Metal Frame Antenna Segmentation for Radiation and Space Limits

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Solution Overview

Problem

The radiation performance of antennas in electronic devices is deteriorated due to metal frames, and the limited internal space becomes further constrained with the need to accommodate multiple antennas for diverse frequency bands.

Innovation Solution

Align non-conductive members on the exterior of housing portions with conductive members to form an antenna radiator, utilizing the metal frame as part of the antenna structure.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If a metal frame is used for the housing exterior, then the structural strength and aesthetic appearance are improved, but the antenna radiation performance is deteriorated due to signal distortion and blocking

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural strengthVSAvoidantenna radiation performance
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The metal frame is segmented into multiple portions (first metal portion, second metal portion, etc.) with non-conductive portions inserted between them. This segmentation breaks the continuous conductive path of the metal frame, creating gaps that allow electromagnetic waves to pass through while maintaining the overall structural integrity and aesthetic appearance of the housing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple antennas are arranged inside the housing to support diverse frequency bands, then the communication versatility is improved, but the internal space is further limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefrequency band supportVSAvoidinternal space
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSVolume of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The metal frame portions serve dual functions: they provide structural support for the housing and simultaneously function as antenna radiators. By electrically connecting specific metal portions to the communication circuit, the housing structure itself becomes part of the antenna system, enabling support for multiple frequency bands without requiring separate antenna elements that would consume additional internal space.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Volume of moving object

If the electronic device is miniaturized to reduce its size, then the portability is improved, but the internal space for antenna arrangement is further limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice sizeVSAvoidantenna space
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSVolume of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The housing structure and antenna system are merged into a single integrated design. The metal frame portions that form the exterior housing are electrically connected to the communication circuit to function as antenna radiators. This integration eliminates the need for separate antenna components, allowing the device to be miniaturized while maintaining adequate antenna functionality within the reduced form factor.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Improves antenna radiation performance and optimizes space utilization by leveraging the metal frame as an integral part of the antenna system.

Implementation Method 1

The first metal portion is electrically connected with the communication circuit and configured to operate as an antenna radiator

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic radiation: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS20250301059A1Electronic device with metal frame antenna
Publication Date: 2025.09.25 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD
  • US20250301059A1 patent drawing
  • US20250301059A1 patent drawing
  • US20250301059A1 patent drawing

AI summary

An electronic device is provided, which includes a communication circuit; and a housing accommodating the communication circuit and including a first housing portion and a second housing portion. The first housing portion includes, as part of a first external side thereof, a first metal portion and a first non-conductive portion disposed adjacent to an end of the first metal portion. The second housing portion includes, as part of a second external side thereof, a second metal portion and a second non-conductive portion disposed adjacent to an end of the second metal portion. The first metal portion is electrically connected with the communication circuit and configured to operate as an antenna radiator. The first non-metal portion and the second non-metal portion align with each other when the first housing portion and the second housing portion overlap with each other.