KR102737266B1 - A wearable electronic device comprising an antenna - Google Patents

Abstract

A wearable electronic device is disclosed. According to one embodiment, a wearable electronic device includes a display, a metal frame surrounding the display and forming at least a portion of a side surface of the wearable electronic device, a battery, a conductive support member disposed under the display and supporting the battery, a PCB, a conductive fastening member coupling the conductive support member and the PCB, a wireless communication circuit, and a switch circuit electrically connected to the wireless communication circuit, wherein the PCB includes a first ground electrically connected to the metal frame, a second ground spaced from the first ground, and a non-conductive region surrounding the second ground, the conductive fastening member being in electrical contact with the second ground of the PCB, the switch circuit being electrically connected to the first ground and the second ground, and the wireless communication circuit can control the switch circuit to change a connection state. Other embodiments are possible.

Description

{A WEARABLE ELECTRONIC DEVICE COMPRISING AN ANTENNA}

Various embodiments relate to wearable electronic devices including antennas.

Electronic devices include antennas that support various frequency bands in order to perform various functions. Electronic devices may include multiple antennas for performing wireless communications such as LTE and Wi-Fi and short-range communications such as Bluetooth, for example.

KR 1909604 B1 KR 20190067872 A

Electronic devices are becoming increasingly smaller. In particular, wearable electronic devices have limitations in the size of the terminal due to their nature of being worn on the user's body, and the space for mounting various components inside the terminal may be further restricted.

Meanwhile, the frequency band of the wireless signal transmitted and received by the electronic device may depend on the physical characteristics of the antenna radiator. When the metal frame of the wearable electronic device is used as the antenna radiator, it may be difficult for the wearable electronic device with limited size to implement an antenna structure that operates in various frequency bands.

The present disclosure provides a wearable electronic device for receiving RF signals of various frequency bands, while saving the mounting space of components related to the antenna.

According to one embodiment, a wearable electronic device includes a display, a metal frame surrounding the display and forming at least a portion of a side surface of the wearable electronic device, a battery, a conductive support member disposed under the display and supporting the battery, a printed circuit board (PCB) disposed under the conductive support member and the battery, a conductive fastening member coupling the conductive support member and the PCB, a wireless communication circuit disposed on the PCB, and a switch circuit disposed on the PCB and electrically connected to the wireless communication circuit, wherein the PCB includes a first ground electrically connected to the metal frame, an opening, a second ground surrounding the opening and spaced apart from the first ground, and a non-conductive region surrounding the second ground, wherein the conductive fastening member is coupled to the conductive support member through the opening and is in electrical contact with the second ground of the PCB, and the switch circuit is electrically connected to the first ground of the PCB and electrically connected to the second ground through a designated path, and the wireless communication The circuit may be configured to energize the metal frame to receive an RF signal corresponding to a first center frequency, control the switch circuit to change a connection state, and receive an RF signal corresponding to a second center frequency lower than the first center frequency in response to the change in the connection state.

According to one embodiment, a wearable electronic device includes a display, a metal frame surrounding the display and forming at least a portion of a side surface of the wearable electronic device, a rear case coupled with the metal frame, a battery, a conductive support member disposed under the display and supporting the battery, a printed circuit board (PCB) disposed under the conductive support member and the battery, a conductive fastening member coupling the conductive support member and the PCB, a wireless communication circuit disposed on the PCB, an antenna pattern disposed on an inner surface of the rear case and electrically connected to the wireless communication circuit, a shielding layer formed on the inner surface of the case and spaced apart from the antenna pattern, at least one electronic component disposed under the shielding layer, and a switch circuit disposed on the PCB and electrically connected to the wireless communication circuit, wherein the PCB includes a first ground electrically connected to the metal frame, an opening, a second ground surrounding the opening and spaced apart from the first ground, and a non-conductive region surrounding the second ground, and the conductive fastening member, through the opening, The conductive support member is coupled to the metal frame, and is in electrical contact with the second ground of the PCB, and the switch circuit is electrically connected to the first ground of the PCB and electrically connected to the second ground through a designated path, and the wireless communication circuit can be set to supply power to the metal frame to receive an RF signal corresponding to a first center frequency, control the switch circuit to change a connection state, and in response to the change of the connection state, receive an RF signal corresponding to a second center frequency lower than the first center frequency, and supply power to the antenna pattern to receive an RF signal corresponding to a third center frequency higher than the first center frequency.

Wearable electronic devices according to various embodiments of the present disclosure may be capable of implementing low-band and high-band operating frequencies of an antenna, and may be capable of tuning the operating frequency without disposing an additional antenna.

