Communication device, electronic device, and peripheral device

Abstract

A communication device according to the present disclosure is detachably attached to the main body of an electronic device. The communication device comprises: an enclosure having a through hole or a notch; an antenna disposed inside the enclosure; and a ground conductor disposed inside the enclosure and partially protruding from the through hole or the notch. The ground conductor comprises: a main body; a plate-shaped extension part that extends in a bent manner from the main body and is elastically deformable; and a protruding part that is provided on the extension part and protrudes from the through hole or the notch in the enclosure. The protruding part is curved in a first direction in which the extension part extends, being convex in the direction of protruding from the through hole or the notch. When viewed from the thickness direction of the extension part, both ends of the protruding part in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction are curved in a fourth direction opposite to a third direction in which the protruding part protrudes.

Description

Communication devices, electronic devices, and peripheral devices

[0001] The present disclosure relates to communication devices, electronic devices, and peripheral devices.

[0002] For example, Patent Document 1 describes an earth spring with a cantilever structure that electrically connects a support member portion supporting a spindle motor and a housing portion, having a free end in an arc shape and further having a bent structure at a tip portion, for an optical disk drive device.

[0003] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2011-227949

[0004] In recent years, there has been a demand for communication devices, electronic devices, and peripheral devices that can stably make a ground connection while ensuring safety.

[0005] A communication device according to one aspect of the present disclosure is a communication device detachably attached to an electronic device main body, the communication device including: a housing having at least one through hole or at least one notch; an antenna disposed within the housing; and a ground conductor disposed within the housing and having a part protruding from the at least one through hole or the at least one notch, the ground conductor including: a main body; at least one plate-like extension portion that extends from the main body in a bent manner and is elastically deformable; and at least one protruding portion provided on the at least one extension portion and protruding from the at least one through hole or the at least one notch of the housing, the at least one protruding portion being convexly curved in a direction protruding from the at least one through hole or the at least one notch in a first direction in which the at least one extension portion extends, and both ends of the at least one protruding portion in a second direction intersecting the first direction as viewed from a thickness direction of the at least one extension portion being curved in a fourth direction opposite to a third direction in which the at least one protruding portion protrudes.

[0006] An electronic device according to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises an electronic device body and the above-described communication device that can be attached to the electronic device body, wherein when the communication device is attached to the electronic device body, the protruding portion of the ground conductor of the communication device is in contact with the electronic device body.

[0007] A peripheral device according to one aspect of the present disclosure is a peripheral device that is detachably attached to an electronic device body, the peripheral device comprising: a housing having at least one through hole or at least one notch; and a ground conductor disposed within the housing and partially protruding from the at least one through hole or at least one notch, wherein the ground conductor comprises: a body; at least one plate-shaped extension extending bent from the body and elastically deformable; and at least one protrusion provided on the at least one extension and protruding from the at least one through hole or at least one notch of the housing, wherein the protrusion is curved convexly in a first direction in which the extension extends, in a direction that protrudes from the at least one through hole or at least one notch, and both ends of the at least one protrusion in a second direction intersecting the first direction, as viewed from the thickness direction of the at least one extension, are curved in a fourth direction opposite to the third direction from which the at least one protrusion protrudes.

[0008] In view of the above issues, this disclosure provides communication equipment, electronic equipment, and peripheral equipment that can provide stable ground connections while ensuring safety.

[0009] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of an example of electronic equipment according to Embodiment 1, an exploded perspective view of an example of electronic equipment according to Embodiment 1, an exploded perspective view of an example of communication equipment according to Embodiment 1, a cross-sectional view of the electronic equipment in Figure 1 cut along line A-A, an enlarged perspective view of an example of communication equipment according to Embodiment 1, a perspective view of an example of ground conductor of communication equipment according to Embodiment 1, an enlarged front view of an example of ground conductor of communication equipment according to Embodiment 1, a plan view of an example of the first extension of ground conductor of communication equipment according to Embodiment 1, a side view of an example of the first extension of ground conductor of communication equipment according to Embodiment 1, a plan view of the first extension of ground conductor of communication equipment according to Modification 1, a side view of the first extension of ground conductor of communication equipment according to Modification 1, a plan view of the first extension of ground conductor of communication equipment according to Modification 2, and a side view of the first extension of ground conductor of communication equipment according to Modification 2.

[0010] (Background to this disclosure) An example of an electronic device is a laptop PC. Some laptop PCs have detachable expansion devices that extend their functionality. An example of an expansion device is a communication device for extending communication capabilities. When the communication device is attached to the electronic device, it is grounded by making contact with the electronic device, which is made of metal, by grounding the ground conductor.

[0011] In recent years, high-frequency communication devices such as 5G have been developed. Such high-frequency communication devices require a larger contact area between the ground conductor and the electronic device body for ground connection. However, the portion of the ground conductor that connects to the electronic device body is exposed from the device's casing. Therefore, increasing the contact area between the ground conductor and the electronic device body increases the portion of the ground conductor exposed from the device's casing. This exposed portion is accessible to the user's fingers when the device is detached from the electronic device body. If the exposed portion of the ground conductor has an edge, there is a risk of injury to the user's fingers, compromising safety. Furthermore, increasing the contact area between the ground conductor and the electronic device body makes it difficult to maintain stable contact, thus hindering a stable ground connection.

[0012] Therefore, in order to solve the above problems, the present inventors have investigated communication equipment, electronic equipment, and peripheral equipment that can be stably grounded while ensuring safety, and have arrived at this disclosure.

[0013] The embodiments relating to this disclosure will be described below with reference to the attached drawings. In addition, in each drawing, the elements are exaggerated to facilitate the explanation.

[0014] (Embodiment 1) The electronic device of this embodiment will be described below.

[0015] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view of the electronic device 1 according to Embodiment 1. Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of the electronic device 1 according to Embodiment 1. In the figures, the X-axis and Y-axis directions indicate the horizontal direction, and the Z-axis direction indicates the vertical direction.

[0016] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the electronic device 1 comprises an electronic device body 2 and a communication device 3 that can be attached to the electronic device body 2.

[0017] [Electronic Device Body] The electronic device body 2 is a laptop PC. The electronic device body 2 comprises a first housing 110, a second housing 120, and a plurality of hinges 130.

[0018] The first housing 110 has a first main surface 110a. The first housing 110 has input devices such as a keyboard 111 and a touchpad 112 arranged on the first main surface 110a, a motherboard (not shown) on which a CPU and memory are mounted, and a storage device (not shown) such as an SSD (Solid State Drive) or HDD (Hard Disk Drive).

[0019] As shown in Figure 2, the electronic device body 2 is provided with mounting holes 140. The side surface of the first housing 110 of the electronic device body 2 is provided with mounting holes 140 into which the communication device 3 is detachably attached. The mounting holes 140 are rectangular openings in the side surface of the first housing 110.

[0020] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the second housing 120 has a second main surface 120a. The second housing 120 has a display 121 such as a liquid crystal display or an organic EL display, and a camera 122, etc., which are also located on the second main surface 120a.

[0021] The components included in the first enclosure 110 and the second enclosure 120 are not limited to these, and only components necessary for the electronic device 1 to function as a laptop PC are required.

[0022] The first housing 110 and the second housing 120 are metal housings. Examples of metal materials that form the metal housings include magnesium alloys. The first housing 110 and the second housing 120 may be coated with resin.

[0023] Multiple hinges 130 rotatably connect the first housing 110 and the second housing 120. That is, the first housing 110 and the second housing 120 are connected via the hinges 130, and the second housing 120 is rotatable around the hinges 130 relative to the first housing 110.

