph (10D1) of FIG. 10d shows the total radiation efficiency of the sixth antenna (A3-1) of an electronic device according to a comparative example that does not include the second switching circuit (460), and graph (10D2) of FIG. 10d shows the total radiation efficiency of the sixth antenna (A3-1) of an electronic device (400) according to an embodiment that includes the second switching circuit (460).

[0186] Referring to FIG. 10a, in a multi-folded state of the electronic device (400), the third conductive part (413) of the first housing part (410) can operate as a third antenna (A3). Additionally, in a multi-folded state of the electronic device (400), the third conductive part (433) of the third housing part (430) can operate as a sixth antenna (A3-1). The second switching circuit (460) can reduce and / or block current from being induced from the third conductive part (413) of the first housing part (410) to the conductive parts of the second housing part (420) (e.g., the second conductive part (422) and / or the third conductive part (423)) when the third antenna (A3) operates in a multi-folded state of the electronic device (400). Additionally, the second switching circuit (460) can reduce and / or block current from being induced from the third conductive part (433) of the third housing part (430) to the conductive parts of the second housing part (420) (e.g., the second conductive part (422) and / or the third conductive part (423)) when the sixth antenna (A3-1) is operated in the multi-folded state of the electronic device (400).

[0187] For example, the third antenna (A3) and the sixth antenna (A3-1) may each be configured to operate in a specific frequency band within a mid band of about 1.0 GHz or more and 2.3 GHz or less, and / or a specific frequency band within a high band of about 2.3 GHz or more. For example, the second switching circuit (460) may electrically connect the second conductive part (422) and the third conductive part (423) of the second housing part (420) through a filter circuit (e.g., a band stop filter) (e.g., the second filter circuit (462) and / or the fourth filter circuit (464)) configured to cut off a frequency band of about 2.0 GHz when the third antenna (A3) and / or the sixth antenna (A3-1) are operating.

[0188] Accordingly, the induction of current flowing through the housing part acting as an antenna into an adjacent housing part can be reduced and / or prevented. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 10b, when the third antenna (A3) and / or the sixth antenna (A3-1) is operated, the current (block (10B2)) induced from the third conductive part (413) of the first housing part (410) and / or the third conductive part (433) of the third housing part (430) of the electronic device (400) according to one embodiment including the second switching circuit (460) to the first conductive part (421), the second conductive part (422), and the third conductive part (423) of the second housing part (420) is such that the current induced from the third conductive part (413) of the first housing part (410) of the electronic device according to a comparative example not including the second switching circuit (460) to the first conductive part (421), the second conductive part (422), and the third conductive part (423) of the second housing part (420) The current (block (10B1)) can be reduced.

[0189] Accordingly, the performance of the third antenna (A3) and the sixth antenna (A3-1) can be improved. For example, as shown in FIG. 10c, the total radiation efficiency (graph (10C2)) of the third antenna (A3) of the electronic device (400) according to one embodiment including the second switching circuit (460) can be improved compared to the total radiation efficiency (graph (10C1)) of the third antenna (A3) of the electronic device according to a comparative example not including the second switching circuit (460) (e.g., within the mid-band and high-band). For example, as illustrated in FIG. 10d, the total radiation efficiency (graph (10D2)) of the sixth antenna (A3-1) of the electronic device (400) according to one embodiment including the second switching circuit (460) can be improved compared to the total radiation efficiency (graph (10D1)) of the sixth antenna (A3-1) of the electronic device according to a comparative example not including the second switching circuit (460) (e.g., within the mid-band and high-band).

[0190] FIG. 11a shows an electronic device in a multi-folded state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 11b shows the radiation efficiency of a second antenna of an electronic device according to a comparative example and the radiation efficiency of a second antenna of an electronic device according to a comparative example, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0191] Graph (11B1) of FIG. 11b shows the total radiation efficiency of the second antenna (A2) of an electronic device according to a comparative example that does not include the second switching circuit (460), and graph (11B2) of FIG. 11b shows the total radiation efficiency of the second antenna (A2) of an electronic device (400) according to an embodiment that includes the second switching circuit (460).

[0192] Referring to FIG. 11a, in a multi-folded state of the electronic device (400), the second conductive part (412) of the first housing part (410) can operate as a second antenna (A2), the third conductive part (413) of the first housing part (410) can operate as a third antenna (A3), the second conductive part (432) of the third housing part (430) can operate as a fifth antenna (A2-1), and the third conductive part (433) of the third housing part (430) can operate as a sixth antenna (A3-1).

[0193] The second switching circuit (460) may include one or more filter circuits (e.g., at least one of filter circuits (461, 462, 463, and 464)) configured to reduce and / or block the induced current resulting from the operation of at least one of the second antenna (A2), the third antenna (A3), the fifth antenna (A2-1), and the sixth antenna (A3-1). Depending on the antenna being operated, the second switching circuit (460) may optionally electrically connect the second conductive portion (422) and the third conductive portion (423) of the second housing part (420) through the one or more filter circuits.