Figure 1 is an exploded perspective view of an electronic device according to one embodiment.
FIG. 2 is a drawing showing an electronic device according to one embodiment.
FIG. 3 is a drawing showing a part of an electronic device according to one embodiment.
FIG. 4 is a drawing of a printed circuit board according to one embodiment of the present invention viewed from various directions.
FIG. 5 is a drawing of a printed circuit board of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention, viewed from various directions.
FIG. 6 illustrates a schematic circuit diagram of a switch circuit according to one embodiment.
FIG. 7 is a graph showing radiation efficiency according to capacitance of a switch circuit according to one embodiment.
FIG. 8 is a graph showing radiation efficiency according to inductance of a switch circuit according to one embodiment.
FIG. 9 is an exploded view of a rear case of an electronic device according to one embodiment.
FIG. 10 is a drawing showing an electronic device according to one embodiment.
FIG. 11 is an exploded view of a portion of an electronic device according to one embodiment.
FIG. 12 is a graph showing the radiation efficiency of an electronic device including an antenna pattern according to one embodiment.

Figure 1 is an exploded perspective view of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 1, the electronic device (101) may include a housing (110) and a fastening member (150, 160) connected to the housing (110) and configured to detachably fasten the electronic device (101) to a part of the user's body (e.g., wrist, ankle, etc.).

According to one embodiment, the housing (110) may include a wheel key (111), a metal frame (112), a display (120), a bracket (140), a battery (150), a conductive support member (130), a printed circuit board (160), a rear case (114), and a sealing member (103).

According to one embodiment, the wheel key (111) is arranged on the front of the housing (110) and may be rotatable in at least one direction. The wheel key (111) may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the display (120). The wheel key (111) may be a key input device that receives a user input through a rotational motion. In another embodiment, the wheel key (111) may be implemented in another shape, such as a soft key, or may be omitted. According to one embodiment, a metal frame (112) may be arranged under the wheel key (111) and coupled with the wheel key (111). The metal frame (112) may form at least a part of a side surface of the housing (110). The metal frame (112) may be formed of a conductive material. For example, the metal frame (112) may be formed of a metal material, such as aluminum. According to one embodiment, an antenna structure for transmitting and receiving RF (radio frequency) signals may be formed by at least a portion of the metal frame (112).

According to one embodiment, the display (120) may be placed under the metal frame (112). The display (120) is positioned in the space formed by the metal frame (112) and may be visible from the outside through an opening formed in the metal frame (112). According to one embodiment, the shape of the display (120) may be a shape corresponding to the shape of the opening formed in the metal frame (112). The shape of the display (120) may be various shapes such as circular, oval, or polygonal.

According to one embodiment, the display (120) may be electrically connected to a printed circuit board (160) via a flexible circuit board (123). For example, one end of the flexible circuit board (123) may be electrically connected to the display (120), and the other end of the flexible circuit board (123) may be electrically connected to the printed circuit board (160).

According to one embodiment, the display (120) may include a window (or transparent plate) (122). The window (122) may be formed of glass, plastic, or polymer. Light output from the display (120) may pass through the window (122) and be emitted to the outside.

According to one embodiment, the display (120) may be coupled with or disposed adjacent to a touch sensing circuit (not shown), a pressure sensor capable of measuring the intensity (pressure) of a touch, and/or a fingerprint sensor. Data or signals obtained from the touch sensing circuit, the pressure sensor, and the fingerprint sensor may be provided to a processor disposed on a printed circuit board (160) through a flexible circuit board (123).

According to one embodiment, the bracket (140) may be placed inside the electronic device (101) and connected to the metal frame (112) or may be formed integrally with the metal frame (112). The metal frame (112) may be formed of, for example, a metal material and/or a non-metallic (e.g., polymer) material. The metal frame (112) may have a display (120) coupled to one surface and a printed circuit board (160) coupled to the other surface. The bracket (140) may accommodate a battery (150) therein. The internal space of the bracket (140) may have a larger volume than the battery (150) in consideration of swelling of the battery (150). According to one embodiment, an antenna structure may be formed by a part of the bracket (140) and/or the metal frame (112) or a combination thereof.

According to one embodiment, the battery (150) can supply power to at least one component of the electronic device (101). The battery (150) can include, for example, a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable secondary battery, or a fuel cell. The battery (150) can be placed in the space formed by the bracket (140). According to one embodiment, the battery (150) can be placed integrally inside the electronic device (101), and can also be placed so as to be detachably attached to the electronic device (101).

According to one embodiment, the conductive support member (130) may be disposed between the display (120) and the bracket (140). The conductive support member (130) may be disposed on one surface of the bracket (140) to support the battery (150) so that it does not fall out of the bracket (140). The conductive support member (130) may be formed of a metal material such as stainless steel, for example. According to one embodiment, the conductive support member (130) may be a conductive plate in the shape of a sheet or thin film.

According to one embodiment, a printed circuit board (160) may be positioned between the bracket (140) and the rear case (114). The printed circuit board (160) may be equipped with a processor, memory, and/or an interface.

According to one embodiment, the processor may include, for example, one or more of a central processing unit, an application processor, a graphic processing unit (GPU), an application processor sensor processor, or a communication processor. The communication processor may include wireless communication circuitry.

According to one embodiment, the memory may include, for example, volatile memory or non-volatile memory. The memory may store various data (e.g., applications and data related to the applications) or instructions used by other components (e.g., processors) of the electronic device (101).