[0024] [Communication Device] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the communication device 3 is a communication device that can be detachably attached to the electronic device body 2. As shown in Figure 2, the communication device 3 can be attached to the electronic device body 2 by being inserted into the mounting hole 140 of the electronic device body 2. The communication device 3 is a device that extends the communication functions of the electronic device body 2. For example, the communication device 3 has a built-in antenna for 5G communication, and by connecting the communication device 3 to the electronic device body 2, the 5G communication function can be used in the electronic device body 2.

[0025] Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view of the communication device 3 according to Embodiment 1. Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the electronic device 1 in Figure 1 taken along line A-A. Figure 5 is an enlarged perspective view of the communication device 3 according to Embodiment 1.

[0026] As shown in Figure 2 or Figure 3, the communication device 3 comprises a housing 4, a ground conductor 5, an antenna 6, a circuit board 7, a cable 8, and a shielding component 9.

[0027] As shown in Figure 2, the housing 4 comprises a first part 11 and a second part 12. The first part 11 and the second part 12 are connected.

[0028] The first part 11 is housed inside the first housing 110 when the communication device 3 is attached to the mounting hole 140 of the first housing 110 of the electronic device body 2. The first part 11 has an internal space. As shown in Figure 3, a circuit board 7 for controlling the antenna 6 and the like are arranged in the first part 11. For example, the first part 11 is made of metal. For example, the first part 11 is made of a magnesium alloy or an aluminum alloy.

[0029] As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the first portion 11 comprises a first wall 21, a second wall 22, a first side wall 31, and a second side wall 32. The first portion 11 has a space between the first wall 21 and the second wall 22.

[0030] The second wall 22 faces the first wall 21. The first portion 11 has a space between the first wall 21 and the second wall 22. As shown in Figure 4, the second wall 22 has a recess 25 that protrudes in the direction from the first wall 21 toward the second wall 22.

[0031] As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the first side wall 31 extends in the direction from the first wall 21 toward the second wall 22.

[0032] The second side wall 32 extends in the direction from the second wall 22 toward the first wall 21. As shown in Figure 5, a portion of the second side wall 32 is in contact with a portion of the first side wall 31.

[0033] The housing 4 has a plurality of through holes 41 and a notch 45 (not shown). As shown in Figure 4, the first portion 11 has a plurality of through holes 41 and a notch 45.

[0034] Multiple through holes 41 are provided in the second wall 22. Each of the multiple through holes 41 is spaced apart from the others in the Y-axis direction. In other words, the multiple through holes 41 are arranged in parallel. In this embodiment, the multiple through holes 41 are two through holes 41. One of the two through holes 41 is provided in the recess 25. Details regarding the shape of the multiple through holes 41 will be described later.

[0035] As shown in Figures 4 and 5, the notch 45 is provided in the first side wall 31. Viewed from the thickness direction of the first side wall 31, the opening of the notch 45 is closed by the second side wall 32. Details of the shape of the notch 45 will be described later.

[0036] As shown in Figure 3, the second part 12 is connected to the first part 11. The second part 12 has an internal space. The antenna 6 is housed in the second part 12. The second part 12 is located outside the first housing 110 when the communication device 3 is attached to the electronic device body 2. For example, the second part 12 is made of resin.

[0037] As shown in Figure 4, a portion of the ground conductor 5 contacts the first housing 110 of the electronic device body 2 and the first portion 11 of the communication device 3 when the communication device 3 is attached to the electronic device body 2. When the communication device 3 is attached to the electronic device body 2, a portion of the ground conductor 5 contacts a portion of the electronic device body 2, and the electronic device body 2 and the communication device 3 can be grounded. As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the ground conductor 5 is located inside the housing 4. The ground conductor 5 is located inside the first portion 11. A detailed explanation of the structure of the ground conductor 5 will be given later.

[0038] As shown in Figure 3, the antenna 6 is located inside the housing 4. The antenna 6 is located inside the second part 12. The antenna 6 is a device for transmitting and receiving radio waves. The antenna 6 can radiate electrical signals as radio waves or convert radio waves into electrical signals. The antenna 6 is a high-frequency antenna. For example, the antenna is an antenna for 5G communication.

[0039] For example, the radio waves transmitted and received by antenna 6 are electromagnetic waves between 300 MHz and 30 GHz. Preferably, the radio waves transmitted and received by antenna 6 are electromagnetic waves between 400 MHz and 10 GHz. More preferably, the radio waves transmitted and received by antenna 6 are between 600 and 900 MHz and between 1.7 and 4.0 GHz.

[0040] The circuit board 7 is placed inside the housing 4. The circuit board 7 is placed inside the first part 11.

[0041] Cable 8 connects to the antenna 6 and the circuit board 7. The antenna 6 connects to the circuit board 7 via cable 8. Cable 8 is located inside the housing 4.

[0042] The shield component 9 is connected to the ground conductor 5. As shown in Figure 4, the shield component 9 is in contact with the housing 4. The shield component 9 is in contact with the first wall 21.

[0043] (Ground conductor) Ground conductor 5 will be explained.

[0044] As shown in FIG. 4, a part of the ground conductor 5 protrudes from a plurality of through holes 41 and notch 45. For example, the ground conductor 5 is made of metal. For example, the ground conductor 5 is made of stainless steel. For example, the ground conductor 5 is made by bending a plate-like member of metal.

[0045] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the ground conductor 5 of the communication device 3 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 7 is an enlarged front view of an example of the ground conductor 5 of the communication device 3 according to the first embodiment. The first direction X1 and the second direction X2 in the figure are parallel to the X-axis direction, the third direction Y1 and the fourth direction Y2 are parallel to the Y-axis direction, and the fifth direction Z1 and the sixth direction Z2 are parallel to the Z-axis direction.

[0046] As shown in FIG. 6, the ground conductor 5 is plate-shaped. The ground conductor 5 includes a main body 60, a first extension portion 71A, a second extension portion 72A, a third extension portion 73A, a first protruding portion 81A, a second protruding portion 82A, and a third protruding portion 83A.

[0047] As shown in FIG. 3, the main body 60 is connected to the housing 4. The main body 60 is connected to the first portion 11. The main body 60 is disposed on the second wall 22 of the first portion 11 and is connected to the second wall 22. The main body 60 is connected to the second wall 22 by a connecting component. For example, the connecting component is a screw. As shown in FIG. 6, the main body 60 includes a contact portion 62, a first support portion 64, a second support portion 65, a first connection portion 66, and a second connection portion 67.

[0048] The contact portion 62 has a short direction in the X-axis direction, a long direction in the Y-axis direction, and a thickness direction in the Z-axis direction. As shown in FIG. 3, the contact portion 62 has a surface facing the first wall 21 of the first portion 11. As shown in FIGS. 3 and 6, the contact portion 62 is connected to the shield component 9. As shown in FIG. 4, the contact portion 62 contacts the first portion 11 through the shield component 9. The contact portion 62 contacts the first wall 21 through the shield component 9.

[0049] As shown in Figure 6, the first support portion 64 and the second support portion 65 are bent from the contact portion 62 in the thickness direction of the contact portion 62. The first support portion 64 and the second support portion 65 are provided with a gap between them in the Y-axis direction. Viewed in the direction toward the thickness direction of the contact portion 62, the first support portion 64 and the second support portion 65 are provided at both ends of the contact portion 62 in the Y-axis direction. As shown in Figure 3, the first support portion 64 and the second support portion 65 are bent from the contact portion 62 in the direction toward the first wall 21 toward the second wall 22.

[0050] As shown in Figure 3, the first connecting portion 66 contacts and connects with the second wall 22. As shown in Figure 6, the first connecting portion 66 bends away from the first support portion 64 in a direction away from the contact portion 62, that is, toward the fourth direction Y2. The first connecting portion 66 is substantially parallel to the contact portion 62. In this embodiment, "substantially" means having an error of 5% to 10%.