[0194] For example, the second switching circuit (460) can electrically connect the second conductive part (422) and the third conductive part (423) of the second housing part (420) through a filter circuit (e.g., a high-pass filter) (e.g., a third filter circuit (463)) configured to cut off a frequency band of about 1.5 GHz or less when the fifth antenna (A2-1) operates in a specific frequency band of about 1.5 GHz or less. Accordingly, the performance of the fifth antenna (A2-1) can be improved (e.g., graph (9C2) of FIG. 9c).

[0195] For example, the second switching circuit (460) can electrically connect the second conductive part (422) and the third conductive part (423) of the second housing part (420) through a filter circuit (e.g., a band stop filter) (e.g., the second filter circuit (462) and / or the fourth filter circuit (464)) configured to cut off a frequency band of about 2.0 GHz when the third antenna (A3) and / or the sixth antenna (A3-1) are operating in a specific frequency band within a mid band of about 1.0 GHz or more and 2.3 GHz or less and / or a specific frequency band within a high band of about 2.3 GHz or more, as described with reference to FIG. 10a, FIG. 10b, FIG. 10c, and FIG. 10d. Accordingly, the performance of the third antenna (A3) and the sixth antenna (A3-1) can be improved (e.g., graph (10C2) of FIG. 10c and graph (10D2) of FIG. 10d).

[0196] For example, the second antenna (A2) can operate in a specific frequency band of about 2.7 GHz or higher (e.g., a specific frequency band within NR FR1 (new radio frequency 1) of 7.125 GHz or lower), and the second switching circuit (460) can electrically connect the second conductive part (422) and the third conductive part (423) of the second housing part (420) through a filter circuit (e.g., a high-pass filter) (e.g., the first filter circuit (461)) configured to cut off a frequency band of about 2.7 GHz or lower when the second antenna (A2) is operating. Accordingly, when the second antenna (A2) is operating, the current of the second antenna (A2) being induced from the first housing part (410) to the second housing part (420) can be reduced and / or prevented. Accordingly, the performance of the second antenna (A2) can be improved. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 11b, the total radiation efficiency (graph (11B2)) of the second antenna (A2) of an electronic device (400) according to one embodiment including the second switching circuit (460) can be improved compared to the total radiation efficiency (graph (11B1)) of the second antenna (A2) of an electronic device according to a comparative example not including the second switching circuit (460) (e.g., within NR FR1).

[0197] FIG. 12a shows an electronic device in a multi-folded state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 12b shows the power flow during the operation of the third antenna of an electronic device according to a comparative example and the power flow during the operation of the third antenna of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 12c is a graph showing the radiation efficiency of the third antenna of an electronic device according to a comparative example and the radiation efficiency of the third antenna of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0198] 12B1 of FIG. 12b represents the power flow during operation of the third antenna (A3) of an electronic device of a comparative example that does not include a first switching circuit (450) and a second switching circuit (460), and 12B2 of FIG. 12b represents the power flow during operation of the third antenna (A3) of an electronic device (400) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure when the first conductive part (421) and the second conductive part (422) of the second housing part (420) are electrically connected through the first switching circuit (450) and the second conductive part (422) and the third conductive part (423) of the second housing part (420) are electrically connected through the second switching circuit (460).

[0199] Referring to FIG. 12a, in a multi-folded state of an electronic device (400) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a third conductive portion (413) of a first housing part (410) can operate as a third antenna (A3). A second switching circuit (460) can electrically connect the second conductive portion (422) and the third conductive portion (423) of the second housing part (420) through a specific filter circuit (e.g., a second filter circuit (462)) so that when the third antenna (A3) is operated, the current of the third antenna (A3) is reduced and / or blocked from being induced into the second conductive portion (422) and the third conductive portion (423) of the second housing part (420).

[0200] Since the first conductive part (421) and the second conductive part (422) of the second housing part (420) can also serve as pathways for the induced current, the first switching circuit (450) can electrically connect the first conductive part (421) and the second conductive part (422) of the second housing part (420) through the specific filter circuit when the third antenna (A3) is in operation.

[0201] For example, when the third antenna (A3) operates in a specific frequency band within the mid-band of 1 GHz to 2.3 GHz and / or a specific frequency band within the high-band of 2.3 GHz or higher, the second switching circuit (460) can electrically connect the second conductive part (422) and the third conductive part (423) of the second housing part (420) through a filter circuit configured to cut off a frequency band of about 2 GHz, and additionally, the first switching circuit (450) can electrically connect the first conductive part (421) and the second conductive part (422) of the second housing part (420) through a filter circuit configured to cut off a frequency band of about 2 GHz.

[0202] When the third antenna (A3) is in operation, the second conductive part (422) and the third conductive part (423) of the second housing part (420) are electrically connected through the second switching circuit (460), and the first conductive part (421) and the second conductive part (422) of the second housing part (420) are additionally electrically connected through the first switching circuit (450), thereby improving the performance of the third antenna (A3). For example, referring to 12B1 in FIG. 12b, as shown in region (R1), the amount of power coupled to the neighboring housing part when the third antenna (A3) is in operation can be increased. In contrast, referring to 12B2 in FIG. 12b, as shown in region (R2), the conductive parts of the second housing part (420) are connected through the first switching circuit (450) and the second switching circuit (460), thereby improving the radiation contribution of the first housing part (410) corresponding to the third antenna (A3).

