Multi-foldable device comprising antenna

Abstract

This electronic device may comprise: a third housing part; a first hinge, which is positioned between the first housing part and the second housing part and rotatably connects the first housing part to the second housing part; a second hinge, which is positioned between the second housing part and the third housing part and rotatably connects the third housing part to the second housing part; one or more switching circuits; a different switching circuit; and a wireless communication circuit.

Description

Multi-foldable device including an antenna

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a multi-foldable device including an antenna.

[0002] An electronic device may include housing parts that are rotatably coupled and a flexible display supported by said housing parts. The housing parts may include conductive portions that form the sides of the housing parts. The conductive portions may be configured to function as antennas of the electronic device. When the electronic device is fully folded, the housing parts of the electronic device may overlap each other, and the operating environment of the antenna may change.

[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 first housing part, a second housing part, a third housing part, a first hinge positioned between the first housing part and the second housing part and rotatably connecting the first housing part to the second housing part, a second hinge positioned between the second housing part and the third housing part and rotatably connecting the third housing part to the second housing part, one or more switching circuits, another switching circuit, and a wireless communication circuit. The first housing part may include a first conductive part comprising a vertical portion defining a portion of the first side of the first housing part opposite to the first hinge and a horizontal portion defining a portion of the second side of the first housing part and extending from the vertical portion, and a second conductive part defining another portion of the second side of the first housing part and spaced apart from the end of the horizontal portion of the first conductive part. The vertical portion of the first conductive portion may be configured to be positioned on the second hinge as the first housing part rotates relative to the second housing part through the first hinge. The horizontal portion of the first conductive portion may include a first point and a second point further from the end of the first conductive portion than the first point. The second conductive portion may include a first point and a second point further from the end of the first conductive portion than the first point of the second conductive portion. The one or more switching circuits may be configured to connect the first point of the first conductive portion to the first point of the second conductive portion while the vertical portion of the first conductive portion is positioned on the second hinge.The above one or more switching circuits may be configured to connect the wireless communication circuit to the second point of the first conductive part while the first point of the first conductive part and the first point of the second conductive part are connected. The other switching circuit may be configured to connect the second point of the second conductive part to at least one element while the wireless communication circuit and the second point of the first conductive part are connected.

[0005] According to one embodiment, an electronic device may include a housing part defining at least a portion of the exterior of the electronic device, one or more switching circuits, another switching circuit, and a wireless communication circuit. The housing part may include a first conductive portion defining a portion of a first side of the housing part and a horizontal portion defining a portion of a second side of the housing part and extending from the vertical portion, and a second conductive portion defining another portion of the second side of the housing part and spaced apart from the end of the horizontal portion of the first conductive portion. The horizontal portion of the first conductive portion may include a first point adjacent to the end of the first conductive portion and a second point further from the end of the first conductive portion than the first point. The second conductive portion may include a first point and a second point further from the end of the first conductive portion than the first point of the second conductive portion. The above one or more switching circuits may be configured to connect the first point of the first conductive portion to the first point of the second conductive portion. The above one or more switching circuits may be configured to connect the wireless communication circuit to the second point of the first conductive portion while the first point of the first conductive portion and the first point of the second conductive portion are connected. The other switching circuit may be configured to connect the second point of the second conductive portion to at least one element while the wireless communication circuit and the third point of the first conductive portion are connected.

[0006] FIG. 1a illustrates an example of a first state of an electronic device.

[0007] FIG. 1b illustrates an example of a second state of an electronic device.

[0008] FIG. 1c illustrates an example of a third state of an electronic device.

[0009] FIG. 2a is a plan view of an electronic device with the flexible display removed.

[0010] FIG. 2b is a rear view of an electronic device with the rear cover and display removed.

[0011] FIGS. 3a, FIGS. 3b, and FIGS. 3c show an electronic device in a third state according to one embodiment.

[0012] FIGS. 4a and FIGS. 4b show an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0013] FIGS. 5A, FIGS. 5B, and FIGS. 5C show examples of antenna modes of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0014] FIG. 6a shows an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0015] FIG. 6b shows an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0016] FIG. 6c shows an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0017] FIGS. 7a, 7b, and 7c show examples of antenna modes of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0018] FIGS. 8A, FIGS. 8B, and FIGS. 8C show examples of antenna modes of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0019] FIGS. 9a, FIGS. 9b, FIGS. 9c, and FIGS. 9d show the electric field distribution according to the mode of the antenna according to one embodiment.

[0020] FIG. 10 is a graph showing the total radiation efficiency of a device according to a comparative example and a device according to one embodiment.

[0021] FIG. 11a is a graph showing an electronic device operating in a basic mode according to one embodiment and the antenna performance of the basic mode.

[0022] FIG. 11b is a graph showing the antenna performance of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0023] FIGS. 12a, FIGS. 12b, and FIGS. 12c are graphs showing changes in antenna performance according to changes in antenna characteristics.

[0024] Figures 13a, 13b, 13c, and 13d are graphs showing the total radiation efficiency according to the antenna mode.

[0025] FIG. 13e is a graph showing antenna performance according to a comparative example and an embodiment.

[0026] FIG. 13f is a graph showing antenna performance according to a comparative example and an embodiment.

[0027] FIG. 14a shows an electronic device including a notch filter according to one embodiment.

[0028] Figure 14b is a graph showing the total radiation efficiency of the antenna.

[0029] Figure 14c is a graph showing the reflection coefficient of the antenna.

[0030] FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating an antenna switching method of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0031] FIG. 16 is a block diagram of an electronic device in a network environment according to various embodiments.

[0032] 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.

[0033] FIG. 1a illustrates an example of a first state of an electronic device. FIG. 1b illustrates an example of a second state of an electronic device. FIG. 1c illustrates an example of a third state of an electronic device.

[0034] Referring to FIGS. 1a, 1b, and 1c, an electronic device (100) (e.g., the electronic device (1601) of FIG. 16) may include a housing structure (101), a flexible display (140), a first hinge structure (150), a second hinge structure (160), and a display (170). The housing structure (101) may include a first housing part (110), a second housing part (120), and a third housing part (130).

[0035] The first housing part (110) can be rotatably coupled to the second housing part (120) by the first hinge structure (150). The second housing part (120) and the first housing part (110) can be rotated about the first hinge structure (150). While the first housing part (110) is rotated about the first hinge structure (150), the second housing part (120) can be rotated about the first hinge structure (150). For example, when the second housing part (120) and the first housing part (110) are rotated about the first hinge structure (150), the angular displacement of the second housing part (120) may be substantially the same as the angular displacement of the first housing part (110).

[0036] The third housing part (130) can be rotatably coupled to the second housing part (120) by the second hinge structure (160). The second housing part (120) and the third housing part (130) can be rotated about the second hinge structure (160). While the second housing part (120) is rotated about the second hinge structure (160), the third housing part (130) can be rotated about the second hinge structure (160). For example, when the second housing part (120) and the third housing part (130) are rotated about the second hinge structure (160), the angular displacement (or angular change) of the second housing part (120) may be substantially the same as the angular displacement of the third housing part (130).

[0037] The first hinge structure (150) and the second hinge structure (160) can change the state of the electronic device. The first hinge structure (150) and the second hinge structure (160) can provide (or enable) a first state (100a) of the electronic device (100) (or a first state (100a) of the housing structure (101). The first state (100a) of the electronic device (100) (or a first state (100a)) of the housing structure (101) can be described as an unfolded state (or unfolded state) of the electronic device (100) (or housing structure (101)). Within the first state (100a), the front of the first housing part (110), the front of the second housing part (120), and the front of the third housing part (130) can define the front of the electronic device (100). In the first state (100a), the front of the first housing part (110), the front of the second housing part (120), and the front of the third housing part (130) may face in the same direction. In the first state (100a), the electronic device (100) may provide the user with a large display area of ​​the flexible display (140).

[0038] The first hinge structure (150) and the second hinge structure (160) can provide a second state (100b) of the electronic device (100). The second state (100b) of the electronic device (100) can be described as a state in which the electronic device (100) is partially folded and partially unfolded (or a single folding state or a half folding state). For example, in the second state (100b), the front of the second housing part (120) and the front of the third housing part (130) may face in the same direction, and the front of the first housing part (110) and the front of the second housing part (120) may face in opposite directions. For example, in the second state (100b), the first housing part (110) and the second housing part (120) may be folded, and the second housing part (120) and the third housing part (130) may be unfolded. In the second state (100b), the electronic device (100) can provide visual information through a part of the flexible display (140) (e.g., a third display area (140c)).

[0039] The electronic device (100) can change from a first state (100a) to a third state (100c) through a second state (100b). The electronic device (100) can change from a first state (100a) which is an unfolded state to a second state (100b) which is a partially unfolded state. For example, the electronic device (100) can change from a first state (100a) in which the first housing part (110), the second housing part (120), and the third housing part (130) face the same direction to a second state (100b) in which the front of the first housing part (110) faces the front of the second housing part (120). The electronic device (100) can change from a second state (100b) which is a partially unfolded state to a third state (100c) which is a folded state. For example, when changing from the second state (100b) to the third state (100c), the folded first housing part (110) and the second housing part (120) can be placed on the third housing part (130).

[0040] The first hinge structure (150) and the second hinge structure (160) can provide a third state (100c) of the electronic device (100) (or a third state (100c) of the housing structure (101). The third state (100c) of the electronic device (100) (or a third state (100c) of the housing structure (101)) can be described as a folded state (or a folded state or a multi-folded state) of the electronic device (100) (or the housing structure (101)). In the third state (100c), the front of the first housing part (110) and the front of the second housing part (120) may face in opposite directions, and the front of the second housing part (120) and the front of the third housing part (130) may face in opposite directions. In the third state (100c), the front of the first housing part (110) and the front of the third housing part (130) may face each other in the same direction. For example, in the third state (100c), the front of the second housing part (120) may face the front of the first housing part (110), and the front of the third housing part (130) may face the rear of the first housing part (110). In the third state (100c), the rear of the second housing part (120) may be exposed to the outside. A display (170) may be placed on the rear of the second housing part (120). In the third state (100c), the rear of the third housing part (130) may be exposed to the outside. A camera (175) may be placed on the rear of the third housing part (130). In the third state (100c), the electronic device (100) can be folded to improve portability and can provide visual information through a display (170) placed on the rear of the second housing part (120).

[0041] The electronic device (100) may further include a key button (139). The key button (139) may be exposed from a structure (e.g., an opening) formed on the side of the third housing part (130) and may partially protrude outside the electronic device (100). The key button (139) may provide physical input to a processing circuit inside the electronic device (100) by pressure transmitted from the outside. The key button (139) may not be included in the electronic device (100) and may be implemented in other forms, such as a soft key displayed on a flexible display (140) or a display (170).

[0042] The key button (139) may be positioned on the side of the third housing part (130) so as to be exposed to the outside in the third state (100c). As the key button (139) is positioned on the side of the third housing part (130), it may be positioned in the direction in which the side of the third housing part (130) faces. Even if the display (170) in the third state (100c) is changed to the first state (100a) by a user, the position of the key button (139) positioned on the side of the third housing part (130) may not be moved. For example, referring to FIG. 1a, in the first state (100a), when the flexible display (140) is viewed from above, the key button (139) may be positioned on the right side. Referring to FIG. 1c, in the third state (100c), when viewing the display (170) from above, the key button (139) can be positioned on the right.

[0043] The flexible display (140) can define the appearance of the electronic device (100) at least partially. The flexible display (140) can be partially disposed within the housing structure (101). The flexible display (140) can define the front of the electronic device (100). The flexible display (140) may include a first unbendable portion (141), a second unbendable portion (142), a third unbendable portion (143), a first bendable portion (144), and a second bendable portion (145). The first unbendable portion (141) of the flexible display (140) can be disposed on the front of the first housing part (110). The second unbendable portion (142) of the flexible display (140) can be disposed on the front of the second housing part (120). A third unbendable portion (143) of the flexible display (140) may be placed on the front of the third housing part (130). A first bendable portion (144) of the flexible display (140) may be placed between the first unbendable portion (141) and the second unbendable portion (142) of the flexible display (140). For example, the first bendable portion (144) of the flexible display (140) may be placed on a first hinge structure (150) connecting the first housing part (110) and the second housing part (120). A second bendable portion (145) of the flexible display (140) may be placed between the second unbendable portion (142) and the third unbendable portion (143) of the flexible display (140). For example, the second bendable portion (145) of the flexible display (140) may be placed on a second hinge structure (160) connecting the second housing part (120) and the third housing part (130).

[0044] In the first state (100a), the first unbendable portion (141) of the flexible display (140), the second unbendable portion (142) of the flexible display (140), and the third unbendable portion (143) of the flexible display (140) may face substantially the same direction. In the first state (100a), the first bendable portion (144) and the second bendable portion (145) may be positioned in substantially the same horizontal plane as the first unbendable portion (141), the second unbendable portion (142), and the third unbendable portion (143).

[0045] The first hinge structure (150) and the second hinge structure (160) can provide a second state (100b) of the electronic device (100). In the second state (100b), the first unbendable portion (141) of the flexible display (140) may face the second unbendable portion (142) of the flexible display (140), and the third unbendable portion (143) of the flexible display (140) may face the same direction as the second unbendable portion (142) of the flexible display (140). For example, the second unbendable portion (142) and the third unbendable portion (143) may be positioned substantially on the same horizontal plane.

[0046] In the second state (100b), the first bendable portion (144) of the flexible display (140) is bent by the first hinge structure (150), so that the first bendable portion (144) of the flexible display (140) can be folded such that the first unbendable portion (141) of the flexible display (140) and the second unbendable portion (142) of the flexible display (140) face in different directions.

[0047] In the second state (100b), the second bendable portion (145) of the flexible display (140) is maintained in an unfolded state by the second hinge structure (160), so that the second bendable portion (145) of the flexible display (140) can be unfolded such that the second unbendable portion (142) of the flexible display (140) and the third unbendable portion (143) of the flexible display (140) face each other in the same direction.

[0048] The first hinge structure (150) and the second hinge structure (160) can provide a third state (100c) of the electronic device (100). In the third state (100c), the second unbendable portion (142) of the flexible display (140) faces the first unbendable portion (141) of the flexible display (140), and the third unbendable portion (143) of the flexible display (140) may face the rear of the first housing part (110).

[0049] In the third state (100c), the first bendable portion (144) of the flexible display (140) is bent by the first hinge structure (150), so that the first bendable portion (144) of the flexible display (140) can be folded such that the first unbendable portion (141) of the flexible display (140) and the second unbendable portion (142) of the flexible display (140) face in different directions.

[0050] In the third state (100c), the second bendable portion (145) of the flexible display (140) is bent by the second hinge structure (160), so that the second bendable portion (145) of the flexible display (140) can be folded such that the second unbendable portion (142) of the flexible display (140) and the third unbendable portion (143) of the flexible display (140) face in different directions. The second bendable portion (145) may further include a first deformation portion (145a), a second deformation portion (145b), and a flat portion (145c). The first deformation portion (145a) may be positioned between the planar portion (145c) and the second unbendable portion (142), and the second deformation portion (145b) may be positioned between the planar portion (145c) and the third unbendable portion (143). The planar portion (145c) may be positioned between the first deformation portion (145a) and the second deformation portion (145b). The planar portion (145c) may be supported by a support plate (e.g., the support plate (264) of FIG. 2a) that is distinct from the hinge plates of the second hinge structure (160) (e.g., the third hinge plate (262) and the fourth hinge plate (263) of FIG. 2a). Regardless of the state of the electronic device (100), the planar portion (145c) may remain flat. The first deformation part (145a) and the second deformation part (145b) are unfolded in the first state (100a) and the second state (100b), and in the third state (100c), the first deformation part (145a) and the second deformation part (145b) can be bent so that the second unbendable part (142) and the third unbendable part (143) face in different directions. In the third state (100c), the first housing part (110) can be positioned between the second housing part (120) and the third housing part (130). In the third state (100c), the second bendable part (145) of the flexible display (140) positioned on the second hinge structure (160) can be partially facing the side (110c) of the first housing part (110).

[0051] The display area of ​​the flexible display (140) may include a first display area (140a), a second display area (140b), and a third display area (140c). The display area represents an area capable of providing visual information from the flexible display (140). In a first state (100a), the entire display area of ​​the flexible display (140) may be visible from the front of the housing structure (101). For example, in a first state (100a), the first display area (140a), the second display area (140b), and the third display area (140c) of the flexible display (140) may be visually exposed. The electronic device (100) may provide a large display area to the user that includes the first display area (140a), the second display area (140b), and the third display area (140c).