According to one embodiment, the rear case (114) may be combined with the metal frame (112) to form the rear of the electronic device (101). The rear case (114) may be formed of a substantially opaque material. The rear case (114) may be formed of, for example, coated or colored glass, ceramic, polymer, metal (e.g., aluminum, stainless steel (STS), or magnesium), or a combination of at least two of the above materials.

According to one embodiment, the sealing member (103) may be positioned between the metal frame (112) and the rear case (114). The sealing member (103) may be configured to block moisture and foreign substances from entering the space surrounded by the metal frame (112) and the rear case (114) from the outside.

According to one embodiment, the fastening member (150, 160) can be detachably fastened to at least a portion of the housing (110). The fastening member (150, 160) can include one or more of a fixing member (165), a fixing member fastening hole (152), a band guide member (161), and a band fastening ring (163).

The fixing member (165) can be configured to fix the housing (110) and the fastening members (150, 160) to a part of the user's body (e.g., wrist, ankle, etc.). The fastening member fastening hole (152) can fix the housing (110) and the fastening members (150, 160) to a part of the user's body in response to the fastening member (165). The band guide member (161) is configured to limit the range of movement of the fastening member (165) when the fastening member (165) is fastened to the fastening member fastening hole (152), thereby allowing the fastening members (150, 160) to be fastened in close contact with a part of the user's body. The band fixing ring (163) can limit the range of movement of the fastening members (150, 160) when the fastening member (165) and the fastening member fastening hole (152) are fastened.

According to one embodiment, the bonding member (150, 160) can be formed of various materials and shapes. The integral and multiple unit links can be formed to be mutually fluid by a combination of at least two of the above materials, such as woven fabric, leather, rubber, urethane, metal, ceramic, or a combination of the above materials.

An electronic device (101) according to one embodiment may include an audio module, a sensor module, a haptic module, and at least one antenna, which are not shown.

In one embodiment, the at least one antenna may include, for example, a near field communication (NFC) antenna, a wireless charging antenna, and/or a magnetic secure transmission (MST) antenna. The at least one antenna may be capable of, for example, performing short-range communication with an external device, wirelessly transmitting and receiving power required for charging, and transmitting a magnetic-based signal including a short-range communication signal or payment data. In one embodiment, the antenna structure may be formed by a portion of the metal frame (112) and/or the rear case (114), or a combination thereof.

FIG. 2 is a drawing showing an electronic device according to one embodiment.

Descriptions of components of Fig. 2 that are similar or identical to the components of Fig. 1 will be omitted.

Referring to FIG. 2, the electronic device (201) may include a printed circuit board (160), a conductive support member (130), a conductive fastening member (134), and a switch circuit (170).

In one embodiment, the printed circuit board (160) may include wireless communication circuitry (102), a power supply (162), and a first ground (164).

In one embodiment, the wireless communication circuit (102) may be disposed on a printed circuit board (160). The wireless communication circuit (102) may be electrically connected to at least one of the other components disposed on the printed circuit board (160).

In one embodiment, the power supply unit (162) may be electrically connected to the wireless communication circuit (102) disposed on the printed circuit board (160) and the metal frame (112). For example, the power supply unit (162) may be electrically connected to the metal frame (112) in a manner of contacting a point (e.g., a first point) of the metal frame (112). Various connecting members may be used so that the power supply unit (162) may contact the point of the metal frame (112). The connecting member may extend from the power supply unit (162) to bypass or penetrate other components mounted in the electronic device (201) to the first point of the metal frame (112). The connecting member may include, but is not limited to, an FPCB, a C-clip, a conductive connector, or a metal wire, for example.

In one embodiment, the first ground (164) may be formed in an area of the printed circuit board (160). The first ground (164) may be formed, for example, as one of a plurality of layers included in the printed circuit board (160), or may be formed in a designated area of the one layer. The first ground (164) may be electrically connected to the metal frame (112) through a point (e.g., a second point) other than the power supply unit (162) on the inner surface of the metal frame (112). Various connecting members may be used so that the first ground (164) may be in contact with the second point of the metal frame (112). For example, the various connecting members may include, but are not limited to, an FPCB, a C-clip, a conductive connector, or a metal wire.

In one embodiment, an electrical path may be formed by a power supply unit (162), a metal frame (112), and a first ground (164). The wireless communication circuit (102) may be configured to transmit or receive an RF (radio frequency) signal by supplying power to the metal frame (112) through the power supply unit (162). A frequency band of an RF signal transmitted or received by the wireless communication circuit (102) may vary depending on the length of the electrical path. The wireless communication circuit (102) may transmit or receive an RF signal of a frequency band corresponding to the length of the electrical path by supplying power to the first point through the power supply unit (162). For example, the wireless communication circuit (102) can utilize a portion of the metal frame (112) corresponding to the length between the first point of the metal frame (112) in contact with the power supply unit (162) and the second point of the metal frame (112) in contact with the first ground (164) as a first antenna radiator for obtaining a signal of the first frequency band.