[0203] Referring to FIG. 12c together with FIG. 12a, graph (12C1) shows the radiation efficiency of the third antenna (A3) of an electronic device according to a comparative example that does not include the first switching circuit (450) and the second switching circuit (460).

[0204] Graph (12C2) shows the radiation efficiency of the third antenna (A3) when the second conductive part (422) and the third conductive part (423) of the second housing part (420) are electrically connected through the second switching circuit (460), and the first conductive part (421) and the second conductive part (422) of the second housing part (420) are not electrically connected through the first switching circuit (450).

[0205] Graph (12C3) shows the radiation efficiency of the third antenna (A3) when the second conductive part (422) and the third conductive part (423) of the second housing part (420) are electrically connected through the second switching circuit (460), and the first conductive part (421) and the second conductive part (422) of the second housing part (420) are electrically connected through the first switching circuit (450).

[0206] By comparing graph (12C1) and graph (12C2), the radiation efficiency of the third antenna (A3) can be improved by electrically connecting the second conductive part (422) and the third conductive part (423) of the second housing part (420) through the second switching circuit (460). Additionally, by comparing graph (12C2) and graph (12C3), the radiation efficiency of the third antenna (A3) can be improved by additionally electrically connecting the first conductive part (421) and the second conductive part (422) of the second housing part (420) through the first switching circuit (450) (e.g., at a frequency of about 2.45 GHz or higher).

[0207] FIG. 13a shows an electronic device in a multi-folded state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 13b shows the current flow during the operation of the first antenna of an electronic device according to a comparative example and the current flow during the operation of the first antenna of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 13c shows the radiation efficiency of the first antenna of an electronic device according to a comparative example and the radiation efficiency of the first antenna of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0208] Block (13B1) of FIG. 13b shows the current flow during operation of the first antenna (A1) of an electronic device according to a comparative example, which does not include the first switching circuit (1350) and the second switching circuit (1360).

[0209] Block (13B2) of FIG. 13b shows the current flow when the first conductive part (1321) and the second conductive part (1322) of the second housing part (1320) are electrically connected through the first switching circuit (1350) of the electronic device (1300) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure when the first antenna (A1) is operated.

[0210] The graph (13C1) of FIG. 13c shows the radiation efficiency of the first antenna (A1) of an electronic device according to a comparative example that does not include the first switching circuit (1350) and the second switching circuit (1360).

[0211] The graph (13C2) of FIG. 13c shows the radiation efficiency of the first antenna (A1) of the electronic device (1300) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure when the first conductive part (1321) and the second conductive part (1322) of the second housing part (1320) are electrically connected through the first switching circuit (1350).

[0212] With reference to the prior drawings, it has been described that the first housing part (410) and the second housing part (420) of the electronic device (400) are each rotatably connected to the third housing part (430), but this is not limited thereto. For example, with reference to FIG. 13a, an electronic device (1300) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a first housing part (1310), a second housing part (1320) rotatably coupled to the first housing part (1310), and a third housing part (1330) rotatably coupled to the second housing part (1320). In a multi-folded state of the electronic device (1300), the second housing part (1320) may be placed on the first housing part (1310), and the third housing part (1330) may be placed on the second housing part (1320). The electronic device (1300) may include a first hinge structure (1341) that rotatably connects a first housing part (1310) and a second housing part (1320), and a second hinge structure (1342) that rotatably connects a second housing part (1320) and a third housing part (1330).

[0213] With respect to the first housing part (1310) of the electronic device (1300), the description of the first housing part (410) of the electronic device (400) may be applied in a substantially identical, similar, or corresponding manner, except that the first housing part (1310) is connected to the second housing part (1320) rather than the third housing part (1330). For example, the first housing part (1310) of the electronic device (1300) may include a first conductive part (1311) (e.g., first conductive part (411)), a second conductive part (1312) (e.g., second conductive part (412)), a third conductive part (1313) (e.g., third conductive part (413)), a first non-conductive part (1316) (e.g., first non-conductive part (416)), and a second non-conductive part (1317) (e.g., second non-conductive part (417)).

[0214] With respect to the second housing part (1320) of the electronic device (1300), the description of the second housing part (420) of the electronic device (400) may be applied in a substantially identical, similar, or corresponding manner, except that the second housing part (1320) is connected to the first housing part (1310) and the third housing part (1330), not only the third housing part (1330). For example, the second housing part (1320) of the electronic device (1300) may include a first conductive part (1321) (e.g., first conductive part (421)), a second conductive part (1322) (e.g., second conductive part (422)), a third conductive part (1323) (e.g., third conductive part (423)), a first non-conductive part (1326) (e.g., first non-conductive part (426)), and a second non-conductive part (1327) (e.g., second non-conductive part (427)).