[0052] In the second state (100b), the display area of ​​the flexible display (140) may be partially visible from the front of the third housing part (130). For example, the third display area (140c) may be visually exposed, while the first display area (140a) and the second display area (140b) may not be visually exposed.

[0053] In the third state (100c), the display area of ​​the flexible display (140) may not be visible. For example, in the third state (100c), the first display area (140a), the second display area (140b), and the third display area (140c) of the flexible display (140) may not be visually exposed.

[0054] In a non-limiting example, when the flexible display (140) is used to display a screen within a first state (100a) of the electronic device (100), the first display area (140a), the second display area (140b), and the third display area (140c) of the flexible display (140) may be activated. In a non-limiting example, within a third state (100c), the first display area (140a), the second display area (140b), and the third display area (140c) of the flexible display (140) may be deactivated. In a non-limiting example, within a second state (100b) of the electronic device (100), when the flexible display (140) is used to display a screen, the third display area (140c) is activated, and the first display area (140a) and the second display area (140b) of the flexible display (140) may be deactivated.

[0055] In a non-limiting example, when the flexible display (140) is used to display a screen within a first state (100a) of the electronic device (100), the first display area (140a), the second display area (140b), and the third display area (140c) of the flexible display (140) may display visual information. In a non-limiting example, within a third state (100c), the first display area (140a), the second display area (140b), and the third display area (140c) of the flexible display (140) may provide a black image. As a non-limiting example, in a second state (100b) of the electronic device (100), when the flexible display (140) is used to display a screen, the third display area (140c) provides visual information, and the first display area (140a) and the second display area (140b) of the flexible display (140) may provide a black image.

[0056] FIG. 2a is a top view of an electronic device with the flexible display removed. FIG. 2b is a rear view of an electronic device with the rear cover and display removed.

[0057] Referring to FIGS. 2a and 2b, the electronic device (100) may include a first hinge structure (150) and a second hinge structure (160). The first width (w1) of the first hinge structure (150) may be narrower than the second width (w2) of the second hinge structure (160). The difference between the first width (w1) of the first hinge structure (150) and the second width (w2) of the second hinge structure (160) may be equal to or greater than the thickness of the first housing part (110). For example, the second hinge structure (160) may have a second width (w2) that is wider than the first width (w1) so that, according to the third state (100c), the first housing part (110) is positioned between the second housing part (120) and the third housing part (130). The first hinge structure (150) may be referred to as a narrow hinge structure in that it has a narrower width than the second hinge structure (160). The second hinge structure (160) may be referred to as a wide hinge structure in that it has a wider width than the first hinge structure (150).

[0058] The first hinge structure (150) may include a first set of gears (251), a first hinge plate (252), and a second hinge plate (253). The first hinge plate (252) may be coupled to a first support portion (111) of the first housing part (110). The second hinge plate (253) may be coupled to a second support portion (121) of the second housing part (120). The gears (g11, g12, g13, g14) included in the first set of gears (251) may be configured to rotate the first hinge plate (252) and the second hinge plate (253). For example, the gears (g11, g12, g13, g14) included in the first set of gears (251) can rotate the second hinge plate (253) (or the second housing part (120)) in conjunction with the rotation of the first hinge plate (252) (or the first housing part (110)). After the first hinge plate (252) (or the first housing part (110)) is rotated, the gears (g11, g12, g13, g14) included in the first set of gears (251) can be rotated according to the rotation of the first hinge plate (252) (or the first housing part (110)). The second hinge plate (253) (or the second housing part (120)) may be rotated in conjunction with the rotation of the first hinge plate (252) according to the rotation of the gears included in the first set of gears (251). The gears (g11, g12, g13, g14) included in the first set of gears (251) may include a first gear (g11), a second gear (g12), a third gear (g13), and a fourth gear (g14). The first gear (g11) may be positioned adjacent to the first hinge plate (252), and the fourth gear (g14) may be positioned adjacent to the second hinge plate (253). The second gear (g12) and the third gear (g13) may be positioned between the first gear (g11) and the fourth gear (g14).The first gear (g11), the second gear (g12), the third gear (g13), and the fourth gear (g14) can be engaged sequentially. Depending on the first rotational direction (e.g., clockwise) of the first gear (g11), the second gear (g12) engaged with the first gear (g11) can be rotated in a second rotational direction (e.g., counterclockwise) opposite to the first rotational direction. Depending on the second rotational direction of the second gear (g12), the third gear (g13) engaged with the second gear (g12) can be rotated in the first rotational direction. Depending on the first rotational direction of the third gear (g13), the fourth gear (g14) can be rotated in the second rotational direction. As the first gear (g11) and the fourth gear (g14) rotate in different directions, the first housing part (110) connected to the first hinge plate (252) and the second housing part (120) connected to the second hinge plate (253) can be folded or unfolded.

[0059] The second hinge structure (160) may include a second set of gears (261), a third hinge plate (262), a fourth hinge plate (263), and a support plate (264). The third hinge plate (262) may be coupled to the second support portion (121) of the second housing part (120). The fourth hinge plate (263) may be coupled to the third support portion (131) of the third housing part (130). The gears (g21, g22, g23, g24, g25, g26) included in the second set of gears (261) may be configured to rotate the third hinge plate (262) and the fourth hinge plate (263). For example, the gears (g21, g22, g23, g24, g25, g26) included in the second set of gears (261) can rotate the fourth hinge plate (263) (or the third housing part (130)) in conjunction with the rotation of the third hinge plate (262) (or the second housing part (120)). After the third hinge plate (262) (or the second housing part (120)) is rotated, the gears (g21, g22, g23, g24, g25, g26) included in the second set of gears (261) can be rotated according to the rotation of the third hinge plate (262) (or the second housing part (120)). The fourth hinge plate (263) (or the third housing part (130)) can be rotated in conjunction with the rotation of the third hinge plate (262) according to the rotation of the gears (g21, g22, g23, g24, g25, g26) included in the second set (261) of gears.

[0060] The gears (g21, g22, g23, g24, g25, g26) included in the second set (261) of gears may include a first gear (g21), a second gear (g22), a third gear (g23), a fourth gear (g24), a fifth gear (g25), and a sixth gear (g26). The first gear (g21) may be positioned adjacent to the third hinge plate (262), and the sixth gear (g26) may be positioned adjacent to the fourth hinge plate (263). The second gear (g22), the third gear (g23), the fourth gear (g24), and the fifth gear (g25) may be positioned between the first gear (g21) and the sixth gear (g26). The first gear (g21), second gear (g22), third gear (g23), fourth gear (g24), fifth gear (g25), and sixth gear (g26) can be engaged sequentially. Depending on the first rotational direction (e.g., clockwise) of the first gear (g21), the second gear (g22) engaged with the first gear (g21) can be rotated in a second rotational direction (e.g., counterclockwise) opposite to the first rotational direction. Depending on the second rotational direction of the second gear (g22), the third gear (g23) engaged with the second gear (g22) can be rotated in the first rotational direction. Depending on the first rotational direction of the third gear (g23), the fourth gear (g24) can be rotated in the second rotational direction. Depending on the rotation of the fourth gear (g24) in the second rotational direction, the fifth gear (g25) engaged with the fourth gear (g24) can be rotated in the first rotational direction. Depending on the rotation of the fifth gear (g25) in the first rotational direction, the sixth gear (g26) engaged with the fifth gear (g25) can be rotated in the second rotational direction. As the first gear (g21) and the sixth gear (g26) rotate in different directions, the second housing part (120) connected to the third hinge plate (262) and the third housing part (130) connected to the fourth hinge plate (263) can be folded or unfolded.

[0061] The first hinge structure (150) and the second hinge structure (160) 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.

[0062] The electronic device (100) may include a first printed circuit board (271), a second printed circuit board (272), and a third printed circuit board (273).

[0063] A first printed circuit board (271) may be placed on a first support portion (111) of a first housing part (110). Hardware components within the first housing part (110) may be mounted on the first printed circuit board (271). A second printed circuit board (272) may be placed on a second support portion (121) of a second housing part (120). A third printed circuit board (273) may be placed on a third support portion (131) of a third housing part (130). Hardware components within the third housing part (130) may be mounted on the third printed circuit board (273).

[0064] Hardware components placed on the first printed circuit board (271) may support or operate independently of hardware components placed on the second printed circuit board (272) and / or hardware components placed on the third printed circuit board (273).

[0065] Hardware components placed on the second printed circuit board (272) may support or operate independently of hardware components placed on the first printed circuit board (271) or the third printed circuit board (273). Hardware components placed on the second printed circuit board (272) may include a speaker, a front camera, and / or a display driving circuit.

[0066] Hardware components disposed on the third printed circuit board (273) 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 (175). The rear camera (175) may be exposed through a structure (e.g., an opening) on ​​the rear of the third housing part (130).

[0067] The electronic device (100) may further include a sub-printed circuit board (275) and flexible printed circuit boards (280, 290). The sub-printed circuit board (275) may be placed in at least some of the first housing part (110), the second housing part (120), and the third housing part (130). The flexible printed circuit boards (280, 290) may include a first flexible printed circuit board (280) and a second flexible printed circuit board (290). The first flexible printed circuit board (280) may electrically connect the printed circuit boards placed in each of the housing parts (110, 120, 130). The second flexible printed circuit board (290) may connect the printed circuit board in the housing part where the sub-printed circuit board (275) is placed with the sub-printed circuit board (275) by means of the second flexible printed circuit board (290).

[0068] Components within the electronic device (100) may be connected to at least one processor within a third printed circuit board (273) via flexible printed circuit boards (280, 290). For example, a signal received from an antenna placed in the third housing part (130) may be transmitted to the third printed circuit board (273) 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 (280). A driving circuit for a flexible display (140) placed in the first housing part (110) may be connected to the third printed circuit board (273) where at least one processor (e.g., AP) is placed via a sub-printed circuit board (275) and a signal path (b) provided by the first flexible printed circuit board (280). A driving circuit for a display (170) connected to a sub-printed circuit board (275) placed in a second housing part (120) can be electrically connected to a third printed circuit board (273) on which at least one processor (e.g., AP) is placed, through a signal path (c) provided by the sub-printed circuit board (275), the first flexible printed circuit board (280), and the second flexible printed circuit board (290).

[0069] The electronic device (100) may further include batteries. Each of the batteries may be attached to support parts (111, 121, 131) included in the housing parts (110, 120, 130). The support parts (111, 121, 131) may support rechargeable batteries.

[0070] The arrangement of hardware components is exemplary, and unlike the above, the rear camera (175) and the second printed circuit board (272) may be placed in the third housing part (130), and the third printed circuit board (273) may be placed in the second housing part (120).

[0071] The first housing part (110) and the third housing part (130) are shown to rotate in opposite directions relative to the second housing part (120), but are not limited thereto. For example, while changing from the first state (100a) to the third state (100c), the first housing part (110) may rotate counterclockwise relative to the second housing part (120), and the third housing part (130) may rotate counterclockwise relative to the second housing part (120). As the first housing part (110) and the third housing part (130) rotate in the same direction, a portion of the display area of ​​the flexible display (140) in the second state may be visually exposed.

[0072] FIGS. 3a, FIGS. 3b, and FIGS. 3c show an electronic device in a third state according to one embodiment.

[0073] Referring to FIGS. 3a and 3b, according to one embodiment, a third housing part (130) of an electronic device (100) may include a plurality of sides defining the sides of the third housing part (130). For example, the plurality of sides of the third housing part (130) may include a first side (130a) opposite to the second hinge structure (160), a second side (130b) extending from a first end of the first side (130a) to the second hinge structure (160), and a third side (130c) opposite to the second side (130b) and extending from a second end of the first side (130a) to the hinge structure (160).

[0074] In one embodiment, the third housing part (130) may include a plurality of conductive parts forming at least a portion of the side of the third housing part (130). For example, the plurality of conductive parts of the third housing part (130) may include a first conductive part (310) and a second conductive part (360). The first conductive part (310) and the second conductive part (360) may function as an antenna (and / or antenna radiator) of the electronic device (100). For example, a wireless communication circuit of the electronic device (100) (e.g., the wireless communication circuit (492) of FIG. 4a) may transmit or receive a wireless signal using the first conductive part (310) and / or the second conductive part (360).

[0075] For example, the first conductive portion (310) may include a vertical portion (320) and a horizontal portion (330). The vertical portion (320) may form part of the first side (130a) of the third housing part (130). The horizontal portion (330) may form part of the second side (130b) of the third housing part (130). Part of the first conductive portion (310) where the vertical portion (320) and the horizontal portion (330) meet may form a corner of the third housing part (130) where the first side (130a) and the second side (130b) meet.

[0076] In one embodiment, the third housing part (130) may include non-conductive portions (371, 372, and 373). Each of the non-conductive portions (371, 372, and 373) may each form a portion of the side of the third housing part (130). For example, the non-conductive portion (371) may form a portion of the first side (130a) of the third housing part (130). For example, the non-conductive portion (372) may form a portion of the second side (130b) of the third housing part (130). The non-conductive portion (373) may form a portion of the second side (130b) of the third housing part (130). In one embodiment, the non-conductive parts (371, 372, and 373) may be formed of a non-conductive material (e.g., plastic).

[0077] In one embodiment, the non-conductive portion (371) and the non-conductive portion (372) may be disposed at each end of the first conductive portion (310). For example, the non-conductive portion (372) may be disposed at the first end (e.g., the first end (310a) of FIG. 4a) of the first conductive portion (310) formed by the horizontal portion (330), and the non-conductive portion (371) may be disposed at the second end (e.g., the second end (310b) of FIG. 4a) of the first conductive portion (310) formed by the vertical portion (320).

[0078] In one embodiment, the non-conductive portion (372) and the non-conductive portion (373) may be disposed at each end of the second conductive portion (360). For example, the non-conductive portion (372) may be disposed at the first end of the second conductive portion (360) (e.g., the first end (360a) in FIG. 4a) facing the first side (130a) of the third housing part (130), and the non-conductive portion (373) may be disposed at the second end of the second conductive portion (360) (e.g., the second end (360b) in FIG. 4a) opposite to the first end of the second conductive portion (360). A non-conductive portion (372) may be positioned between the second end of the horizontal portion (330) of the first conductive portion (310) and the first end of the second conductive portion (360). For example, the second conductive portion (360) may form another part of the second side (130b) of the third housing part (130). The second conductive portion (360) may be spaced apart from the horizontal portion (330) of the first conductive portion (310). A non-conductive portion (372) may be positioned between the horizontal portion (330) of the first conductive portion (310) and the second conductive portion (360).

[0079] In one embodiment, the plurality of conductive portions of the third housing part (130) may further include a third conductive portion (391), a fourth conductive portion (392), and a fifth conductive portion (393). The third conductive portion (391) may form another part of the first side (130a) of the third housing part (130) and a part of the third side (130c) of the third housing part (130) that extends from said other part of the first side (130a). Each of the fourth conductive portion (392) and the fifth conductive portion (393) may partially form the third side (130c) of the third housing part (130).

[0080] Referring to FIG. 3b, the first housing part (110) of the electronic device (100) may include, in the third state, a conductive part (301) corresponding to the horizontal part (330) of the first conductive part (310) of the third housing part (130), a conductive part (302) corresponding to the second conductive part (360) of the third housing part (130), a non-conductive part (303) corresponding to the non-conductive part (372) of the third housing part (130), and a non-conductive part (304) corresponding to the non-conductive part (373) of the third housing part (130). The conductive part (301) of the first housing part (110) may, for example, overlap or be aligned with the horizontal part (330) of the first conductive part (310) of the third housing part (130) in the third state. The conductive portion (302) of the first housing part (110) may overlap or be aligned with the second conductive portion (360) of the third housing part (130) in the third state, for example. The non-conductive portion (303) of the first housing part (110) may overlap or be aligned with the non-conductive portion (372) of the third housing part (130) in the third state, for example. The non-conductive portion (304) of the first housing part (110) may overlap or be aligned with the non-conductive portion (373) of the third housing part (130) in the third state, for example.

[0081] In the third state above, the first housing part (110) adjacent to the third housing part (130) may affect the performance of the antenna using the first conductive part (310) and the second conductive part (360) of the third housing part (130). To reduce this effect, the conductive part (301), non-conductive part (303), conductive part (302), and non-conductive part (304) of the first housing part (110) may be aligned, respectively, with the horizontal part (330), non-conductive part (372), second conductive part (360), and non-conductive part (373) of the first conductive part (310) of the third housing part (130) in the third state above.

