Antenna module and electronic device including same

The integration of a dielectric substrate with a holographic conductive pattern in antenna designs enhances wireless communication and charging efficiency by redirecting signals, addressing space and interference challenges in electronic devices.

WO2026089339A1PCT designated stage Publication Date: 2026-04-30SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD
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Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
WO · WO
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD
Filing Date
2025-09-30
Publication Date
2026-04-30

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing antenna designs in electronic devices face challenges in optimizing wireless communication and wireless charging efficiency due to interference and limited space within the device's structure.

Method used

Incorporating a dielectric substrate with a holographic conductive pattern spaced apart from the antenna, which redirects wireless signals through the substrate to enhance communication and charging efficiency by utilizing beamforming techniques.

Benefits of technology

Improves wireless communication and charging efficiency by optimizing signal transmission and reception, reducing interference, and maximizing the use of available space within the device.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

This electronic device may comprise: a rear cover; a battery; an antenna module disposed between the rear cover and the battery; and a wireless communication circuit. The antenna module may comprise: a dielectric substrate; an antenna disposed on the dielectric substrate and electrically connected to the wireless communication circuit; and a holographic conductive pattern formed on the dielectric substrate and spaced apart from the antenna. The antenna may be configured to emit a first wireless signal via a beam directed toward the holographic conductive pattern. The holographic conductive pattern may be configured to receive, through the dielectric substrate, at least a portion of the first wireless signal emitted from the antenna via the beam. The holographic conductive pattern may be configured to emit a second wireless signal toward the rear cover on the basis of the at least a portion of the first wireless signal.
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Description

Antenna module and electronic device including the same

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an antenna module and an electronic device including the same.

[0002] The electronic device may include an antenna module for communication with an external electronic device. The antenna module may be configured to receive a signal transmitted from an external electronic device or / or transmit a signal to an external electronic device.

[0003] The information described above may be provided as related art for the purpose of aiding understanding of the present disclosure. No claim or determination is made as to whether any of the foregoing may be applied as prior art in relation to the present disclosure.

[0004] According to one embodiment, an electronic device may include a rear cover defining the rear surface of the electronic device; a battery; an antenna module disposed between the rear cover and the battery; and a wireless communication circuit. The antenna module may include a dielectric substrate; an antenna disposed on the dielectric substrate and electrically connected to the wireless communication circuit; and a holographic conductive pattern formed on the dielectric substrate and spaced apart from the antenna. The antenna may be configured to radiate a first wireless signal through a beam directed toward the holographic conductive pattern. The holographic conductive pattern may be configured to receive at least a portion of the first wireless signal radiated from the antenna through the beam via the dielectric substrate. The holographic conductive pattern may be configured to radiate a second wireless signal toward the rear cover based on the at least portion of the first wireless signal.

[0005] According to one embodiment, an electronic device may include a rear cover defining the rear surface of the electronic device; a battery; a wireless charging antenna disposed on the battery; an antenna module disposed between the wireless charging antenna and the rear cover; and a wireless communication circuit. The antenna module may include a dielectric substrate; an antenna disposed on the dielectric substrate and electrically connected to the wireless communication circuit; and a holographic conductive pattern formed on the dielectric substrate and spaced apart from the antenna. The antenna may be configured to radiate a first wireless signal through a beam directed toward the holographic conductive pattern. The holographic conductive pattern may be configured to receive at least a portion of the first wireless signal radiated from the antenna through the beam via the dielectric substrate. The holographic conductive pattern may be configured to radiate a second wireless signal toward the rear cover based on the at least portion of the first wireless signal.

[0006] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device in a network environment according to various embodiments.

[0007] FIG. 2a is a drawing showing an exemplary electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0008] FIG. 2b is an exploded perspective view of an exemplary electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0009] FIG. 3 is a drawing showing an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0010] FIG. 4 shows an antenna module according to one embodiment.

[0011] FIG. 5 shows an antenna of an antenna module according to one embodiment.

[0012] FIG. 6a is a graph showing the S-parameters of an antenna according to one embodiment.

[0013] FIG. 6b is a graph showing the radiation pattern of an antenna according to one embodiment.

[0014] FIG. 7a is a diagram showing the S-parameters of an antenna module according to one embodiment.

[0015] FIGS. 7b and FIGS. 7c are drawings showing the radiation pattern of an antenna module according to one embodiment.

[0016] FIG. 8 is a drawing showing the antenna structure of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0017] FIG. 9a shows the S-parameters of the antenna structure of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0018] FIG. 9b shows the radiation pattern of an antenna structure of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0019] FIG. 9c shows the radiation pattern of an antenna structure of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0020] FIG. 10a shows a stacked structure of an antenna structure of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0021] FIG. 10b is a drawing showing an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0022] FIG. 10c is a drawing showing an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0023] FIG. 10d shows an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0024] Figure 11 is a graph showing the wireless charging efficiency of an electronic device as a function of distance.

[0025] FIG. 12 is a drawing showing an antenna module according to one embodiment.

[0026] FIG. 13 is a drawing showing an antenna module according to one embodiment.

[0027] FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing the operation of an antenna module according to one embodiment.

[0028] FIG. 15a illustrates an example of a first state of an electronic device. FIG. 15b illustrates an example of a second state of an electronic device. FIG. 15c illustrates an example of a third state of an electronic device.

[0029] FIG. 16a is a plan view of an electronic device with the flexible display removed.

[0030] FIG. 16b is a rear view of an electronic device with the rear cover and display removed.

[0031] Identical or similar components in the drawings may be assigned the same reference numerals. Descriptions of components having the same reference numeral may be applied identically or in a corresponding manner when referring to different drawings, unless otherwise noted, and redundant descriptions of components having the same reference numeral may not be repeated. In the following descriptions referring to specific drawings, reference numerals from other drawings may be referenced.

[0032] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device (101) in a network environment (100) according to various embodiments.

[0033] Referring to FIG. 1, in a network environment (100), an electronic device (101) may communicate with an electronic device (102) through a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network) or with at least one of an electronic device (104) or a server (108) through a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may communicate with the electronic device (104) through a server (108). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a processor (120), memory (130), input module (150), sound output module (155), display module (160), audio module (170), sensor module (176), interface (177), connection terminal (178), haptic module (179), camera module (180), power management module (188), battery (189), communication module (190), subscriber identification module (196), or antenna module (197). In some embodiments, at least one of these components (e.g., connection terminal (178)) may be omitted from the electronic device (101), or one or more other components may be added. In some embodiments, some of these components (e.g., sensor module (176), camera module (180), or antenna module (197)) may be integrated into a single component (e.g., display module (160)).

[0034] 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)), and can perform various data processing or operations. According to one embodiment, as at least part of the data processing or operations, the processor (120) can store commands or data received from other components (e.g., a sensor module (176) or a communication module (190)) in volatile memory (132), process the commands or data stored in volatile memory (132), and store the resulting data in non-volatile memory (134). According to one embodiment, the processor (120) may include a main processor (121) (e.g., 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.

[0035] The auxiliary processor (123) may control at least some of the functions or states associated with at least one component of the electronic device (101) (e.g., display module (160), sensor module (176), or communication module (190)) on behalf of the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an inactive (e.g., sleep) state, or together with the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an active (e.g., application execution) state. According to one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., image signal processor or communication processor) may be implemented as part of another functionally related component (e.g., camera module (180) or communication module (190)). According to one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., neural network processing unit) may include a hardware structure specialized for processing an artificial intelligence model. The artificial intelligence model may be generated through machine learning. Such learning may be performed, for example, on the electronic device (101) itself where the artificial intelligence model is executed, or through a separate server (e.g., server (108)). The learning algorithm may include, for example, supervised learning, unsupervised learning, semi-supervised learning, or reinforcement learning, but is not limited to the examples described above. The artificial intelligence model may include a plurality of artificial neural network layers.An artificial neural network may be a deep neural network (DNN), a convolutional neural network (CNN), a recurrent neural network (RNN), a restricted Boltzmann machine (RBM), a deep belief network (DBN), a bidirectional recurrent deep neural network (BRDNN), a deep Q-network, or a combination of two or more of the above, but is not limited to the examples described above. In addition to the hardware structure, the artificial intelligence model may include a software structure, either additionally or substantially.

[0036] 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).

[0037] 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).

[0038] 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).

[0039] The sound output module (155) can output a sound signal to the outside of the electronic device (101). The sound output module (155) may include, for example, a speaker or a receiver. The speaker may be used for general purposes, such as multimedia playback or recording playback. The receiver may be used to receive incoming calls. According to one embodiment, the receiver may be implemented separately from the speaker or as part thereof.

[0040] The display module (160) can visually provide information to an external (e.g., user) of the electronic device (101). The display module (160) may include, for example, a display, a holographic device, or a projector and a control circuit for controlling said device. According to one embodiment, the display module (160) may include a touch sensor configured to detect a touch, or a pressure sensor configured to measure the intensity of the force generated by said touch.

[0041] The audio module (170) can convert sound into an electrical signal or, conversely, convert an electrical signal into sound. According to one embodiment, the audio module (170) can acquire sound through the input module (150) or output sound through the sound output module (155) or an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102)) (e.g., speaker or headphones) connected directly or wirelessly to the electronic device (101).

[0042] The sensor module (176) can detect the operating state of the electronic device (101) (e.g., power or temperature) or the external environmental state (e.g., user state) and generate an electrical signal or data value corresponding to the detected state. According to one embodiment, the sensor module (176) may include, for example, a gesture sensor, a gyroscope sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an accelerometer sensor, a grip sensor, a proximity sensor, a color sensor, an IR (infrared) sensor, a biosensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or an illuminance sensor.

[0043] The interface (177) may support one or more specified protocols that can be used for the electronic device (101) to be connected directly or wirelessly to an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102)). According to one embodiment, the interface (177) may include, for example, a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB) interface, a secure digital (SD) card interface, or an audio interface.

[0044] The connection terminal (178) may include a connector through which the electronic device (101) can be physically connected to an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102)). According to one embodiment, the connection terminal (178) may include, for example, an HDMI connector, a USB connector, an SD card connector, or an audio connector (e.g., a headphone connector).

[0045] The haptic module (179) can convert an electrical signal into a mechanical stimulus (e.g., vibration or movement) or an electrical stimulus that the user can perceive through tactile or kinesthetic senses. According to one embodiment, the haptic module (179) may include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electric stimulation device.

[0046] The camera module (180) can capture still images and video. According to one embodiment, the camera module (180) may include one or more lenses, image sensors, image signal processors, or flashes.

[0047] The power management module (188) can manage power supplied to the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the power management module (188) can be implemented, for example, as at least part of a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

[0048] The battery (189) can supply power to at least one component of the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the battery (189) may include, for example, a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable secondary battery, or a fuel cell.

[0049] The communication module (190) can support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between an electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102), electronic device (104), or server (108)), and the performance of communication through the established communication channel. The communication module (190) may include one or more communication processors that operate independently of the processor (120) (e.g., application processor) and support direct (e.g., wired) communication or wireless communication. According to one embodiment, the communication module (190) may include a wireless communication module (192) (e.g., cellular communication module, short-range wireless communication module, or GNSS (global navigation satellite system) communication module) or a wired communication module (194) (e.g., LAN (local area network) communication module, or power line communication module). The corresponding communication module among these communication modules can communicate with an external electronic device (104) through a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, WiFi (wireless fidelity) direct, or IrDA (infrared data association)) or a second network (199) (e.g., a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN). These various types of communication modules may be integrated into a single component (e.g., a single chip) or implemented as multiple separate components (e.g., multiple chips). The wireless communication module (192) can identify or authenticate the electronic device (101) within a communication network such as the first network (198) or the second network (199) using subscriber information (e.g., International Mobile Subscriber Identifier (IMSI)) stored in the subscriber identification module (196).