[0215] With respect to the third housing part (1330) of the electronic device (1300), the description of the third housing part (430) of the electronic device (400) may be applied in a substantially identical, similar, or corresponding manner, except that the third housing part (1330) is connected only to the second housing part (1320) and not to the first housing part (1310) and the second housing part (1320). For example, a third housing part (1330) of an electronic device (1300) may include a first conductive part (1331) (e.g., first conductive part (431)), a second conductive part (1332) (e.g., second conductive part (432)), a third conductive part (1333) (e.g., third conductive part (433)), a first non-conductive part (1336) (e.g., first non-conductive part (436)), and a second non-conductive part (1337) (e.g., second non-conductive part (437)).

[0216] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the electronic device (1300) may include a first switching circuit (1350) and a second switching circuit (1360). For the first switching circuit (1350) and the second switching circuit (1360), the description of the first switching circuit (450) and the second switching circuit (460) described above may be applied substantially identically, similarly, or in a corresponding manner. For example, the first switching circuit (1350) may be configured to reduce and / or block the induction of current from the first antenna (A1) to the conductive parts (1321, 1322, and 1323) of the second housing part (1320) adjacent to the first housing part (1310) when the first conductive part (1311) of the first housing part (1310) operates as the first antenna (A1) in a multi-folded state of the electronic device (1300). For example, if the first antenna (A1) operates in a specific frequency band within a low band of 1 GHz or less, the first switching circuit (1350) can electrically connect the first conductive part (1321) and the second conductive part (1322) of the second housing part (1320) through a filter circuit (e.g., a band stop circuit) (e.g., the first filter circuit (451)) configured to cut off a frequency of about 1 GHz. Accordingly, with reference to FIG. 13b, the amount of current (block (13B2)) induced in the second housing part (1320) and the third housing part (1330) of an electronic device of a comparative example that does not include the first switching circuit (1350) and the second switching circuit (1360) when the first antenna (A1) is operated can be reduced compared to the amount of current (block (13B1)) induced in the second housing part (1320) and the third housing part (1330) when the first conductive part (1321) and the second conductive part (1322) of the second housing part (1320) are electrically connected through the first switching circuit (1350).Additionally, with reference to FIG. 13c, the radiation efficiency (graph (13C2)) of the first antenna (A1) of an electronic device (1300) according to one embodiment in which the first conductive part (1321) and the second conductive part (1322) of the second housing part (1320) are electrically connected through the first switching circuit (1350) can be improved compared to the radiation efficiency (graph (13C1)) of the first antenna (A1) of an electronic device (13C1) of a comparative example that does not include the first switching circuit (1350) and the second switching circuit (1360).

[0217] FIG. 14a shows an electronic device in a multi-folded state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 14b shows the current flow during the operation of the third antenna of an electronic device according to a comparative example and the current flow during the operation of the third antenna of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 14c shows the radiation efficiency of the third antenna of an electronic device according to a comparative example and the radiation efficiency of the third antenna of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 14d shows the radiation efficiency of the sixth antenna of an electronic device according to a comparative example and the radiation efficiency of the sixth antenna of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0218] Block (14B1) of FIG. 14b shows the current flow during operation of the third antenna (A3) of an electronic device according to a comparative example, which does not include the first switching circuit (1451) and the second switching circuit (1452).

[0219] Block (14B2) of FIG. 14b shows the current flow when the third antenna (A3) of the electronic device (400) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is operated, when the second conductive part (422) and the third conductive part (423) of the second housing part (420) are grounded through the first switching circuit (1451) and the second switching circuit (1452), respectively.

[0220] The graph (14C1) of FIG. 14c shows the radiation efficiency of the third antenna (A3) of an electronic device according to a comparative example, which does not include the first switching circuit (1451) and the second switching circuit (1452).

[0221] The graph (14C2) of FIG. 14c shows the radiation efficiency of the third antenna (A3) of the electronic device (400) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure when the second conductive part (422) and the third conductive part (423) of the second housing part (420) are grounded through the first switching circuit (1451) and the second switching circuit (1452), respectively.

[0222] The graph (14D1) of FIG. 14d shows the radiation efficiency of the sixth antenna (A3-1) of an electronic device according to a comparative example, which does not include the first switching circuit (1451) and the second switching circuit (1452).

[0223] The graph (14D2) of FIG. 14d shows the radiation efficiency of the sixth antenna (A3-1) of the electronic device (400) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure when the second conductive part (422) and the third conductive part (423) of the second housing part (420) are grounded through the first switching circuit (1451) and the second switching circuit (1452), respectively.

[0224] Referring to FIG. 14a, according to one embodiment, the electronic device (400) may include a first switching circuit (1451) and a second switching circuit (1452) instead of the second switching circuit (460) described above.

[0225] The first switching circuit (1451) may be an example configuration in which the aforementioned second switching circuit (460) is electrically connected to the ground of the electronic device (400) (e.g., a conductive region of the printed circuit board (770) operating as at least part of the ground) rather than the third conductive part (423) of the second housing part (420).

[0226] The second switching circuit (1452) may be an example of a configuration in which the aforementioned second switching circuit (460) is electrically connected to the ground of the electronic device (400) rather than the second conductive part (422) of the second housing part (420).