[0051] The second connecting portion 67, like the first connecting portion 66, contacts and connects with the second wall 22 (not shown). As shown in Figure 6, the second connecting portion 67 bends away from the second support portion 65 and the contact portion 62, that is, toward the third direction Y1. The second connecting portion 67 is approximately parallel to the contact portion 62.

[0052] The first extension 71A, the second extension 72A, and the third extension 73A are plate-shaped and elastically deformable. At least a portion of each of the first extension 71A, the second extension 72A, and the third extension 73A is in contact with the housing 4 (not shown). At least a portion of each of the first extension 71A, the second extension 72A, and the third extension 73A is in contact with the second wall 22 or the first side wall 31. As shown in Figure 6, each of the first extension 71A, the second extension 72A, and the third extension 73A extends from the main body 60 by bending. As shown in Figure 4, the second extension 72A extends in the direction from the first portion 11 toward the second portion 12. As shown in Figure 6, the first extension 71A and the third extension 73A extend in the direction in which the second extension 72A extends. In other words, the first extension 71A, the second extension 72A, and the third extension 73A extend in the direction from the first part 11 toward the second part 12.

[0053] The first extension 71A extends from the first connecting portion 66 by bending. The first extension 71A bends from the first connecting portion 66 at an angle in the sixth direction Z2 from which the first projection 81A protrudes. The first extension 71A bends from the first connecting portion 66 at an angle in the sixth direction Z2 toward the second wall 22 (not shown). As shown in Figure 6, the first extension 71A bends from the first connecting portion 66 at a first angle θ1 in the sixth direction Z2 toward the first connecting portion 66 from the contact portion 62. The first angle θ1 is 30 degrees or less. Preferably, the first angle θ1 is 20 degrees or less. More preferably, the first angle θ1 is 10 degrees or less.

[0054] The second extension 72A extends from the first connection portion 66 by bending. The second extension 72A bends from the first connection portion 66 in a fifth direction Z1 toward the contact portion 62. As shown in Figure 7, the second extension 72A bends from the first connection portion 66 at an angle toward a third direction Y1, opposite to the fourth direction Y2 toward which the second projection 82A protrudes. The second extension 72A bends at an angle toward a third direction Y1 toward the first side wall 31 toward the first connection portion 66 (not shown). As shown in Figure 7, the second extension 72A bends from the first connection portion 66 at a second angle θ2 toward the contact portion 62. The second angle θ2 is 90 degrees or less. Preferably, the second angle θ2 is 85 degrees or less. More preferably, the second angle θ2 is 80 degrees or less.

[0055] As shown in Figure 6, the third extension 73A is positioned at a distance from the first extension 71A. The third extension 73A is positioned at a distance from the first extension 71A in the Y-axis direction. The third extension 73A bends at an angle in the sixth direction Z2 from which the third projection 83A protrudes from the second connecting portion 67. The third extension 73A extends from the second connecting portion 67 by bending. The third extension 73A bends at an angle in the sixth direction Z2 from the second connecting portion 67 toward the second wall 22 (not shown). As shown in Figure 6, the third extension 73A bends at a third angle θ3 in the sixth direction Z2 from the contact portion 62 toward the second connecting portion 67 from the second connecting portion 67. The third angle θ3 is 30 degrees or less. Preferably, the third angle θ3 is 20 degrees or less. More preferably, the third angle θ3 is an angle of 10 degrees or less.

[0056] As shown in Figure 4, when the communication device 3 is attached to the electronic device body 2, each of the first protrusion 81A, the second protrusion 82A, and the third protrusion 83A is in contact with the electronic device body 2. Each of the first protrusion 81A, the second protrusion 82A, and the third protrusion 83A is electrically connected by contact with the electronic device body 2. In this specification, "electrically connected" includes the direct contact between the ground conductor 5 and the metal of the electronic device body 2, and the capacitive coupling between the ground conductor 5 and the metal of the first housing 110. For example, if the first housing 110 is coated with resin or the like, the ground conductor 5 and the metal of the first housing 110 are electrically connected by capacitive coupling.

[0057] As shown in Figure 6, the first protrusion 81A is provided on the first extension 71A, the second protrusion 82A is provided on the second extension 72A, and the third protrusion 83A is provided on the third extension 73A. As shown in Figure 4, each of the first protrusion 81A, the second protrusion 82A, and the third protrusion 83A protrudes from a through hole 41 or notch 45 provided in the housing 4. Each of the first protrusion 81A, the second protrusion 82A, and the third protrusion 83A is arranged along each of the multiple through holes 41 and notches 45 provided in the housing 4. The first protrusion 81A and the third protrusion 83A are spaced apart from each other in the Y-axis direction. That is, the first protrusion 81A and the third protrusion 83A are in parallel. The first protrusion 81A and the third protrusion 83A protrude from a through hole 41 in the second wall 22. The second protrusion 82A protrudes from the notch 45 in the first side wall 31. As shown in Figure 5, the first protrusion 81A is exposed from the through hole 41 provided in the housing 4. The second protrusion 82A is exposed from the notch 45 provided in the housing 4. The third protrusion 83A is exposed from the through hole 41 provided in the housing 4, similar to the first protrusion 81A (not shown).

[0058] In this embodiment, the second extension 72A and the third extension 73A have the same configuration as the first extension 71A. Also, the second protrusion 82A and the third protrusion 83A have the same configuration as the first protrusion 81A. Therefore, in this specification, the structures of the second extension 72A and the third extension 73A, and the second protrusion 82A and the third protrusion 83A, will not be described in detail. The structures of the first extension 71A and the first protrusion 81A will be described in detail below.

[0059] Furthermore, regarding the structure of the second extension 72A and the second projection 82A, "third direction Y1" shall be read as "sixth direction Z2", "fourth direction Y2" as "fifth direction Z1", "fifth direction Z1" as "third direction Y1", "sixth direction Z2" as "fourth direction Y2", "second wall 22" as "first side wall 31", and "through hole 41" as "notch 45".

[0060] (First extension and first projection) The first extension 71A and the first projection 81A will be described below.

[0061] Figure 8 is a plan view of the first extension 71A of the ground conductor 5 of the communication device 3 according to Embodiment 1. Figure 9 is a side view of the first extension 71A of the ground conductor 5 of the communication device 3 according to Embodiment 1.

[0062] As shown in Figures 8 and 9, the first extension 71A has a free end 75. The free end 75 is provided at the tip of the first extension 71A in the first direction X1.

[0063] The first projection 81A is provided at a position away from the free end 75 of the first extension 71A in a second direction X2 opposite to the first direction X1 in which the first extension 71A extends. At least a portion of the first extension 71A from the free end 75 to the first projection 81A is in contact with the housing 4 (not shown).

[0064] As shown in Figures 8 and 9, in the first extension 71A, the length L1 of the first projection 81A in the first direction X1 is greater than the length L2 from the free end 75 to the first projection 81A in the first direction X1. Length L1 is 1.2 times or more and 3.0 times or less of length L2. Preferably, length L1 is 1.5 times or more and 2.5 times or less of length L2. More preferably, length L1 is 1.5 times or more and 2.2 times or less of length L2.

[0065] The first projection 81A is curved convexly in the sixth direction Z2 in the first direction X1 in which the first extension 71A extends. The sixth direction Z2 is the direction in which the first projection 81A protrudes from the through hole 41 of the second wall 22. Viewed from the thickness direction of the first extension 71A, both ends of the first projection 81A in the third direction Y1, which is perpendicular to the first direction X1, are curved in the fifth direction Z1, which is opposite to the sixth direction Z2 in which the projection 81A protrudes. As shown in Figures 4 and 5, both ends of the first projection 81A in the third direction Y1 are positioned inside the housing 4 beyond the edge defining the through hole 41.