In one embodiment, depending on the contact position of the feed portion (162) and the first ground (164) in contact with the metal frame (112), the electrical path may be at least one or more. For example, when the metal frame (112) constituting the housing of the wearable electronic device (201) has a closed curve shape (e.g., a circle or a square with rounded corners), the feed point and the ground point may not face each other or the positions of the feed point and the ground point may be asymmetrical. In this case, a relatively long electrical path and a relatively short electrical path may be formed. In one embodiment, a low-band RF signal may be transmitted or received through the relatively long electrical path. For example, the low-band RF signal may be a frequency band corresponding to LTE B5 (e.g., 850 MHz), B8 (e.g., 900 MHz), or B20 (e.g., 800 MHz). In one embodiment, an intermediate band RF signal may be transmitted or received over a relatively short electrical path. For example, the intermediate band RF signal may be a frequency band corresponding to LTE B1 (e.g., 2100 MHz), B2 (e.g., 1900 MHz), B3 (e.g., 1800 MHz), or B4 (e.g., 1700 MHz).

In one embodiment, the conductive support member (130) may include a protrusion (132). The conductive support member (130) and the protrusion (132) may be formed integrally. In a state where the conductive support member (130) is coupled with the bracket (140), the protrusion (132) may penetrate at least a portion of the internal space of the bracket (140). In a state where the conductive support member (130) is coupled with the bracket (140), the protrusion (132) may not be visible from the outside of the bracket (140).

In one embodiment, the conductive fastening member (134) can be inserted into an opening formed in a printed circuit board (160) and coupled with the conductive support member (130). The conductive fastening member (134) can penetrate the printed circuit board (160) and be coupled with a protrusion (132) formed in the conductive support member (130). In one embodiment, the conductive fastening member (134) can be a screw having a thread formed therein. The protrusion (132) can be formed in a hollow cylindrical shape to accommodate at least a portion of the conductive fastening member (134). A groove can be formed on an inner surface of the protrusion (132) corresponding to the thread of the conductive fastening member (134).

In one embodiment, the conductive fastening member (134) may penetrate the bracket (140) and be coupled with the conductive support member (130). When the conductive fastening member (134) is coupled with the conductive support member (130), the conductive fastening member (134) may not be visible from the outside of the bracket (140).

In one embodiment, the switch circuit (170) may be disposed on the printed circuit board (160). The switch circuit (170) may be electrically connected to the wireless communication circuit (102) and the first ground (164) of the printed circuit board (160). The switch circuit (170) may be electrically connected to the conductive fastening member (134). For example, the switch circuit (170) may be electrically connected to the conductive fastening member (134) through a wiring formed on the printed circuit board (160). By an operation of fastening the conductive fastening member (134) to the conductive support member (130), the conductive fastening member (134) and the wiring come into contact, and the switch circuit (170) may be electrically connected to the conductive fastening member (134). Through the switch circuit (170), the first ground (164) can be electrically connected to the conductive fastening member (134) and the conductive support member (130).

In one embodiment, the switch circuit (170) can include a plurality of elements. The switch circuit (170) can include, for example, a plurality of lumped elements. The wireless communication circuit (102) electrically connected to the switch circuit (170) can control the switch circuit (170) to change a connection state between the first ground (164) and the conductive engagement member (134). For example, the wireless communication circuit (102) can change the connection state of the switch circuit (170) such that the first ground (164) and the conductive engagement member (134) are electrically isolated. For example, the wireless communication circuit (102) can control the first ground (164) and the conductive engagement member (134) to be electrically connected by including any one of the plurality of elements.

FIG. 3 is a drawing showing a part of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

Descriptions of components of Fig. 3 that are similar or identical to the components of Figs. 1 and 2 will be omitted.

In one embodiment, the printed circuit board (160) may include an opening (166), a second ground (167), a non-conductive region (168), and a switch circuit (170).

In one embodiment, the opening (166) may be formed to penetrate the printed circuit board (160). The conductive fastening member (134) may be inserted into the opening (166). A head portion formed at one end of the conductive fastening member (134) may be formed to be larger than the opening (166), and the remaining portion excluding the head portion may be formed to have a circumference smaller than the circumference of the opening. The head portion of the conductive fastening member (134) may not pass through the opening (166) and may be caught on the printed circuit board (160), and the remaining portion excluding the head portion may pass through the opening (166). In one embodiment, a portion of the head portion that comes into contact with the printed circuit board (160) may be formed flat. Through an operation in which the conductive fastening member (134) is fastened to the protrusion (132), the flat surface of the head portion may be brought into close contact with the printed circuit board (160).

In one embodiment, the second ground (167) may be formed to surround the opening (166). The second ground (167) may completely surround the opening (166) and extend away from the opening (166) on the first side (160-1) and the second side (160-2) of the printed circuit board (160). The region where the second ground (167) extends from the first side (160-1) may correspond to the head portion of the conductive fastening member (134). For example, the outermost perimeter of the region where the second ground (167) extends from the first side (160-1) may be formed to be substantially the same as or larger than the outermost perimeter of the head portion of the conductive fastening member (134). In one embodiment, the area where the second ground (167) extends from the second surface (160-2) of the printed circuit board (160) may be different from the area where the second ground (167) extends from the first surface (160-1). Also, in one embodiment, the second ground (167) may not extend from the second surface (160-2) in a direction parallel to the second surface (160-2), but may be formed only on the sidewall of the opening (166).