[0227] For example, when the third antenna (A3) and / or the sixth antenna (A3-1) is in operation, the first switching circuit (1451) may electrically connect the second conductive portion (422) of the second housing part (420) to a specific filter circuit connected to the ground (e.g., a band-pass filter configured to cut off a frequency band of about 2 GHz to about 3 GHz). For example, when the third antenna (A3) and / or the sixth antenna (A3-1) is in operation, the first switching circuit (1451) may electrically connect the second conductive portion (422) of the second housing part (420) and the ground through the specific filter circuit (e.g., a band-pass filter configured to cut off a frequency band of about 2 GHz to about 3 GHz).

[0228] For example, when the third antenna (A3) and / or the sixth antenna (A3-1) is in operation, the second switching circuit (1452) may electrically connect the third conductive part (423) of the second housing part (420) to a specific filter circuit connected to the ground (e.g., a band-pass filter configured to cut off a frequency band of about 2 GHz to about 3 GHz). When the third antenna (A3) and / or the sixth antenna (A3-1) is in operation, the second switching circuit (1452) may electrically connect the third conductive part (423) of the second housing part (420) and the ground through the specific filter circuit (e.g., a band-pass filter configured to cut off a frequency band of about 2 GHz to about 3 GHz).

[0229] Accordingly, with reference to FIG. 14b, the amount of current (block (14B1)) induced into the third conductive part (433) of the third housing part (430) during the operation of the third antenna (A3) of the electronic device (400) according to one embodiment, when the third antenna (A3) of the electronic device according to one embodiment is operated, can be reduced by electrically connecting the second conductive part (422) and the third conductive part (423) of the second housing part (420) to ground through the first switching circuit (1451) and the second switching circuit (1452), respectively.

[0230] Additionally, with reference to FIG. 14c, the radiation efficiency (graph (14C2)) of the third antenna (A3) of an electronic device (400) according to one embodiment in which the second conductive part (422) and the third conductive part (423) of the second housing part (420) are electrically connected to ground through the first switching circuit (1451) and the second switching circuit (1452), respectively, can be improved compared to the radiation efficiency (graph (14C1)) of the third antenna (A3) of an electronic device (400) of a comparative example that does not include the first switching circuit (1451) and the second switching circuit (1452).

[0231] Additionally, with reference to FIG. 14d, the radiation efficiency (graph (14D2)) of the sixth antenna (A3-1) of an electronic device (400) according to one embodiment in which the second conductive part (422) and the third conductive part (423) of the second housing part (420) are electrically connected to ground through the first switching circuit (1451) and the second switching circuit (1452), respectively, can be improved compared to the radiation efficiency (graph (14D1) of the sixth antenna (A3-1) of an electronic device of a comparative example that does not include the first switching circuit (1451) and the second switching circuit (1452).

[0232] The technical problems to be solved in this disclosure are not limited to those mentioned above, and other technical problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains.

[0233] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device (400) may include a foldable housing comprising a first housing part (410), a second housing part (420), and a third housing part (430). Each of the first housing part (410), the second housing part (420), and the third housing part (430) may be rotatably coupled to an adjacent housing part among the first housing part (410), the second housing part (420), and the third housing part (430) so that the foldable housing may be switched between a folded state and an unfolded state. In the unfolded state, the first housing part (410), the second housing part (420), and the third housing part (430) may be located on substantially the same plane. In the folded state, the second housing part (420) may be located on the first housing part (410). In the folded state, the third housing part (430) may be positioned on the second housing part (420). The first housing part (410) may include a first conductive part (411; 413) configured to operate as an antenna radiator (A1; A3) of the electronic device (400), a second conductive part (412) spaced apart from the first conductive part (411; 413), and a first non-conductive part (416; 417) disposed between the first conductive part (411; 413) and the second conductive part (412). The second housing part (420) may include a third conductive part (421; 423), a fourth conductive part (422) spaced apart from the third conductive part (421; 423), and a second non-conductive part (426; 427) disposed between the third conductive part (421; 423) and the fourth conductive part (422).In the folded state, the first conductive portion (411; 413) of the first housing part (410) may at least partially face the third conductive portion (421; 423) of the second housing part (420). The electronic device (400) may include a switching circuit (450; 460) electrically connected to the third conductive portion (421; 423) and the fourth conductive portion (422) of the second housing part (420). The switching circuit (450; 460) may be configured to filter a signal having a frequency corresponding to the operating frequency of the antenna radiator (A1; A3) while the first conductive portion (411; 413) of the first housing part (410) operates as the antenna radiator (A1; A3) in the folded state.

[0234] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the switching circuit (450; 460) may be configured to reduce the generation of a signal corresponding to the operating frequency from the first conductive portion (411; 413) of the first housing part (410) to the third conductive portion (421; 423) of the second housing part (420).

[0235] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the switching circuit (450; 460) may include one or more lumped elements configured to reduce the generation of the signal corresponding to the operating frequency from the first conductive portion (411; 413) of the first housing part (410) to the third conductive portion (421; 423) of the second housing part (420).