[0050] The wireless communication module (192) can support 5G networks and next-generation communication technologies following 4G networks, for example, new radio access technology. NR access technology can support high-speed transmission of high-capacity data (enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB)), minimization of terminal power and connection of multiple terminals (massive machine type communications (mMTC)), or high reliability and low latency (ultra-reliable and low-latency communications (URLLC)). The wireless communication module (192) can support a high-frequency band (e.g., mmWave band) to achieve a high data transmission rate, for example. The wireless communication module (192) can support various technologies for securing performance in the high-frequency band, such as beamforming, massive MIMO (multiple-input and multiple-output), full-dimensional MIMO (FD-MIMO), array antenna, analog beam-forming, or large-scale antenna. The wireless communication module (192) can support various requirements specified in the electronic device (101), external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (104)), or network system (e.g., second network (199)). According to one embodiment, the wireless communication module (192) can support a Peak data rate (e.g., 20 Gbps or more) for eMBB realization, loss coverage (e.g., 164 dB or less) for mMTC realization, or U-plane latency (e.g., downlink (DL) and uplink (UL) each 0.5 ms or less, or round trip 1 ms or less) for URLLC realization.

[0051] The 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 one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include an antenna comprising a radiator made of a conductor or a conductive pattern formed on a substrate (e.g., a PCB). According to one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna). In this case, at least one antenna suitable for a communication method used in a communication network, such as a first network (198) or a second network (199), may be selected from the plurality of antennas, for example, by a communication module (190). The signal or power may be transmitted or received between the communication module (190) and an external electronic device through the selected at least one antenna. According to some embodiments, in addition to the radiator, other components (e.g., a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) may be additionally formed as part of the antenna module (197).

[0052] According to various embodiments, the antenna module (197) may form a mmWave antenna module. According to one embodiment, the mmWave antenna module may include a printed circuit board, an RFIC disposed on or adjacent to a first surface (e.g., bottom surface) of the printed circuit board and capable of supporting a specified high frequency band (e.g., mmWave band), and a plurality of antennas (e.g., array antennas) disposed on or adjacent to a second surface (e.g., top surface or side surface) of the printed circuit board and capable of transmitting or receiving a signal of the specified high frequency band.

[0053] 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.

[0054] According to one embodiment, commands or data may be transmitted or received between the electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (104) through a server (108) connected to a second network (199). Each of the external electronic devices (102, or 104) may be the same or a different type of device as the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, all or part of the operations performed on the electronic device (101) may be performed on one or more of the external electronic devices (102, 104, or 108). For example, if the electronic device (101) needs to perform a function or service automatically or in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device (101) may request one or more external electronic devices to perform at least part of the function or service instead of performing the function or service itself or additionally. One or more external electronic devices that receive the above request may execute at least part of the requested function or service, or additional function or service related to the request, and transmit the result of the execution to the electronic device (101). The electronic device (101) may provide the result as is or additionally processed as at least part of the response to the request. For this purpose, for example, cloud computing, distributed computing, mobile edge computing (MEC), or client-server computing technology may be used. The electronic device (101) may provide ultra-low latency services using, for example, distributed computing or mobile edge computing. In another embodiment, the external electronic device (104) may include an Internet of Things (IoT) device. The server (108) may be an intelligent server using machine learning and / or neural networks. According to one embodiment, the external electronic device (104) or the server (108) may be included within a second network (199).The electronic device (101) can be applied to intelligent services (e.g., smart home, smart city, smart car, or healthcare) based on 5G communication technology and IoT-related technology.

[0055] FIG. 2a is a drawing illustrating an exemplary electronic device according to one embodiment. Referring to FIG. 2a, the electronic device (200) according to one embodiment may include a housing (210) that forms at least partially the exterior of the electronic device (200). For example, the housing (210) may include a first surface (or front) (200A), a second surface (or rear) (200B), and a third surface (or side) (200C) that surrounds the space between the first surface (200A) and the second surface (200B). In one embodiment, the housing (210) may refer to a structure that forms at least some of the first surface (200A), the second surface (200B), and / or the third surface (200C).

[0056] An electronic device (200) according to one embodiment may include a substantially transparent front plate (202). In one embodiment, the front plate (202) may form at least a portion of the first surface (200A). In one embodiment, the front plate (202) may include, for example, a glass plate or a polymer plate including various coating layers, but is not limited thereto.

[0057] An electronic device (200) according to one embodiment may include a substantially opaque back plate (211). In one embodiment, the back plate (211) may form at least a portion of a second surface (200B). In one embodiment, the back plate (211) may be formed by coated or colored glass, ceramic, polymer, metal (e.g., aluminum, stainless steel, or magnesium), or a combination of at least two of the materials.

[0058] An electronic device (200) according to one embodiment may include a side bezel structure (e.g., a side member) (218). In one embodiment, the side bezel structure (218) may be combined with a front plate (202) and / or a rear plate (211) to form at least a portion of a third surface (200C) of the electronic device (200). For example, the side bezel structure (218) may form the entire third surface (200C) of the electronic device (200), or, for another example, the side bezel structure (218) may form the third surface (200C) of the electronic device (200) together with the front plate (202) and / or the rear plate (211).

[0059] In one embodiment, the side bezel structure (218) may comprise a metal and / or a polymer. In one embodiment, the rear plate (211) and the side bezel structure (218) may be formed integrally and may comprise the same material (e.g., a metallic material such as aluminum), but are not limited thereto. For example, the rear plate (211) and the side bezel structure (218) may be formed as separate components and / or may comprise different materials.

[0060] In one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a display (201) (e.g., display module (160) of FIG. 1), an audio module (203, 204, 207) (e.g., audio module (170) of FIG. 1), a sensor module (e.g., sensor module (176) of FIG. 1), a camera module (205, 212, 213) (e.g., camera module (180) of FIG. 1), a key input device (217) (e.g., input module (150) of FIG. 1), a light-emitting element (not shown), and a connector hole (208). In one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may omit at least one of the components (e.g., key input device (217) or light-emitting element (not shown)) or additionally include other components.

[0061] In one embodiment, the display (201) may be visually exposed through a significant portion of the front plate (202). For example, at least a portion of the display (201) may be visible through the front plate (202) forming the first surface (200A). The display (201) may be positioned on the back surface of the front plate (202).

[0062] In one embodiment, the display (201) (or the first surface (200A) of the electronic device (200)) may include a screen display area (201A). In one embodiment, the display (201) may provide visual information to the user through the screen display area (201A). In the illustrated embodiment, when the first surface (200A) is viewed from the front, the screen display area (201A) is shown to be located on the inner side of the first surface (200A) and spaced apart from the outer edge of the first surface (200A), but is not limited thereto. For example, when the first surface (200A) is viewed from the front, at least a portion of the edge of the screen display area (201A) may substantially coincide with the edge of the first surface (200A) (or the front plate (202)).

[0063] In one embodiment, the screen display area (201A) may include a sensing area (201B) configured to acquire the user's biometric information. Here, the meaning of "the screen display area (201A) includes the sensing area (201B)" can be understood as at least a portion of the sensing area (201B) being overlapped with the screen display area (201A). For example, the sensing area (201B) may refer to an area that can display visual information by the display (201) just like other areas of the screen display area (201A), and additionally acquire the user's biometric information (e.g., fingerprint). Although the sensing area (201B) is depicted as being formed within the screen display area (201A), it is not limited thereto. For example, the sensing area (201B) may be formed in the key input device (217).

[0064] In one embodiment, the display (201) may include an area where a first camera module (205) is located. For example, an opening may be formed in the area of ​​the display (201), and the first camera module (205) (e.g., a punch-hole camera) may be placed at least partially within the opening so as to face the first surface (200A). In this case, the screen display area (201A) may surround at least a portion of the edge of the opening. In one embodiment, the first camera module (205) (e.g., an under-display camera (UDC)) may be placed below the display (201) so as to overlap with the area of ​​the display (201). In this case, the display (201) may provide visual information to the user through the area, and additionally, the first camera module (205) may acquire an image corresponding to the direction toward the first surface (200A) through the area of ​​the display (201).

[0065] In one embodiment, the display (201) may be combined with or placed adjacent to a touch detection circuit, a pressure sensor capable of measuring the intensity (pressure) of the touch, and / or a digitizer that detects a magnetic field type stylus pen.

[0066] In one embodiment, the audio module (203, 204, 207) may include a microphone hole (203, 204) and a speaker hole (207).

[0067] In one embodiment, the microphone holes (203, 204) may include a first microphone hole (203) formed in a part of the third surface (200C) and a second microphone hole (204) formed in a part of the second surface (200B). A microphone for acquiring external sound may be placed inside the microphone holes (203, 204). The microphone may include a plurality of microphones to detect the direction of the sound, but is not limited thereto.

[0068] In one embodiment, a second microphone hole (204) formed in a portion of the second surface (200B) may be positioned adjacent to the camera module (205, 212, 213). For example, the second microphone hole (204) may acquire sound according to the operation of the camera module (205, 212, 213). However, it is not limited thereto.

[0069] In one embodiment, the speaker hole (207) may include an external speaker hole (207) and a call receiver hole (not shown). The external speaker hole (207) may be formed in a part of the third surface (200C) of the electronic device (200). In one embodiment, the external speaker hole (207) is integrated into the microphone hole (203), and the speaker hole (207) and the microphone hole (203) may be implemented as a single hole. Although not shown, the call receiver hole (not shown) may be formed in another part of the third surface (200C). For example, the call receiver hole may be formed on the opposite side of the external speaker hole (207) on the third surface (200C). For example, based on the illustration in FIG. 2a, the external speaker hole (207) may be formed on the third surface (200C) corresponding to the lower part of the electronic device (200), and the call receiver hole may be formed on the third surface (200C) corresponding to the upper part of the electronic device (200). However, this is not limited thereto, and in other embodiments, the call receiver hole may be formed at a location other than the third surface (200C). For example, the call receiver hole may be formed by the spaced-apart space between the front plate (202) (or display (201)) and the side bezel structure (218).

[0070] In one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include at least one speaker (not shown) (e.g., the acoustic output module (155) of FIG. 1) configured to output sound to the outside of the housing (210) through an external speaker hole (207) and / or a receiver hole for calls (not shown).

[0071] In one embodiment, a sensor module (not shown) may generate an electrical signal or data value corresponding to an internal operating state of the electronic device (200) or an external environmental state. For example, the sensor module may include at least one of a proximity sensor, a heart rate monitor (HRM) sensor, a fingerprint sensor, a gesture sensor, a gyroscope sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an accelerometer sensor, a grip sensor, a color sensor, an infrared (IR) sensor, a biosensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or an illuminance sensor.

[0072] In one embodiment, the camera module (205, 212, 213) may include a first camera module (205) positioned to face a first surface (200A) of the electronic device (200), a second camera module (212) positioned to face a second surface (200B), and a flash (213).

[0073] In one embodiment, the second camera module (212) may include a plurality of cameras (e.g., a dual camera, a triple camera, or a quad camera). However, the second camera module (212) is not necessarily limited to including a plurality of cameras and may include a single camera.

[0074] In one embodiment, the first camera module (205) and the second camera module (212) may include one or more lenses, an image sensor, and / or an image signal processor.

[0075] In one embodiment, the flash (213) may include, for example, a light-emitting diode or a xenon lamp. In one embodiment, two or more lenses (infrared camera, wide-angle and telephoto lenses) and an image sensor may be disposed on one side of the electronic device (200).

[0076] In one embodiment, the key input device (217) may be placed on a third side (200C) of the electronic device (200). In one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may not include some or all of the key input devices (217), and the key input devices (217) that are not included may be implemented in other forms, such as soft keys, on the display (201).

[0077] In one embodiment, a connector hole (208) may be formed on a third surface (200C) of the electronic device (200) so as to accommodate a connector of an external device. A connection terminal (e.g., connection terminal (178) of FIG. 1) that is electrically connected to the connector of the external device may be disposed within the connector hole (208). The electronic device (200) according to one embodiment may include an interface module (e.g., interface (177) of FIG. 1) for processing electrical signals transmitted and received through the connection terminal.

[0078] In one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a light-emitting element (not shown). For example, the light-emitting element (not shown) may be placed on a first surface (200A) of the housing (210). The light-emitting element (not shown) may provide state information of the electronic device (200) in the form of light. In one embodiment, the light-emitting element (not shown) may provide a light source that is linked to the operation of the first camera module (205). For example, the light-emitting element (not shown) may include an LED (light-emitting diode), an IR LED, and / or a xenon lamp.

[0079] FIG. 2b is an exploded perspective view of an exemplary electronic device according to one embodiment. Referring to FIG. 2b, an electronic device (200) according to one embodiment may include a frame structure (240) (e.g., side bezel structure (218) of FIG. 2a), a first printed circuit board (250), a second printed circuit board (252), and a battery (270) (e.g., battery (189) of FIG. 1).