[0066] As shown in Figure 8, when viewed from the thickness direction of the first extension 71A, the curved portions 85A at both ends of the first projection 81A have a semi-elliptical shape.

[0067] As shown in Figure 9, when viewed in the direction toward the third direction Y1, the surface 91 exposed from the through hole 41 of the housing 4 is a curved surface. When viewed in the direction toward the third direction Y1, the first projection 81A has an arc shape.

[0068] As shown in Figure 8, in the first extension 71A, the length L1 of the first projection 81A in the first direction X1 is approximately the same as the length L10 of the first projection 81A in the third direction Y1 which is perpendicular to the first direction X1.

[0069] As shown in Figure 9, the length L1 of the first projection 81A in the first direction X1 is greater than the length H1 of the first projection 81A in the sixth direction Z2. The length L1 is 1.2 times or more and 3 times or less the length H1. Preferably, the length L1 is 1.5 times or more and 2.5 times or less the length H1. More preferably, the length L1 is 1.8 times or more and 2.2 times or less the length H1.

[0070] As described above, the length L10 of the first protrusion 81A in the third direction Y1 is approximately the same as the length L1 of the first protrusion 81A in the first direction X1, and the length L1 of the first protrusion 81A in the first direction X1 is greater than the length H1 of the first protrusion 81A in the sixth direction Z2. In other words, the length L10 of the first protrusion 81A in the third direction Y1 is greater than the length H1 of the first protrusion 81A in the sixth direction Z2.

[0071] (Through holes) The shapes of the multiple through holes 41 in the housing 4 will be described below.

[0072] As shown in Figure 5, in the Y-axis direction, the first defining wall 35 and the second defining wall 36 defining the through hole 41 are along the first projection 81A. The second defining wall 36 is opposite the first defining wall 35. In the Y-axis direction, the first defining wall 35 defining the through hole 41 and the second defining wall 36 opposite the first defining wall 35 extend in the Y-axis direction along the curved portion 85A of the first projection 81A. Similarly, the first defining wall 35 defining the through hole 41 into which the third projection 83A can be inserted and the second defining wall 36 opposite the first defining wall 35 extend in the Y-axis direction along the curved portion 85A of the third projection 83A.

[0073] (Notch) The shape of the notch 45 in the housing 4 will be described.

[0074] As shown in Figure 5, when viewed from the Y-axis direction, the length between the defining walls that define the notch 45 decreases in the direction away from the opening of the notch 45.

[0075] The defining wall 38 that defines the notch 45 is along the second projection 82A. The defining wall 38 that defines the notch 45 in the Z-axis direction extends in the Z-axis direction along the curved portion 85A of the second projection 82A.

[0076] Furthermore, when viewed from the Y-axis direction, the portion of the second wall 32 that closes the opening of the notch 45 in the first side wall 31 extends in the direction from the first wall 21 toward the second wall 22. When viewed from the Y-axis direction, the portion of the second wall 32 that closes the opening of the notch 45 in the first side wall 31 follows the curved portion 85A of the second protrusion 82A.

[0077] The operation of the electronic device 1 in this embodiment will now be described.

[0078] The communication device 3 is inserted into the mounting hole 140 provided in the electronic device body 2.

[0079] When the communication device 3 is attached to the electronic device body 2, a part of the ground conductor 5 and a part of the electronic device body 2 come into contact. Each of the first protrusion 81A, the second protrusion 82A, and the third protrusion 83A comes into contact with the first housing 110 of the electronic device body 2.

[0080] When the first protrusion 81A, the second protrusion 82A, and the third protrusion 83A come into contact with the first housing 110, they each receive a force from the first housing 110 in a direction away from the first housing 110. When the first protrusion 81A receives a force from the first housing 110 in a direction away from the first housing 110, it moves in a direction away from the first housing 110.

[0081] When the communication device 3 is removed from the electronic device body 2 while it is attached to it, the first protrusion 81A, the second protrusion 82A, and the third protrusion 83A each return to their positions before inserting the communication device 3 into the mounting hole 140 provided in the electronic device body 2.

[0082] The effects of the communication device 3 and electronic device 1 in this embodiment will be described.

[0083] The communication device 3 is a communication device that can be detachably attached to the electronic device body 2. The communication device 3 comprises a housing 4 having a through hole 41, an antenna 6 disposed inside the housing 4, and a ground conductor 5 disposed inside the housing 4 with a portion protruding from the through hole 41. The ground conductor 5 comprises a main body 60, a first extension 71A that extends from the main body 60 and is plate-shaped and elastically deformable, and a first projection 81A provided on the first extension 71A and protruding from the through hole 41 of the housing 4. The first projection 81A is curved convexly in the direction of protruding from the through hole 41 in the first direction X1 in which the first extension 71A extends. When viewed from the thickness direction of the first extension 71A, both ends of the first projection 81A in the third direction Y1 perpendicular to the first direction X1 are curved in the fifth direction Z1 opposite to the sixth direction Z2 in which the first projection 81A protrudes.

[0084] This configuration allows the communication device 3 to be stably grounded to the electronic device body 2 while ensuring safety. The first protrusion 81A is curved in a convex shape so as to protrude in the sixth direction Z2, and both ends of the first protrusion 81A in the third direction Y1 are curved in the fifth direction Z1. As a result, the first protrusion 81A has a shape that makes it difficult for edges to form in the part that can be touched by the user's fingers. Specifically, because both ends of the first protrusion 81A are curved in the fifth direction Z1, which is opposite to the sixth direction Z2 from which it protrudes from the through hole 41, it is difficult for the user's fingers to touch both ends of the first protrusion 81A. Therefore, even if the communication device 3 is detached from the electronic device body 2 and the user's fingers touch the first protrusion 81A, injury can be suppressed and safety can be ensured. In addition, because the first protrusion 81A is in contact with the electronic device body 2 at the convexly curved portion, the contact area between the ground conductor 5 and the electronic device body 2 can be made relatively large. Furthermore, the first protrusion 81A is pressed against the electronic device body 2 by the elastic force of the first extension 71A, so that it can maintain stable contact with the electronic device body 2. As a result, when the communication device 3 is attached to the electronic device body 2, the ground conductor 5 and the electronic device body 2 can be stably grounded.

[0085] Furthermore, since the first protrusion 81A can be manufactured by bending, it can be produced at a relatively low cost.

[0086] The housing 4 has a notch 45. A portion of the ground conductor 5 protrudes from the notch 45. The ground conductor 5 includes a second extension 72A that extends from the main body 60 in a bent and elastically deformable plate shape, and a second projection 82A provided on the second extension 72A and protruding from the notch 45 of the housing 4. The second projection 82A is curved convexly in the direction in which the second extension 72A extends, in the direction in which it protrudes from the notch 45. When viewed from the thickness direction of the second extension 72A, both ends of the second projection 82A in the direction perpendicular to the direction in which the second extension 72A extends are curved in the direction opposite to the direction in which the second projection 82A protrudes.

[0087] This configuration allows the communication device 3 to be stably grounded to the electronic device body 2 while ensuring safety. The second protrusion 82A is curved convexly in the direction in which the second extension 72A extends, so as to protrude from the notch 45. Furthermore, both ends of the second protrusion 82A in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the second extension 72A extends are curved in the opposite direction to the direction in which the second protrusion 82A protrudes. As a result, the first protrusion 81A has a shape that makes it difficult for edges to form in the part that can be touched by the user's fingers. Therefore, even if the communication device 3 is detached from the electronic device body 2 and the user's fingers touch the first protrusion 81A, injury can be suppressed and safety can be ensured.