[0236] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the antenna radiator (A1; A3) may be a first antenna radiator (A1; A3) having a first operating frequency. The signal having the frequency corresponding to the first operating frequency of the first antenna radiator (A1; A3) may be a first signal. The second conductive portion (412) of the first housing part (410) may be configured to operate as a second antenna radiator (A2) of the electronic device (400) at a second operating frequency. The switching circuit (450; 460) may be configured to filter a second signal corresponding to the second operating frequency of the second antenna radiator (A2) while the second conductive portion (412) of the first housing part (410) operates as the second antenna radiator (A2) in the folded state.

[0237] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the operating frequency of the antenna radiator (A1; A3) using the first conductive portion (411; 413) may include a first operating frequency and a second operating frequency different from the first operating frequency. The switching circuit (450; 460) may be configured to filter a second signal having a frequency corresponding to the second operating frequency while the antenna radiator (A1; A3) is operating at the second operating frequency in the folded state.

[0238] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the switching circuit (450; 460) may include a first LC filter circuit configured to filter the first signal; and a second LC filter circuit configured to filter the second signal.

[0239] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the third housing part (430) may include a fifth conductive part (431; 433) configured to operate as a third antenna radiator (A1-1; A3-1) of the electronic device (400) at a third operating frequency; a sixth conductive part (432) spaced apart from the fifth conductive part (431; 433); and a third non-conductive part (436; 437) disposed between the fifth conductive part (431; 433) and the sixth conductive part (432). The fifth conductive part (431; 433) of the third housing part (430) may at least partially face the third conductive part (421; 423) of the second housing part (420) in the folded state. The switching circuit (450; 460) may be configured to filter a third signal having a frequency corresponding to the third operating frequency of the third antenna radiator (A1-1; A3-1) while the fifth conductive part (431; 433) of the third housing part (430) is operating as the third antenna radiator (A1-1; A3-1) in the folded state.

[0240] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the sixth conductive portion (432) of the third housing part (430) may be configured to operate as a fourth antenna radiator (A2-1) of the electronic device (400) at a fourth operating frequency. The switching circuit (450; 460) may be configured to filter a fourth signal corresponding to the fourth operating frequency of the fourth antenna radiator (A2-1) while the sixth conductive portion (432) of the third housing part (430) operates as the fourth antenna radiator (A2-1) in the folded state.

[0241] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the switching circuit (450; 460) may include a third LC filter circuit (453; 463) configured to filter the third signal; and a fourth LC filter circuit (454; 464) configured to filter the fourth signal.

[0242] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the switching circuit (450; 460) may be configured to pass a signal corresponding to the second frequency band among a first frequency band including the operating frequency and a second frequency band not including the operating frequency.

[0243] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the second non-conductive portion (426; 427) of the second housing part (420) may extend from the end of the third conductive portion (421; 423) to the end of the fourth conductive portion (422). The switching circuit (450; 460) may be electrically connected to the end of the third conductive portion (421; 423) and the end of the fourth conductive portion (422).

[0244] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the switching circuit (450; 460) may be a first switching circuit (450). The first housing part (410) may include a seventh conductive part (413) spaced apart from the second conductive part (412); and a fourth non-conductive part (417) disposed between the second conductive part (412) and the seventh conductive part (413). The second housing part (420) may include an eighth conductive part (423) spaced apart from the fourth conductive part (422); and a fifth non-conductive part (427) disposed between the fourth conductive part (422) and the eighth conductive part (423). The electronic device (400) may include a second switching circuit (460) electrically connected to the fourth conductive part (422) and the eighth conductive part (423).

[0245] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the second switching circuit (460) may be configured to filter the signal having the frequency corresponding to the operating frequency of the antenna radiator (A1) while the first conductive portion (411) of the first housing part (410) is operating as the antenna radiator (A1) in the folded state.

[0246] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the antenna radiator (A1; A3) may be a first antenna radiator (A1). The second conductive portion (412) of the first housing part (410) may be configured to operate as a second antenna radiator (A2) of the electronic device (400) at a second operating frequency. The second switching circuit (460) may be configured to filter a signal having a frequency corresponding to the second operating frequency of the second antenna radiator (A2) while the second conductive portion (412) of the first housing part (410) operates as the second antenna radiator (A2) in the folded state.

[0247] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the first housing part (410) may be rotatably coupled to a first side portion of the third housing part (430). The second housing part (420) may be rotatably coupled to a second side portion of the third housing part (430) opposite to the first side portion.

[0248] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the first housing part (410) may be rotatably coupled to a first side portion of the second housing part (420). The third housing part (430) may be rotatably coupled to a second side portion of the second housing part (420) opposite to the first side portion.