In one embodiment, the second ground (167) may be brought into close contact with the conductive fastening member (134) through an action in which the conductive fastening member (134) is coupled to the conductive support member (130).

In one embodiment, the second ground (167) may be formed of a conductive material. The second ground (167) may be electrically and physically connected to the conductive fastening member (134).

In one embodiment, the non-conductive region (168) is formed to surround the second ground (167) and may extend in a direction away from the opening (166). An outer perimeter of the non-conductive region (168) may be larger than a perimeter of a head portion of the conductive fastening member (134) and a perimeter of the second ground (167). The non-conductive region (168) may be formed of a non-conductive material to provide an electrical separation space so that the second ground (167) may operate as a floating ground.

In one embodiment, the switch circuit (170) may be disposed on the first surface (160-1) of the printed circuit board (160). The switch circuit (170) may be electrically connected to a wiring member (171) formed on the printed circuit board (160), and may be electrically connected to a conductive fastening member (134) and a second ground (167) through the wiring member (171). The conductive fastening member (134), the second ground (167), and the wiring member (171) may be electrically connected through an operation in which the conductive fastening member (134) is coupled to the conductive support member (130). In one embodiment, the switch circuit (170) may be electrically connected to the first ground (164).

In one embodiment, the switch circuit may include a plurality of elements. The wireless communication circuit (102) electrically connected to the switch circuit (170) may be configured to control the switch circuit (170) to change a connection state between the first ground (164) and the second ground (167). For example, the wireless communication circuit (102) may change the connection state of the switch circuit (170) such that the first ground (164) and the second ground (167) are electrically separated. For example, the wireless communication circuit (102) may optionally control the first ground (164) and the second ground (167) to be electrically connected by including any one of the plurality of elements.

FIG. 4 is a drawing of a printed circuit board according to one embodiment viewed from various directions.

Referring to FIG. 4, reference numeral 410 indicates a first side (160-1) of a printed circuit board (160), reference numeral 420 indicates a third side (160-3) between the first side (160-1) and the second side (160-2) of the printed circuit board (160), and reference numeral 430 indicates a second side (160-2) of the printed circuit board (160).

Descriptions of components of Fig. 4 that are similar or identical to the components of Figs. 1 to 3 will be omitted.

Referring to reference numeral 410, a first side (160-1) of a printed circuit board (160) may include an opening (166), a second ground (167), a non-conductive region (168), and a switch circuit (170).

In one embodiment, the opening (166) can penetrate the printed circuit board (160) in a direction perpendicular to the first surface (160-1).

In one embodiment, the second ground (167) may extend away from the perimeter of the opening (166). The second ground (167) may be formed to surround at least a portion of the non-conductive region (168).

In one embodiment, the non-conductive region (168) may extend from the periphery of the second ground (167) in a direction away from the second ground (167).

In one embodiment, the switch circuit (170) may be disposed apart from the second ground (167) and may be electrically connected to the second ground (167) through a wiring member.

Referring to reference numeral 420, a third side (160-3) of a printed circuit board (160) may include an opening (166), a second ground (167), and a non-conductive region (168).

In one embodiment, the opening (166) may extend substantially the same perimeter from the first side (160-1) to the third side (160-3).

In one embodiment, the second ground (167) may be formed to surround the opening (166) and may extend in a direction away from the opening (166). The area of the second ground (167) of the third surface (160-3) may be smaller than the area of the second ground (167) of the first surface (160-1).

In one embodiment, the non-conductive region (168) may be formed to surround the second ground (167). The non-conductive region (168) may extend in a direction away from the second ground (167).

In one embodiment, the non-conductive region (168) formed on the third surface (160-3) may include a region corresponding to the non-conductive region (168) formed on the first surface (160-1). The non-conductive region (168) of the third surface (160-3) may further include a region for three-dimensional wiring of a printed circuit board (160) formed of a plurality of layers.

Referring to reference numeral 430, the second side (160-2) of the printed circuit board (160) may include an opening (166), a second ground (167), and a non-conductive region (168).

In one embodiment, the opening (166) of the second side (160-2) may extend substantially to the same perimeter as the first side (160-1), the third side (160-3), and the second side (160-2).

In one embodiment, the second ground (167) of the second surface (160-2) may be formed to surround the opening (166). The area of the second ground (167) of the second surface (160-2) may be smaller than the area of the second ground (167) of the first surface (160-1), and may be substantially equal to or larger than the area of the second ground (167) of the third surface (160-3).

In one embodiment, the non-conductive region (168) of the second side (160-2) may surround the second ground (167) and extend in a direction away from the second ground (167). The area of the non-conductive region (168) of the second side (160-2) may be substantially the same as the area of the non-conductive region (168) of the first side (160-1).