[0082] Referring to FIGS. 3b and 3c, the vertical portion (320) of the first conductive portion (310) of the third housing part (130) may overlap with the first hinge structure (150) in the third state. For example, in the third state, the vertical portion (320) of the first conductive portion (310) of the third housing part (130) may be placed on the first hinge structure (150). In the first hinge structure (150), it may be difficult to form a non-conductive portion that separates the conductive portions of the first hinge structure (150), such as a non-conductive portion (371) that separates the horizontal portion (330) of the first conductive portion (310) and the second conductive portion (360). Therefore, in the first hinge structure (150), it may be difficult to form a non-conductive portion that is aligned with the non-conductive portion (371) of the third housing part (130) within the third state. Accordingly, the antenna performance of the first conductive portion (310) may be degraded.

[0083] In the following, a structure for controlling the electromagnetic field formed by the first conductive part (310) and the second conductive part (360) of the third housing part (130) is described in order to reduce the performance degradation of the antenna caused by the first hinge structure (150).

[0084] FIGS. 4a and FIGS. 4b show an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0085] Referring to FIG. 4a, in one embodiment, the first conductive portion (310) may include a first end (310a) adjacent to the non-conductive portion (372) and a second end (310b) adjacent to the non-conductive portion (371).

[0086] In one embodiment, the first conductive portion (310) may include a first point (311) and a second point (321) spaced apart from the first point (311). The first point (311) of the first conductive portion (310) may be located in the horizontal portion (330) of the first conductive portion (310), and the second point (321) of the first conductive portion (310) may be located in the vertical portion (320) of the first conductive portion (310).

[0087] In one embodiment, the first point (311) may be closer to the first end (310a) (or non-conductive part (372)) of the first conductive part (310) than to the second point (321). For example, the first point (311) may be closer to the first end (310a) (or non-conductive part (372)) of the first conductive part (310) than to the second end (310b) (or non-conductive part (371)) of the first conductive part (310). For example, the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) may be located at the first end (310a) of the first conductive part (310).

[0088] In one embodiment, the second point (321) may be closer to the second end (310b) (or non-conductive part (371)) of the first conductive part (310) than to the first point (311). For example, the second point (321) may be closer to the second end (310b) (or non-conductive part (371)) of the first conductive part (310) than to the first end (310a) (or non-conductive part (372)) of the first conductive part (310).

[0089] In one embodiment, the first point (311) and the second point (321) of the first conductive part (310) may each be located on the parts protruding inwardly from the first conductive part (310), but are not limited thereto.

[0090] In one embodiment, the second conductive portion (360) may include a first end (360a) adjacent to the non-conductive portion (372) and a second end (360b) opposite to the first end (360a) and adjacent to the non-conductive portion (373).

[0091] In one embodiment, the second conductive portion (360) may include a first point (361), a second point (362), and a third point (363) located between the first point (361) and the second point (362). The first point (361) may be closer to the first end (360a) (or non-conductive part (372)) of the second conductive part (360) than to the second point (362). The second point (362) may be closer to the second end (360b) (or non-conductive part (373)) of the second conductive part (360) than to the first point (361). For example, the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360) may be located at the first end (360a) of the second conductive part (360). For example, the second point (362) of the second conductive part (360) may be located at the second end (360b) of the second conductive part (360).

[0092] In one embodiment, the first point (361), the second point (362), and the third point (363) of the second conductive part (360) may each be located in a portion protruding inwardly from the second conductive part (360), but are not limited thereto.

[0093] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (100) may include a wireless communication circuit (492) (e.g., the wireless communication module (1692) of FIG. 16), at least one switching circuit (470), a switching circuit (481), and / or a switching circuit (482).

[0094] According to one embodiment, at least one switching circuit (470) may be electrically connected to a wireless communication circuit (492), a first point (311) of the horizontal portion (330) of the first conductive portion (310), a first point (361) of the second conductive portion (360), and a third point (363) of the second conductive portion (360). For example, the wireless communication circuit (492) may be connected to an input port of at least one switching circuit (470). For example, the first point (311) of the horizontal portion (330) of the first conductive portion (310), the first point (361) of the second conductive portion (360), and the third point (363) of the second conductive portion (360) may be connected to output ports of at least one switching circuit (470) (e.g., each).

[0095] According to one embodiment, a first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) may be electrically opened, electrically connected to a wireless communication circuit (492), or electrically connected to a first point (361) of the second conductive part (360) through at least one switching circuit (470). In one embodiment, a first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) may be electrically opened, electrically connected to a wireless communication circuit (492), electrically connected to the ground of an electronic device (100) (e.g., shorting), or electrically connected to a first point (361) of the second conductive part (360) through at least one switching circuit (470). In the present disclosure, the ground of the electronic device (100) may include the main ground of the electronic device (100) and / or the antenna ground connected directly or indirectly to the main ground for the operation of the antenna of the electronic device (100).

[0096] According to one embodiment, a first point (361) of the second conductive part (360) may be electrically opened, electrically connected to a wireless communication circuit (492), or electrically connected to a first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) through at least one switching circuit (470). In one embodiment, a first point (361) of the second conductive part (360) may be electrically opened, electrically connected to a wireless communication circuit (492), electrically connected to the ground of an electronic device (100) (e.g., shorting), or electrically connected to a first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) through at least one switching circuit (470).

[0097] According to one embodiment, a third point (363) of the second conductive part (360) may be electrically opened, electrically connected to a wireless communication circuit (492), or electrically connected to at least one element through at least one switching circuit (470). According to one embodiment, a third point (363) of the second conductive part (360) may be electrically opened, electrically connected to a wireless communication circuit (492), electrically connected to the ground of an electronic device (100) (e.g., shorting), or electrically connected to at least one element through at least one switching circuit (470). When a third point (363) of a second conductive portion (360) is electrically connected to the at least one element through at least one switching circuit (470), the third point (363) of the second conductive portion (360) may be electrically connected to the ground of an electronic device (100) through the at least one element. The at least one element may include, for example, a matching element (or circuit). The at least one element may include, for example, an inductor and / or a capacitor. The at least one element may be, for example, embedded within the at least one switching circuit (470) or placed outside the at least one switching circuit (470).

[0098] The wireless communication circuit (492) can transmit or receive a wireless signal by using a first conductive part (310) and / or a second conductive part (360) which are electrically connected to the wireless communication circuit (492) through at least one switching circuit (470).

[0099] According to one embodiment, the switching circuit (481) may be connected to a second point (362) of the second conductive portion (360). For example, the switching circuit (481) may electrically disconnect the second point (362) of the second conductive portion (360), electrically connect it to the ground of the electronic device (100) (e.g., shorting), or electrically connect it to at least one third element (e.g., at least one third element (803) of FIG. 8A). When the second point (362) of the second conductive portion (360) is electrically connected to the at least one third element through the switching circuit (481), the second point (362) of the second conductive portion (360) may be electrically connected to the ground of the electronic device (100) through the at least one third element. The at least one third element may include, for example, a matching element (or circuit). The at least one third element may include, for example, an inductor and / or a capacitor. The at least one third element may be, for example, built into the switching circuit (481) or placed outside the switching circuit (481).

[0100] According to one embodiment, the switching circuit (482) may be connected to a second point (321) of the vertical portion (320) of the first conductive portion (310). For example, the switching circuit (482) may electrically open the second point (321) of the vertical portion (320) of the first conductive portion (310), electrically connect it to the ground of the electronic device (100) (e.g., shorting), or electrically connect it to at least one fourth element (e.g., at least one fourth element (804) of FIG. 8A). When the second point (321) of the first conductive portion (310) is electrically connected to the at least one fourth element through the switching circuit (482), the second point (321) of the first conductive portion (310) may be electrically connected to the ground of the electronic device (100) through the at least one fourth element. The at least one fourth element may include, for example, a matching element (or circuit). The at least one fourth element may include, for example, an inductor and / or a capacitor. The at least one fourth element may be, for example, embedded within the switching circuit (482) or disposed outside the switching circuit (482).

[0101] Referring to FIG. 4b, at least one switching circuit (470) may include a plurality of switching circuits. For example, at least one switching circuit (470) may include a first switching circuit (471) and a second switching circuit (472).

[0102] The input ports of the first switching circuit (471) and the second switching circuit (472) may each be connected to the wireless communication circuit (492). For example, the wireless communication circuit (492) may include a first feed unit (S1) for transmitting and / or receiving a first signal and a second feed unit (S2) for transmitting and / or receiving a second signal. For example, the first feed unit (S1) of the wireless communication circuit (492) may be electrically connected to the input port of the first switching circuit (471). For example, the first feed unit (S1) of the wireless communication circuit (492) may be electrically connected to the first input port of the second switching circuit (472), and the second feed unit (S2) of the wireless communication circuit (492) may be electrically connected to the second input port of the second switching circuit (472).

[0103] The first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) and the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360) can each be connected to the output ports of the first switching circuit (471). The first point (361) and the third point (363) of the second conductive part (360) can each be connected to the output ports of the second switching circuit (472).

[0104] In one embodiment, a first electrical path connecting the switching circuit (471) and the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360), and a second electrical path connecting the switching circuit (472) and the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360) may be shared in some sections. For example, the electronic device (100) may include electrical paths (P1 and P2) that connect the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360) to the output port of the switching circuit (471) and the output port of the switching circuit (472). For example, the electrical path (P1) may connect the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360) to the electrical path (P2). The electrical path (P2) may be connected to the output port of the switching circuit (471) and the output port of the switching circuit (472). For example, the electrical path (P1) may be shared so that the switching circuit (471) and the switching circuit (472) are connected to the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360). For example, the switching circuit (471) may be connected to the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360) through a part of the electrical path (P2) and the electrical path (P1), and the switching circuit (472) may be connected to the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360) through another part of the electrical path (P2) and the electrical path (P1). However, it is not limited to the illustrated examples. For example, the electrical path (P1) may be connected to the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360) and the output port of the switching circuit (471). As another example, the electrical path (P1) can be connected to the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360) and the output port of the switching circuit (472).For another example, the electrical path (P2) may be omitted, and the switching circuit (471) may be connected to the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360) through the electrical path (P1), and the switching circuit (472) may be connected to the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360) through another electrical path distinct from the electrical path (P1).

[0105] According to one embodiment, a first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) may be electrically opened through a first switching circuit (471), electrically connected to the ground of the electronic device (100) (e.g., shorting), electrically connected to a wireless communication circuit (492), or electrically connected to a first point (361) of the second conductive part (360).

[0106] According to one embodiment, the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360) may be electrically opened, electrically connected to a wireless communication circuit (492), or electrically connected to the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) through the first switching circuit (471) and the second switching circuit (472).

[0107] Although not illustrated, according to one embodiment, an electronic device (100) may include at least one first element electrically connected to a first switching circuit (471) and at least one second element electrically connected to a second switching circuit (472). The at least one first element may include, for example, a matching element (or circuit). The at least one first element may include, for example, an inductor and / or capacitor. The at least one first element may be, for example, embedded within the first switching circuit (471) or disposed outside the first switching circuit (471). The at least one second element may include, for example, a matching element (or circuit). The at least one second element may include, for example, an inductor and / or capacitor. The at least one second element may be, for example, embedded within the second switching circuit (472) or disposed outside the second switching circuit (472).

[0108] According to one embodiment, a third point (363) of the second conductive portion (360) may be electrically opened through the second switching circuit (472), electrically connected to the wireless communication circuit (492), or electrically connected to the at least one second element. The at least one second element may be embedded within the second switching circuit (472) or disposed outside the second switching circuit (472).

[0109] Although not illustrated, an electronic device (100) according to one embodiment may include a frequency filter (e.g., a high pass filter) connected to an electrical path between a wireless communication circuit (492) and a second switching circuit (472) or an electrical path between a second switching circuit (472) and a second conductive part (360).

[0110] FIGS. 5A, FIGS. 5B, and FIGS. 5C show examples of antenna modes of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0111] Referring to FIG. 5a, the first CA mode (carrier aggregation mode) is described.

[0112] According to one embodiment, in the first CA mode, the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) can be electrically connected to a wireless communication circuit (492) (e.g., first feed section (S1)) through a first switching circuit (471). In the first CA mode, the wireless communication circuit (492) (e.g., first feed section (S1)) can transmit and receive a first signal by making the antenna feed point the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310). For example, the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) can operate as a feed point capable of transmitting and receiving a first signal by being electrically connected to the wireless communication circuit (492) (e.g., first feed section (S1)) through the first switching circuit (471).

[0113] According to one embodiment, in the first CA mode, the first point (361) and / or the third point (363) of the second conductive part (360) may be electrically connected to the wireless communication circuit (492) (e.g., the second feed section (S2)) through the second switching circuit (472). In the first CA mode, the wireless communication circuit (492) (e.g., the second feed section (S2)) may transmit and receive a second signal by making the antenna feed point the first point (361) and / or the third point (363) of the second conductive part (360). For example, the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360) may operate as a feed point capable of transmitting and receiving a second signal by being electrically connected to the wireless communication circuit (492) (e.g., the second feed section (S2)) through the second switching circuit (472).

[0114] According to one embodiment, in the first CA mode, the first switching circuit (471) may not electrically connect the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) and the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360).

[0115] According to one embodiment, in the first CA mode, the switching circuit (481) (hereinafter referred to as the third switching circuit (481)) may electrically open the second point (362) of the second conductive part (360) or electrically connect it to the at least one third element. Accordingly, in the first CA mode, the second conductive part (360) may operate as an antenna (5A2) in which the electromagnetic field ends are formed at the first end (360a) and the second end (360b) of the second conductive part (360). In the present disclosure, the electromagnetic field ends of a particular antenna (or conductive part) may be an area where the strength of the electromagnetic field radiated from the antenna is relatively strong and / or an area where the energy of the radiated radio waves is concentrated.

[0116] According to one embodiment, in the first CA mode, the switching circuit (482) (hereinafter, the fourth switching circuit (482)) may electrically open the second point (321) of the vertical portion (320) of the first conductive portion (310) or electrically connect it to the at least one fourth element. Accordingly, in the first CA mode, the first conductive portion (310) may operate as an antenna (5A1) corresponding to an electrical path from the first point (311) (or first end (310a)) of the first conductive portion (310) to the second end (310b), and the end of the electromagnetic field radiated by the antenna (5A1) may be formed at the second end (310b) of the first conductive portion (310).

[0117] The electronic device (100) (or wireless communication circuit (492)) may operate in the first CA mode. For example, the wireless communication circuit (492) (e.g., first feed unit (S1) and second feed unit (S2)) may transmit and / or receive a first signal using an antenna (5A1) and a second signal using an antenna (5A2) to support the CA (carrier aggregation) function of the electronic device (100).

[0118] The feed point of the antenna (5A1) may be a first point (311) of the first conductive portion (310). When the antenna (5A1) is in operation, the first point (311) of the first conductive portion (310) and the first point (361) of the second conductive portion (360) may not be electrically connected through the first switching circuit (471) and / or the second switching circuit (472). As the second point (321) of the first conductive portion (310) is opened through the fourth switching circuit (482), the second end (310b) of the first conductive portion (310) may operate as an open end of the radiator of the antenna (5A1). Accordingly, the end of the field of the antenna (5A1) may be formed at the second end (310b) of the first conductive portion (310).

[0119] The feed point of the antenna (5A2) may be the first point (361) and / or the third point (363) of the second conductive part (360). When the antenna (5A2) is in operation, the second point (362) of the second conductive part (360) may be opened through the third switching circuit (481). Additionally, when the antenna (5A2) is in operation, the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360) may not be connected to the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) through the first switching circuit (471) and / or the second switching circuit (472).

[0120] With reference to Fig. 5b, CA modes are described.

[0121] According to one embodiment, in the second CA mode and the third CA mode, the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) can be electrically connected to the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360) through the first switching circuit (471). Additionally, in the second CA mode and the third CA mode, the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) and the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360) can be electrically connected to a wireless communication circuit (492) (e.g., the first feed unit (S1)) through the first switching circuit (471). In the above second CA mode and the above third CA mode, the wireless communication circuit (492) (e.g., first feed section (S1)) can transmit and receive a first signal by setting the antenna feed point to the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) and the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360). For example, the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) and the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360) can operate as feed points capable of transmitting and receiving the first signal by being electrically connected to the wireless communication circuit (492) (e.g., first feed section (S1)) through the first switching circuit (471).