[0249] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a foldable electronic device (400) may include a first housing part (410), a second housing part (420), and a third housing part (430). The first housing part (410) may be rotatably coupled to a first side of the third housing part (430), and the second housing part (420) may be rotatably coupled to a second side of the third housing part (430). In the unfolded state of the electronic device (400), the first housing part (410), the second housing part (420), and the third housing part (430) may be located on substantially the same plane. In the folded state of the electronic device (400), the second housing part (420) may be located on the first housing part (410). The third housing part (430) may be located on the second housing part (420). The first housing part (410) may include a first conductive part (411; 413) configured to operate as an antenna radiator (A1; A3) of the electronic device (400), a second conductive part (412) spaced apart from the first conductive part (411; 413), and a first non-conductive part (416; 417) disposed between the first conductive part (411; 413) and the second conductive part (412). The second housing part (420) may include a third conductive part (421; 423), a fourth conductive part (422) spaced apart from the third conductive part (421; 423), and a second non-conductive part (426; 427) disposed between the third conductive part (421; 423) and the fourth conductive part (422). In the folded state, the first conductive portion (411; 413) of the first housing part (410) may at least partially face the second conductive portion (412) of the second housing part (420).The foldable electronic device (400) may include a switching circuit (450; 460) electrically connected to the third conductive portion (421; 423) and the fourth conductive portion (422) of the second housing part (420). The switching circuit (450; 460) may be configured to filter a signal having a frequency corresponding to the operating frequency of the antenna radiator (A1; A3) while the first conductive portion (411; 413) of the first housing part (410) operates as the antenna radiator (A1; A3) in the folded state.

[0250] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the switching circuit (450; 460) may be configured to reduce the generation of a signal corresponding to the operating frequency from the first conductive portion (411; 413) of the first housing part (410) to the third conductive portion (421; 423) of the second housing part (420).

[0251] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the switching circuit (450; 460) may include one or more lumped elements configured to reduce the generation of the signal corresponding to the operating frequency from the first conductive portion (411; 413) of the first housing part (410) to the third conductive portion (421; 423) of the second housing part (420).

[0252] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the antenna radiator (A1; A3) may be a first antenna radiator (A1; A3) having a first operating frequency. The second conductive portion (412) of the first housing part (410) may be configured to operate as a second antenna radiator (A2) of the electronic device (400) at a second operating frequency. The switching circuit (450; 460) may be configured to filter a second signal corresponding to the second operating frequency of the second antenna radiator (A2) while the second conductive portion (412) of the first housing part (410) operates as the second antenna radiator (A2) in the folded state.

[0253] The effects obtainable from the present disclosure are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned effects will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which the present disclosure belongs.

[0254] The electronic device according to the various embodiments disclosed in this document may be a device 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.

[0255] 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, each of 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 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 a component from another component and do not limit the components in any other aspect (e.g., importance or order). Where any component (e.g., the first) is referred to as "coupled" or "connected" to another component (e.g., the second), with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicationally," it means that said component may be connected to said other component directly (e.g., via a wire), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0256] 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. For example, according to an embodiment of this disclosure, a module may be implemented in the form of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0257] 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.

[0258] According to embodiments of the present disclosure, methods according to the various embodiments disclosed herein may be provided as 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 distributed online (e.g., download or upload) through an application store (e.g., Play Store™) 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.

[0259] According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, 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 of the present disclosure, 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 such a case, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure, the integrated component may perform one or more functions of each of the components of the multiple components in the same or similar manner as those performed by the corresponding component among the multiple components prior to the integration. According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, 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.

[0260] It will be understood that various embodiments of the present disclosure according to the claims and description of the present disclosure may be implemented in the form of hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software.

[0261] Such software may be stored on a non-transient computer-readable storage medium. A non-transient computer-readable storage medium stores one or more computer programs (software modules), and one or more computer programs include computer-executable instructions that cause the electronic device to perform the method of the present disclosure when executed by one or more processors of the electronic device.

[0262] Such software may be stored on a volatile or non-volatile storage device, such as a storage device (regardless of whether it is erasable or rewritable), such as read-only memory (ROM), or in the form of memory (e.g., random access memory (RAM), memory chip, device, or integrated circuit), or on an optically or magnetically readable medium (e.g., compact disc (CD), digital multifunction disc (DVD), magnetic disc, or magnetic tape, etc.). It will be understood that the storage device and storage medium are various embodiments of a non-transient machine-readable storage device suitable for storing computer programs or computer programs that include instructions that implement various embodiments of the present disclosure at execution. Accordingly, various embodiments provide a program including code for implementing the device or method claimed in one of the claims of this specification, and a non-transient machine-readable storage device for storing such program.

[0263] Although the present disclosure has been illustrated and described with reference to various embodiments, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes in form and detail are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims and equivalents.