FIG. 5 is a drawing of a printed circuit board of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention, viewed from various directions.

Referring to FIG. 5, reference numeral 510 may indicate a first side (160-1) of a printed circuit board (160) into which a conductive fastening member (134) is inserted, reference numeral 520 may be a perspective view of a printed circuit board (160) coupled with a conductive support member (130), and reference numeral 530 may indicate a second side (160-2) of a printed circuit board (160) into which a conductive fastening member (134) is inserted.

Referring to reference numeral 510, a first side (160-1) of a printed circuit board (160) may include a conductive fastening member (134), a non-conductive region (168), and a wiring member (169).

In one embodiment, the conductive fastening member (134) may be inserted so as to penetrate the printed circuit board (160). A head portion of the conductive fastening member (134) may be caught on the printed circuit board (160) without passing through the printed circuit board (160). A second ground (167) having substantially the same circumference as the head portion of the conductive fastening member (134) may be covered by the conductive fastening member (134) and may not be visible on the first surface (160-1). Differently from the above, the second ground (167) may be visible when the conductive fastening member (134) is fastened to the printed circuit board (160) depending on the width or outer circumference of the second ground (167).

In one embodiment, the non-conductive region (168) may be formed with a wider perimeter than the conductive fastening member (134).

In one embodiment, the wiring member (169) may be formed to extend from the second ground (167). The wiring member (169) may include at least one conductive via. Differently from what was described above in FIGS. 1 to 4, the switch circuit (170) may be arranged on a surface other than the first surface (160-1) of the printed circuit board (160). In this case, the wiring member (169) may electrically connect the switch circuit (170) to the conductive fastening member (134) and the second ground (167) through the conductive via.

Referring to reference numeral 520, a printed circuit board (160) can be coupled to a conductive support member (130) by a conductive fastening member (134). The conductive fastening member (134) can be coupled by being at least partially inserted into a protrusion (132) of the conductive support member (130).

Referring to reference numeral 530, the second side (160-2) of the printed circuit board (160) may include a conductive fastening member (134) and a switch circuit (170).

In one embodiment, the perimeter of the area excluding the head portion of the challenging fastening member (134) is formed to have substantially the same perimeter as the opening (166), so that it can pass through the printed circuit board (160).

In one embodiment, the switch circuit (170) may be disposed on a second surface (160-1) of the printed circuit board (160) and spaced apart from the non-conductive region (168). The switch circuit (170) may be electrically connected to a wiring member (169) formed on the first surface (160-1).

FIG. 6 illustrates a schematic circuit diagram of a switch circuit according to one embodiment.

FIG. 7 is a graph showing radiation efficiency according to capacitance of a switch circuit according to one embodiment.

FIG. 8 is a graph showing radiation efficiency according to inductance of a switch circuit according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 6, the conductive fastening member (134) and the first ground (164) may be electrically connected or opened according to a switching operation of the switch circuit (170). The switch circuit (170) may include a plurality of impedance elements (z1, z2, z3, z4). The switch circuit (170) may be connected to any one impedance element selected from the plurality of impedance elements (z1, z2, z3, z4). The conductive fastening member (134) and the first ground (164) may be electrically connected in a state in which the switch circuit (170) and any one selected from the plurality of impedance elements (z1, z2, z3, z4) are connected. The plurality of impedance elements (z1, z2, z3, z4) according to one embodiment may include at least one of a capacitor and an inductor. The capacitance or inductance value of each of the multiple impedance elements (z1, z2, z3, z4) may be different.

In one embodiment, the wireless communication circuit (102) can control the switch circuit (170) to change the connection state between the conductive engagement member (134) and the first ground (164). Based on the change in the connection state, the frequency band of the RF signal transmitted or received by the electronic device can be changed.

In one embodiment, as the conductive fastening member (134) and the first ground (164) are electrically connected by the switch circuit (170) and the ground of the antenna structure is expanded, the frequency band of the RF signal transmitted or received by the electronic device may be lowered. For example, referring to FIG. 7, in a state where the conductive fastening member (134) and the first ground (164) are connected by the switch circuit (170) (graph (b)), the frequency band of the RF signal transmitted or received by the electronic device may be lower than the frequency band of the RF signal transmitted or received by the electronic device in a state where the conductive fastening member (134) and the first ground (164) are not connected by the switch circuit (170) (graph (a)).

In one embodiment, the RF signal transmitted or received by the electronic device in graph (a) may have a first center frequency (e.g., about 900 MHz), and the RF signal transmitted or received by the electronic device in graph (b) may have a second frequency (e.g., about 800 MHz) lower than the first center frequency. In various embodiments, the first center frequency may be a frequency corresponding to LTE B1, B2, B3, B4, B5, B8, or B20, and the second center frequency may be a frequency corresponding to LTE B12 (e.g., 700 MHz), B13 (e.g., 700 MHz), or B71 (e.g., 600 MHz).