[0080] In one embodiment, the frame structure (or frame) (240) may be positioned between the display (201) and the rear plate (211). In one embodiment, the frame structure (240) may support or accommodate components included in the electronic device (200). For example, the display (201) may be placed on one side of the frame structure (240) facing in one direction (e.g., +Z direction). For example, the frame structure (240) may support the front plate (202) to which the display (201) is attached. On the other side of the frame structure (240) facing in the opposite direction (e.g., -Z direction) to the one direction, the first printed circuit board (250), the second printed circuit board (252), the battery (270), and the second camera module (212) may be placed. The first printed circuit board (250), the second printed circuit board (252), the battery (270), and the second camera module (212) can be placed within a recess formed in the frame structure (240).

[0081] In one embodiment, the frame structure (240) may include a first part (241) and a second part (243). The periphery of the second part (243) may be surrounded by the first part (241). The first part (241) may surround the space between the rear plate (211) and the front plate (202) (and / or the display (201)). The first part (241) surrounding the space may at least partially form a side of the electronic device (200) (e.g., the third side (200C) in FIG. 2a), and the second part (243) located within the space may extend inward from the first part (241). The second part (243) may be located below the display (201) (e.g., in the -Z direction). In one embodiment, the first part (241) and / or the second part (243) may be formed of a metal and / or a polymer.

[0082] The frame structure (240) (or the first part (241) of the frame structure (240)) may be referred to as a lateral member or lateral structure in that it forms the side of the electronic device (200). The frame structure (240) (or the second part (243) of the frame structure (240)) may be referred to as a support member, support structure, or bracket in that it supports various parts of the electronic device (200).

[0083] In one embodiment, the first printed circuit board (250), the second printed circuit board (252), and the battery (270) may be respectively coupled to the frame structure (240). For example, the first printed circuit board (250) and the second printed circuit board (252) may be fixedly positioned on the frame structure (240) through a coupling member such as a screw. For example, the battery (270) may be fixedly positioned on the frame structure (240) through an adhesive member (e.g., double-sided tape). However, it is not limited to the examples described above.

[0084] In one embodiment, the display (201) may be positioned between the frame structure (240) and the front plate (202). For example, the front plate (202) may be positioned on one side (e.g., +Z direction) of the display (201), and the frame structure (240) may be positioned on the other side (e.g., -Z direction).

[0085] In one embodiment, the front plate (202) may be combined with the display (201). For example, the display (201) may be attached to the back surface of the front plate (202) via an optical adhesive member (e.g., optically clear adhesive (OCA) or optically clear resin (OCR)).

[0086] In one embodiment, the front plate (202) may be combined with a frame structure (240). For example, the front plate (202) may include an outer portion extending outward from the display (201) when viewed in the z-axis direction. The outer portion of the front plate (202) may be attached to the frame structure (240) (e.g., the first part (241)).

[0087] In one embodiment, a processor (e.g., processor (120) of FIG. 1), memory (e.g., memory (130) of FIG. 1), and / or an interface (e.g., interface (177) of FIG. 1) may be disposed on the first printed circuit board (250) and / or the second printed circuit board (252). The processor may include, for example, one or more of a central processing unit, an application processor, a graphics processing unit, an image signal processor, a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor. The memory may include, for example, volatile memory or non-volatile memory. The interface may include, for example, a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB) interface, an SD card interface, and / or an audio interface. The interface may electrically or physically connect the electronic device (200) to an external electronic device and may include a USB connector, an SD card / multimedia card (MMC) connector, or an audio connector. In one embodiment, the first printed circuit board (250) and the second printed circuit board (252) may be operatively or electrically connected to each other through a connecting member (e.g., a flexible printed circuit board).

[0088] In one embodiment, the battery (270) can supply power to at least one component of the electronic device (200). For example, the battery (270) may include a rechargeable secondary battery or a fuel cell.

[0089] In one embodiment, the first camera module (205) (e.g., front camera) may be placed in at least a part (e.g., second part (243)) of the frame structure (240) so that the lens can receive external light through a part area (e.g., camera area (237)) of the front plate (202) (e.g., front (200A) of FIG. 2a).

[0090] In one embodiment, a second camera module (212) (e.g., rear camera) may be positioned between the frame structure (240) and the rear plate (211). In one embodiment, the second camera module (212) may be electrically connected to the first printed circuit board (250) through a connecting member (e.g., connector). In one embodiment, the second camera module (212) may be positioned so that the lens can receive external light through the camera area (284) of the rear plate (211) of the electronic device (200).

[0091] In one embodiment, the camera area (284) may be formed on the surface of the rear plate (211) (e.g., the rear (200B) of FIG. 2A). In one embodiment, the camera area (284) may be formed at least partially transparent so that external light can be incident on the lens of the second camera module (212). In one embodiment, at least a portion of the camera area (284) may protrude a certain height from the surface of the rear plate (211). However, it is not limited thereto, and in another embodiment, the camera area (284) may form a plane substantially identical to the surface of the rear plate (211).

[0092] In one embodiment, the housing (210) of the electronic device (200) may mean a configuration or structure that forms at least a part of the exterior of the electronic device (200). In other words, the housing (210) may include at least a part of a front plate (202), a frame structure (240), and / or a rear plate (211) that form the exterior of the electronic device (200).

[0093] FIG. 3 is a drawing showing an electronic device according to one embodiment. In FIG. 3, a frame structure (240) of the electronic device (200) and various components placed on the frame structure (240) are shown.

[0094] Referring to FIG. 3, a frame structure (240) of an electronic device (200) according to one embodiment may include a plurality of non-conductive parts and a plurality of conductive parts. The plurality of non-conductive parts and the plurality of conductive parts may each form a side of the electronic device (200) (e.g., a side (200C) of FIG. 2a). For example, the plurality of non-conductive parts and the plurality of conductive parts may be at least partially included in a first part (241) of the frame structure (240). The plurality of conductive parts may be separated through the plurality of non-conductive parts. For example, each of the plurality of non-conductive parts may be positioned between two corresponding conductive parts among the plurality of conductive parts.

[0095] In one embodiment, at least one of the plurality of conductive parts of the frame structure (240) may operate as an antenna and / or antenna radiator of the electronic device (200). For example, a wireless communication circuit of the electronic device (200) (e.g., the wireless communication module (192) of FIG. 1) may transmit and / or receive a wireless signal using at least one of the plurality of conductive parts.

[0096] For example, the plurality of conductive parts of the frame structure (240) may include at least one of a first conductive part (340-1), a second conductive part (340-2), a third conductive part (340-3), a fourth conductive part (340-4), a fifth conductive part (340-5), a sixth conductive part (340-6), a seventh conductive part (340-7), an eighth conductive part (340-8), a ninth conductive part (340-9), and / or a tenth conductive part (340-10).

[0097] For example, the first conductive part (340-1), the second conductive part (340-2), and the third conductive part (340-3), located at the bottom of the frame structure (240), can each function as the main antennas of the electronic device (200), and the fourth conductive part (340-4), the fifth conductive part (340-5), the sixth conductive part (340-6), the seventh conductive part (340-7), the eighth conductive part (340-8), the ninth conductive part (340-9), and the tenth conductive part (340-10), located at the top of the frame structure (240), can each function as the sub-antennas of the electronic device (200). The main antenna may be an antenna capable of operating in both MIMO (multiple input multiple output) and SISO (single input single output), and the sub-antenna may be an antenna capable of operating for MIMO.

[0098] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a first speaker module (351) positioned at the bottom of a frame structure (240) and a second speaker module (352) positioned at the top of a frame structure (240). A conductive structure of the first speaker module (351) (e.g., a plate formed of a metal such as stainless steel that at least partially forms the case of the first speaker module (351)) may function at least partially as the main antenna of the electronic device (200). Additionally, a conductive structure of the second speaker module (352) (e.g., a plate formed of a metal such as stainless steel that at least partially forms the case of the second speaker module (352)) may function at least partially as the sub-antenna of the electronic device (200).

[0099] An electronic device (200) according to one embodiment may include a key button assembly (330) positioned adjacent to (or partially exposed through said side) a frame structure (240). The key button assembly (330) may include, for example, a dome switch configured to generate an electrical signal by operation of a key button (e.g., the key input device (217) of FIG. 2a) and a substrate on which the dome switch is positioned. Additionally, the key button assembly (330) may include a first antenna contact (e.g., a C-clip) disposed on the substrate and in contact with a ninth conductive portion (340-9), a first electrical path formed on the substrate to electrically connect the first antenna contact to the wireless communication circuit, a second antenna contact (e.g., a C-clip) disposed on the substrate and in contact with a tenth conductive portion (340-10), a second electrical path formed on the substrate to electrically connect the second antenna contact to the wireless communication circuit, and a third electrical path formed on the substrate to electrically connect the ninth conductive portion (340-9) and / or the tenth conductive portion (340-10) to the ground of the electronic device (200).

[0100] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a first mmWave antenna module (361) and a second mmWave antenna module (362), each disposed on a frame structure (240). The first mmWave antenna module (361) may be adjacent to the seventh conductive portion (340-7) and may be located at the top of the frame structure (240). The second mmWave antenna module (362) may be located between the third conductive portion (340-3) and the ninth conductive portion (340-9) and may be located at the bottom of the frame structure (240). For example, but not limited to, the first mmWave antenna module (361) may be horizontally mounted and the second mmWave antenna module (362) may be vertically mounted. For example, one side of the substrate of the first mmWave antenna module (361) (e.g., the side on which the array antenna of the first mmWave antenna module (361) is formed) and one side of the substrate of the second mmWave antenna module (362) (e.g., the side on which the array antenna of the second mmWave antenna module (362) is formed) may be perpendicular to each other.

[0101] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include an ultra-wideband (UWB) antenna module (390) disposed on a frame structure (240) so as to be positioned between a battery (270) and a second speaker module (352).

[0102] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include an antenna module (380) disposed on a battery (270). The antenna module (380) may include at least one of an antenna for wireless charging of the battery (270), an antenna for magnetic secure transmission (MST), and / or an antenna for near field communication (NFC). For example, the antenna module (380) may include a flexible printed circuit board comprising a conductive pattern forming at least one of the wireless charging antenna, the MST antenna, and / or the NFC antenna.

[0103] The electronic device (200) can support cellular communication such as 2G, 3G, 4G, and 5G, and short-range communication such as NFC, WiFi, and Bluetooth by using various antennas as described above. As technology advances and user needs increase, the demand for larger data throughput is increasing, and accordingly, additional antennas or antennas supporting 6G communication beyond 5G communication are required. However, the electronic device (200) already has various antennas as described above densely arranged. In order to place additional antennas under such constraints of mounting space (i.e., without increasing the size of the electronic device (200)), a new type of antenna configuration may be required. With reference to the drawings below, an antenna module that satisfies low volume cost and high antenna gain is exemplified as such a new type of antenna module.

[0104] FIG. 4 shows an antenna module according to one embodiment. FIG. 5 shows an antenna of an antenna module according to one embodiment.

[0105] Referring to FIG. 4, an antenna module (400) according to one embodiment may include a dielectric substrate (or substrate) (410), an antenna (420), and a holographic pattern (430). The direction (D1) of FIG. 4 may, for example, be the direction from the antenna (420) to the holographic pattern (430). For example, but not limited to, the fourth direction (D1) may be the direction in which the second side (410b) of the dielectric substrate (410) faces.

[0106] The dielectric substrate (410) may be formed of a material having a specified dielectric constant. For example, the dimensions of the dielectric substrate (410) may be approximately 80 mm in width, approximately 45 mm in length, and approximately 0.3 mm in thickness, but are not limited thereto.

[0107] The dielectric substrate (410) may include a first surface (410A) and a second surface (410B) opposite to the first surface (410A). The dielectric substrate (410) may include a side extending from the edge of the first surface (410A) to the edge of the second surface (410B). For example, the side of the dielectric substrate (410) may define the thickness of the dielectric substrate (410). For example, the side of the dielectric substrate (410) may include a first side (410a), a second side (410b) opposite to the first side (410a), a third side (410c), and a fourth side (410d) opposite to the third side (410c). For example, the first side (410a) may be substantially parallel to the second side (410b). For example, the third side (410c) may be substantially parallel to the fourth side (410d). For example, the second side (410b) may extend from the first end of the first side (410a) to the first end of the second side (410b). For example, the fourth side (410d) may extend from the second end of the first side (410a) (e.g., opposite the first end of the first side (410a)) to the second end of the second side (410b) (e.g., opposite the first end of the second side (410b)). The sides (410a, 410b, 410c, and 410d) of the dielectric substrate (410) may be referred to as side portions, edges, or edge portions of the dielectric substrate (410).