[0088] When viewed from the thickness direction of the first extension 71A, the curved portions at both ends of the first projection 81A have a semi-elliptical shape.

[0089] This configuration allows the communication device 3 to be stably grounded to the electronic device body 2 while ensuring greater safety. Furthermore, the ground conductor 5 is relatively easy to process, improving the efficiency of the ground conductor 5 manufacturing process. For example, forming the ground conductor 5 is relatively easy when manufacturing it by bending.

[0090] When viewed in the direction toward the third direction Y1, the first projection 81A has an arc shape.

[0091] This configuration allows the communication device 3 to be stably grounded to the electronic device body 2 while ensuring greater safety. The surface of the portion of the first protrusion 81A exposed through the through hole 41 is smooth. Therefore, even if a user's fingers touch the first protrusion 81A exposed through the through hole 41, injury is minimized, thus ensuring safety.

[0092] Furthermore, when viewed in the direction toward the third direction Y1, the first projection 81A has an arc shape, which helps to suppress damage to the part of the electronic device body 2 that comes into contact with the first projection 81A when the first projection 81A comes into contact with the electronic device body 2.

[0093] The length L1 of the first projection 81A in the first direction X1 is greater than the length H1 of the first projection 81A in the sixth direction Z2.

[0094] This configuration allows for a relatively large contact area between the ground conductor 5 and the electronic device body 2. As a result, the ground conductor 5 and the electronic device body 2 can be stably grounded when the communication device 3 is attached to the electronic device body 2.

[0095] The length L10 of the first projection 81A in the third direction Y1 is greater than the length H1 of the first projection 81A in the sixth direction Z2.

[0096] This configuration allows for a relatively large contact area between the ground conductor 5 and the electronic device body 2. As a result, the ground conductor 5 and the electronic device body 2 can be stably grounded when the communication device 3 is attached to the electronic device body 2.

[0097] The first extension 71A has a free end 75.

[0098] This configuration improves the elastic force of the first extension 71A, allowing the first protrusion 81A to maintain stable contact with the electronic device body 2.

[0099] Furthermore, it becomes easier to insert the communication device 3 into the electronic device body 2. When the electronic device body 2 and the first protrusion 81A of the communication device 3 come into contact, the first protrusion 81A is more likely to elastically deform in a direction away from the electronic device body 2, so the communication device 3 is less likely to get caught on the electronic device body 2 and is easier to insert.

[0100] The first projection 81A is provided at a position away from the free end 75 of the first extension 71A in the direction opposite to the first direction X1.

[0101] This configuration allows the communication device 3 to be stably grounded to the electronic device body 2 while ensuring safety. Since the first projection 81A is provided at a position away from the free end 75 of the first extension 71A in the direction opposite to the first direction X1, the free end 75 is not exposed through the through hole 41. This prevents the user's fingers from touching the free end 75 and causing injury, thus ensuring safety.

[0102] In the first extension 71A, the length L1 of the first projection 81A in the first direction X1 is greater than the length L2 from the free end 75 to the first projection 81A in the first direction X1.

[0103] This configuration allows for a more compact size for the ground conductor 5. This reduces the amount of metal required to manufacture the ground conductor 5, thereby lowering costs.

[0104] In the first extension 71A, at least a portion of the part from the free end 75 to the first protruding portion 81A is in contact with the housing 4.

[0105] This configuration allows the communication device 3 to be stably grounded to the electronic device body 2 while ensuring greater safety. Because at least a portion of the part from the free end 75 to the first protrusion 81A is in contact with the housing 4, the free end 75 is not exposed through the through hole 41 or notch 45 of the housing 4. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the user's fingers from touching the free end 75 and causing injury, thereby ensuring safety.

[0106] Furthermore, at least a portion of the part from the free end 75 to the first protrusion 81A comes into contact with the housing 4, which makes it less likely for the position of the first protrusion 81A to shift.

[0107] When viewed from the thickness direction of the first extension 71A, both ends of the first protrusion 81A in the third direction Y1 are positioned inside the housing 4.

[0108] This configuration allows the communication device 3 to be stably grounded to the electronic device body 2 while ensuring safety. Since both ends of the first protrusion 81A in the third direction Y1 are not exposed through the through hole 41 of the housing 4, it is difficult for the user's fingers to touch both ends of the first protrusion 81A. Therefore, even if the communication device 3 is detached from the electronic device body 2 and the user's fingers touch the first protrusion 81A, injury can be suppressed and safety can be ensured.

[0109] The housing 4 has a first wall 21, a second wall 22 facing the first wall 21, and a first side wall 31 extending in the direction from the first wall 21 toward the second wall 22. The housing 4 is provided with a through hole 41 and a notch 45. The through hole 41 is provided in the second wall 22. The notch 45 is provided in the first side wall 31. The ground conductor 5 comprises a main body 60, a first extension 71A, a second extension 72A, a first projection 81A provided on the first extension 71A, and a second projection 82A provided on the second extension 72A. The first projection 81A protrudes from the through hole 41 in the second wall 22. The second projection 82A protrudes from the notch 45 in the first side wall 31.

[0110] With this configuration, the electronic device body 2 can make contact at two points, with the first protrusion 81A and the second protrusion 82A, thus increasing the contact area between the ground conductor 5 and the electronic device body 2. As a result, the ground conductor 5 and the electronic device body 2 can be stably grounded when the communication device 3 is attached to the electronic device body 2.

[0111] The second wall 22 has a recess 25 that protrudes in the direction from the first wall 21 toward the second wall 22. The through hole 41 is provided in the recess 25 of the second wall 22.

[0112] By providing a through hole 41 in the recess 25 of the second wall 22, the length of the portion of the first projection 81A that protrudes from the through hole 41 in the direction from the first wall 21 to the second wall 22 can be shortened. By shortening the length of the protruding portion of the first projection 81A in the direction from the first wall 21 to the second wall 22, the communication device 3 becomes less likely to get caught on the electronic device body 2 when attaching or detaching it, making it easier to attach and detach.

[0113] The housing 4 has a plurality of through holes 41. The ground conductor 5 comprises a main body 60, a first extension 71A, a third extension 73A arranged at a distance from the first extension 71A, a first projection 81A provided on the first extension 71A, and a third projection 83A provided on the third extension 73A.

[0114] This configuration allows for a relatively large contact area between the ground conductor 5 and the electronic device body 2. It also allows for an increased number of contact points between the ground conductor 5 and the electronic device body 2. As a result, when the communication device 3 is attached to the electronic device body 2, the ground conductor 5 and the electronic device body 2 can be stably grounded.

[0115] Furthermore, since the first protrusion 81A and the third protrusion 83A can be manufactured by bending, the ground conductor 5 including the first protrusion 81A and the third protrusion 83A can be manufactured at a relatively low cost.

[0116] The communication device 3 further includes a shielding component 9 connected to the main body 60 of the ground conductor 5. The shielding component 9 is in contact with the housing 4.

[0117] By including a shielding component 9 in the communication device 3, communication between the electronic device body 2 and the communication device 3 can be made more stable.

[0118] The electronic device 1 comprises an electronic device body 2 and a communication device 3 that can be attached to the electronic device body 2. When the communication device 3 is attached to the electronic device body 2, the first protrusion 81A is in contact with the electronic device body 2.

[0119] With this configuration, the electronic device 1 can be stably grounded while ensuring safety. The electronic device 1 can prevent injury even if a user's fingers touch the first protrusion 81A when the communication device 3 is detached from the electronic device body 2, thus ensuring safety. In the electronic device 1, when the communication device 3 is attached to the electronic device body 2, the ground conductor 5 and the electronic device body 2 can be stably grounded.