In one embodiment, when the conductive fastening member (134) and the first ground (164) are electrically connected by the switch circuit (170), as the capacitance value of the capacitor connected to the switch circuit (170) increases, the frequency band of the RF signal transmitted or received by the electronic device may be lowered. For example, referring to FIG. 7, when the switch circuit (170) is connected to a capacitor having a capacitance value of C1 (graph (b)), the frequency band of the RF signal transmitted or received by the electronic device may be lower when the switch circuit (170) is connected to a capacitor having a capacitance value of C2 higher than C1 (graph (c)).

In one embodiment, the RF signal transmitted or received by the electronic device in graph (b) may have a second center frequency (e.g., about 800 MHz), and the RF signal transmitted or received by the electronic device in graph (c) may have a third center frequency (e.g., about 750 MHz) lower than the second center frequency.

In one embodiment, when the conductive fastening member (134) and the first ground (164) are electrically connected by the switch circuit (170), as the inductance value of the inductor connected to the switch circuit (170) increases, the frequency band of the RF signal transmitted or received by the electronic device may increase. For example, referring to FIG. 8, when the switch circuit (170) is connected to an inductor having an inductance value of L1 (graph (a)), the frequency band of the RF signal transmitted or received by the electronic device may be higher than that of the RF signal transmitted or received by the electronic device when the switch circuit (170) is connected to an inductor having an inductance value of L2 higher than that of L1 (graph (b)).

In one embodiment, the RF signal transmitted or received by the electronic device in graph (a) of FIG. 8 may have a fourth center frequency (e.g., 2000 MHz), and the RF signal transmitted or received by the electronic device in graph (b) of FIG. 8 may have a fifth center frequency (e.g., 2500 MHz) higher than the fourth center frequency. The fourth center frequency may be a frequency corresponding to B1, B2, B3, B4, B5, B8, or B20, and the fifth center frequency may be a frequency corresponding to B7, B38, B40, or B41.

FIG. 9 is an exploded view of a rear case of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 9, the rear case (114) may include a rear case frame (114a), a rear plate (114b), a biometric sensor (992), and a wireless charging coil (994).

A rear case frame (114a) according to one embodiment can form the inner surface of the rear case (114).

According to one embodiment, a rear plate (114b) may be combined with a rear case frame (114a) to form an internal space of the rear case (114). Various electronic components may be mounted in the internal space.

In one embodiment, the biometric sensor (992) may be positioned between the rear case frame (114a) and the rear plate (114b). The biometric sensor (992) may be positioned inside the rear case (114). The biometric sensor (992) may include a heart rate sensor.

In one embodiment, the wireless charging coil (994) may be placed between the rear case frame (114a) and the rear plate (114b). The wireless charging coil (994) may be powered from an external device.

FIG. 10 is a drawing showing an electronic device according to one embodiment.

Descriptions of components of Fig. 10 that are similar or identical to the components of Figs. 1 to 3 will be omitted.

Referring to FIG. 10, the electronic device (1001) may include an antenna pattern (1080), electronic components (1086), and a shielding layer (1084).

In one embodiment, the antenna pattern (1080) may be arranged on the inner surface of the rear case (114). The antenna pattern (1080) may be formed by being printed on a flexible circuit board. The antenna pattern (1080) may be electrically connected to the feed part (162) of the printed circuit board (160). An electrical path connecting the antenna pattern (1080) and the feed part (162) may be formed by branching from an electrical path connecting the feed part (162) and the metal frame (112). A shunt element may be formed at the branch point. By the antenna pattern (1080), a high-band (e.g., 2500 MHz to 2700 MHz) RF signal may be transmitted or received.

In one embodiment, electronic components (1086) may be placed inside the rear case (114). The electronic components (1086) may be placed in a space formed by the rear case frame (114a) and the rear plate (114b). The electronic components (1086) may include at least one of the biometric sensor (992) and the wireless charging coil (994) of FIG. 9, and may include other electronic components not described.

In one embodiment, the shielding layer (1084) may be arranged on the inner surface of the rear case frame (114a). When the electronic device (1001) is viewed from above, a portion of the shielding layer (1084) may overlap the electronic components (1086). The shielding layer (1084) may shield electromagnetic waves generated by the electronic components (1086). The shielding layer (1084) may prevent RF signals transmitted or received by the electronic device (1001) from being interfered with or distorted by the electromagnetic waves. In one embodiment, the shielding layer (1084) may block heat generated by the electronic components (1086). The shielding layer (1084) may prevent performance of various components mounted on the printed circuit board (160) from being deteriorated due to heat generated by the electronic components (1086). In one embodiment, the shielding layer (1084) may include a metallic material such as aluminum or silver, or a polymer composite material such as carbon fiber, carbon nanotube, or graphene.

FIG. 11 is an exploded view of a portion of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

FIG. 12 is a graph showing the radiation efficiency of an electronic device including an antenna pattern according to one embodiment.

Descriptions of components of Fig. 11 that are similar or identical to the components of Fig. 10 will be omitted.