[0108] An antenna (420) may be disposed on a dielectric substrate (410). For example, the antenna (420) may be formed on a first surface (410A) of the dielectric substrate (410). The antenna (420) may include a conductive material, a conductive pattern or a conductive trace formed of, for example, copper, which is not limited to, a conductive material. The antenna (420) may be electrically connected to the wireless communication circuit of the electronic device (200).

[0109] A holographic pattern (430) may be disposed on a dielectric substrate (410). For example, the holographic pattern (430) may be formed on a first surface (410A) of the dielectric substrate (410). The holographic pattern (430) may include a conductive pattern or a conductive trace formed of a conductive material, for example, copper, but not limited to. The conductive pattern or the conductive trace of the holographic pattern (430) may be formed as a metasurface. The metasurface may include a two-dimensional structure formed of nanoparticles or microparticles arranged in a period smaller than the wavelength of the electromagnetic wave to control the characteristics of the electromagnetic wave. For example, the metasurface may change the characteristics of the incident electromagnetic wave (e.g., wavelength, amplitude, and polarization state) through interaction with the incident electromagnetic wave (e.g., reflection, refraction, and scattering). In this regard, the holographic pattern (430) may be referred to as a holographic conductive pattern, a metasurface pattern, or a metasurface conductive pattern. The holographic pattern (430) may be spaced apart from the antenna (420). For example, the antenna (420) may be located between the first side (410a) of the dielectric substrate (410) and the holographic pattern (430). For example, the holographic pattern (430) may be located between the antenna (420) and the second side (410b) of the dielectric substrate (410).

[0110] The antenna (420) may include, for example, an antenna having directionality toward the holographic pattern (430) (e.g., direction (D1)). For example, referring to FIG. 5, the antenna (420) may include, for example, a Yagi-Uda antenna, but not limited to. For example, the antenna (420) may include a radiator (521), a reflector (522), and a director (523).

[0111] The copier (521) may include a conductive pattern in the shape of, for example, a dipole or a folded dipole. The copier (521) may include a feeder (P) electrically connected to the wireless communication circuit of the electronic device (200). The copier (521) may radiate a wireless signal based on a signal fed from the wireless communication circuit to the feeder (P) and / or transmit a received signal to the wireless communication circuit through the feeder (P).

[0112] The reflector (522) may be located on one side of the copier (521) (e.g., the back of the copier (521)). The reflector (522) may include a conductive pattern in the shape of a long rod. The length of the reflector (522) may be longer than that of the copier (521). The reflector (522) may be configured to reflect a signal emitted from the copier (521) (e.g., in the direction (D1) toward the copier (521)).

[0113] The waveguide (523) may be located on the other side of the radiator (521) opposite to the one side of the radiator (521) (e.g., the front of the radiator (521)). The waveguide (523) may include a conductive pattern in which a plurality of long rods shorter than the radiator (521) are arranged in a line (e.g., arranged along direction (D1)). The reflector (522) and waveguide (523) on both sides of the radiator (521) can improve the directivity and gain of the signal radiated from the radiator (521) (e.g., in direction (D1)).

[0114] However, the type of antenna (420) is not limited to the Yagi-Uda antenna described above, and, for example, the antenna (420) may include various types of antennas that have directionality, such as a Vivaldi antenna.

[0115] Referring again to FIG. 4, the antenna (420) may be configured to radiate a first wireless signal toward a holographic pattern (430) (e.g., direction (D1)). For example, the antenna (420) may be configured to radiate the first wireless signal through a first beam directed toward the direction (D1) of the holographic pattern (430).

[0116] The holographic pattern (430) can receive at least a portion of the first radio signal radiated from the antenna (420). For example, the holographic pattern (430) can receive at least a portion of the first radio signal radiated from the antenna (420) through the first beam via the dielectric substrate (410).

[0117] The holographic pattern (430) may be configured to radiate a second wireless signal based on at least a portion of the first wireless signal. For example, the holographic pattern (430) may radiate a second wireless signal through a second beam in a direction different from the first direction (D1) (e.g., direction (D2) in FIG. 7b) based on at least a portion of the first wireless signal. For example, electromagnetic waves generated through the feeding of the antenna (420) are transmitted to the holographic pattern (430) through the dielectric substrate (410), and the radiation energy transmitted to the holographic patterns (430) is combined to form the second beam in a direction different from the first direction (D1) (e.g., direction (D2) in FIG. 7b).

[0118] The direction of the second beam may be determined according to the holographic pattern (430). For example, a specific pattern forming a beam in a specific direction may be designed based on a reference phase for each location where electromagnetic waves from the antenna (420) are transmitted to the surface of the dielectric substrate (410). In FIG. 4, a holographic pattern (430) is illustrated that includes a plurality of lines (431, 432, 433, 434, and 435) arranged along the direction (D1) (e.g., formed of a conductive material).

[0119] For example, each of the plurality of lines (431, 432, 433, 434, and 435) may extend from the third side (410c) of the dielectric substrate (410) to the fourth side (410d). The plurality of lines (431, 432, 433, 434, and 435) may be spaced apart from each other. The spacing of the plurality of lines (431, 432, 433, 434, and 435) may correspond to the wavelength of the first radio signal radiated from the antenna (420). Each of the plurality of lines (431, 432, 433, 434, and 435) may have a convex shape toward the second side (410b) of the dielectric substrate (410) (e.g., in the direction (D1)). This may be because the first wireless signal radiated from the antenna (420) has a spherical wave. For example, though not limited to, the closer the plurality of lines (431, 432, 433, 434, and 435) are to the antenna (420), the greater the degree of curvature of the plurality of lines (431, 432, 433, 434, and 435). For example, among the plurality of lines (431, 432, 433, 434, and 435), the degree of curvature of the first line (431) closest to the antenna (420) may be greater than that of the other lines (432, 433, 434, and 435). Each of the plurality of lines (431, 432, 433, 434, and 435) may be referred to as a meta-line, a meta-surface line, a conductive line, or a holographic line. However, the number and / or shape of the plurality of lines (431, 432, 433, 434, and 435) are not limited to the illustrated examples and may vary depending on the dielectric constant of the dielectric substrate (410), the size of the dielectric substrate (410), and / or the operating frequency of the antenna module (400).

[0120] As described above, the holographic pattern (430) can be operated by electromagnetic waves (e.g., the first wireless signal) radiated by the antenna (420) without direct feeding by the wireless communication circuit of the electronic device (200). In this respect, the antenna (420) may be referred to as the feed portion or feed antenna of the antenna module (400). For example, but not limited to, the antenna module (400) may not include a conductive layer (e.g., a ground layer for the antenna (420) and / or a ground layer for the holographic pattern (430)) formed on the second surface (410B) of the dielectric substrate (410).

[0121] FIG. 6a is a graph showing the S-parameter (scattering parameter) of an antenna according to one embodiment. FIG. 6b is a graph showing the radiation pattern of an antenna according to one embodiment. The horizontal axis of FIG. 6a represents frequency (unit: GHz), and the vertical axis of FIG. 6a represents the S-parameter (unit: dB) of the antenna (420) of the antenna module (400). The x-axis of FIG. 6b may be, for example, the direction (D1) of FIG. 4. The y-axis of FIG. 6b may be, for example, a direction perpendicular to the direction (D1) of FIG. 4 and parallel to the first surface (410A) of the dielectric substrate (410) (e.g., the direction in which the fourth side (410d) of FIG. 4 faces). The z-axis of FIG. 6b may be a direction perpendicular to the direction (D1) of FIG. 4 and the first surface (410A) of the dielectric substrate (410), for example (e.g., the direction in which the first surface (410A) of the dielectric substrate (410) of FIG. 4 faces). FIG. 6b shows the gain (unit: dBi) according to each direction of the antenna (420) of the antenna module (400). In FIG. 6b, the direction (D1) of FIG. 4 is also shown.

[0122] In one embodiment, the antenna (420) of the antenna module (400) may be operated in a first frequency band included in 5G communication and / or 6G communication (e.g., a cm-Wave band of about 7 GHz to about 24 GHz). For example, as shown in FIG. 6a, the antenna (420) may have a resonant frequency (and / or center frequency) of about 12.5 GHz, but is not limited thereto. The first radio signal radiated by the antenna (420) may have a frequency corresponding to the first frequency band (e.g., about 12.5 GHz). Referring to FIG. 6b, the antenna (420) may have maximum gain in direction (D1) and may form a directional beam in direction (D1).

[0123] FIG. 7a is a diagram showing S-parameters of an antenna module according to one embodiment. FIG. 7b and FIG. 7c are diagrams showing radiation patterns of an antenna module according to one embodiment. FIG. 7a may be S-parameters (unit: dB) according to the frequency (unit: GHz) of a holographic pattern (430) operated by an antenna (420) according to one embodiment. FIG. 7b and FIG. 7c may be radiation patterns of a holographic pattern (430) operated by an antenna (420) according to one embodiment. For example, the x-axis of FIG. 7b and FIG. 7c may be the direction (D1) of FIG. 4. For example, the z-axis of FIGS. 7b and 7c may be a direction perpendicular to the direction (D1) of FIG. 4 and the first surface (410A) of the dielectric substrate (410) (e.g., the direction in which the first surface (410A) of the dielectric substrate (410) of FIG. 4 faces). For example, the y-axis of FIG. 7c may be a direction perpendicular to the direction (D1) of FIG. 4 and parallel to the first surface (410A) of the dielectric substrate (410) (e.g., the direction in which the fourth side (410d) of FIG. 4 faces). FIGS. 7b and 7c show the gain (unit: dBi) according to each direction of the holographic pattern (430) operated by the antenna (420). In FIGS. 7b and 7c, the direction (D1) of FIG. 4 is shown together.

[0124] In one embodiment, the antenna module (400) (or holographic pattern (430)) may be operated in a second frequency band included in 5G communication and / or 6G communication (e.g., a cm-Wave band of about 7 GHz to about 24 GHz). The second frequency band of the holographic pattern (430) may be substantially the same as the first frequency band of the antenna (420), but is not limited thereto (e.g., may be different).

[0125] For example, as illustrated in FIG. 7a, the antenna module (400) (or holographic pattern (430)) may have a resonant frequency (and / or center frequency) of about 13 GHz, but is not limited thereto. The second radio signal radiated by the antenna module (400) (or holographic pattern (430)) may have a frequency corresponding to the second frequency band (e.g., about 13 GHz).

[0126] Referring to FIGS. 7b and 7c, the beam pattern of the second radio signal radiated by the holographic pattern (430) in response to the first radio signal transmitted from the antenna (420) may have maximum gain in the directions (D2 and / or D3) and may be oriented according to the directions (D2 and / or D3). For example, the direction (D2) may be, for example, different from the direction (D1), not parallel to the dielectric substrate (410), and directed upward toward the dielectric substrate (410). The angle (a) between the direction (D1) and the direction (D2) may be, for example, about 72 degrees, which is not limited. For example, the direction (D3) may be different from the direction (D1), not parallel to the dielectric substrate (410), and directed downward toward the dielectric substrate (410). For example, the direction (D3) may be a direction symmetric to the direction (D2) with respect to the dielectric substrate (410) or direction (D1), without limitation.

[0127] FIG. 8 is a drawing showing an antenna structure of an electronic device according to one embodiment. FIG. 9a shows S-parameters of an antenna structure of an electronic device according to one embodiment. FIG. 9b shows a radiation pattern of an antenna structure of an electronic device according to one embodiment. FIG. 9c shows a radiation pattern of an antenna structure of an electronic device according to one embodiment. FIG. 9a may show S-parameters (unit: dB) according to the frequency (unit: GHz) of an antenna module (400) when an antenna module (400) is placed on a battery (270). FIG. 9b may show a radiation pattern of an antenna module (400) when an antenna module (400) is placed on a battery (270). FIG. 9c may show a radiation pattern of an antenna module (400) when an antenna module (400) is placed on a battery (270). For example, the z-axis and direction (D92) of FIGS. 9b and 9c may be the direction in which the first surface (410A) of the dielectric substrate (410) of FIG. 8 faces. For example, the direction (D93) of FIGS. 9b and 9c may be the direction opposite to the direction (D92). For example, the direction (D93) of FIGS. 9b and 9c may be the direction in which the second surface (410B) of the dielectric substrate (410) faces toward the battery (270) of FIG. 8. For example, the x-axis of FIGS. 9b and 9c may be the direction (D1) of FIG. 4. The y-axis of FIG. 9c may be an axis perpendicular to the z-axis and x-axis of FIGS. 9b and 9c. FIGS. 9b and 9c show the gain (unit: dBi) according to each direction of the holographic pattern (430) of the antenna module (400) placed on the battery (270).