[0122] According to one embodiment, in the second CA mode and the third CA mode, the third point (363) of the second conductive part (360) can be electrically connected to a wireless communication circuit (492) (e.g., second feed section (S2)) through a second switching circuit (472). In the second CA mode and the third CA mode, the wireless communication circuit (492) (e.g., second feed section (S2)) can transmit and receive a second signal by making the antenna feed point the third point (363) of the second conductive part (360). For example, the third point (363) of the second conductive part (360) can operate as a feed point capable of transmitting and receiving a second signal by being electrically connected to the wireless communication circuit (492) (e.g., second feed section (S2)) through the second switching circuit (472).

[0123] According to one embodiment, in the second CA mode, the third switching circuit (481) may electrically open the second point (362) of the second conductive part (360) or electrically connect it to the at least one third element. In the second CA mode, the fourth switching circuit (482) may electrically connect the second point (321) of the first conductive part (310) to the ground of the electronic device (100) (e.g., shorting). Accordingly, in the second CA mode, the first conductive part (310) and the second conductive part (360) can operate as an antenna (5B1) corresponding to an electrical path extending from a second point (321) of the first conductive part (310) to a second point (362) of the second conductive part (360), and the end of the electromagnetic field of the antenna (5B1) can be formed at the second point (362) of the second conductive part (360).

[0124] According to one embodiment, in the third CA mode, the third switching circuit (481) can electrically connect the second point (362) of the second conductive part (360) to the ground of the electronic device (100) (e.g., shorting). In the third CA mode, the fourth switching circuit (482) can electrically open the second point (321) of the first conductive part (310) or electrically connect it to the at least one fourth element. Accordingly, in the third CA mode, the first conductive part (310) and the second conductive part (360) can operate as an antenna (5B2) corresponding to an electrical path extending from the second point (362) of the second conductive part (360) to the second end (310b) of the first conductive part (310). The end of the electromagnetic field of the antenna (5B2) can be formed at the second end (310b) of the first conductive part (310).

[0125] According to one embodiment, in the second CA mode and the third CA mode, the second conductive part (360), in which the third point (363) of the second conductive part (360) is electrically connected to the wireless communication circuit (492) through the second switching circuit (472), can operate as an antenna (5B3) corresponding to an electrical path extending from the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360) to the second point (362). The ends of the antenna (5B3) can be formed at the first point (361) and the second point (362) of the second conductive part (360), respectively.

[0126] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (100) (or wireless communication circuit (492)) may operate in the second CA mode. For example, the wireless communication circuit (492) (e.g., first feed unit (S1) and second feed unit (S2)) may transmit and / or receive a first signal using antenna (5B1) and a second signal using antenna (5B3) to support the CA function of the electronic device (100).

[0127] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (100) (or wireless communication circuit (492)) may operate in the third CA mode. For example, the wireless communication circuit (492) (e.g., first feed unit (S1) and second feed unit (S2)) may transmit and / or receive a first signal using an antenna (5B2) and a second signal using an antenna (5B3) to support the CA function of the electronic device (100).

[0128] While the antenna (5B1) is in operation, the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) and the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360) may be electrically connected through the first switching circuit (471) and / or the second switching circuit (472). The feed point of the antenna (5B1) may be the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310), the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) and the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360), or the third point (363) of the second conductive part (360). Additionally, when the antenna (5B1) is in operation, the second point (321) of the first conductive part (310) may be electrically connected to ground through the fourth switching circuit (482). Accordingly, the second point (321) of the first conductive part (310) can operate as a ground point of the antenna (5B1). Additionally, the second point (362) of the second conductive part (360) can be opened through the third switching circuit (481), and accordingly, the second end (360b) of the second conductive part (360) can operate as an open end of the antenna radiator.

[0129] While the antenna (5B2) is in operation, the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) and the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360) may be electrically connected through the first switching circuit (471) and / or the second switching circuit (472). The feed point of the antenna (5B2) may be the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310), the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) and the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360), or the third point (363) of the second conductive part (360). Additionally, when the antenna (5B2) is in operation, the second point (362) of the second conductive part (360) may be connected to ground through the third switching circuit (481). Accordingly, the second point (362) of the second conductive part (360) can operate as a ground point of the antenna (5B2). In order for the second end (310b) of the first conductive part (310) to operate as an open end of the antenna radiator when the antenna (5B2) is operated, the second point (321) of the first conductive part (310) can be opened through the fourth switching circuit (482).

[0130] The feed point of the antenna (5B3) may be the first point (361) and / or the third point (363) of the second conductive part (360). When the antenna (5B3) is in operation, the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) and the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360) may not be electrically connected through the first switching circuit (471) and / or the second switching circuit (472). Additionally, when the antenna (5B3) is in operation, the second point (362) of the second conductive part (360) may be opened through the third switching circuit (481).

[0131] With reference to Fig. 5c, SA modes (stand alone modes) are described.

[0132] According to one embodiment, in the first SA mode and the second SA mode, the first switching circuit (471) and the second switching circuit (472) may not connect the wireless communication circuit (492) to the first conductive part (310) and may electrically connect the wireless communication circuit (492) to a third point (363) of the second conductive part (360). In the first SA mode and the second SA mode, the wireless communication circuit (492) (e.g., the first feed part (S1)) may transmit and receive a first signal by making the antenna feed point the third point (363) of the second conductive part (360). For example, the third point (363) of the second conductive part (360) can operate as a power point capable of transmitting and receiving the first signal by being electrically connected to the wireless communication circuit (492) (e.g., the first power supply part (S1)) through the second switching circuit (472).

[0133] According to one embodiment, in the first SA mode, the first switching circuit (471) can electrically connect a first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) and a first point (361) of the second conductive part (360). In the first SA mode, the third switching circuit (481) can electrically open a second point (362) of the second conductive part (360) or electrically connect it to the at least one third element. In the first SA mode, the fourth switching circuit (482) can electrically connect a second point (321) of the first conductive part (310) to the ground of the electronic device (100) (e.g., shorting). Accordingly, in the first SA mode, the first conductive portion (310) and the second conductive portion (360) can operate as an antenna (5C1) corresponding to an electrical path extending from a second point (321) of the first conductive portion (310) to a second point (362) of the second conductive portion (360). The end of the electromagnetic field of the antenna (5C1) can be formed at the second point (362) of the second conductive portion (360).

[0134] According to one embodiment, the third switching circuit (481) and the fourth switching circuit (482) may be configured such that the second point (321) of the first conductive part (310) or the second point (362) of the second conductive part (360) operates as the ground point of the antenna by connecting the conductive part (e.g., the first conductive part (310) and the second conductive part (360)) to the antenna ground part. In some cases, the third switching circuit (481) may be configured to be open or grounded in the case of the antenna (5C2). In the case of the fourth switching circuit (482), the electrical length of the antenna may be configured such that when changing from the antenna (5C1) to the antenna (5C2), the second point (321) of the first conductive part (310) is connected to ground using the fourth switching circuit (482).

[0135] According to one embodiment, in the second SA mode, the first switching circuit (471) can electrically connect the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) and the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360). In the second SA mode, the third switching circuit (481) can electrically open the second point (362) of the second conductive part (360) or electrically connect it to the at least one third element. In the second SA mode, the fourth switching circuit (482) can electrically open the second point (321) of the first conductive part (310) or electrically connect it to the at least one fourth element. Accordingly, in the second SA mode, the first conductive portion (310) and the second conductive portion (360) can operate as an antenna (5C2) corresponding to an electrical path extending from the second end (310b) of the first conductive portion (310) to the second point (362) of the second conductive portion (360). The end of the electromagnetic field of the antenna (5C2) can be formed at the second end (310b) of the first conductive portion (310) and the second point (362) of the second conductive portion (360).

[0136] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (100) (or wireless communication circuit (492)) may operate in the first SA mode. For example, the wireless communication circuit (492) (e.g., the first feed unit (S1)) may transmit and / or receive the first signal using an antenna (5C1).

[0137] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (100) (or wireless communication circuit (492)) may operate in the second SA mode. For example, the wireless communication circuit (492) (e.g., the first feed unit (S1)) may transmit and / or receive a first signal using an antenna (5C2).

[0138] While the antenna (5C1) is in operation, the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) and the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360) may be electrically connected through the first switching circuit (471) and / or the second switching circuit (472). The feed point of the antenna (5C1) may be the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310), the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) and the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360), or the third point (363) of the second conductive part (360). Additionally, when the antenna (5C1) is in operation, the second point (321) of the first conductive part (310) may be electrically connected to ground through the fourth switching circuit (482). Accordingly, the second point (321) of the first conductive part (310) can operate as a ground point of the antenna (5C1). Additionally, the second point (362) of the second conductive part (360) can be opened through the third switching circuit (481), and accordingly, the second end (360b) of the second conductive part (360) can operate as an open end of the antenna radiator.

[0139] While the antenna (5C2) is in operation, the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) and the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360) may be electrically connected through the first switching circuit (471) and / or the second switching circuit (472). The feed point of the antenna (5C2) may be the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310), the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) and the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360), or the third point (363) of the second conductive part (360). When the antenna (5C2) is operated, the second point (362) of the second conductive part (360) can be opened through the fourth switching circuit (482) so that the second end (360b) of the second conductive part (360) can operate as an open end of the antenna radiator, and / or the second point (321) of the first conductive part (310) can be opened through the fourth switching circuit (482) so that the second end (310b) of the first conductive part (310) can operate as an open end of the antenna radiator.

[0140] FIG. 6a shows an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0141] Referring to FIG. 6a, according to one embodiment, the horizontal portion (330) of the first conductive portion (310) may include a third point (331). The third point (331) may be located between the first point (311) and the vertical portion (320) of the first conductive portion (310). For example, the third point (331) may be located further from the first end (310a) (or non-conductive portion (372)) of the first conductive portion (310) than the first point (311). The third point (331) may be located in a portion protruding inwardly from the first conductive portion (310), but is not limited thereto.

[0142] In one embodiment, at least one switching circuit (470) may additionally be connected to a third point (331) of the first conductive portion (310). For example, the third point (331) of the first conductive portion (310) may be connected to a corresponding port among the output ports of at least one switching circuit (470). The third point (331) of the first conductive portion (310) may be electrically open or electrically connected to a wireless communication circuit (492) through at least one switching circuit (470). In addition to the first point (311) of the first conductive portion (310), the third point (331) may be configured as a feed point, thereby enabling a wider variety of electrical lengths of the antenna. Accordingly, an antenna having a resonant frequency in various bands may be implemented.

[0143] FIG. 6b shows an electronic device according to one embodiment. FIG. 6c shows an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0144] Referring to FIG. 6b, in one embodiment, the first switching circuit (471) may additionally be connected to a third point (331) of the first conductive portion (310). For example, the third point (331) of the first conductive portion (310) may additionally be connected to a corresponding port among the output ports of the first switching circuit (471). The third point (331) of the first conductive portion (310) may be electrically open through the first switching circuit (471) or electrically connected to a wireless communication circuit (492). Unlike the illustration in FIG. 6b, for example, as in FIG. 6c, one or more switching circuits (470) may not be connected to the third point (363) of the second conductive portion (360).

[0145] FIGS. 7a, 7b, and 7c show examples of antenna modes of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0146] With reference to FIGS. 7a, FIGS. 7b, and FIGS. 7c, SA modes are described.

[0147] Referring to FIG. 7a, in the third SA mode, fourth SA mode, and fifth SA mode, the first switching circuit (471) and the second switching circuit (472) can connect the wireless communication circuit (492) to the third point (331) of the first conductive part (310) and can not connect the wireless communication circuit (492) to the second conductive part (360).

[0148] According to one embodiment, in the third SA mode, the fourth SA mode, and the fifth SA mode, the wireless communication circuit (492) (e.g., the first feed section (S1)) can transmit and receive a first signal by making the antenna feed point a third point (331) of the first conductive part (310). For example, the third point (331) of the first conductive part (310) can operate as a feed point capable of transmitting and receiving the first signal by being electrically connected to the wireless communication circuit (492) (e.g., the first feed section (S1)) through the first switching circuit (471).

[0149] According to one embodiment, in the third SA mode, the first switching circuit (471) may not electrically connect the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) and the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360). In the third SA mode, the first switching circuit (471) may electrically connect the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) to the ground of the electronic device (100) (e.g., shorting). In the third SA mode, the fourth switching circuit (482) may electrically open the second point (321) of the first conductive part (310) or electrically connect it to the at least one fourth element. Accordingly, in the third SA mode, the first conductive portion (310) can operate as an antenna (7A1) corresponding to an electrical path from a first point (311) of the first conductive portion (310) to a second end (310b). The end of the electromagnetic field of the antenna (7A1) can be formed at the second end (310b) of the first conductive portion (310).

[0150] According to one embodiment, in the fourth SA mode and the fifth SA mode, the first switching circuit (471) can electrically connect a first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) to a first point (361) of the second conductive part (360).

[0151] According to one embodiment, in the fourth SA mode and the fifth SA mode, the second switching circuit (472) can electrically open the third point (363) of the second conductive part (360) or electrically connect it to the at least one second element.

[0152] According to one embodiment, in the fourth SA mode and the fifth SA mode, the third switching circuit (481) can electrically open the second point (362) of the second conductive part (360) or electrically connect it to the at least one third element.

[0153] According to one embodiment, in the fourth SA mode, the fourth switching circuit (482) can electrically connect the second point (321) of the first conductive part (310) to the ground of the electronic device (100) (e.g., shorting). Accordingly, in the fourth SA mode, the first conductive part (310) and the second conductive part (360) can operate as an antenna (7A2) corresponding to an electrical path extending from the second point (321) of the first conductive part (310) to the second point (362) of the second conductive part (360). The end of the electromagnetic field of the antenna (7A2) can be formed at the second point (362) of the second conductive part (360).

[0154] According to one embodiment, in the fifth SA mode, the fourth switching circuit (482) may electrically open the second point (321) of the first conductive part (310) or electrically connect it to the at least one fourth element. Accordingly, in the fifth SA mode, the first conductive part (310) and the second conductive part (360) may operate as an antenna (7A3) corresponding to an electrical path extending from the second end (310b) of the first conductive part (310) to the second point (362) of the second conductive part (360). The ends of the electromagnetic field of the antenna (7A3) may be formed at the second end (310b) of the first conductive part (310) and the second point (362) of the second conductive part (360), respectively.

[0155] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (100) (or wireless communication circuit (492)) may operate in the third SA mode. For example, the wireless communication circuit (492) may transmit and / or receive a first signal using an antenna (7A1).

[0156] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (100) (or wireless communication circuit (492)) may operate in the fourth SA mode. For example, the wireless communication circuit (492) may transmit and / or receive a first signal using an antenna (7A2).

[0157] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (100) (or wireless communication circuit (492)) may operate in the fifth SA mode. For example, the wireless communication circuit (492) may transmit and / or receive a first signal using an antenna (7A3).

[0158] The feed point of the antenna (7A1) may be the first point (311) and / or the third point (331) of the first conductive part (310). When the antenna (7A1) is in operation, the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) and the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360) may not be electrically connected through the first switching circuit (471) and / or the second switching circuit (472). As the second point (321) of the first conductive part (310) is opened through the fourth switching circuit (482), the second end (310b) of the first conductive part (310) may operate as the open end of the radiator of the antenna (7A1). Accordingly, the end of the field of the antenna (7A1) may be formed at the second end (310b) of the first conductive part (310).

[0159] While the antenna (7A2) is in operation, the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) and the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360) may be electrically connected through the first switching circuit (471) and / or the second switching circuit (472). The feed point of the antenna (7A2) may be one or more points selected from the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310), the third point (331) of the first conductive part (310), the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360), and / or the third point (363) of the second conductive part (360). Additionally, when the antenna (7A2) is in operation, the second point (321) of the first conductive part (310) may be electrically connected to ground through the fourth switching circuit (482). Accordingly, the second point (321) of the first conductive part (310) can operate as a ground point of the antenna (7A2). Additionally, the second point (362) of the second conductive part (360) can be opened through the third switching circuit (481), and accordingly, the second end (360b) of the second conductive part (360) can operate as an open end of the antenna radiator.

[0160] While the antenna (7A3) is in operation, the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) and the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360) may be electrically connected through the first switching circuit (471) and / or the second switching circuit (472). The feed point of the antenna (7A3) may be one or more points selected from the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310), the third point (331) of the first conductive part (310), the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360), and / or the third point (363) of the second conductive part (360). When the antenna (7A3) is operated, the second point (362) of the second conductive part (360) may be opened through the fourth switching circuit (482) so that the second end (360b) of the second conductive part (360) can operate as an open end of the antenna radiator, and / or the second point (321) of the first conductive part (310) may be opened through the fourth switching circuit (482) so that the second end (310b) of the first conductive part (310) can operate as an open end of the antenna radiator.