Claims

1. In an electronic device, A foldable housing comprising a first housing part, a second housing part, and a third housing part, and Each of the first housing part, the second housing part, and the third housing part is rotatably coupled to an adjacent housing part among the first housing part, the second housing part, and the third housing part so that the foldable housing can be switched between a folded state and an unfolded state. In the above unfolded state, the first housing part, the second housing part, and the third housing part are located substantially on the same plane, and In the above folded state, the second housing part is positioned on the first housing part, and the third housing part is positioned on the second housing part. The first housing part comprises a first conductive portion configured to operate as an antenna radiator of the electronic device, a second conductive portion spaced apart from the first conductive portion, and a first non-conductive portion disposed between the first conductive portion and the second conductive portion. The second housing part comprises a third conductive portion, a fourth conductive portion spaced apart from the third conductive portion, and a second non-conductive portion disposed between the third conductive portion and the fourth conductive portion. In the above folded state, the first conductive portion of the first housing part faces at least partially the third conductive portion of the second housing part, and The electronic device includes a switching circuit electrically connected to the third conductive portion and the fourth conductive portion of the second housing part, and The switching circuit is configured to filter a signal having a frequency corresponding to the operating frequency of the antenna radiator while the first conductive portion of the first housing part operates as the antenna radiator in the folded state. Electronic device.

2. In Claim 1, The switching circuit is configured to reduce the generation of a signal corresponding to the operating frequency from the first conductive portion of the first housing part to the third conductive portion of the second housing part. Electronic device.

3. In Claim 2, The switching circuit comprises one or more lumped elements configured to reduce the generation of the signal corresponding to the operating frequency from the first conductive portion of the first housing part to the third conductive portion of the second housing part. Electronic device.

4. In Claim 1, The above antenna radiator is a first antenna radiator having a first operating frequency, and The signal having the frequency corresponding to the first operating frequency of the first antenna radiator is the first signal, and The second conductive portion of the first housing part is configured to operate as a second antenna radiator of the electronic device at a second operating frequency, and The switching circuit is configured to filter a second signal corresponding to the second operating frequency of the second antenna radiator while the second conductive portion of the first housing part operates as the second antenna radiator in the folded state. Electronic device.

5. In Claim 1, The operating frequency of the antenna radiator using the first conductive portion includes a first operating frequency and a second operating frequency different from the first operating frequency, and The switching circuit is configured to filter a second signal having a frequency corresponding to the second operating frequency while the antenna radiator is operating at the second operating frequency in the folded state. Electronic device.

6. In claim 4 or claim 5, The above switching circuit is, A first LC filter circuit configured to filter the first signal; and A second LC filter circuit configured to filter the second signal, comprising Electronic device.

7. In any one of claims 4 to 6, The above third housing part is: A fifth conductive part configured to operate as a third antenna radiator of the electronic device at a third operating frequency; A sixth conductive portion spaced apart from the fifth conductive portion; and It includes a third non-conductive portion disposed between the fifth conductive portion and the sixth conductive portion, The fifth conductive portion of the third housing part, in the folded state, at least partially faces the third conductive portion of the second housing part, and The switching circuit is configured to filter a third signal having a frequency corresponding to the third operating frequency of the third antenna radiator while the fifth conductive portion of the third housing part operates as the third antenna radiator in the folded state. Electronic device.

8. In Claim 7, The sixth conductive portion of the third housing part is configured to operate as a fourth antenna radiator of the electronic device at a fourth operating frequency, and The switching circuit is configured to filter a fourth signal corresponding to the fourth operating frequency of the fourth antenna radiator while the sixth conductive portion of the third housing part operates as the fourth antenna radiator in the folded state. Electronic device.

9. In Claim 8, The above switching circuit is, A third LC filter circuit configured to filter the third signal; and A fourth LC filter circuit configured to filter the fourth signal, comprising Electronic device.

10. In any one of claims 1 to 9, The switching circuit is configured to pass a signal corresponding to the second frequency band among a first frequency band including the operating frequency and a second frequency band not including the operating frequency. Electronic device.

11. In any one of claims 1 to 10, The second non-conductive portion of the second housing part extends from the end of the third conductive portion to the end of the fourth conductive portion, and The switching circuit is electrically connected to the end of the third conductive portion and the end of the fourth conductive portion. Electronic device.

12. In Claim 1, The above switching circuit is a first switching circuit, and The above-mentioned first housing part is: A seventh conductive portion spaced apart from the second conductive portion; and It includes a fourth non-conductive portion disposed between the second conductive portion and the seventh conductive portion, The above second housing part is: An eighth conductive portion spaced apart from the fourth conductive portion; and It includes a fifth non-conductive portion disposed between the fourth conductive portion and the eighth conductive portion, The electronic device comprises a second switching circuit electrically connected to the fourth conductive portion and the eighth conductive portion, Electronic device.

13. In Claim 12, The second switching circuit is configured to filter the signal having the frequency corresponding to the operating frequency of the antenna radiator while the first conductive portion of the first housing part operates as the antenna radiator in the folded state. Electronic device.

14. In Claim 13, The above antenna radiator is a first antenna radiator, and The second conductive portion of the first housing part is configured to operate as a second antenna radiator of the electronic device at a second operating frequency, and The second switching circuit is configured to filter a signal having a frequency corresponding to the second operating frequency of the second antenna radiator while the second conductive portion of the first housing part operates as the second antenna radiator in the folded state. Electronic device.

15. In any one of claims 1 to 14, The first housing part is rotatably coupled to the first side portion of the third housing part, and The second housing part is rotatably coupled to the second side part of the third housing part opposite to the first side part. Electronic device.

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