[0128] Referring to FIG. 8, an antenna module (400) according to one embodiment may be placed on a battery (270). For example, the antenna module (400) may be placed on or over the battery (270) such that a second surface (410B) of the dielectric substrate (410) faces the battery (270). For example, the antenna module (400) may be attached to the battery (270) through an adhesive material formed of a non-conductive material. For example, but not limited to, the distance between the antenna module (400) and the battery (270) (e.g., the distance separated through the adhesive material) may be about 0.5 mm.

[0129] In one embodiment, the antenna module (400) disposed on the battery (270) may be operated in a third frequency band included in 5G communication and / or 6G communication (e.g., a cm-Wave band of about 7 GHz to about 24 GHz). The third frequency band may be substantially the same as the first frequency band and / or the second frequency band, but is not limited thereto (e.g., may be different).

[0130] For example, as illustrated in FIG. 9a, the antenna module (400) placed on the battery (270) may have a first resonant frequency of about 11.5 GHz and a second resonant frequency of about 13 GHz, but is not limited thereto. The second radio signal radiated by the antenna module (400) placed on the battery (270) may have a frequency corresponding to the third frequency band (e.g., about 11.5 GHz and / or about 13 GHz).

[0131] In one embodiment, a battery (270) placed below the antenna module (400) can function as a ground and / or reflector for the antenna module (400). For example, referring to FIGS. 9b and 9c, the gain of a wireless signal radiated in a direction (D93) (e.g., direction (D3) in FIG. 7b) can be improved by reflecting the wireless signal radiated in a direction (D92) (e.g., direction (D2) in FIG. 7b). Comparing FIG. 7b and FIG. 9b, the maximum gain (e.g., 10.2 dBi) of the antenna module (400) placed on the battery (270) can be improved compared to the maximum gain (e.g., 8.5 dBi) of the antenna module (400) without the battery (270).

[0132] A battery (270) placed below the antenna module (400) can be understood as being included in the antenna structure of the electronic device (200) in terms of improving the performance of the antenna module (400), and the battery (270) and the antenna module (400) placed on the battery (270). Alternatively, the antenna module (400) may be placed on another conductive structure capable of performing a reflector function, rather than on the battery (270). For example, the other conductive structure may include, but is not limited to, a shield can mounted on a printed circuit board (e.g., the first printed circuit board (250) of FIG. 2b).

[0133] Alternatively, the antenna module (400) may be formed integrally with the battery (270). For example, the dielectric substrate (410) of the antenna module (400) may be formed integrally with the package of the battery (270), and the antenna (420) and holographic pattern (430) may be formed thereon. As another example, the antenna (420) and holographic pattern (430) may be formed directly on the package of the battery (270) using laser direct structuring (LDS).

[0134] FIG. 10a shows a stacked structure of an antenna structure of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0135] Referring to FIG. 10a, according to one embodiment, the antenna structure of an electronic device (200) may include a battery (270), an antenna module (380) disposed on the battery (270) (e.g., an antenna for wireless charging), and an antenna module (400) disposed on the antenna module (380). The antenna module (400) may be disposed such that a second surface (410B) faces the antenna module (380).

[0136] FIG. 10b is a drawing showing an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0137] Referring to FIG. 10b, the antenna structure of the electronic device (200) may be positioned between the frame structure (240) and the rear plate (211). For example, a battery (270) may be positioned on the frame structure (240) (e.g., the second part (243)). An antenna module (380) may be positioned on the battery (270). An antenna module (400) may be positioned on the antenna module (380). The antenna module (400) may be positioned between the antenna module (380) and the rear plate (211). For example, the first surface (410A) of the antenna module (400) may face the rear plate (211). For example, the antenna module (400) may be spaced apart from the rear plate (211), but is not limited thereto. For example, the first surface (410A) of the antenna module (400) may be in contact with the rear plate (211) at least partially.

[0138] In one embodiment, the holographic pattern (430) of the antenna module (400) may be configured to radiate the second wireless signal toward the rear plate (211) based on at least a portion of the first wireless signal radiated from the antenna (420) of the antenna module (400). For example, the holographic pattern (430) of the antenna module (400) may be configured to radiate the second wireless signal through a beam toward the rear plate (211) based on at least a portion of the first wireless signal of the antenna (420).

[0139] FIG. 10c is a drawing showing an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0140] Although it has been described above that an antenna module (380) may be placed between the antenna module (400) and the battery (270), it is not limited thereto. For example, referring to FIG. 10c, the antenna module (400) may be placed on the battery (270) without the antenna module (380).

[0141] FIG. 10d shows an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0142] Referring to FIG. 10d, a first printed circuit board (250) and a second printed circuit board (252) may each be disposed on a frame structure (240) (e.g., a second part (243)). A battery (270) (and / or an antenna module (380)) may be located between the first printed circuit board (250) and the second printed circuit board (252). An antenna module (400) disposed on the battery (270) (or antenna module (380)) may be located between the first printed circuit board (250) and the second printed circuit board (252). The antenna module (400) may be positioned such that the antenna (420) faces the first printed circuit board (250) between the first printed circuit board (250) and the second printed circuit board (252), but is not limited thereto (e.g., conversely, the antenna (420) may be positioned so that it faces the second printed circuit board (252). In one embodiment, the area of ​​the battery (270) may be larger than the area of ​​the antenna module (400).

[0143] Figure 11 is a graph showing the wireless charging efficiency of an electronic device as a function of distance.

[0144] The horizontal axis of FIG. 11 represents the distance (unit: mm) between a power receiving device and a power transmitting device (e.g., a wireless charging pad), and the vertical axis of FIG. 11 represents the ratio (unit: %) of the energy transferred to the power receiving device out of the energy generated by the power transmitting device. That is, the vertical axis of FIG. 11 represents the wireless charging efficiency of the power receiving device.

[0145] 1101 of FIG. 11 represents the wireless charging efficiency of an electronic device (e.g., the power receiving device) according to a comparative example, and 1102 of FIG. 11 represents the wireless charging efficiency of an electronic device (200) (e.g., the power receiving device) according to one embodiment.

[0146] The electronic device according to the comparative example may include an antenna module (380) for wireless charging and may not include an antenna module (400). The electronic device (200) according to one embodiment may include an antenna module (380) for wireless charging and an antenna module (400) disposed on the antenna module (380).

[0147] Referring to FIG. 11, regardless of whether or not the antenna module (400) is included, the wireless charging efficiency of the electronic device according to the comparative example and the wireless charging efficiency of the electronic device (200) according to the embodiment may be substantially the same. For example, during wireless charging operation, the coupling coefficient of the electronic device according to the comparative example and the coupling coefficient of the electronic device (200) according to the embodiment may be approximately 0.61, which may be substantially the same. Additionally, during wireless charging operation, the transmittance of the electronic device according to the comparative example and the transmittance of the electronic device (200) according to the embodiment may both be approximately 100%, which may be substantially the same.

[0148] FIG. 12 is a drawing showing an antenna module according to one embodiment.

[0149] Referring to FIG. 12, an electronic device (200) according to one embodiment may include an antenna module (1200) (e.g., antenna module (400)). The antenna module (1200) may include a dielectric substrate (1210) (e.g., dielectric substrate (410)), an antenna (1220) (e.g., antenna (420)), and a holographic pattern (1230) (e.g., holographic pattern (430)).

[0150] Unlike the antenna (420) of the aforementioned antenna module (400) being configured as a Yagi-Uda antenna, the antenna (1220) of the antenna module (1200) may be configured as an array antenna. For example, the array antenna of the antenna module (1200) may include a plurality of dipole antennas having a specified array, but is not limited thereto. The plurality of dipole antennas are shown having a 1x5 array, but are not limited thereto.

[0151] The antenna (1220) of the antenna module (1200) can form a directional beam directed toward a direction (D121) (e.g., direction (D1)). Unlike the antenna (420) of the antenna module (400) forming a spherical wave, the antenna (1220) of the antenna module (1200) can be configured to form a planar wave. Accordingly, the holographic pattern (1230) of the antenna module (1200) can also be different from the holographic pattern (430) of the antenna module (400). For example, unlike the holographic pattern (430) of the antenna module (400) which includes a plurality of lines having a curved shape, the plurality of lines of the holographic pattern (1230) of the antenna module (1200) can have a shape that is parallel to each other (e.g., spaced apart) and straight perpendicular to the direction (D121).

[0152] FIG. 13 is a drawing showing an antenna module according to one embodiment.

[0153] Referring to FIG. 13, an electronic device (200) according to one embodiment may include a first antenna module (1300-1) and a second antenna module (1300-2) stacked on the first antenna module (1300-1).

[0154] For the first antenna module (1300-1), the description provided with reference to the antenna module (1200) of FIG. 12 may be applied substantially in the same or corresponding manner. For example, the first antenna module (1300-1) may include a first dielectric substrate (1310-1) (e.g., dielectric substrate (1210)), a first antenna (1320-1) (e.g., antenna (1220)), and a first holographic pattern (1330-1) (e.g., holographic pattern (1330)).

[0155] For the second antenna module (1300-2), the description provided with reference to the antenna module (1200) of FIG. 12 may be applied substantially in the same or corresponding manner. For example, the second antenna module (1300-2) may include a second dielectric substrate (1310-2) (e.g., dielectric substrate (1210)), a second antenna (1320-2) (e.g., antenna (1220)), and a second holographic pattern (1330-2) (e.g., holographic pattern (1330)).

[0156] Although not shown, the first antenna module (1300-1) or the second antenna module (1300-2) may be placed on the battery (270), antenna module (380), or other conductive structure of the electronic device (200).

[0157] In one embodiment, the first antenna module (1300-1) may be arranged vertically with respect to the second antenna module (1300-2). Accordingly, the first antenna module (1300-1) may have a first polarization characteristic (e.g., vertical polarization), and the second antenna module (1300-2) may have a second polarization characteristic (e.g., horizontal polarization) perpendicular to the first polarization characteristic. Accordingly, by implementing two different polarizations (e.g., dual polarization), it may be possible to maximize the transmission speed of the communication channel.

[0158] Although the antenna modules (1300-1 and 1300-2) are exemplified as supporting dual polarization, they are not limited thereto. For example, antenna modules stacked on top of each other may be configured to operate in different frequency bands. In this case, the shape of the holographic patterns of the antenna modules stacked on top of each other (e.g., pattern spacing) may vary depending on the wavelength of the signal to be transmitted or received. An antenna (e.g., antenna (420)) included in each of the antenna modules stacked on top of each other and configured to operate in different frequency bands may be electrically connected to the wireless communication circuit of the electronic device (200).

[0159] As another example, a first antenna module (e.g., antenna modules (400 or 1200)) may operate in a frequency band for 5G communication, and a second antenna module (e.g., antenna modules (400 or 1200)) stacked on the first antenna module may operate in a frequency band for 6G communication. In this case, the first antenna module (or the second antenna module) may be electrically connected to the wireless communication circuit of the electronic device (200), and the second antenna module (or the first antenna module) may be electrically connected to another wireless communication circuit of the electronic device (200) that is distinct from the wireless communication circuit.

[0160] FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing the operation of an antenna module according to one embodiment.

[0161] The operations of FIG. 14 can be performed by a processor (e.g., processor (120)) of an electronic device (200). For example, the processor of the electronic device (200) can execute instructions stored in the memory of the electronic device (200) (e.g., memory (130)). For example, operations (or functions) defined by instructions can be performed by the electronic device (200) based on the processor executing the instructions.

[0162] Referring to FIG. 14, in operation 1410, the electronic device (200) can identify whether the electric field exceeds a reference value. For example, the electronic device (200) can detect various RF parameters (radio frequency parameters), such as signal strength or phase information, and determine whether the electric field exceeds a reference value based on the detected RF parameters. The reference value may be, for example, -80 dBm, but is not limited thereto. In operation 1410, if the electric field is below the reference value, operation 1420 may be performed. In operation 1410, if the electric field exceeds the reference value, operation 1430 may be performed.