[0161] Referring to FIG. 7b, in one embodiment, in the 6th SA mode and the 7th SA mode, the first switching circuit (471) and the second switching circuit (472) may connect the wireless communication circuit (492) to the third point (363) of the second conductive part (360) and may not connect the wireless communication circuit (492) to the first conductive part (310).

[0162] In the above 6th SA mode and the above 7th SA mode, the wireless communication circuit (492) (e.g., the first feed section (S1)) can transmit and receive a first signal by making the antenna feed point the third point (363) of the second conductive part (360). For example, the third point (363) of the second conductive part (360) can operate as a feed point capable of transmitting and receiving the first signal by being electrically connected to the wireless communication circuit (492) (e.g., the first feed section (S1)) through the second switching circuit (472).

[0163] In the above 6th SA mode and the above 7th SA mode, the first switching circuit (471) can electrically connect the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) to the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360).

[0164] In the above 6th SA mode and the above 7th SA mode, the third switching circuit (481) can electrically open the second point (362) of the second conductive part (360) or electrically connect it to the at least one third element.

[0165] According to one embodiment, in the sixth SA mode, the fourth switching circuit (482) can electrically connect the second point (321) of the first conductive part (310) to the ground of the electronic device (100) (e.g., shorting). Accordingly, in the sixth SA mode, the first conductive part (310) and the second conductive part (360) can operate as an antenna (7B1) corresponding to an electrical path extending from the second point (321) of the first conductive part (310) to the second point (362) of the second conductive part (360). The end of the electromagnetic field of the antenna (7B1) can be formed at the second point (362) of the second conductive part (360).

[0166] According to one embodiment, in the seventh SA mode, the fourth switching circuit (482) may electrically open the second point (321) of the first conductive part (310) or electrically connect it to the at least one fourth element. Accordingly, in the seventh SA mode, the first conductive part (310) and the second conductive part (360) may operate as an antenna (7B2) corresponding to an electrical path extending from the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) to the second point (362) of the second conductive part (360). The end of the electromagnetic field of the antenna (7B2) may be formed at the second end (310b) of the first conductive part (310) and the second point (362) of the second conductive part (360).

[0167] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (100) (or wireless communication circuit (492)) may operate in the sixth SA mode. For example, the wireless communication circuit (492) may transmit and / or receive a first signal using an antenna (7B1).

[0168] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (100) (or wireless communication circuit (492)) may operate in the seventh SA mode. For example, the wireless communication circuit (492) may transmit and / or receive a first signal using an antenna (7B2).

[0169] While the antenna (7B1) is in operation, the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) and the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360) may be electrically connected through the first switching circuit (471) and / or the second switching circuit (472). The feed point of the antenna (7B1) may be one or more points selected from the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310), the third point (331) of the first conductive part (310), the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360), and / or the third point (363) of the second conductive part (360). Additionally, when the antenna (7B1) is in operation, the second point (321) of the first conductive part (310) may be electrically connected to ground through the fourth switching circuit (482). Accordingly, the second point (321) of the first conductive part (310) can operate as a ground point of the antenna (7B1). Additionally, the second point (362) of the second conductive part (360) can be opened through the third switching circuit (481), and accordingly, the second end (360b) of the second conductive part (360) can operate as an open end of the antenna radiator.

[0170] While the antenna (7B2) is in operation, the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) and the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360) may be electrically connected through the first switching circuit (471) and / or the second switching circuit (472). The feed point of the antenna (7B2) may be one or more points selected from the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310), the third point (331) of the first conductive part (310), the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360), and / or the third point (363) of the second conductive part (360). When the antenna (7B2) is operated, the second point (362) of the second conductive part (360) may be opened through the fourth switching circuit (482) so that the second end (360b) of the second conductive part (360) can operate as an open end of the antenna radiator, and / or the second point (321) of the first conductive part (310) may be opened through the fourth switching circuit (482) so that the second end (310b) of the first conductive part (310) can operate as an open end of the antenna radiator.

[0171] Referring to FIG. 7c, in one embodiment, in an 8th SA mode using an antenna (7C1), the first switching circuit (471) can connect the wireless communication circuit (492) to a first point (311) of the first conductive part (310). In the 8th SA mode, the first switching circuit (471) and / or the second switching circuit (472) may not connect the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) to a first point (361) of the second conductive part (360). In the 8th SA mode, the wireless communication circuit (492) (e.g., the first feed part (S1)) can transmit and receive a first signal by making the antenna feed point the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310). For example, the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) can operate as a power point capable of transmitting and receiving a first signal by being electrically connected to a wireless communication circuit (492) (e.g., the first power supply part (S1)) through the first switching circuit (471).

[0172] In the above eighth SA mode, the second switching circuit (472) may electrically open the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360) or electrically connect it to the at least one second element. In the above eighth SA mode, the fourth switching circuit (482) may electrically open the second point (321) of the first conductive part (310) or electrically connect it to the at least one fourth element. Accordingly, in the above eighth SA mode, the first conductive part (310) may operate as an antenna (7C1) corresponding to an electrical path from the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) to the second end (310b). The end of the electromagnetic field of the antenna (7C1) may be formed at the second end (310b) of the first conductive part (310).

[0173] According to one embodiment, in the ninth SA mode using the antenna (7C2) and the tenth SA mode using the antenna (7C3), the first switching circuit (471) and the second switching circuit (472) can electrically connect the wireless communication circuit (492) to the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) and the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360).

[0174] In the ninth SA mode and the tenth SA mode, the second switching circuit (472) may electrically open a first point (361) of the second conductive part (360) or electrically connect it to the at least one second element. In the ninth SA mode and the tenth SA mode, the second switching circuit (472) may open a third point (363) of the second conductive part (360). In the ninth SA mode and the tenth SA mode, the third switching circuit (481) may electrically open a second point (362) of the second conductive part (360) or electrically connect it to the at least one third element.

[0175] According to one embodiment, in the ninth SA mode, the fourth switching circuit (482) can electrically connect the second point (321) of the first conductive part (310) to the ground of the electronic device (100) (e.g., shorting). Accordingly, in the ninth SA mode, the first conductive part (310) and the second conductive part (360) can operate as an antenna (7C2) corresponding to an electrical path extending from the second point (321) of the first conductive part (310) to the second point (362) of the second conductive part (360). The end of the electromagnetic field of the antenna (7C2) can be formed at the second point (362) of the second conductive part (360).

[0176] According to one embodiment, in the 10th SA mode, the fourth switching circuit (482) may electrically open the second point (321) of the first conductive part (310) or electrically connect it to the at least one fourth element. Accordingly, in the 10th SA mode, the first conductive part (310) and the second conductive part (360) may operate as an antenna (7C3) corresponding to an electrical path extending from the second end (310b) of the first conductive part (310) to the second point (362) of the second conductive part (360). The ends of the electromagnetic field of the antenna (7C3) may be formed at the second end (310b) of the first conductive part (310) and the second point (362) of the second conductive part (360), respectively.

[0177] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (100) (or wireless communication circuit (492)) may operate in the eighth SA mode. For example, the wireless communication circuit (492) may transmit and / or receive a first signal using an antenna (7C1).

[0178] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (100) (or wireless communication circuit (492)) may operate in the ninth SA mode. For example, the wireless communication circuit (492) may transmit and / or receive a first signal using an antenna (7C2).

[0179] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (100) (or wireless communication circuit (492)) may operate in the 10th SA mode. For example, the wireless communication circuit (492) may transmit and / or receive a first signal using an antenna (7C3).

[0180] The feed point of the antenna (7C1) may be the first point (311) and / or the third point (331) of the first conductive part (310). When the antenna (7C1) is in operation, the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) and the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360) may not be electrically connected through the first switching circuit (471) and / or the second switching circuit (472). As the second point (321) of the first conductive part (310) is opened through the fourth switching circuit (482), the second end (310b) of the first conductive part (310) may operate as the open end of the radiator of the antenna (7C1). Accordingly, the end of the field of the antenna (7C1) may be formed at the second end (310b) of the first conductive part (310).

[0181] While the antenna (7C2) is in operation, the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) and the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360) may be electrically connected through the first switching circuit (471) and / or the second switching circuit (472). The feed point of the antenna (7C2) may be one or more points selected from the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310), the third point (331) of the first conductive part (310), the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360), and / or the third point (363) of the second conductive part (360). Additionally, when the antenna (7C2) is in operation, the second point (321) of the first conductive part (310) may be electrically connected to ground through the fourth switching circuit (482). Accordingly, the second point (321) of the first conductive part (310) can operate as a ground point of the antenna (7C2). Additionally, the second point (362) of the second conductive part (360) can be opened through the third switching circuit (481), and accordingly, the second end (360b) of the second conductive part (360) can operate as an open end of the antenna radiator.

[0182] While the antenna (7C3) is in operation, the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) and the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360) may be electrically connected through the first switching circuit (471) and / or the second switching circuit (472). The feed point of the antenna (7C3) may be one or more points selected from the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310), the third point (331) of the first conductive part (310), the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360), and / or the third point (363) of the second conductive part (360). When the antenna (7C3) is operated, the second point (362) of the second conductive part (360) can be opened through the fourth switching circuit (482) so that the second end (360b) of the second conductive part (360) can operate as an open end of the antenna radiator, and / or the second point (321) of the first conductive part (310) can be opened through the fourth switching circuit (482) so that the second end (310b) of the first conductive part (310) can operate as an open end of the antenna radiator.

[0183] FIGS. 8A, FIGS. 8B, and FIGS. 8C show examples of antenna modes of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0184] Referring to FIG. 8a, an electronic device (100) according to one embodiment may include at least one third element (803) and at least one fourth element (804).

[0185] In one embodiment, at least one third element (803) may be electrically connected to the ground of the third switching circuit (481) and the electronic device (100). At least one third element (803) may be optionally electrically connected to a second point (362) of the second conductive part (360) through the third switching circuit (481). At least one third element (803) may be included, for example, in the third switching circuit (481).

[0186] In one embodiment, at least one fourth element (804) may be electrically connected to the ground of the fourth switching circuit (482) and the electronic device (100). At least one fourth element (804) may be optionally electrically connected to a second point (321) of the first conductive part (310) through the fourth switching circuit (482). At least one fourth element (804) may be included, for example, in the fourth switching circuit (482).

[0187] With reference to Fig. 8a, the fourth CA mode is described.

[0188] According to one embodiment, in the fourth CA mode, the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) can be electrically connected to a wireless communication circuit (492) (e.g., first feed section (S1)) through a first switching circuit (471). In the fourth CA mode, the wireless communication circuit (492) (e.g., first feed section (S1)) can transmit and receive a first signal by making the antenna feed point the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310). For example, the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) can operate as a feed point capable of transmitting and receiving a first signal by being electrically connected to the wireless communication circuit (492) (e.g., first feed section (S1)) through the first switching circuit (471).

[0189] According to one embodiment, in the fourth CA mode, the first point (361) and the third point (363) of the second conductive part (360) may be electrically connected to a wireless communication circuit (492) (e.g., the second feed section (S2)) through a second switching circuit (472). In the fourth CA mode, the wireless communication circuit (492) (e.g., the second feed section (S2)) may transmit and receive a second signal by making the antenna feed point the first point (361) and / or the third point (363) of the second conductive part (360). For example, the first point (361) and / or the third point (363) of the second conductive part (360) can operate as a power point capable of transmitting and receiving a second signal by being electrically connected to a wireless communication circuit (492) (e.g., the second power supply part (S2)) through the second switching circuit (472).

[0190] According to one embodiment, in the fourth CA mode, the first switching circuit (471) may not electrically connect the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) and the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360). In the fourth CA mode, the first switching circuit (471) may electrically open the third point (331) of the first conductive part (310) or electrically connect it to the at least one first element.

[0191] According to one embodiment, in the fourth CA mode, the fourth switching circuit (482) may electrically open or electrically connect the second point (321) of the longitudinal portion (320) of the first conductive portion (310) to the at least one fourth element. Accordingly, in the fourth CA mode, the first conductive portion (310) may operate as an antenna (8A1) corresponding to an electrical path from the first point (311) of the first conductive portion (310) to the second end (310b). The end of the electromagnetic field radiated by the antenna (8A1) may be formed at the second end (310b) of the first conductive portion (310).

[0192] According to one embodiment, in the fourth CA mode, the third switching circuit (481) may electrically open the second point (362) of the second conductive part (360) or electrically connect it to the at least one third element. Accordingly, in the fourth CA mode, the second conductive part (360) may operate as an antenna (8A2) in which the termination of the electromagnetic field is formed at the first point (361) and the second point (362) of the second conductive part (360).

[0193] The electronic device (100) (or wireless communication circuit (492)) may operate in the fourth CA mode. For example, the wireless communication circuit (492) may transmit and / or receive a first signal using an antenna (8A1) and a second signal using an antenna (8A2) to support the CA function of the electronic device (100).

[0194] The feed point of the antenna (8A1) may be the first point (311) and / or the third point (331) of the first conductive portion (310). When the antenna (8A1) is in operation, the first point (311) of the first conductive portion (310) and the first point (361) of the second conductive portion (360) may not be electrically connected through the first switching circuit (471) and / or the second switching circuit (472). As the second point (321) of the first conductive portion (310) is opened through the fourth switching circuit (482), the second end (310b) of the first conductive portion (310) may operate as the open end of the radiator of the antenna (8A1). Accordingly, the end of the field of the antenna (8A1) may be formed at the second end (310b) of the first conductive portion (310).

[0195] The feed point of the antenna (8A2) may be the first point (361) and / or the third point (363) of the second conductive part (360). When the antenna (8A2) is in operation, the second point (362) of the second conductive part (360) may be opened through the third switching circuit (481). Additionally, when the antenna (8A2) is in operation, the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360) may not be connected to the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) through the first switching circuit (471) and / or the second switching circuit (472).

[0196] Referring to FIG. 8b, the 5th CA mode and the 6th CA mode are described.

[0197] According to one embodiment, in the fifth CA mode and the sixth CA mode, the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) can be electrically connected to the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360) through the first switching circuit (471). Additionally, in the fifth CA mode and the sixth CA mode, the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) and the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360) can be electrically connected to a wireless communication circuit (492) (e.g., the first feed unit (S1)) through the first switching circuit (471). In the above-mentioned fifth CA mode and sixth CA mode, the wireless communication circuit (492) (e.g., first feed section (S1)) can transmit and receive a first signal by making the antenna feed point a first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) and / or a first point (361) of the second conductive part (360). For example, the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) and / or the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360) can operate as a feed point capable of transmitting and receiving the first signal by being electrically connected to the wireless communication circuit (492) (e.g., first feed section (S1)) through the first switching circuit (471).

[0198] According to one embodiment, in the fifth CA mode and the sixth CA mode, the third point (363) of the second conductive part (360) can be electrically connected to a wireless communication circuit (492) (e.g., second feed section (S2)) through a second switching circuit (472). In the fifth CA mode and the sixth CA mode, the wireless communication circuit (492) (e.g., second feed section (S2)) can transmit and receive a second signal by making the antenna feed point the third point (363) of the second conductive part (360). For example, the third point (363) of the second conductive part (360) can operate as a feed point capable of transmitting and receiving a second signal by being electrically connected to the wireless communication circuit (492) (e.g., second feed section (S2)) through the second switching circuit (472).

[0199] According to one embodiment, in the fifth CA mode and the sixth CA mode, the first switching circuit (471) can electrically open the third point (331) of the first conductive part (310) or electrically connect it to the at least one first element.

[0200] According to one embodiment, in the fifth CA mode, the third switching circuit (481) may electrically open the second point (362) of the second conductive part (360) or electrically connect it to the at least one third element. In the fifth CA mode, the fourth switching circuit (482) may electrically connect the second point (321) of the first conductive part (310) to the ground of the electronic device (100) (e.g., shorting). Accordingly, in the fifth CA mode, the first conductive part (310) and the second conductive part (360) may operate as an antenna (8B1) corresponding to an electrical path extending from the second point (321) of the first conductive part (310) to the second point (362) of the second conductive part (360). The end of the electromagnetic field of the antenna (8B1) can be formed at the second point (362) of the second conductive part (360).

[0201] According to one embodiment, in the sixth CA mode, the third switching circuit (481) can electrically connect the second point (362) of the second conductive part (360) to the ground of the electronic device (100) (e.g., shorting). In the sixth CA mode, the fourth switching circuit (482) can electrically open the second point (321) of the first conductive part (310) or electrically connect it to the at least one fourth element. Accordingly, in the sixth CA mode, the first conductive part (310) and the second conductive part (360) can operate as an antenna (8B2) corresponding to an electrical path extending from the second point (362) of the second conductive part (360) to the second end (310b) of the first conductive part (310). The end of the electromagnetic field of the antenna (8B2) can be formed at the second end (310b) of the first conductive part (310).