[0120] In this embodiment, the electronic device 1 is described as a laptop PC, but the electronic device 1 does not have to be a laptop PC. For example, the electronic device 1 may be a game console.

[0121] Although it has been explained that electronic device 1 comprises an electronic device body 2 and a communication device 3, it is not limited to this. For example, electronic device 1 may also comprise an electronic device body 2 and peripheral devices for electronic device 1. Peripheral devices may include external storage devices such as hard disks, output devices such as printers, and input devices such as mice and scanners.

[0122] Although it has been explained that the electronic device body 2 is provided with mounting holes 140, it is not necessary for the mounting holes 140 to be provided. For example, the electronic device body 2 may be provided with recesses. The recesses of the electronic device body 2 and the communication device 3 may be connectable. The recesses of the electronic device body 2 and the communication device 3 may be connectable by fitting together.

[0123] Although it was explained that the communication device 3 includes a circuit board 7 and a cable 8, it does not necessarily have to include a circuit board 7 and a cable 8.

[0124] Although it was explained that the communication device 3 includes a shielding component 9 connected to the main body of the ground conductor 5, the communication device 3 does not necessarily have to include a shielding component 9 connected to the main body of the ground conductor 5. Although it was explained that the ground conductor 5 contacts the housing 4 via the shielding component 9, the ground conductor 5 may also contact the housing 4 directly.

[0125] Although it has been explained that the first part 11 is made of metal, it is not limited to this. For example, the first part 11 may be made of resin.

[0126] Although it has been explained that the second part 12 is made of resin, it is not limited to this. For example, the second part 12 may be made of metal.

[0127] Although an example in which the first part 11 is formed separately from the second part 12 has been illustrated and explained, the first part 11 and the second part 12 may be formed as a single unit.

[0128] Although it has been explained that the first part 11 comprises a first wall 21, a second wall 22, a first side wall 31, and a second side wall 32, it is not limited to this. For example, the housing 4 does not have to have a second side wall 32. The housing 4 may have a third side wall that extends in the direction from the first wall 21 toward the second wall 22 and faces the first side wall 31. The third side wall may have a notch 45.

[0129] Although it has been explained that the second wall 22 has a recess 25, the second wall 22 does not necessarily have to have a recess 25.

[0130] Although it has been explained that the multiple through holes 41 are arranged with intervals between them in the Y-axis direction, this is not limited to this arrangement. For example, the multiple through holes 41 may be arranged with intervals between them in the X-axis direction.

[0131] Although it has been explained that the housing 4 has multiple through holes 41, it is not limited to this. For example, the housing 4 does not have to have multiple through holes 41. The housing 4 may have only one through hole 41.

[0132] Although it has been explained that the multiple through holes 41 consist of two through holes 41, this is not limited to that. For example, the multiple through holes 41 may consist of three or more through holes 41. The three or more through holes 41 may be spaced apart from each other.

[0133] Although it has been explained that the multiple through holes 41 are provided in the second wall 22, this is not the only option. For example, the multiple through holes 41 may be provided in the first wall 21, the second wall 22, and the first side wall 31.

[0134] Although the example described shows the housing 4 having one notch 45, it is not limited to this. For example, the housing 4 may have multiple notches 45. For example, the multiple notches 45 may be provided in the first side wall 31.

[0135] Although it was explained that antenna 6 is a high-frequency antenna, antenna 6 does not necessarily have to be a high-frequency antenna.

[0136] Although it has been explained that the radio waves transmitted and received by antenna 6 are electromagnetic waves between 300 MHz and 30 GHz, this is not limited to this. For example, the radio waves transmitted and received by antenna 6 may be electromagnetic waves below 300 MHz. The radio waves transmitted and received by antenna 6 may also be electromagnetic waves above 30 GHz.

[0137] Although it has been explained that the ground conductor 5 comprises a main body 60, a first extension 71A, a second extension 72A, and a third extension 73A, and a first protrusion 81A, a second protrusion 82A, and a third protrusion 83A, it is not limited to this. For example, the ground conductor 5 does not have to include the second extension 72A and the third extension 73A, and the second protrusion 82A and the third protrusion 83A.

[0138] Although it has been explained that the main body 60 includes a contact portion 62, a first support portion 64, a second support portion 65, a first connecting portion 66, and a second connecting portion 67, it is not limited to these. For example, the main body 60 does not need to include the second support portion 65 and the second connecting portion 67.

[0139] Although it has been explained that the contact portion 62 has a short direction in the X-axis direction, a long direction in the Y-axis direction, and a thickness direction in the Z-axis direction, it is not limited to this. For example, the contact portion 62 may have a long direction in the X-axis direction, a short direction in the X-axis direction, and a thickness direction in the Z-axis direction.

[0140] Although it has been explained that the contact portion 62 contacts the first wall 21 via the shield component 9, this is not the only way. For example, the contact portion 62 may contact the first wall 21 via the shield component 9.

[0141] Although it has been explained that the first extension 71A, the second extension 72A, and the third extension 73A extend in the direction from the first part 11 toward the second part 12, this is not limited to this. For example, the first extension 71A, the second extension 72A, and the third extension 73A may extend in the direction from the second part 12 toward the first part 11. The first extension 71A may extend in the direction from the second part 12 toward the first part 11, and the second extension 72A and the third extension 73A may extend in the direction from the first part 11 toward the second part 12.

[0142] Although it was explained that the first extension 71A is bent from the first connection 66, the first extension 71A does not necessarily have to be bent from the first connection 66.

[0143] Although it has been explained that the second extension 72A is bent at an angle away from the first connection portion 66 and the first side wall 31, the second extension 72A does not necessarily have to be bent at an angle away from the first connection portion 66 and the first side wall 31.

[0144] Although it was explained that the third extension 73A is bent from the second connection 67, the third extension 73A does not necessarily have to be bent from the second connection 67.

[0145] Although it has been explained that the first extension 71A has a free end 75, the first extension 71A does not necessarily have to have a free end 75. For example, the first projection 81A of the first extension 71A may be connected to the second wall 22 by a spring that makes the first projection 81A movable in the Z-axis direction.

[0146] Although it has been explained that the first projection 81A is provided at a position away from the free end 75 of the first extension 71A in the second direction X2 opposite to the first direction X1, this is not limited to this. For example, the first projection 81A may be provided from the free end 75 of the first extension 71A.

[0147] Although it was explained that the surface 91 exposed from the through-hole 41 of the housing 4 when viewed in the third direction Y1 is a curved surface, the surface 91 does not have to be curved. For example, the surface 91 may be a flat surface.

[0148] Although it has been explained that the second extension 72A and the third extension 73A have the same configuration as the first extension 71A, the second extension 72A and the third extension 73A do not necessarily have the same configuration as the first extension 71A. For example, the first extension 71A and the second extension 72A may have free ends 75, while the third extension 73A may not have a free end 75.

[0149] Although it has been explained that the first protrusion 81A and the third protrusion 83A are spaced apart from each other in the Y-axis direction, this is not limited to this arrangement. For example, the first protrusion 81A and the third protrusion 83A may be spaced apart from each other in the X-axis direction.

[0150] Although it has been explained that the second protrusion 82A and the third protrusion 83A have the same configuration as the first protrusion 81A, the second protrusion 82A and the third protrusion 83A do not necessarily have the same configuration as the first protrusion 81A. For example, when viewed in the direction toward the third direction Y1, the first protrusion 81A may have an arc shape, the third protrusion 83A may have a trapezoidal shape, and when viewed in the direction toward the fifth direction Z1, the second protrusion 82A may have a triangular shape.