[0163] In operation 1420, the electronic device (200) may operate in a first mode. For example, the electronic device (200) may operate in a first mode in response to identifying that the electric field is below a reference value. For example, the first mode may be a mode in which the first antenna module (1300-1) and the second antenna module (1300-2) operate in a diversity mode for wireless communication of the electronic device (200). For example, the wireless communication circuit of the electronic device (200) may receive and / or transmit a multipath signal in the diversity mode using the first antenna module (1300-1) and the second antenna module (1300-2).

[0164] In operation 1430, the electronic device (200) may operate in a second mode. For example, the electronic device (200) may operate in a second mode in response to identifying that the electric field exceeds a reference value. For example, the second mode may be a mode in which the first antenna module (1300-1) and the second antenna module (1300-2) operate in a MIMO manner for wireless communication of the electronic device (200). For example, the wireless communication circuit of the electronic device (200) may receive and / or transmit a multipath signal in the MIMO manner using the first antenna module (1300-1) and the second antenna module (1300-2).

[0165] The aforementioned electronic device (200) is exemplified as having a bar-type form factor, but the form factor of the electronic device (200) is not limited thereto. For example, the electronic device (200) may be a sliderable device. The sliderable device may include, for example, a first housing part and a second housing part slidably coupled to the first housing part. Depending on the sliding of the second housing part, at least a portion of the second housing part may be drawn into the first housing part or drawn out of the first housing part. Accordingly, the size of the sliderable device may be variable. The sliderable device may include a flexible display configured such that the size of the display area varies depending on the sliding of the first housing part and the second housing part. The sliderable device may include, for example, a first battery disposed within the first housing part and / or a second battery disposed within the second housing part. An antenna module having a holographic pattern according to the present disclosure (e.g., antenna module (400 or 1200)) may be placed in the first battery and / or the second battery.

[0166] In another example, the electronic device (200) may include a plurality of housings. Two adjacent housings among the plurality of housings may be rotatably coupled to each other. For example, the electronic device (200) may include a first housing part and a second housing part that are rotatably coupled to each other through a hinge structure. The electronic device (200) may include a first battery disposed within the first housing part and a second battery disposed within the second housing part. An antenna module having a holographic pattern according to the present disclosure (e.g., antenna module (400 or 1200)) may be disposed in the first battery and / or the second battery.

[0167] With reference to the drawings below, a multi-foldable device (1500) comprising a first housing part (1510), a second housing part (1520), and a third housing part (1530) is illustrated. An antenna module having a holographic pattern according to the present disclosure (e.g., antenna module (400 or 1200)) may be placed on at least one of a first battery placed in the first housing part (1510), a second battery placed in the second housing part (1520), and / or a third battery placed in the third housing part (1530), which will be described later.

[0168] FIG. 15a illustrates an example of a first state of an electronic device. FIG. 15b illustrates an example of a second state of an electronic device. FIG. 15c illustrates an example of a third state of an electronic device.

[0169] Referring to FIGS. 15a, 15b, and 15c, the electronic device (1500) may include a housing structure (1501), a flexible display (1540), a first hinge structure (1550), a second hinge structure (1560), and a display (1570). The housing structure (1501) may include a first housing part (1510), a second housing part (1520), and a third housing part (1530).

[0170] The first housing part (1510) can be rotatably coupled to the second housing part (1520) by the first hinge structure (1550). The second housing part (1520) and the first housing part (1510) can be rotated about the first hinge structure (1550). While the first housing part (1510) is rotated about the first hinge structure (1550), the second housing part (1520) can be rotated about the first hinge structure (1550). For example, when the second housing part (1520) and the first housing part (1510) are rotated about the first hinge structure (1550), the angular displacement of the second housing part (1520) may be substantially the same as the angular displacement of the first housing part (1510).

[0171] The third housing part (1530) can be rotatably coupled to the second housing part (1520) by the second hinge structure (1560). The second housing part (1520) and the third housing part (1530) can be rotated about the second hinge structure (1560). While the second housing part (1520) is rotated about the second hinge structure (1560), the third housing part (1530) can be rotated about the second hinge structure (1560). For example, when the second housing part (1520) and the third housing part (1530) are rotated about the second hinge structure (1560), the angular displacement (or angular change) of the second housing part (1520) may be substantially the same as the angular displacement of the third housing part (1530).

[0172] The first hinge structure (1550) and the second hinge structure (1560) can change the state of the electronic device. The first hinge structure (1550) and the second hinge structure (1560) can provide (or enable) a first state (1500a) of the electronic device (1500) (or a first state (1500a) of the housing structure (1501). The first state (1500a) of the electronic device (1500) (or a first state (1500a)) of the housing structure (1501) can be described as an unfolded state (or unfolded state) of the electronic device (1500) (or housing structure (1501)). In the first state (1500a), the front of the first housing part (1510), the front of the second housing part (1520), and the front of the third housing part (1530) may define the front of the electronic device (1500). In the first state (1500a), the front of the first housing part (1510), the front of the second housing part (1520), and the front of the third housing part (1530) may face the same direction. In the first state (1500a), the electronic device (1500) may provide the user with a large display area of ​​the flexible display (1540).

[0173] The first hinge structure (1550) and the second hinge structure (1560) can provide a second state (1500b) of the electronic device (1500). The second state (1500b) of the electronic device (1500) can be described as a state in which the electronic device (1500) is partially folded and partially unfolded (or a single folding state or a half folding state). For example, within the second state (1500b), the front of the second housing part (1520) and the front of the third housing part (1530) may face in the same direction, and the front of the first housing part (1510) and the front of the second housing part (1520) may face in opposite directions. For example, in the second state (1500b), the first housing part (1510) and the second housing part (1520) can be folded, and the second housing part (1520) and the third housing part (1530) can be unfolded. In the second state (1500b), the electronic device (1500) can provide visual information through a part of the flexible display (1540) (e.g., a third display area (1540c)).

[0174] The electronic device (1500) can change from a first state (1500a) to a third state (1500c) through a second state (1500b). The electronic device (1500) can change from a first state (1500a) which is an unfolded state to a second state (1500b) which is a partially unfolded state. For example, the electronic device (1500) can change from a first state (1500a) in which the first housing part (1510), the second housing part (1520), and the third housing part (1530) face the same direction to a second state (1500b) in which the front of the first housing part (1510) faces the front of the second housing part (1520). The electronic device (1500) can change from a second state (1500b) which is a partially unfolded state to a third state (1500c) which is a folded state. For example, when changing from the second state (1500b) to the third state (1500c), the folded first housing part (1510) and the second housing part (1520) can be placed on the third housing part (1530).

[0175] The first hinge structure (1550) and the second hinge structure (1560) can provide a third state (1500c) of the electronic device (1500) (or a third state (1500c) of the housing structure (1501). The third state (1500c) of the electronic device (1500) (or a third state (1500c) of the housing structure (1501)) can be described as a folded state (or a folded state or a multi-folded state) of the electronic device (1500) (or the housing structure (1501)). In the third state (1500c), the front of the first housing part (1510) and the front of the second housing part (1520) may face in opposite directions, and the front of the second housing part (1520) and the front of the third housing part (1530) may face in opposite directions. In the third state (1500c), the front of the first housing part (1510) and the front of the third housing part (1530) may face each other in the same direction. For example, in the third state (1500c), the front of the second housing part (1520) may face the front of the first housing part (1510), and the front of the third housing part (1530) may face the rear of the first housing part (1510). In the third state (1500c), the rear of the second housing part (1520) may be exposed to the outside. A display (1570) may be placed on the rear of the second housing part (1520). In the third state (1500c), the rear of the third housing part (1530) may be exposed to the outside. A camera (1575) may be placed on the rear of the third housing part (1530). In the third state (1500c), the electronic device (1500) can be folded to improve portability and can provide visual information through a display (1570) positioned on the rear of the second housing part (1520).

[0176] The electronic device (1500) may further include a key button (1539). The key button (1539) may be exposed from a structure (e.g., an opening) formed on the side of the third housing part (1530) and may partially protrude outside the electronic device (1500). The key button (1539) may provide physical input to a processing circuit inside the electronic device (1500) by pressure transmitted from the outside. The key button (1539) may not be included in the electronic device (1500) and may be implemented in other forms, such as a soft key displayed on a flexible display (1540) or a display (1570).

[0177] A key button (1539) may be positioned on the side of the third housing part (1530) so as to be exposed to the outside in the third state (1500c). As the key button (1539) is positioned on the side of the third housing part (1530), it may be positioned in the direction in which the side of the third housing part (1530) faces. Even if the position of the key button (1539) positioned on the side of the third housing part (1530) is changed to the first state (1500a) by a user looking at the display (1570) in the third state (1500c), the position of the key button (1539) positioned on the side of the third housing part (1530) may not be moved. For example, referring to FIG. 15a, in the first state (1500a), when the flexible display (1540) is viewed from above, the key button (1539) may be positioned on the right side. Referring to FIG. 15b, in the third state (1500c), when viewing the display (1570) from above, the key button (1539) may be positioned on the right.

[0178] A flexible display (1540) may define the appearance of an electronic device (1500) at least partially. The flexible display (1540) may be partially disposed within a housing structure (1501). The flexible display (1540) may define the front of the electronic device (1500). The flexible display (1540) may include a first unbendable portion (1541), a second unbendable portion (1542), a third unbendable portion (1543), a first bendable portion (1544), and a second bendable portion (1545). The first unbendable portion (1541) of the flexible display (1540) may be disposed on the front of the first housing part (1510). A second unbendable portion (1542) of the flexible display (1540) may be placed on the front of the second housing part (1520). A third unbendable portion (1543) of the flexible display (1540) may be placed on the front of the third housing part (1530). A first bendable portion (1544) of the flexible display (1540) may be placed between the first unbendable portion (1541) and the second unbendable portion (1542) of the flexible display (1540). For example, the first bendable portion (1544) of the flexible display (1540) may be placed on a first hinge structure (1550) connecting the first housing part (1510) and the second housing part (1520). The second bendable portion (1545) of the flexible display (1540) may be positioned between the second unbendable portion (1542) and the third unbendable portion (1543) of the flexible display (1540). For example, the second bendable portion (1545) of the flexible display (1540) may be positioned on a second hinge structure (1560) connecting the second housing part (1520) and the third housing part (1530).

[0179] The first hinge structure (1550) and the second hinge structure (1560) may have the first unbendable portion (1541) of the flexible display (1540), the second unbendable portion (1542) of the flexible display (1540), and the third unbendable portion (1543) of the flexible display (1540) oriented substantially in the same direction. In the first state (1500a), the first bendable portion (1544) and the second bendable portion (1545) may be positioned in substantially the same horizontal plane as the first unbendable portion (1541), the second unbendable portion (1542), and the third unbendable portion (1543).

[0180] The first hinge structure (1550) and the second hinge structure (1560) can provide a second state (1500b) of the electronic device (1500). In the second state (1500b), the first unbendable portion (1541) of the flexible display (1540) may face the second unbendable portion (1542) of the flexible display (1540), and the third unbendable portion (1543) of the flexible display (1540) may face the same direction as the second unbendable portion (1542) of the flexible display (1540). For example, the second unbendable portion (1542) and the third unbendable portion (1543) may be positioned substantially on the same horizontal plane.

[0181] In the second state (1500b), the first bendable portion (1544) of the flexible display (1540) is bent by the first hinge structure (1550), so that the first bendable portion (1544) of the flexible display (1540) can be folded such that the first unbendable portion (1541) of the flexible display (1540) and the second unbendable portion (1542) of the flexible display (1540) face in different directions.

[0182] In the second state (1500b), the second bendable portion (1545) of the flexible display (1540) is maintained in an unfolded state by the second hinge structure (1560), so that the second bendable portion (1545) of the flexible display (1540) can be unfolded such that the second unbendable portion (1542) of the flexible display (1540) and the third unbendable portion (1543) of the flexible display (1540) face each other in the same direction.

[0183] The first hinge structure (1550) and the second hinge structure (1560) can provide a third state (1500c) of the electronic device (1500). In the third state (1500c), the second unbendable portion (1542) of the flexible display (1540) faces the first unbendable portion (1541) of the flexible display (1540), and the third unbendable portion (1543) of the flexible display (1540) may face the rear of the first housing part (1510).