[0202] When operating as an antenna (8B3), the second point (362) of the second conductive part (360) may be grounded or opened through the third switching circuit (481), so the resonant frequency may change.

[0203] In order to operate as an antenna (8B2), the second point (362) of the second conductive part (360) can operate as a ground point of the antenna radiator by being connected to ground through the third switching circuit (481).

[0204] In order to operate as an antenna (8B1), the second point (321) of the first conductive part (310) can operate as a ground point of the antenna radiator by being connected to ground through the fourth switching circuit (482), and the second point (362) of the second conductive part (360) can operate as an open end of the antenna radiator by being opened through the third switching circuit (481).

[0205] Additionally, the antennas (8B1, 8B2, and 8B3) can operate substantially the same regardless of whether the first feed (S1) or the second feed (S2) is used.

[0206] According to one embodiment, in the fifth CA mode and the sixth CA mode, the second conductive part (360), in which the third point (363) of the second conductive part (360) is electrically connected to the wireless communication circuit (492) through the second switching circuit (472), can operate as an antenna (8B3) corresponding to an electrical path extending from the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360) to the second point (362). The ends of the antenna (5B3) can be formed at the first point (361) and the second point (362) of the second conductive part (360), respectively.

[0207] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (100) (or wireless communication circuit (492)) may operate in the fifth CA mode. For example, the wireless communication circuit (492) may transmit and / or receive a first signal using antenna (8B1) and a second signal using antenna (8B3) to support the CA function of the electronic device (100).

[0208] The antenna (8B1) can be set to a first point (311) of a first conductive part (310) where the feed point is connected to a wireless communication circuit (492) (e.g., a first feed section (S1)) through a first switching circuit (471). A second point (321) of the first conductive part (310) can operate as a ground point of the antenna (8B1), and at this time, the third switching circuit (481) can be in an open state.

[0209] The antenna (8B2) can be configured such that the feed point is set to the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310), the second point (362) of the second conductive part (360) is connected to ground through the third switching circuit (481), and the fourth switching circuit (482) can be operated in an open state.

[0210] The antenna (8B3) can be configured to be connected to a wireless communication circuit (492) (e.g., a second feed section (S2)) through a third point (363) of the second conductive part (360), which is the feed point of the antenna (8B3), by using the second conductive part (360) as a radiator, and the third switching circuit (481) can be in an open state.

[0211] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (100) (or wireless communication circuit (492)) may operate in the sixth CA mode. For example, the wireless communication circuit (492) may transmit and / or receive a first signal using antenna (8B2) and a second signal using antenna (8B3) to support the CA function of the electronic device (100).

[0212] While the antenna (8B1) is in operation, the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) and the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360) may be electrically connected through the first switching circuit (471) and / or the second switching circuit (472). The feed point of the antenna (8B1) may be one or more points selected from the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310), the third point (331) of the first conductive part (310), the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360), and / or the third point (363) of the second conductive part (360). Additionally, when the antenna (8B1) is in operation, the second point (321) of the first conductive part (310) may be electrically connected to ground through the fourth switching circuit (482). Accordingly, the second point (321) of the first conductive part (310) can operate as a ground point of the antenna (8B1). Additionally, the second point (362) of the second conductive part (360) can be opened through the third switching circuit (481), and accordingly, the second end (360b) of the second conductive part (360) can operate as an open end of the antenna radiator.

[0213] While the antenna (8B2) is in operation, the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) and the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360) may be electrically connected through the first switching circuit (471) and / or the second switching circuit (472). The feed point of the antenna (8B2) may be one or more points selected from the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310), the third point (331) of the first conductive part (310), the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360), and / or the third point (363) of the second conductive part (360). When the antenna (8B2) is in operation, the second end (310b) of the first conductive part (310) can be operated as an open end of the antenna radiator, so that the second point (321) of the first conductive part (310) can be opened through the fourth switching circuit (482).

[0214] The feed point of the antenna (8B3) may be the first point (361) and / or the third point (363) of the second conductive part (360). When the antenna (8B3) is in operation, the second point (362) of the second conductive part (360) may be opened through the third switching circuit (481). When the antenna (8B3) is in operation, the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360) may not be connected to the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) through the first switching circuit (471) and / or the second switching circuit (472).

[0215] Referring to Fig. 8c, the 7th CA mode is described.

[0216] According to one embodiment, in the seventh CA mode, the third point (331) of the first conductive part (310) can be electrically connected to a wireless communication circuit (492) (e.g., first feed section (S1)) through a first switching circuit (471). In the seventh CA mode, the wireless communication circuit (492) (e.g., first feed section (S1)) can transmit and receive a first signal by making the antenna feed point the third point (331) of the first conductive part (310). For example, the third point (331) of the first conductive part (310) can operate as a feed point capable of transmitting and receiving a first signal by being electrically connected to the wireless communication circuit (492) (e.g., first feed section (S1)) through the first switching circuit (471).

[0217] According to one embodiment, in the seventh CA mode, the first point (361) and the third point (363) of the second conductive part (360) may be electrically connected to a wireless communication circuit (492) (e.g., the second feed section (S2)) through a second switching circuit (472). In the seventh CA mode, the wireless communication circuit (492) (e.g., the second feed section (S2)) may transmit and receive a second signal by making the antenna feed point the first point (361) and / or the third point (363) of the second conductive part (360). For example, the first point (361) and / or the third point (363) of the second conductive part (360) can operate as a power point capable of transmitting and receiving a second signal by being electrically connected to a wireless communication circuit (492) (e.g., the second power supply part (S2)) through the second switching circuit (472).

[0218] According to one embodiment, in the seventh CA mode, the first switching circuit (471) may not electrically connect the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) and the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360). In the seventh CA mode, the first switching circuit (471) may electrically connect (e.g., shorting) the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) to the ground of the electronic device (100), electrically open it, or electrically connect it to the at least one first element. In the seventh CA mode, the first switching circuit (471) may electrically connect (e.g., shorting) the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360) to the ground of the electronic device (100), electrically open it, or electrically connect it to the at least one first element.

[0219] According to one embodiment, in the seventh CA mode, the fourth switching circuit (482) may electrically open or electrically connect the second point (321) of the longitudinal portion (320) of the first conductive portion (310) to the at least one fourth element. Accordingly, in the seventh CA mode, the first conductive portion (310) may operate as an antenna (8C1) corresponding to an electrical path from the first point (311) of the first conductive portion (310) to the second end (310b). The end of the electromagnetic field radiated by the antenna (8C1) may be formed at the second end (310b) of the first conductive portion (310).

[0220] According to one embodiment, in the seventh CA mode, the third switching circuit (481) may electrically open the second point (362) of the second conductive part (360) or electrically connect it to the at least one third element. Accordingly, in the seventh CA mode, the second conductive part (360) may operate as an antenna (8C2) in which the termination of the electromagnetic field is formed at the first point (361) and the second point (362) of the second conductive part (360).

[0221] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (100) (or wireless communication circuit (492)) may operate in the seventh CA mode. For example, the wireless communication circuit (492) may transmit and / or receive a first signal using an antenna (8C1) and a second signal using an antenna (8C2) to support the CA function of the electronic device (100).

[0222] The feed point of the antenna (8C1) may be the first point (311) and / or the third point (331) of the first conductive part (310). When the antenna (8C1) is in operation, the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) and the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360) may not be electrically connected through the first switching circuit (471) and / or the second switching circuit (472). As the second point (321) of the first conductive part (310) is opened through the fourth switching circuit (482), the second end (310b) of the first conductive part (310) may operate as the open end of the radiator of the antenna (8C1). Accordingly, the end of the field of the antenna (8C1) may be formed at the second end (310b) of the first conductive part (310).

[0223] The feed point of the antenna (8C2) may be the first point (361) and / or the third point (363) of the second conductive part (360). When the antenna (8C2) is in operation, the second point (362) of the second conductive part (360) may be opened through the third switching circuit (481). When the antenna (8C2) is in operation, the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360) may not be connected to the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) through the first switching circuit (471) and / or the second switching circuit (472).

[0224] FIGS. 9a, FIGS. 9b, FIGS. 9c, and FIGS. 9d show the electric field distribution according to the mode of the antenna according to one embodiment.

[0225] FIG. 9a may show the electric field distribution of antennas (5A1, 8A1, and 8C1). Referring to FIG. 9a, the end of the electric field of antennas (5A1, 8A1, and 8C1) may be formed at the second end (310b) of the first conductive part (310) as described above.

[0226] FIG. 9b may show the electric field distribution of antennas (7A1 and 7C1). Referring to FIG. 9b, the end of the electric field of antennas (7A1 and 7C1) may be formed at the second end (310b) of the first conductive part (310) as described above.

[0227] FIG. 9c may show the electric field distribution of antennas (5B1, 7A2, 7B1, and 7C2). Referring to FIG. 9c, the end of the electric field of antennas (5B1, 7A2, 7B1, and 7C2) may be formed at a second point (362) of the second conductive part (360) as described above.

[0228] FIG. 9d may show the electric field distribution of antennas (5C2, 7A3, 7B2, and 7C3). Referring to FIG. 9d, the ends of the electric fields of antennas (5C2, 7A3, 7B2, and 7C3) may be formed at the second end (310b) of the first conductive part (310) and the second point (362) of the second conductive part (360), respectively, as described above.

[0229] FIG. 10 is a graph showing the total radiation efficiency of a device according to a comparative example and a device according to one embodiment.

[0230] Graphs (1010 and 1020) of FIG. 10 represent the total radiation efficiency when the electronic device (100) in the third state is held by a user. Graph (1010) may be the total radiation efficiency when the end of the antenna field is located on the second side (130b) of the third housing part (130), such as antennas (5A2, 5B1, 5B3, 5C1, 5C2, 7A2, 7A3, 7B1, 7B2, 7C2, 7C3, 8A2, 8B1, and 8B3) according to one embodiment, and graph (1020) may be the total radiation efficiency when the antenna field is located on the first side (130a) of the third housing part (130) in a comparative example. Referring to FIG. 10, the radiation efficiency of graph (1010) may be higher than the radiation efficiency of graph (1020) (about 2 dB). That is, when the first side (130a) of the third housing part (130) is placed on the first hinge structure (150) and the first side (130a) of the third housing part (130) is gripped by the user, the antenna performance may be improved by positioning the end of the antenna field at the second side (130b) of the third housing part (130).

[0231] FIG. 11a is a graph showing an electronic device operating in a basic mode according to one embodiment and the antenna performance of the basic mode. FIG. 11b is a graph showing the antenna performance of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0232] In FIG. 11a, a basic mode of the electronic device (100) is described. In the basic mode, the first conductive part (310) can be fed (F1) at a third point (331). In the basic mode, the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) can be electrically connected to the ground of the electronic device (100). The second point (321) of the first conductive part (310) can be connected to a fourth switching circuit (482). In the basic mode, the first conductive part (310) can be operated as an antenna (11A).

[0233] The dotted lines shown in the graph of FIG. 11a represent the radiation efficiency of the antenna (11A) in the basic mode according to the element value of the fourth switching circuit (482) when the electronic device (100) is in the third state. The solid lines shown in the graph of FIG. 11a represent the total radiation efficiency of the antenna (11A) in the basic mode according to the element value of the fourth switching circuit (482) when the electronic device (100) is in the third state.

[0234] The dashed lines shown in FIG. 11b represent the radiation efficiency of the antennas of the aforementioned CA modes and SA modes (e.g., antennas of FIG. 7a (7A2 and 7A3), antennas of FIG. 7b (7B1 and 7B2), antennas of FIG. 7c (7C2 and 7C3), antennas of FIG. 8b (8B1 and 8B2)) when the electronic device (100) is electrically connected to the first conductive portion (310) and the second conductive portion (360) within the third state. The solid lines shown in FIG. 11b represent the total radiation efficiency of the antennas of the aforementioned CA modes and SA modes when the electronic device (100) is within the third state. Referring to the graphs in FIG. 11a and FIG. 11b, the antennas of the aforementioned CA modes and SA modes may have a higher radiation efficiency than the antennas of the basic mode (e.g., about 2 dB). In the above third state, even if the first side (130a) of the third housing part (130) overlaps with the first hinge structure (150), the second side (130b) of the third housing part (130) that does not overlap with the first hinge structure (150) can be used as an antenna by switching to the CA modes and SA modes described above. Accordingly, antenna performance can be improved as shown in FIG. 11b.

[0235] FIGS. 12a, FIGS. 12b, and FIGS. 12c are graphs showing changes in antenna performance according to changes in antenna characteristics.

[0236] The dashed lines shown in FIGS. 12a, 12b, and 12c may represent radiation efficiency, and the solid lines shown in FIGS. 12a, 12b, and 12c may represent total radiation efficiency.

[0237] FIG. 12a may be a graph showing the antenna performance of the first CA mode of FIG. 5a, the third SA mode using the antenna (7A1) of FIG. 7a, or the fourth CA mode of FIG. 8a. FIG. 12b may be a graph showing the antenna performance of the eighth SA mode using the antenna (7C1) of FIG. 7c. FIG. 12c may be a graph showing the antenna performance of the tenth SA mode using the antenna (7C3) of FIG. 7c.

[0238] Referring to FIGS. 12a, 12b, and 12c, the resonant frequency can change depending on the characteristics of the antenna for each mode and the change in the antenna length value. Considering that the antenna gain is determined within the range of radiation efficiency, an electronic device (100) that supports various antenna modes may be more advantageous in antenna design than a comparative example device that supports only the basic mode.

[0239] Figures 13a, 13b, 13c, and 13d are graphs showing the total radiation efficiency according to the antenna mode.

[0240] FIG. 13a may show the total radiation efficiency of the 10th SA mode using the antenna (7C3) of FIG. 7c. FIG. 13b may show the total radiation efficiency of the antenna (7C1) of the 8th SA mode of FIG. 7c. FIG. 13c may show the total radiation efficiency of the antenna (7C2) of the 9th SA mode of FIG. 7c. FIG. 13d may show the total radiation efficiency of the antenna (5C1) of FIG. 5c of the 1st SA mode.

[0241] Referring to FIGS. 13a, 13b, and 13c, the antenna mode exhibiting maximum gain may differ depending on the supported frequency. For example, by switching the antenna mode, wireless communication can be performed in an antenna mode having maximum gain per frequency.

[0242] FIG. 13e is a graph showing antenna performance according to a comparative example and an embodiment.

[0243] The graph (1301) of FIG. 13e may represent the total radiation efficiency of an antenna operating in the basic mode under the BHHR (beside head hand right) condition of the device according to the comparative example. The BHHR condition may be a condition in which the device is held in the user's right hand and contacted to the right side of the head. Referring to FIG. 3a, the device according to the comparative example may include a second housing part (120), a third housing part (130), and a second hinge structure (160), and may not include a first housing part (110) and a first hinge structure (150). For example, the device according to the comparative example may not include a first hinge structure (150) that degrades the antenna performance of the third housing part (130) when the second housing part (120) and the third housing part (130) are in a folded state.

[0244] The graph (1302) of FIG. 13e can show the total radiation efficiency of the antenna (7C1) of the 8th SA mode of FIG. 7c under the BHHR conditions.

[0245] Referring to FIG. 13e, the graph (1302) according to one embodiment can have improved antenna performance within some frequency range compared to the graph (1301) of a comparative example.

[0246] FIG. 13f is a graph showing antenna performance according to a comparative example and an embodiment.

[0247] The graph (1303) of FIG. 13f may represent the total radiation efficiency of the antenna operating in the basic mode under the BHHR conditions of the device according to the comparative example. The graph (1304) of FIG. 13f may represent the total radiation efficiency of the antenna (7C2) of the ninth SA mode of FIG. 7c under the BHHR conditions. Referring to FIG. 13f, the graph (1304) according to one embodiment may represent antenna performance generally similar to the graph (1303) of the comparative example.

[0248] FIG. 14a shows an electronic device including a notch filter according to one embodiment.