[0151] Although it has been explained that the curved portions 85A at both ends of the first projection 81A have an elliptical shape when viewed from the thickness direction of the first extension 71A, this is not limited to this. For example, when viewed from the thickness direction of the first extension 71A, the curved portions 85A at both ends of the first projection 81A may have a trapezoidal or triangular shape.

[0152] Although it has been explained that the first projection 81A has an arc shape when viewed in the direction toward the third direction Y1, it is not limited to this. For example, when viewed in the direction toward the third direction Y1, the first projection 81A may have a trapezoidal or triangular shape.

[0153] In the first extension 71A, the length L1 of the first projection 81A in the first direction X1 is greater than the length L2 from the free end 75 to the first projection 81A in the first direction X1, but this is not limited to this. Length L1 may be smaller than length L2.

[0154] Although it was explained that the length L1 of the first projection 81A in the first direction X1 is greater than the length H1 of the first projection 81A in the sixth direction Z2, this is not limited to this. For example, length L1 may be smaller than length H1.

[0155] In the first extension 71A, the length L1 of the first projection 81A in the first direction X1 is approximately the same as the length L10 of the first projection 81A in the third direction Y1 perpendicular to the first direction X1, but this is not limited to this. For example, length L1 may be greater than or less than length L10.

[0156] Although it was explained that the length L10 of the first projection 81A in the third direction Y1 is greater than the length H1 of the first projection in the sixth direction Z2, this is not limited to this. For example, the length L10 may be smaller than the length H1.

[0157] It has been explained that, in the Y-axis direction, the first defining wall 35 that defines the through hole 41 and the second defining wall 36 that faces the first defining wall 35 extend in the Y-axis direction along the curved portion of the first projection 81A, but this is not limited to this. For example, the first defining wall 35 and the second defining wall 36 do not have to extend in the Y-axis direction.

[0158] It has been explained that, when viewed from the Y-axis direction, the length between the defining walls that define the notch 45 decreases as you move away from the opening of the notch 45, but this is not limited to this. For example, the length between the defining walls that define the notch 45 may increase as you move away from the opening of the notch 45.

[0159] Although it was explained that the defining wall 38 defining the notch 45 is along the second projection 82A, the defining wall 38 does not have to be along the second projection 82A. For example, the notch 45 may have an arch shape when viewed from the Y-axis direction.

[0160] Although it has been explained that the portion of the second wall 22 that closes the opening of the notch 45 in the first side wall 31 follows the curved portion 85A of the second protrusion 82A, this is not limited to this. For example, the portion of the second wall 22 that closes the opening of the notch 45 in the first side wall 31 and the defining wall 38 that defines the notch 45 may be parallel.

[0161] <Modification Example 1> Figure 10 is a plan view of the first extension 71B of the ground conductor 5 of the communication device 3 in Modification Example 1. Figure 11 is a side view of the first extension 71B of the ground conductor 5 of the communication device 3 in Modification Example 1.

[0162] The structure of the first protrusion 81B in the modified example 1 differs from the structure of the first protrusion 81A in the embodiment 1.

[0163] As shown in Figure 10, when viewed from the thickness direction of the first extension 71B, the curved portions 85B at both ends of the first protrusion 81B have a trapezoidal shape. Because the curved portions 85B at both ends of the first protrusion 81B have a trapezoidal shape when viewed from the thickness direction of the first extension 71B, the communication device 3 can be stably grounded to the electronic device body 2 while ensuring safety.

[0164] As shown in Figure 11, the first projection 81B has a trapezoidal shape when viewed in the third direction Y1. The trapezoidal shape of the first projection 81B when viewed in the third direction Y1 allows for a relatively large contact area between the ground conductor 5 and the electronic device body 2. As a result, the ground conductor 5 and the electronic device body 2 can be stably grounded when the communication device 3 is attached to the electronic device body 2.

[0165] <Modification 2> Figure 12 is a plan view of the first extension 71C of the ground conductor 5 of the communication device 3 in Modification 2. Figure 13 is a side view of the first extension 71C of the ground conductor 5 of the communication device 3 in Modification 2.

[0166] The structure of the first protrusion 81C in the modified example 2 differs from the structure of the first protrusion 81A in the embodiment 1.

[0167] As shown in Figure 12, when viewed from the thickness direction of the first extension 71C, the curved portions 85C at both ends of the first protrusion 81C have a triangular shape. Because the curved portions 85C at both ends of the first protrusion 81C have a triangular shape when viewed from the thickness direction of the first extension 71C, they are easy to bend. Therefore, the ground conductor 5 can be manufactured efficiently.

[0168] As shown in Figure 13, the first projection 81C has a triangular shape when viewed in the third direction Y1. The triangular shape of the first projection 81C when viewed in the third direction Y1 allows the electronic device body 2 and the first projection 81C to come into contact even within the relatively narrow space of the electronic device 1. This enables a stable ground connection between the ground conductor 5 and the electronic device body 2 when the communication device 3 is attached to the electronic device body 2.

[0169] <Modification 3> The electronic device of Modification 3 differs from the electronic device 1 of Embodiment 1 in that it includes peripheral devices that have extended functions other than communication.

[0170] The electronic device in Modification 3 comprises an electronic device body 2 and peripheral devices that can be detachably attached to the electronic device body 2. For example, the peripheral devices may be external storage devices such as hard disks, output devices such as printers, or input devices such as mice or scanners. The peripheral devices may also be function expansion devices for expanding the memory system functions of the electronic device.

[0171] The peripheral equipment of the modified example 3 has the same configuration as the communication device 3 of the embodiment 1, except that it does not have an antenna 6.

[0172] The peripheral device in Modification 3 can be stably grounded to the electronic device body 2 while ensuring greater safety, similar to the effects described in Embodiment 1.

[0173] In this specification, terms such as “First,” “Second,” etc., are used for illustrative purposes only and should not be understood as expressing or implying relative importance or ranking of technical features. Features designated as “First” and “Second” express or imply that they include one or more such features.

[0174] While this disclosure is adequately described in relation to preferred embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings, various modifications and alterations will be obvious to those skilled in the art. Such modifications and alterations should be understood to be included within the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

[0175] (Summary of Embodiments) (1) The communication device of the present disclosure is a communication device that is detachably attached to an electronic device body. The communication device comprises a housing having at least one through hole or at least one notch, an antenna disposed within the housing, and a ground conductor disposed within the housing, with a portion protruding from at least one through hole or at least one notch. The ground conductor comprises a body, at least one plate-shaped extension that bends and extends from the body and is elastically deformable, and at least one protrusion provided on the at least one extension and protruding from at least one through hole or at least one notch of the housing. The at least one protrusion is curved convexly in the first direction in which the at least one extension extends, in the direction in which it protrudes from at least one through hole or at least one notch. Viewed from the thickness direction of the at least one extension, both ends of the at least one protrusion in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction are curved in a fourth direction opposite to the third direction in which the at least one protrusion protrudes.

[0176] (2) In the communication device of (1), when viewed in the thickness direction of at least one extension, the curved portions at both ends of at least one protrusion may have a semi-elliptical shape.

[0177] (3) In the communication device of (1), when viewed in the thickness direction of at least one extension, the curved portions at both ends of at least one protrusion may have a trapezoidal shape.

[0178] (4) In the communication device of (1), when viewed from the thickness direction of at least one extension, the curved portions at both ends of at least one protrusion may have a triangular shape.

[0179] (5) In any one of the communication devices of (1) or (2), at least one projection may have an arc shape when viewed in the direction toward the second direction.

[0180] (6) In any one of the communication devices described in (1) or (3), at least one projection may have a trapezoidal shape when viewed in the direction toward the second direction.