[0184] In the third state (1500c), the first bendable portion (1544) of the flexible display (1540) is bent by the first hinge structure (1550), so that the first bendable portion (1544) of the flexible display (1540) can be folded such that the first unbendable portion (1541) of the flexible display (1540) and the second unbendable portion (1542) of the flexible display (1540) face in different directions.

[0185] In the third state (1500c), the second bendable portion (1545) of the flexible display (1540) is bent by the second hinge structure (1560), so that the second bendable portion (1545) of the flexible display (1540) can be folded such that the second unbendable portion (1542) of the flexible display (1540) and the third unbendable portion (1543) of the flexible display (1540) face in different directions. The second bendable portion (1545) may further include a first deformation portion (1545a), a second deformation portion (1545b), and a flat portion (1545c). The first deformation part (1545a) may be positioned between the flat part (1545c) and the second unbendable part (1542), and the second deformation part (1545b) may be positioned between the flat part (1545c) and the third unbendable part (1543). The flat part (1545c) may be positioned between the first deformation part (1545a) and the second deformation part (1545b). The flat part (1545c) may be supported by a support plate (e.g., the support plate (1664) of FIG. 16a) that is distinct from the hinge plates of the second hinge structure (1560) (e.g., the third hinge plate (1662) and the fourth hinge plate (1663) of FIG. 16a). Regardless of the state of the electronic device (1500), the flat part (1545c) may remain flat. The first deformation part (1545a) and the second deformation part (1545b) are unfolded in the first state (1500a) and the second state (1500b), and in the third state (1500c), the first deformation part (1545a) and the second deformation part (1545b) can be bent so that the second unbendable part (1542) and the third unbendable part (1543) face different directions. In the third state (1500c), the first housing part (1510) can be positioned between the second housing part (1520) and the third housing part (1530).In the third state (1500c), the second bendable portion (1545) of the flexible display (1540) placed on the second hinge structure (1560) may partially face the side (1510c) of the first housing part (1510).

[0186] The display area of ​​the flexible display (1540) may include a first display area (1540a), a second display area (1540b), and a third display area (1540c). The display area represents an area capable of providing visual information from the flexible display (1540). In a first state (1500a), the entire display area of ​​the flexible display (1540) may be visible from the front of the housing structure (1501). For example, in the first state (1500a), the first display area (1540a), the second display area (1540b), and the third display area (1540c) of the flexible display (1540) may be visually exposed. The electronic device (1500) may provide a large display area to the user that includes the first display area (1540a), the second display area (1540b), and the third display area (1540c).

[0187] In the second state (1500b), the display area of ​​the flexible display (1540) may be partially visible from the front of the third housing part (1530). For example, the third display area (1540c) may be visually exposed, while the first display area (1540a) and the second display area (1540b) may not be visually exposed.

[0188] In the third state (1500c), the display area of ​​the flexible display (1540) may not be visible. For example, in the third state (1500c), the first display area (1540a), the second display area (1540b), and the third display area (1540c) of the flexible display (1540) may not be visually exposed.

[0189] In a non-limiting example, when the flexible display (1540) is used to display a screen within a first state (1500a) of the electronic device (1500), the first display area (1540a), the second display area (1540b), and the third display area (1540c) of the flexible display (1540) may be activated. In a non-limiting example, within a third state (1500c), the first display area (1540a), the second display area (1540b), and the third display area (1540c) of the flexible display (1540) may be deactivated. In a non-limiting example, within a second state (1500b) of the electronic device (1500), when the flexible display (1540) is used to display a screen, the third display area (1540c) may be activated, and the first display area (1540a) and the second display area (1540b) of the flexible display (1540) may be deactivated.

[0190] In a non-limiting example, when the flexible display (1540) is used to display a screen within a first state (1500a) of the electronic device (1500), the first display area (1540a), the second display area (1540b), and the third display area (1540c) of the flexible display (1540) may display visual information. In a non-limiting example, within a third state (1500c), the first display area (1540a), the second display area (1540b), and the third display area (1540c) of the flexible display (1540) may provide a black image. As a non-limiting example, in a second state (1500b) of the electronic device (1500), when the flexible display (1540) is used to display a screen, the third display area (1540c) may provide visual information, and the first display area (1540a) and the second display area (1540b) of the flexible display (1540) may provide a black image.

[0191] FIG. 16a is a top view of an electronic device with the flexible display removed. FIG. 16b is a rear view of an electronic device with the rear cover and display removed.

[0192] Referring to FIGS. 16a and 16b, the electronic device (1500) may include a first hinge structure (1550) and a second hinge structure (1560). The first width (w1) of the first hinge structure (1550) may be narrower than the second width (w2) of the second hinge structure (1560). The difference between the first width (w1) of the first hinge structure (1550) and the second width (w2) of the second hinge structure (1560) may be equal to or greater than the thickness of the first housing part (1510). For example, the second hinge structure (1560) may have a second width (w2) wider than the first width (w1) so that, according to the third state (1500c), the first housing part (1510) is positioned between the second housing part (1520) and the third housing part (1530). The first hinge structure (1550) may be referred to as a narrow hinge structure in that it has a narrower width than the second hinge structure (1560). The second hinge structure (1560) may be referred to as a wide hinge structure in that it has a wider width than the first hinge structure (1550).

[0193] The first hinge structure (1550) may include a first set of gears (1651), a first hinge plate (1652), and a second hinge plate (1653). The first hinge plate (1652) may be coupled to a first support portion (1511) of a first housing part (1510). The second hinge plate (1653) may be coupled to a second support portion (1521) of a second housing part (1520). The gears (g151, g152, g153, g154) included in the first set of gears (1651) may be configured to rotate the first hinge plate (1652) and the second hinge plate (1653). For example, the gears (g151, g152, g153, g154) included in the first set of gears (1651) can rotate the second hinge plate (1653) (or the second housing part (1520)) in conjunction with the rotation of the first hinge plate (1652) (or the first housing part (1510)). After the first hinge plate (1652) (or the first housing part (1510)) is rotated, the gears (g151, g152, g153, g154) included in the first set of gears (1651) can be rotated according to the rotation of the first hinge plate (1652) (or the first housing part (1510)). The second hinge plate (1653) (or the second housing part (1520)) may be rotated in conjunction with the rotation of the first hinge plate (1652) according to the rotation of the gears included in the first set of gears (1651). The gears (g151, g152, g153, g154) included in the first set of gears (1651) may include a first gear (g151), a second gear (g152), a third gear (g153), and a fourth gear (g154). The first gear (g151) may be positioned adjacent to the first hinge plate (1652), and the fourth gear (g154) may be positioned adjacent to the second hinge plate (1653). The second gear (g152) and the third gear (g153) can be positioned between the first gear (g151) and the fourth gear (g154).The first gear (g151), the second gear (g152), the third gear (g153), and the fourth gear (g154) can be engaged sequentially. Depending on the first rotational direction (e.g., clockwise) of the first gear (g151), the second gear (g152) engaged with the first gear (g151) 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 (g152), the third gear (g153) engaged with the second gear (g152) can be rotated in the first rotational direction. Depending on the first rotational direction of the third gear (g153), the fourth gear (g154) can be rotated in the second rotational direction. As the first gear (g151) and the fourth gear (g154) rotate in different directions, the first housing part (1510) connected to the first hinge plate (1652) and the second housing part (1520) connected to the second hinge plate (1653) can be folded or unfolded.

[0194] The second hinge structure (1560) may include a second set of gears (1661), a third hinge plate (1662), a fourth hinge plate (1663), and a support plate (1664). The third hinge plate (1662) may be coupled to the second support portion (1521) of the second housing part (1520). The fourth hinge plate (1663) may be coupled to the third support portion (1531) of the third housing part (1530). The gears (g161, g162, g163, g164, g165, g166) included in the second set of gears (1661) may be configured to rotate the third hinge plate (1662) and the fourth hinge plate (1663). For example, the gears (g161, g162, g163, g164, g165, g166) included in the second set of gears (1661) can rotate the fourth hinge plate (1663) (or the third housing part (1530)) in conjunction with the rotation of the third hinge plate (1662) (or the second housing part (1520)). After the third hinge plate (1662) (or the second housing part (1520)) is rotated, the gears (g161, g162, g163, g164, g165, g166) included in the second set of gears (1661) can be rotated according to the rotation of the third hinge plate (1662) (or the second housing part (1520)). The fourth hinge plate (1663) (or the third housing part (1530)) can be rotated in conjunction with the rotation of the third hinge plate (1662) according to the rotation of the gears (g161, g162, g163, g164, g165, g166) included in the second set of gears (1661).

[0195] The gears (g161, g162, g163, g164, g165, g166) included in the second set (1661) of gears may include a first gear (g161), a second gear (g162), a third gear (g163), a fourth gear (g164), a fifth gear (g165), and a sixth gear (g166). The first gear (g161) may be positioned adjacent to the third hinge plate (1662), and the sixth gear (g166) may be positioned adjacent to the fourth hinge plate (1663). The second gear (g162), the third gear (g163), the fourth gear (g164), and the fifth gear (g165) may be positioned between the first gear (g161) and the sixth gear (g166). The first gear (g161), second gear (g162), third gear (g163), fourth gear (g164), fifth gear (g165), and sixth gear (g166) can be engaged sequentially. Depending on the first rotational direction (e.g., clockwise) of the first gear (g161), the second gear (g162) engaged with the first gear (g161) 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 (g162), the third gear (g163) engaged with the second gear (g162) can be rotated in the first rotational direction. Depending on the first rotational direction of the third gear (g163), the fourth gear (g164) can be rotated in the second rotational direction. Depending on the rotation of the fourth gear (g164) in the second rotational direction, the fifth gear (g165) engaged with the fourth gear (g164) can be rotated in the first rotational direction. Depending on the rotation of the fifth gear (g165) in the first rotational direction, the sixth gear (g166) engaged with the fifth gear (g165) can be rotated in the second rotational direction. As the first gear (g161) and the sixth gear (g166) rotate in different directions, the second housing part (1520) connected to the third hinge plate (1662) and the third housing part (1530) connected to the fourth hinge plate (1663) can be folded or unfolded.

[0196] The first hinge structure (1550) and the second hinge structure (1560) 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.

[0197] The electronic device (1500) may include a first printed circuit board (1671), a second printed circuit board (1672), and a third printed circuit board (1673).

[0198] A first printed circuit board (1671) may be placed on a first support portion (1511) of a first housing part (1510). Hardware components within the first housing part (1510) may be mounted on the first printed circuit board (1671). A second printed circuit board (1672) may be placed on a second support portion (1521) of a second housing part (1520). A third printed circuit board (1673) may be placed on a third support portion (1531) of a third housing part (1530). Hardware components within the third housing part (1530) may be mounted on the third printed circuit board (1673).

[0199] Hardware components placed on the first printed circuit board (1671) may support or operate independently of hardware components placed on the second printed circuit board (1672) and / or hardware components placed on the third printed circuit board (1673).

[0200] Hardware components placed on the second printed circuit board (1672) may support or operate independently of hardware components placed on the first printed circuit board (1671) or the third printed circuit board (1673). Hardware components placed on the second printed circuit board (1672) may include a speaker, a front camera, and / or a display driving circuit.

[0201] Hardware components disposed on the third printed circuit board (1673) 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 (1575). The rear camera (1575) may be exposed through a structure (e.g., an opening) on ​​the rear of the third housing part (1530).

[0202] The electronic device (1500) may further include a sub-printed circuit board (1675) and flexible printed circuit boards (1680, 1690). The sub-printed circuit board (1675) may be placed in at least some of the first housing part (1510), the second housing part (1520), and the third housing part (1530). The flexible printed circuit boards (1680, 1690) may include a first flexible printed circuit board (1680) and a second flexible printed circuit board (1690). The first flexible printed circuit board (1680) may electrically connect the printed circuit boards placed in each of the housing parts (1510, 1520, 1530). The second flexible printed circuit board (1690) can connect the printed circuit board and the sub-printed circuit board (1675) within the housing part in which the sub-printed circuit board (1675) is placed by the second flexible printed circuit board (1690).