[0249] Referring to FIG. 14a, an electronic device (100) according to one embodiment may include a notch filter (1460) electrically connected to a conductive portion (302) of a second housing part (1420) (e.g., the first housing part (110) of FIG. 3b). The notch filter (1460) may be electrically connected to an area of ​​the second housing part (1420) corresponding to a high current density area (e.g., a power supply area or a shorted area to the ground) of the second conductive portion (360) of the first housing part (1410) (e.g., the third housing part (130) of FIG. 3b). FIG. 14a illustrates an example in which the notch filter (1460) is electrically connected to a first area of ​​the conductive portion (302) corresponding to a first point (361) of the second conductive portion (360) where power is supplied. For example, the first region of the conductive part (302) to which the notch filter (1460) is connected may be aligned with the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360) within the third state (e.g., facing each other or overlapping each other). However, the region (or point) to which the notch filter (1460) is connected is not limited by the illustrated example. For example, the notch filter (1460) may be electrically connected to the second region of the conductive part (301) of the second housing part (1420). The second region to which the notch filter (1460) is connected may correspond to the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) of the first housing part (1410) where power is supplied. For example, the second region connected to the notch filter (1460) can be aligned with the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) in the third state (e.g., can face each other).The notch filter (1460), the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310), the second point (321) of the first conductive part (310), the third point (331) of the first conductive part (310), the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360), the second point (362) of the second conductive part (360), and the third point (363) of the second conductive part (360) can be connected to the antenna ground and collected. The second point (321) of the first conductive part (310), the third point (331) of the first conductive part (310), the second point (362) of the second conductive part (360), and the third point (363) of the second conductive part (360), indicated by the dotted arrows, can operate as ground points.

[0250] Figure 14b is a graph showing the total radiation efficiency of the antenna. Figure 14c is a graph showing the reflection coefficient of the antenna.

[0251] Graphs (1401) in FIGS. 14b and 14c respectively represent the total radiation efficiency and reflection coefficient of the antenna of a device according to a comparative example operating in the basic mode without including a notch filter (1460). Graphs (1402) in FIGS. 14b and 14c respectively represent the total radiation efficiency and reflection coefficient of the antenna of an electronic device (100) according to an embodiment operating in any one of the SA modes and CA modes with the notch filter (1460) turned off. Graphs (1403) in FIGS. 14b and 14c respectively represent the total radiation efficiency and reflection coefficient of the antenna of an electronic device (100) according to an embodiment operating in any one of the SA modes and CA modes with the notch filter (1460) turned on.

[0252] Referring to graphs (1401) and (1402) in FIG. 14b and FIG. 14c, even if the mode of the antenna changes from the basic mode, there may be substantially no shifting of the structural resonance (e.g., the section indicated by the arrow (R1) in FIG. 14c).

[0253] Referring to graphs (1402) and (1403) in FIG. 14b and FIG. 14c, the structural resonance can be shifted closer to the antenna's resonant frequency by a notch filter (1460) (e.g., the section indicated by the arrow (R2)). Since the structural resonance can cause mutual complementarity and interference with the antenna resonance, an appropriate positional shift of the structural resonance may be required. The notch filter (1460) can shift the structural resonance, thereby improving the antenna's gain.

[0254] FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating an antenna switching method of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0255] The operations of FIG. 15 can be performed by a processor of the electronic device (100) (e.g., the processor (1620) of FIG. 16). For example, the processor of the electronic device (100) can execute instructions stored in the memory of the electronic device (100) (e.g., the memory (1630) of FIG. 16). For example, operations (or functions) defined by the instructions can be performed by the electronic device (100) based on the processor executing the instructions.

[0256] In operation 1510, the electronic device (100) can identify whether the electronic device (100) is in the third state. For example, the electronic device (100) can identify that the electronic device (100) is in the third state if the receiver of the electronic device (100) (e.g., a speaker configured to output a sound) is in the ON state. For example, the electronic device (100) can identify whether the state of the electronic device (100) is in the third state by using at least one sensor of the electronic device (100) (e.g., a Hall sensor). In operation 1510, if the electronic device (100) is identified as being in the third state (operation 1510: Yes), operation 1520 may be performed. Otherwise, operation 1530 may be performed.

[0257] In operation 1520, the electronic device (100) can switch the antenna mode to any one of the CA modes and the SA modes. For example, the electronic device (100) can switch to any one of the CA modes and the SA modes when the electronic device (100) identifies that it is in the third state. For example, the electronic device (100) can determine a mode suitable for the current communication environment among the CA modes and the SA modes based on various RF parameters (radio frequency parameters) and can switch to the determined mode. For example, in operation 1520, the electronic device (100) may operate in a mode using an antenna in which the end of the field is formed at the top among the CA modes and the SA modes, such as the second CA mode using the antenna (5B1) of FIG. 5b, the first SA mode using the antenna (5C1) of FIG. 5c, the second SA mode using the antenna (5C2) of FIG. 5c, the fourth SA mode using the antenna (7A2) of FIG. 7a, the fifth SA mode using the antenna (7A3) of FIG. 7a, the sixth SA mode using the antenna (7B1) of FIG. 7b, the seventh SA mode using the antenna (7B2) of FIG. 7b, the ninth SA mode using the antenna (7C2) of FIG. 7c, the tenth SA mode using the antenna (7C3) of FIG. 7c, or the fifth CA mode using the antenna (8B1) of FIG. 8b.

[0258] Operation 1520 may be performed not only when the electronic device (100) is in the third state, but also when the antenna ground condition changes, such as when the display of the electronic device (100) (e.g., the flexible display (140) of FIG. 1a) is deformed or the size of the electronic device (100) is changed. As another example, operation 1520 may be performed when the communication frequency band is changed or when a change in the user's usage state or data rate is required.

[0259] In operation 1530, the electronic device (100) can detect whether the electronic device (100) is being held. For example, the electronic device (100) can identify whether the electronic device (100) is being held by a user by using a grip sensor.

[0260] In operation 1530, if it is detected that the electronic device (100) is being held by a user (operation 1530: yes), operation 1540 may be performed. Otherwise (operation 1530: no), operation 1550 may be performed.

[0261] In operation 1540, the electronic device (100) can perform wireless communication using the upper antenna. For example, the electronic device (100) can perform wireless communication using the first conductive part (310) and the second conductive part (360) of the third housing part (130).

[0262] In operation 1550, the electronic device (100) can perform wireless communication using a bottom antenna. For example, the electronic device (100) can perform wireless communication using conductive parts (391, 392, and 393) that form the third side (130c) of the third housing part (130) of FIG. 3a.

[0263] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (100) is exemplified as a device in which a first housing part (110), a second housing part (120), and a third housing part (130) can be folded together, but the embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto. For example, the electronic device (100) may include only two housing parts that are rotatably coupled to each other. The two housing parts may be rotatable about a folding axis parallel to the major axis or rotatable about a folding axis parallel to the minor axis. The embodiments of the present disclosure may be applied to at least one of the two housing parts.

[0264] 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 belongs.

[0265] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (100) may include a first housing part (130), a second housing part (120), a third housing part (110), a first hinge (160) positioned between the first housing part (130) and the second housing part (120) and rotatably connecting the first housing part (130) to the second housing part (120), a second hinge (150) positioned between the second housing part (120) and the third housing part (110) and rotatably connecting the third housing part (110) to the second housing part (120), one or more switching circuits (470), another switching circuit (481), and a wireless communication circuit (492). The first housing part (130) may include a first conductive part (310) comprising a vertical portion (320) defining a portion of the first side (130a) of the first housing part (130) opposite to the first hinge (160) and a horizontal portion (330) extending from the vertical portion (320) defining a portion of the second side (130b) of the first housing part (130), and a second conductive part (360) defining another portion of the second side (130b) of the first housing part (130) and spaced apart from the end (310a) of the horizontal portion (330) of the first conductive part (310). The vertical portion (320) of the first conductive portion (310) may be configured to be positioned on the second hinge (150) as the first housing part (130) rotates relative to the second housing part (120) through the first hinge (160). The horizontal portion (330) of the first conductive portion (310) may include a first point (311) and a second point (331) that is further from the end (310a) of the first conductive portion (310) than the first point (311).The second conductive portion (360) may include a first point (361) and a second point (362) that is further from the end (310a) of the first conductive portion (310) than the first point (361) of the second conductive portion (360). The one or more switching circuits (470) may be configured to connect the first point (311) of the first conductive portion (310) to the first point (361) of the second conductive portion (360) while the longitudinal portion (320) of the first conductive portion (310) is located on the second hinge (150). The above one or more switching circuits (470) may be configured to connect the wireless communication circuit (492) to the second point (331) of the first conductive part (310) while the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) and the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360) are connected. The other switching circuit (481) may be configured to connect the second point (362) of the second conductive part (360) to at least one element while the wireless communication circuit (492) and the second point (331) of the first conductive part (310) are connected.

[0266] In one embodiment, the one or more switching circuits (470) may be configured to connect the wireless communication circuit (492) to the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) while the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) and the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360) are connected. The other switching circuit (481) may be configured to connect the second point (362) of the second conductive part (360) to at least one element while the wireless communication circuit (492) is connected to the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) through the one or more switching circuits (470).

[0267] In one embodiment, the one or more switching circuits (470) may be configured to connect the wireless communication circuit (492) to the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) and the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360), respectively, while the vertical part (320) of the first conductive part (310) is located on the second hinge (150). The one or more switching circuits (470) may be configured to electrically open the second point (331) of the first conductive part (310) or electrically connect it to at least one element while the wireless communication circuit (492) is connected to the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) and the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360), respectively. The other switching circuit (481) may be configured to electrically open or connect the second point (362) of the second conductive part (360) to at least one element while the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) and the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360) are connected to the wireless communication circuit (492) through the one or more switching circuits (470). The wireless communication circuit (492) may be configured to receive a first wireless signal through the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) and to receive a second wireless signal through the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360).

[0268] In one embodiment, the second conductive portion (360) may include a third point (363) between the first point (361) and the second point (362). The one or more switching circuits (470) may be configured to connect the wireless communication circuit (492) to the third point (363) of the second conductive portion (360) while the first point (311) of the first conductive portion (310) is connected to the first point (361) of the second conductive portion (360).

[0269] In one embodiment, the other switching circuit (481) may be configured to electrically open the second point (362) of the second conductive part (360) or connect it to at least one element while the wireless communication circuit (492) is connected to the second point (331) of the first conductive part (310) through the one or more switching circuits (470).

[0270] In one embodiment, the one or more switching circuits (470) may be configured to connect the wireless communication circuit (492) to the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) and the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360) while the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) and the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360) are connected. The one or more switching circuits (470) may be configured to connect the wireless communication circuit (492) to the third point (363) of the second conductive part (360) while the wireless communication circuit (492) is connected to the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) and the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360). The above one or more switching circuits (470) may be configured to electrically open the second point (331) of the first conductive part (310) or connect it to at least one element while the wireless communication circuit (492) is connected to the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310), the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360), and the third point (363) of the second conductive part (360). The other switching circuit (481) may be configured to electrically open or connect the second point (362) of the second conductive part (360) to at least one element while the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310), the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360), and the third point (363) of the second conductive part (360) are connected to the wireless communication circuit (492) through the one or more switching circuits (470).The above wireless communication circuit (492) may be configured to receive a first wireless signal through the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) and the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360), and to receive a second wireless signal through the third point (363) of the second conductive part (360).

[0271] In one embodiment, the one or more switching circuits (470) may be configured to connect the wireless communication circuit (492) to the second point (331) of the first conductive part (310) while the vertical part (320) of the first conductive part (310) is positioned on the second hinge (150), and to connect the wireless communication circuit (492) to the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360) and the third point (363) of the second conductive part (360). The above one or more switching circuits (470) may be configured to electrically open the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) or connect it to at least one element while the wireless communication circuit (492) is connected to the second point (331) of the first conductive part (310), the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360), and the third point (363) of the second conductive part (360). The other switching circuit (481) may be configured to electrically open the second point (362) of the second conductive part (360) or connect it to at least one element while the wireless communication circuit (492) is connected to the second point (331) of the first conductive part (310), the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360), and the third point (363) of the second conductive part (360). The wireless communication circuit (492) may be configured to receive a first wireless signal through the second point (331) of the first conductive part (310) and to receive a second wireless signal through the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360) and the third point (363) of the second conductive part (360).

[0272] In one embodiment, the one or more switching circuits (470) may include a first switching circuit (471) and a second switching circuit (472). An input port of the first switching circuit (471) may be connected to the wireless communication circuit (492). Output ports of the first switching circuit (471) may be connected to the second point (331) of the first conductive part (310), the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310), and the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360), respectively. An input port of the second switching circuit (472) may be connected to the wireless communication circuit (492). The output ports of the second switching circuit (472) can be connected to the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360) and the third point (363) of the second conductive part (360), respectively.

[0273] In one embodiment, a third switching circuit may be included that connects a portion (321) of the vertical portion (320) of the first conductive portion (310) to the ground of the electronic device (100), connects to at least one element, or electrically disconnects it.

[0274] In one embodiment, the first housing part (130) may include a first non-conductive part disposed between the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) and the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360). The second housing part (120) or the third housing part (110) may include a third conductive part, a fourth conductive part, and a second non-conductive part. As the first housing part (130) rotates relative to the second housing part (120) through the first hinge (160), the third conductive part, the fourth conductive part, and the second non-conductive part may be configured to face the first conductive part (310), the second conductive part (360), and the first non-conductive part of the first housing part (130), respectively.

[0275] In one embodiment, the electronic device (100) may include a notch filter (1460) connected to the third conductive portion or the fourth conductive portion.

[0276] In one embodiment, the electronic device (100) may further include a frequency filter. The electrical path between the wireless communication circuit (492) and the second conductive part (360) may include the one or more switching circuits and the frequency filter.

[0277] In one embodiment, the electronic device (100) may include a memory (1630) for storing instructions and a processor (1620). When the instructions are executed collectively or individually by the processor (1620), the electronic device (100) may be caused to identify whether the longitudinal portion (320) of the first conductive portion (310) is located on the second hinge (150). When the above instructions are executed collectively or individually by the processor (1620), the electronic device (100) may cause another switching circuit (481) to control the second point (362) of the second conductive part (360) so that it is electrically opened or connected to at least one element based on identifying that the longitudinal part (320) of the first conductive part (310) is located on the second hinge (150).

[0278] In one embodiment, the instructions may cause the electronic device (100), when executed collectively or individually by the processor (1620), to identify whether the electronic device (100) is held by a user. The instructions may cause the electronic device (100), when executed collectively or individually by the processor (1620), to perform wireless communication using one or more conductive parts forming the third side (130c) of the first housing part (130) opposite the second side (130b), based on the identification that the electronic device (100) is not held by a user.

[0279] In one embodiment, the instructions, when executed collectively or individually by the processor (1620), may cause the electronic device (100) to identify whether the electronic device (100) is being held by a user based on identifying that the longitudinal portion (320) of the first conductive portion (310) is not located on the second hinge (150).

[0280] According to one embodiment, an electronic device (100) may include a housing part (130) defining at least a portion of the exterior of the electronic device (100), one or more switching circuits (470), another switching circuit (481), and a wireless communication circuit (492). The housing part (130) may include a first conductive part (310) comprising a vertical portion (320) defining a portion of a first side (130a) of the housing part (130) and a horizontal portion (330) defining a portion of a second side (130b) of the housing part (130) and extending from the vertical portion (320), and a second conductive part (360) defining another portion of the second side (130b) of the housing part (130) and spaced apart from the end (310a) of the horizontal portion (330) of the first conductive part (310). The horizontal portion (330) of the first conductive portion (310) may include a first point (311) adjacent to the end (310a) of the first conductive portion (310) and a second point (331) further from the end (310a) of the first conductive portion (310) than the first point (311). The second conductive portion (360) may include a first point (361) and a second point (362) further from the end (310a) of the first conductive portion (310) than the first point (361) of the second conductive portion (360). The one or more switching circuits (470) may be configured to connect the first point (311) of the first conductive portion (310) to the first point (361) of the second conductive portion (360). The above one or more switching circuits (470) may be configured to connect the wireless communication circuit (492) to the second point (331) of the first conductive part (310) while the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) and the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360) are connected.The other switching circuit (481) may be configured to connect the second point (362) of the second conductive part (360) to at least one element while the wireless communication circuit (492) and the third point (331) of the first conductive part (310) are connected.

[0281] In one embodiment, the one or more switching circuits (470) may be configured to connect the wireless communication circuit (492) to the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) while the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) and the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360) are connected. The other switching circuit (481) may be configured to connect the second point (362) of the second conductive part (360) to at least one element while the wireless communication circuit (492) is connected to the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) through the one or more switching circuits (470).