[0181] (7) In any one of the communication devices described in (1) or (4), at least one projection may have a triangular shape when viewed in the direction toward the second direction.

[0182] (8) In any one of the communication devices described in (1) to (7), the length of at least one protrusion in the first direction may be greater than the length of at least one protrusion in the third direction.

[0183] (9) In any one of the communication devices described in (1) to (8), the length of at least one protrusion in the second direction may be greater than the length of at least one protrusion in the third direction.

[0184] (10) In any one of the communication devices described in (1) to (9), at least one extension may have a free end.

[0185] (11) In the communication device of (1), at least one projection may be provided at a position away from the free end of at least one extension in the direction opposite to the first direction.

[0186] In any one of the communication devices of (12), (10), or (11), the length of at least one projection in the first direction in at least one extension may be greater than the length from the free end in the first direction to at least one projection.

[0187] (13) In any one of the communication devices described in (10) to (12), at least a portion of the extension from the free end to at least one protruding portion may be in contact with the housing.

[0188] (14) In any one of the communication devices of (1) to (13), the housing may have a first wall, a second wall facing the first wall, and a first side wall extending in the direction from the first wall toward the second wall. At least one through hole and at least one notch may be provided. At least one through hole may be provided in the first wall or the second wall. At least one notch may be provided in the first side wall. At least one extension may include a first extension and a second extension. At least one projection may include a first projection provided in the first extension and a second projection provided in the second extension. The first projection may protrude from at least one through hole in the first wall or the second wall. The second projection may protrude from at least one notch in the first side wall.

[0189] (15) Any one of the communication devices described in (1) to (14) may further include a shielding component connected to the body of the ground conductor. The shielding component may be in contact with the housing.

[0190] (16) The electronic device of the present disclosure comprises an electronic device body and one of the communication devices (1) to (15) that can be attached to the electronic device body. When the communication device is attached to the electronic device body, the protruding portion of the ground conductor of the communication device may be in contact with the electronic device body.

[0191] (17) The peripheral devices of the present disclosure are peripheral devices that are detachably attached to the main body of an electronic device. The peripheral device comprises a housing having at least one through hole or at least one notch, and a ground conductor disposed within the housing and having a portion protruding from at least one through hole or at least one notch. The ground conductor has a body, at least one plate-shaped extension that bends and extends from the body and is elastically deformable, and at least one projection provided on at least one extension and protruding from at least one through hole or at least one notch of the housing. The at least one projection is curved convexly in the first direction in which the at least one extension extends, in the direction in which it protrudes from at least one through hole or at least one notch. When viewed from the thickness direction of the at least one extension, both ends of the at least one projection in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction are curved in a fourth direction opposite to the third direction in which the at least one projection protrudes.

[0192] The communication equipment, electronic equipment, and peripheral equipment related to this disclosure can be stably grounded while ensuring safety, and are therefore suitable for use in this type of industrial field.

[0193] 1 Electronic device 2 Electronic device body 3 Communication device 4 Housing 5 Ground conductor 6 Antenna 7 Circuit board 8 Cable 9 Shielding component 11, 12 Parts 21, 22 Walls 31, 32 Side walls 35, 36 Definition wall 38 Definition wall 41 Through hole 45 Notch 60 Main body 62 Contact part 64, 65 Support part 66, 67 Connection part 71A, 71B, 71C, 72A, 73A Extension part 81A, 81B, 81C, 82A, 83A Protruding part 85A, 85B, 85C Part 91 Surface 110, 120 Housing 110a, 120a Main surface 111 Keyboard 112 Touchpad 121 Display 122 Camera 130 Hinge 140 Mounting holes X1, X2, Y1, Y2, Z1, Z2 Direction θ1, θ2, θ3 Angle

Claims

1. A communication device that can be detachably attached to an electronic device body, comprising: a housing having at least one through hole or at least one notch; an antenna disposed within the housing; and a ground conductor disposed within the housing, with a portion protruding from the at least one through hole or at least one notch, wherein the ground conductor comprises: a main body; at least one plate-shaped extension extending from the main body by bending and being elastically deformable; and at least one protruding portion provided on the at least one extension and protruding from the at least one through hole or at least one notch of the housing, wherein the at least one protruding portion is curved convexly in the direction in which the at least one extension extends and protrudes from the at least one through hole or at least one notch, and both ends of the at least one protruding portion in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, as viewed from the thickness direction of the at least one extension, are curved in a fourth direction opposite to the third direction from which the at least one protruding portion protrudes.

2. The communication device according to claim 1, wherein, when viewed from the thickness direction of the at least one extension, the curved portions at both ends of the at least one protrusion have a semi-elliptical shape.

3. The communication device according to claim 1, wherein, when viewed from the thickness direction of the at least one extension, the curved portions at both ends of the at least one protrusion have a trapezoidal shape.

4. The communication device according to claim 1, wherein, when viewed from the thickness direction of the at least one extension, the curved portions at both ends of the at least one protrusion have a triangular shape.

5. The communication device according to claim 1, wherein, when viewed in the direction toward the second direction, at least one of the protrusions has an arc shape.

6. The communication device according to claim 1, wherein, when viewed in the direction toward the second direction, at least one of the protrusions has a trapezoidal shape.

7. The communication device according to claim 1, wherein, when viewed in the direction toward the second direction, at least one of the protrusions has a triangular shape.

8. The communication device according to claim 1, wherein the length of the at least one projection in the first direction is greater than the length of the at least one projection in the third direction.

9. The communication device according to claim 1, wherein the length of the at least one projection in the second direction is greater than the length of the at least one projection in the third direction.

10. The communication device according to claim 1, wherein at least one extension has a free end.

11. The communication device according to claim 10, wherein the at least one projection is provided at a position away from the free end of the at least one extension in a direction opposite to the first direction.

12. The communication device according to claim 10, wherein in the at least one extension, the length of the at least one projection in the first direction is greater than the length from the free end to the at least one projection in the first direction.

13. The communication device according to claim 10, wherein at least a portion of the portion of the at least one extension from the free end to the at least one protruding portion is in contact with the housing.

14. The communication device according to claim 1, wherein the housing comprises: a first wall; a second wall facing the first wall; and a first side wall extending in a direction toward the second wall, and is provided with at least one through hole and at least one notch, the at least one through hole being provided in the first wall or the second wall, the at least one notch being provided in the first side wall, the at least one extension comprising a first extension and a second extension, the at least one protrusion comprising a first protrusion provided in the first extension and a second protrusion provided in the second extension, the first protrusion protruding from the at least one through hole in the first wall or the second wall, and the second protrusion protruding from the at least one notch in the first side wall.

15. The communication device according to claim 1, further comprising a shielding component connected to the main body of the ground conductor, wherein the shielding component is in contact with the housing.

16. An electronic device comprising: an electronic device body; and a communication device according to any one of claims 1 to 15 that can be attached to the electronic device body, wherein, when the communication device is attached to the electronic device body, the at least one protruding portion is in contact with the electronic device body.

17. A peripheral device that can be detachably attached to an electronic device body, comprising: a housing having at least one through hole or at least one notch; and a ground conductor disposed within the housing and having a portion protruding from the at least one through hole or at least one notch, wherein the ground conductor has a body; at least one plate-shaped extension extending from the body by bending and being elastically deformable; and at least one protruding portion provided on the at least one extension and protruding from the at least one through hole or at least one notch of the housing, wherein the at least one protruding portion is curved convexly in the first direction in which the at least one extension extends, in the direction in which it protrudes from the at least one through hole or at least one notch, and both ends of the at least one protruding portion in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, as viewed from the thickness direction of the at least one extension, are curved in a fourth direction opposite to the third direction in which the at least one protruding portion protrudes.

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