[0203] Components within the electronic device (1500) may be connected to at least one processor within the third printed circuit board (1673) via flexible printed circuit boards (1680, 1690). For example, a signal received from an antenna placed in the third housing part (1530) may be transmitted to the third printed circuit board (1673) where at least one processor (e.g., AP or CP) is placed via a signal path (a) provided by the first flexible printed circuit board (1680). A driving circuit for a flexible display (1540) placed in the first housing part (1510) may be connected to the third printed circuit board (1673) where at least one processor (e.g., AP) is placed via a sub-printed circuit board (1675) and a signal path (b) provided by the first flexible printed circuit board (1680). A driving circuit for a display (1570) connected to a sub-printed circuit board (1675) placed in a second housing part (1520) can be electrically connected to a third printed circuit board (1673) on which at least one processor (e.g., AP) is placed, through a signal path (c) provided by the sub-printed circuit board (1675), the first flexible printed circuit board (1680), and the second flexible printed circuit board (1690).

[0204] The electronic device (1500) may further include batteries. Each of the batteries may be attached to support parts (1511, 1521, 1531) included in the housing parts (1510, 1520, 1530). The support parts (1511, 1521, 1531) may support rechargeable batteries.

[0205] The arrangement of hardware components is exemplary, and unlike the above, the rear camera (1575) and the second printed circuit board (1672) may be placed in the third housing part (1530), and the third printed circuit board (1673) may be placed in the second housing part (1520).

[0206] The first housing part (1510) and the third housing part (1530) are shown to rotate in opposite directions relative to the second housing part (1520), but are not limited thereto. For example, while changing from the first state (1500a) to the third state (1500c), the first housing part (1510) may rotate counterclockwise relative to the second housing part (1520), and the third housing part (1530) may rotate counterclockwise relative to the second housing part (1520). As the first housing part (1510) and the third housing part (1530) rotate in the same direction, a portion of the display area of ​​the flexible display (1540) in the second state may be visually exposed.

[0207] 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.

[0208] According to one embodiment, an electronic device (200) may include a rear cover (211) defining the rear surface of the electronic device (200); a battery (270); an antenna module (400) disposed between the rear cover (211) and the battery (270); and a wireless communication circuit (192). The antenna module (400) may include a dielectric substrate (410); an antenna (420) disposed on the dielectric substrate (410) and electrically connected to the wireless communication circuit (192); and a holographic conductive pattern (430) formed on the dielectric substrate (410) and spaced apart from the antenna (420). The antenna (420) may be configured to radiate a first wireless signal through a beam directed toward the holographic conductive pattern (430). The holographic conductive pattern (430) may be configured to receive at least a portion of the first wireless signal radiated from the antenna (420) through the beam via the dielectric substrate (410). The holographic conductive pattern (430) may be configured to radiate a second wireless signal toward the rear cover (211) based on the at least portion of the first wireless signal.

[0209] In one embodiment, the antenna (420) may include a Yagi Uda antenna.

[0210] In one embodiment, the antenna (420) may include a Vivaldi antenna.

[0211] In one embodiment, the antenna (420) may include an array antenna (1220).

[0212] In one embodiment, the array antenna (1220) may include a plurality of dipole antennas.

[0213] In one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may further include a wireless charging antenna (380) disposed between the antenna module (400) and the battery (270).

[0214] In one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include an application processor (120); a first printed circuit board (250) on which the application processor (120) is placed; a second printed circuit board (252); and a flexible printed circuit board connecting the first printed circuit board (250) and the second printed circuit board (252). The battery (270) may be located between the first printed circuit board (250) and the second printed circuit board (252). The holographic conductive pattern (430) of the antenna module (400) may be located between the antenna (420) of the antenna module (400) and the second printed circuit board (252).

[0215] In one embodiment, the dielectric substrate (410) may include a first side (410a); a second side (410b) opposite to the first side (410a); a third side (410c) connecting one end of the first side (410a) and one end of the second side (410b); and a fourth side (410d) connecting the other end of the first side (410a) and the other end of the second side (410b). The antenna (420) may be positioned between the first side (410a) and the holographic conductive pattern (430). The holographic conductive pattern (430) may include a plurality of lines spaced apart from each other. Each of the plurality of conductive lines may extend from the third side (410c) to the fourth side (410d) of the substrate.

[0216] In one embodiment, the spacing of the plurality of lines may correspond to the wavelength of the first wireless signal.

[0217] In one embodiment, each of the plurality of lines (431; 432; 433; 434; 435) may have a shape that is convex toward the second side (410b) of the dielectric substrate (410).

[0218] In one embodiment, each of the plurality of lines (1230) may be substantially parallel to the first side (410a) or the second side (410b) of the dielectric substrate (410).

[0219] In one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may further include another antenna module (1300-2). The other antenna module (1300-2) may include another dielectric substrate (1310-2) disposed on the antenna module (400); another antenna (1320-2) disposed on the other dielectric substrate (1310-2); and another holographic conductive pattern (1330-2) formed on the other dielectric substrate (1310-2) and spaced apart from the other antenna (1320-2). The other antenna (1320-2) may be configured to radiate a third wireless signal through another beam directed toward the other holographic conductive pattern (1330-2). The other holographic conductive pattern (1330-2) may be configured to receive at least a portion of the third wireless signal radiated from the other antenna (1320-2) through the other dielectric substrate (1310-2) via the other beam. The other holographic conductive pattern (1330-2) may be configured to radiate a fourth wireless signal toward the rear cover (211) based on the at least portion of the third wireless signal.

[0220] In one embodiment, the other antenna module (1300-2) disposed on the antenna module (400) may be arranged vertically with respect to the antenna module (400).

[0221] In one embodiment, the frequency of the third wireless signal may be different from the frequency of the fourth wireless signal.

[0222] In one embodiment, the other antenna (1320-2) of the other antenna module (1300-2) may be electrically connected to the wireless communication circuit (192).

[0223] In one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include another wireless communication circuit distinct from the wireless communication circuit (192). The other antenna (1320-2) of the other antenna module (1300-2) may be electrically connected to the other wireless communication circuit.

[0224] According to one embodiment, an electronic device (200) may include a rear cover (211) defining the rear surface of the electronic device (200); a battery (270); a wireless charging antenna (380) disposed on the battery (270); an antenna module (400) disposed between the wireless charging antenna (380) and the rear cover (211); and a wireless communication circuit (192). The antenna module (400) may include a dielectric substrate (410); an antenna (420) disposed on the dielectric substrate (410) and electrically connected to the wireless communication circuit (192); and a holographic conductive pattern (430) formed on the dielectric substrate (410) and spaced apart from the antenna (420). The antenna (420) may be configured to radiate a first wireless signal through a beam directed toward the holographic conductive pattern (430). The holographic conductive pattern (430) may be configured to receive at least a portion of the first wireless signal radiated from the antenna (420) through the beam via the dielectric substrate (410). The holographic conductive pattern (430) may be configured to radiate a second wireless signal toward the rear cover (211) based on the at least portion of the first wireless signal.

[0225] In one embodiment, the antenna (420) may include a Yagi Uda antenna, a Vivaldi antenna, or an array antenna.

[0226] In one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may further include another antenna module (1300-2). The other antenna module (1300-2) may include another dielectric substrate (1310-2) disposed on the antenna module (400); another antenna (1320-2) disposed on the other dielectric substrate (1310-2); and another holographic conductive pattern (1330-2) formed on the other dielectric substrate (1310-2) and spaced apart from the other antenna (1320-2). The other antenna (1320-2) may be configured to radiate a third wireless signal through another beam directed toward the other holographic conductive pattern (1330-2). The other holographic conductive pattern (1330-2) may be configured to receive at least a portion of the third wireless signal radiated from the other antenna (1320-2) through the other dielectric substrate (1310-2) via the other beam. The other holographic conductive pattern (1330-2) may be configured to radiate a fourth wireless signal toward the rear cover (211) based on the at least portion of the third wireless signal.

[0227] In one embodiment, the other antenna module (1300-2) disposed on the antenna module (400) may be arranged vertically with respect to the antenna module (400).

[0228] 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.

[0229] 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.

[0230] 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.

[0231] 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 one embodiment, a module may be implemented in the form of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0232] 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 from 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.

[0233] According to one embodiment, the method according to the various embodiments disclosed herein may be provided by being included in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded between a seller and a buyer as a product. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a device-readable storage medium (e.g., compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM)), or 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.

[0234] According to various embodiments, each component (e.g., module or program) of the components described above may include a singular or multiple entities, and some of the multiple entities may be separated and placed in other components. According to various embodiments, one or more of the components or operations among the aforementioned components may be omitted, or one or more other components or operations may be added. Generally or additionally, multiple components (e.g., module or program) may be integrated into a single component. In this case, the integrated component may perform one or more functions of each of the multiple components in the same or similar manner as those performed by the corresponding component among the multiple components prior to integration. According to various embodiments, operations performed by the module, program, or other components may be executed sequentially, in parallel, iteratively, or heuristically, or one or more of the operations may be executed in a different order, omitted, or one or more other operations may be added.

Claims

1. In an electronic device, A rear cover defining the rear of the above electronic device; battery; An antenna module disposed between the rear cover and the battery; and Includes a wireless communication circuit, The above antenna module is: Genome substrate; An antenna disposed on the dielectric substrate and electrically connected to the wireless communication circuit; and It includes a holographic conductive pattern formed on the dielectric substrate and spaced apart from the antenna, and The above antenna is configured to radiate a first wireless signal through a beam directed toward the holographic conductive pattern, and The above holographic conductive pattern is: Receiving at least a portion of the first radio signal radiated from the antenna through the beam via the dielectric substrate; and Configured to radiate a second wireless signal toward the rear cover based on at least a portion of the first wireless signal. Electronic device.

2. In Claim 1, The above antenna includes a Yagi Uda antenna, Electronic device.

3. In Claim 1, The above antenna includes a Vivaldi antenna, Electronic device.

4. In Claim 1, The above antenna includes an array antenna. Electronic device.

5. In Claim 4, The array antenna described above includes a plurality of dipole antennas. Electronic device.

6. In any one of claims 1 to 5, A wireless charging antenna further comprising a wireless charging antenna disposed between the antenna module and the battery. Electronic device.

7. In any one of claims 1 to 6, Application processor; A first printed circuit board on which the above-mentioned application processor is placed; A second printed circuit board; and It includes a flexible printed circuit board connecting the first printed circuit board and the second printed circuit board, and The above battery is located between the first printed circuit board and the second printed circuit board, and The holographic conductive pattern of the antenna module is located between the antenna of the antenna module and the second printed circuit board. Electronic device.

8. In any one of claims 1 to 7, The above dielectric substrate is: First side; A second side opposite to the first side above; A third side connecting one end of the first side and one end of the second side; and It includes a fourth side connecting the other end of the first side and the other end of the second side, The above antenna is positioned between the first side and the holographic conductive pattern, and The above holographic conductive pattern includes a plurality of lines spaced apart from each other, and Each of the above plurality of conductive lines extends from the third side to the fourth side of the substrate, Electronic device.

9. In Claim 8, The intervals of the plurality of lines above correspond to the wavelength of the first wireless signal, Electronic device.

10. In Claim 9, Each of the above plurality of lines has a shape that is convex toward the second side of the dielectric substrate. Electronic device.

11. In Claim 9, Each of the above plurality of lines is substantially parallel to the first side or the second side of the dielectric substrate, Electronic device.

12. In any one of claims 1 to 11, Includes additional antenna modules, The other antenna module mentioned above is: Another dielectric substrate disposed on the above antenna module; Another antenna disposed on the other dielectric substrate above; and It includes another holographic conductive pattern formed on the other dielectric substrate and spaced apart from the other antenna, and The other antenna is configured to radiate a third wireless signal through another beam directed toward the other holographic conductive pattern, and The above other holographic conductive patterns are: Receiving at least a portion of the third radio signal radiated from the other antenna through the other beam via the other dielectric substrate; and Configured to radiate a fourth wireless signal toward the rear cover based on at least a portion of the third wireless signal. Electronic device.

13. In Claim 12, The other antenna module disposed on the antenna module is arranged vertically with respect to the antenna module. Electronic device.

14. In claim 12 or claim 13, The frequency of the third wireless signal is different from the frequency of the fourth wireless signal. Electronic device.

15. In any one of claims 12 to 14, The other antenna of the other antenna module is electrically connected to the wireless communication circuit or another wireless communication circuit distinct from the wireless communication circuit. Electronic device.

Citation Information

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