[0282] In one embodiment, the one or more switching circuits (470) may be configured to connect the wireless communication circuit (492) to the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) and the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360), respectively. The one or more switching circuits (470) may be configured to electrically open the second point (331) of the first conductive part (310) or electrically connect it to at least one element while the wireless communication circuit (492) is connected to the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) and the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360), respectively. The other switching circuit (481) may be configured to electrically open or connect the second point (362) of the second conductive part (360) to at least one element while the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) and the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360) are respectively connected to the wireless communication circuit (492) through the one or more switching circuits (470). The wireless communication circuit (492) may be configured to receive a first wireless signal through the first point (311) of the first conductive part (310) and to receive a second wireless signal through the first point (361) of the second conductive part (360).

[0283] In one embodiment, the second conductive portion (360) may include a third point (363) between the first point (361) and the second point (362). The one or more switching circuits (470) may be configured to connect the wireless communication circuit (492) to the third point (363) of the second conductive portion (360) while the first point (311) of the first conductive portion (310) and the first point (361) of the second conductive portion (360) are connected.

[0284] In one embodiment, the other switching circuit (481) may be configured to electrically open the second point (362) of the second conductive part (360) or connect it to at least one element while the wireless communication circuit (492) is connected to the second point (331) of the first conductive part (310) through the one or more switching circuits (470).

[0285] 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.

[0286] FIG. 16 is a block diagram of an electronic device (1601) in a network environment (1600) according to various embodiments.

[0287] Referring to FIG. 16, in a network environment (1600), an electronic device (1601) may communicate with an electronic device (1602) through a first network (1698) (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network) or with at least one of an electronic device (1604) or a server (1608) through a second network (1699) (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (1601) may communicate with the electronic device (1604) through a server (1608). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (1601) may include a processor (1620), memory (1630), input module (1650), sound output module (1655), display module (1660), audio module (1670), sensor module (1676), interface (1677), connection terminal (1678), haptic module (1679), camera module (1680), power management module (1688), battery (1689), communication module (1690), subscriber identification module (1696), or antenna module (1697). In some embodiments, at least one of these components (e.g., connection terminal (1678)) may be omitted from the electronic device (1601), or one or more other components may be added. In some embodiments, some of these components (e.g., sensor module (1676), camera module (1680), or antenna module (1697)) may be integrated into a single component (e.g., display module (1660)).

[0288] The processor (1620) can, for example, execute software (e.g., program (1640)) to control at least one other component (e.g., hardware or software component) of the electronic device (1601) connected to the processor (1620) and perform various data processing or operations. According to one embodiment, as at least part of the data processing or operations, the processor (1620) can store commands or data received from other components (e.g., sensor module (1676) or communication module (1690)) in volatile memory (1632), process the commands or data stored in volatile memory (1632), and store the resulting data in non-volatile memory (1634). According to one embodiment, the processor (1620) may include a main processor (1621) (e.g., a central processing unit or an application processor) or an auxiliary processor (1623) 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 (1601) includes a main processor (1621) and an auxiliary processor (1623), the auxiliary processor (1623) may be configured to use less power than the main processor (1621) or to be specialized for a specified function. The auxiliary processor (1623) may be implemented separately from the main processor (1621) or as part thereof.

[0289] The auxiliary processor (1623) may control at least some of the functions or states associated with at least one component of the electronic device (1601) (e.g., display module (1660), sensor module (1676), or communication module (1690)) on behalf of the main processor (1621) while the main processor (1621) is in an inactive (e.g., sleep) state, or together with the main processor (1621) while the main processor (1621) is in an active (e.g., application execution) state. According to one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (1623) (e.g., image signal processor or communication processor) may be implemented as part of another functionally related component (e.g., camera module (1680) or communication module (1690)). According to one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (1623) (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 (1601) itself where the artificial intelligence model is executed, or through a separate server (e.g., server (1608)). 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.

[0290] The memory (1630) can store various data used by at least one component of the electronic device (1601) (e.g., processor (1620) or sensor module (1676)). The data may include, for example, input data or output data for software (e.g., program (1640)) and related commands. The memory (1630) may include volatile memory (1632) or non-volatile memory (1634).

[0291] The program (1640) may be stored as software in memory (1630) and may include, for example, an operating system (1642), middleware (1644), or an application (1646).

[0292] The input module (1650) can receive commands or data to be used for a component of the electronic device (1601) (e.g., processor (1620)) from outside the electronic device (1601) (e.g., user). The input module (1650) 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).

[0293] The sound output module (1655) can output a sound signal to the outside of the electronic device (1601). The sound output module (1655) 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.

[0294] The display module (1660) can visually provide information to an external (e.g., user) of the electronic device (1601). The display module (1660) 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 (1660) 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.

[0295] The audio module (1670) can convert sound into an electrical signal or, conversely, convert an electrical signal into sound. According to one embodiment, the audio module (1670) can acquire sound through the input module (1650) or output sound through the sound output module (1655) or an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (1602)) (e.g., speaker or headphones) connected directly or wirelessly to the electronic device (1601).

[0296] The sensor module (1676) can detect the operating state of the electronic device (1601) (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 (1676) 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.

[0297] The interface (1677) may support one or more specified protocols that can be used for the electronic device (1601) to be connected directly or wirelessly to an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (1602)). According to one embodiment, the interface (1677) may include, for example, a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB) interface, an SD card interface, or an audio interface.

[0298] The connection terminal (1678) may include a connector through which the electronic device (1601) can be physically connected to an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (1602)). According to one embodiment, the connection terminal (1678) may include, for example, an HDMI connector, a USB connector, an SD card connector, or an audio connector (e.g., a headphone connector).

[0299] The haptic module (1679) 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 (1679) may include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electric stimulation device.

[0300] The camera module (1680) can capture still images and video. According to one embodiment, the camera module (1680) may include one or more lenses, image sensors, image signal processors, or flashes.

[0301] The power management module (1688) can manage power supplied to the electronic device (1601). According to one embodiment, the power management module (1688) can be implemented, for example, as at least part of a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

[0302] The battery (1689) can supply power to at least one component of the electronic device (1601). According to one embodiment, the battery (1689) may include, for example, a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable secondary battery, or a fuel cell.

[0303] The communication module (1690) can support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between an electronic device (1601) and an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (1602), electronic device (1604), or server (1608)), and the performance of communication through the established communication channel. The communication module (1690) may include one or more communication processors that operate independently of the processor (1620) (e.g., application processor) and support direct (e.g., wired) communication or wireless communication. According to one embodiment, the communication module (1690) may include a wireless communication module (1692) (e.g., cellular communication module, short-range wireless communication module, or GNSS (global navigation satellite system) communication module) or a wired communication module (1694) (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 (1604) through a first network (1698) (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, WiFi (wireless fidelity) direct, or IrDA (infrared data association)) or a second network (1699) (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 (1692) can identify or authenticate the electronic device (1601) within a communication network such as the first network (1698) or the second network (1699) using subscriber information (e.g., International Mobile Subscriber Identifier (IMSI)) stored in the subscriber identification module (1696).

[0304] The wireless communication module (1692) 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 (1692) can support a high-frequency band (e.g., mmWave band) to achieve a high data transmission rate, for example. The wireless communication module (1692) 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 (1692) can support various requirements specified in the electronic device (1601), external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (1604)), or network system (e.g., second network (1699)). According to one embodiment, the wireless communication module (1692) can support a Peak data rate (e.g., 20 Gbps or more) for realizing eMBB, loss coverage (e.g., 164 dB or less) for realizing mMTC, 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 realizing URLLC.

[0305] An antenna module (1697) can transmit a signal or power to or from an external source (e.g., an external electronic device). According to one embodiment, the antenna module (1697) 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 (1697) 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 (1698) or a second network (1699), may be selected from the plurality of antennas, for example, by a communication module (1690). A signal or power may be transmitted or received between the communication module (1690) 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 (1697).

[0306] According to various embodiments, the antenna module (1697) 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.

[0307] 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.

[0308] According to one embodiment, commands or data may be transmitted or received between the electronic device (1601) and an external electronic device (1604) through a server (1608) connected to a second network (1699). Each of the external electronic devices (1602, or 1604) may be the same or a different type of device as the electronic device (1601). According to one embodiment, all or part of the operations performed on the electronic device (1601) may be performed on one or more of the external electronic devices (1602, 1604, or 1608). For example, if the electronic device (1601) needs to perform a function or service automatically or in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device (1601) 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 (1601). The electronic device (1601) 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 (1601) may provide ultra-low latency services using, for example, distributed computing or mobile edge computing. In another embodiment, the external electronic device (1604) may include an Internet of Things (IoT) device. The server (1608) may be an intelligent server using machine learning and / or neural networks.According to one embodiment, an external electronic device (1604) or server (1608) may be included within the second network (1699). The electronic device (1601) may be applied to intelligent services (e.g., smart home, smart city, smart car, or healthcare) based on 5G communication technology and IoT-related technology.

[0309] 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.

[0310] 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.

[0311] 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).

[0312] Various embodiments of this document may be implemented as software (e.g., program (1640)) comprising one or more instructions stored in a storage medium (e.g., internal memory (1636) or external memory (1638)) readable by a machine (e.g., electronic device (1601)). For example, a processor (e.g., processor (1620)) of the machine (e.g., electronic device (1601)) may call at least one of the one or more instructions stored in the storage medium and execute it. This enables the machine to be operated to perform at least one function according to the at least one called instruction. The one or more instructions may include code generated by a compiler or code that can be executed by an interpreter. The storage medium readable by the machine may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, 'non-temporary' simply means that the storage medium is a tangible device and does not contain a signal (e.g., electromagnetic waves), and the term does not distinguish between cases where data is stored semi-permanently and cases where it is stored temporarily.

[0313] 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.

[0314] 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

In electronic devices, 1st housing part; 2nd housing part; Third housing part; A first hinge positioned between the first housing part and the second housing part, and rotatably connecting the first housing part to the second housing part; A second hinge positioned between the second housing part and the third housing part, and rotatably connecting the third housing part to the second housing part; One or more switching circuits; Other switching circuits; and Includes a wireless communication circuit, The above-mentioned first housing part is: A first conductive portion comprising a vertical portion defining a portion of the first side of the first housing part opposite to the first hinge and a horizontal portion defining a portion of the second side of the first housing part and extending from the vertical portion; and Defines another part of the second side of the first housing part and includes a second conductive part spaced apart from the end of the horizontal part of the first conductive part, The vertical portion of the first conductive portion is configured to be positioned on the second hinge as the first housing part rotates relative to the second housing part through the first hinge, and The horizontal portion of the first conductive portion comprises a first point and a second point further from the end of the first conductive portion than the first point, and The second conductive portion comprises a first point and a second point that is further from the end of the first conductive portion than the first point of the second conductive portion, and The above one or more switching circuits are configured to connect the first point of the first conductive portion to the first point of the second conductive portion while the vertical portion of the first conductive portion is located on the second hinge, and The above one or more switching circuits are configured to connect the wireless communication circuit to the second point of the first conductive part while the first point of the first conductive part and the first point of the second conductive part are connected, and The other switching circuit is configured to connect the second point of the second conductive part to at least one element while the wireless communication circuit and the second point of the first conductive part are connected. Electronic device. In claim 1, The above one or more switching circuits are configured to connect the wireless communication circuit to the first point of the first conductive part while the first point of the first conductive part and the first point of the second conductive part are connected, and The other switching circuit is configured to connect the second point of the second conductive portion to at least one element while the wireless communication circuit is connected to the first point of the first conductive portion through the one or more switching circuits. Electronic device. In claim 1 or claim 2, The above one or more switching circuits are configured to connect the wireless communication circuit to the first point of the first conductive part and the first point of the second conductive part, respectively, while the vertical part of the first conductive part is located on the second hinge. The above one or more switching circuits are configured to electrically open the second point of the first conductive part or electrically connect it to at least one element while the wireless communication circuit is connected to the first point of the first conductive part and the first point of the second conductive part, respectively. The other switching circuit is configured to electrically open or connect the second point of the second conductive part to at least one element while the first point of the first conductive part and the first point of the second conductive part are connected to the wireless communication circuit through the one or more switching circuits. The above wireless communication circuit is configured to receive a first wireless signal through the first point of the first conductive part and to receive a second wireless signal through the first point of the second conductive part. Electronic device. In any one of claims 1 to 3, The second conductive portion includes a third point between the first point and the second point, and The above one or more switching circuits are configured to connect the wireless communication circuit to the third point of the second conductive part while the first point of the first conductive part is connected to the first point of the second conductive part. Electronic device. In claim 4, The other switching circuit is configured to electrically open the second point of the second conductive part or connect it to at least one element while the wireless communication circuit is connected to the second point of the first conductive part through the one or more switching circuits. Electronic device. In claim 4 or claim 5, The above one or more switching circuits are configured to connect the wireless communication circuit to the first point of the first conductive part and the first point of the second conductive part while the first point of the first conductive part and the first point of the second conductive part are connected. The above one or more switching circuits are configured to connect the wireless communication circuit to the third point of the second conductive part while the wireless communication circuit is connected to the first point of the first conductive part and the first point of the second conductive part, and The above one or more switching circuits are configured to electrically open the second point of the first conductive part or connect it to at least one element while the wireless communication circuit is connected to the first point of the first conductive part, the first point of the second conductive part, and the third point of the second conductive part. The other switching circuit is configured to electrically open or connect the second point of the second conductive part to at least one element while the first point of the first conductive part, the first point of the second conductive part, and the third point of the second conductive part are connected to the wireless communication circuit through the one or more switching circuits. The above wireless communication circuit is configured to receive a first wireless signal through the first point of the first conductive part and the first point of the second conductive part, and to receive a second wireless signal through the third point of the second conductive part. Electronic device. In any one of claims 4 to 6, The above one or more switching circuits are configured to connect the wireless communication circuit to the second point of the first conductive part while the vertical part of the first conductive part is located on the second hinge, and to connect the wireless communication circuit to the first point of the second conductive part and the third point of the second conductive part. The above one or more switching circuits are configured to electrically open the first point of the first conductive part or connect it to at least one element while the wireless communication circuit is connected to the second point of the first conductive part, the first point of the second conductive part, and the third point of the second conductive part. The other switching circuit is configured to electrically open or connect the second point of the second conductive part to at least one element while the wireless communication circuit is connected to the second point of the first conductive part, the first point of the second conductive part, and the third point of the second conductive part. The above wireless communication circuit is configured to receive a first wireless signal through the second point of the first conductive part and to receive a second wireless signal through the first point of the second conductive part and the third point of the second conductive part. Electronic device. In any one of claims 1 to 7, The above one or more switching circuits are, It includes a first switching circuit and a second switching circuit, and The input port of the first switching circuit is connected to the wireless communication circuit, and The output ports of the first switching circuit are respectively connected to the second point of the first conductive portion, the first point of the first conductive portion, and the first point of the second conductive portion, and The input port of the second switching circuit is connected to the wireless communication circuit, and The output ports of the second switching circuit are respectively connected to the first point of the second conductive portion and the third point of the second conductive portion, Electronic device. In any one of claims 1 to 8, A third switching circuit comprising connecting a portion of the longitudinal portion of the first conductive portion to the ground of the electronic device, connecting it to at least one element, or electrically opening it. Electronic device. In any one of claims 1 to 9, The first housing part comprises a first non-conductive part disposed between the first point of the first conductive part and the first point of the second conductive part, and The second housing part or the third housing part comprises a third conductive part, a fourth conductive part, and a second non-conductive part, and As the first housing part rotates relative to the second housing part through the first hinge, the third conductive part, the fourth conductive part, and the second non-conductive part are configured to face the first conductive part, the second conductive part, and the first non-conductive part of the first housing part, respectively. Electronic device. In claim 10, A notch filter connected to the third conductive portion or the fourth conductive portion, Electronic device. In any one of claims 1 to 11, Includes additional frequency filters, The electrical path between the wireless communication circuit and the second conductive part comprises the one or more switching circuits and the frequency filter. Electronic device. In any one of claims 1 to 12, Memory for storing instructions; and Includes a processor, When the above instructions are executed collectively or individually by the processor, the electronic device: Identifying whether the vertical portion of the first conductive portion is located on the second hinge; Based on identifying that the longitudinal portion of the first conductive portion is located on the second hinge, causing the second point of the second conductive portion to be electrically open or connected to at least one element, thereby controlling another switching circuit. Electronic device. In claim 13, When the above instructions are executed collectively or individually by the processor, the electronic device: Identify whether the above electronic device is held by a user; Based on identifying that the electronic device is not held by a user, causing wireless communication to be performed using one or more conductive parts forming the third side of the first housing part opposite to the second side. Electronic device. In claim 13, When the above instructions are executed collectively or individually by the processor, the electronic device: Causing to identify whether the electronic device is gripped by a user based on identifying that the vertical portion of the first conductive portion is not located on the second hinge, Electronic device.

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