In one embodiment, the antenna pattern (1080) may be electrically connected to a connecting member (e.g., a C-clip) at a contact (1081). The antenna pattern (1080) may be electrically connected to a contact (1082) of a printed circuit board (160) by the connecting member. The contact (1082) may be a feeder (162) of the printed circuit board (160) or may be electrically connected to the feeder (162). The antenna pattern (1080) may be electrically connected to the feeder (162) of the printed circuit board (160) and a wireless communication circuit (102) disposed on the printed circuit board (160).

In one embodiment, the wireless communication circuitry (102) can be configured to transmit or receive an RF signal by feeding the antenna pattern (1080). Since the antenna pattern (1080) has a shorter electrical path than a metal housing (e.g., metal frame (112)) of the electronic device, the antenna pattern (1080) can be suitable for receiving high frequency band signals (e.g., LTE B7, B38, B40, or B41). For example, referring to FIG. 12, an electronic device (1101) including the antenna pattern (1080) of graph (b) can have a higher reception efficiency in a high frequency band (e.g., about 2100 MHz to 3000 MHz) than an electronic device that does not include the antenna pattern (1080) of graph (a).

In one embodiment, the wireless communication circuit (102) can receive a signal of an LTE B7 (e.g., 2600 MHz) band by supplying power to the antenna pattern (1080). In addition, the wireless communication circuit (102) can receive a signal of the same frequency band through the control of the switch circuit (170) described above with respect to FIG. 8. In this case, the wireless communication circuit (102) can improve the communication performance in the corresponding frequency band based on the signal of the LTE B7 band received through the antenna pattern (1080) and the signal of the LTE B7 band (e.g., diversity signal) received through the metal frame (112).

An electronic device (1101) according to one embodiment may further include an antenna for Bluetooth communication, not shown.

According to one embodiment, the shielding layer (1084) can be electrically connected to a connecting member (e.g., a C-clip) at the contact (1085). The shielding layer (1084) can be electrically connected to a contact (1086) of the printed circuit board (160) by the connecting member. The contact (1086) can be a first ground (164) of the printed circuit board (160) or can be electrically connected to the first ground (164). The shielding layer (1804) can be electrically connected to the first ground (164) of the printed circuit board (160) by the connecting member.

According to an embodiment, a wearable electronic device (e.g., an electronic device (201) of FIG. 2) includes a display (e.g., a display (120) of FIG. 2), a metal frame (e.g., a metal frame (112) of FIG. 2) surrounding the display and forming at least a portion of a side surface of the wearable electronic device, a battery (e.g., a battery (150) of FIG. 2), a conductive support member (e.g., a conductive support member (130) of FIG. 2) disposed under the display and supporting the battery, a printed circuit board (PCB) (e.g., a printed circuit board (160) of FIG. 2) disposed under the conductive support member and the battery, a conductive fastening member (e.g., a conductive fastening member (134) of FIG. 2) connecting the conductive support member and the PCB, a wireless communication circuit (e.g., a wireless communication circuit (102) of FIG. 2) disposed on the PCB, and a switch circuit (e.g., a switch of FIG. 2) disposed on the PCB and electrically connected to the wireless communication circuit. circuit (170)), the PCB includes a first ground electrically connected to the metal frame (e.g., the first ground (164) of FIG. 2), an opening (e.g., the opening (166) of FIG. 3), a second ground surrounding the opening and spaced apart from the first ground (e.g., the second ground (167) of FIG. 3), and a non-conductive region surrounding the second ground (e.g., the non-conductive region (168) of FIG. 3), the conductive fastening member is coupled to the conductive support member through the opening and is in electrical contact with the second ground of the PCB, the switch circuit is electrically connected to the first ground of the PCB and is electrically connected to the second ground through a designated path, and the wireless communication circuit supplies power to the metal frame to receive an RF signal corresponding to a first center frequency, controls the switch circuit to change a connection state, and in response to a change in the connection state, the first center frequency It can be set to receive an RF signal corresponding to a second center frequency lower than the frequency.

In one embodiment, the first center frequency may correspond to LTE B5, and the second center frequency may correspond to LTE B12 or B13. In one embodiment, the first center frequency may correspond to LTE B2 or B4, and the second center frequency may correspond to LTE B12 or B13. In one embodiment, the wireless communication circuit may be configured to control the connection state such that the switch circuit electrically isolates the first ground and the second ground.

In one embodiment, the wireless communication circuit may be configured to control the connection state such that the switch circuit electrically connects the first ground and the second ground through the first capacitor.

In one embodiment, the wireless communication circuit is configured to control the connection state so that the switch circuit electrically connects the first ground and the second ground through a second capacitor, wherein the second capacitor may have a capacitance value greater than that of the first capacitor.

In one embodiment, the wireless communication circuit may be configured to control the switch circuit to electrically connect the first ground and the second ground through the first inductor, and receive an RF signal corresponding to the third center frequency higher than the first center frequency.

In one embodiment, the wireless communication circuit may be configured to control the connection state so that the switch circuit electrically connects the first ground and the second ground through a second inductor having an inductance value greater than that of the first inductor, and to receive an RF signal corresponding to a center frequency higher than the third center frequency.

In one embodiment, the third center frequency can be greater than or equal to 2500 MHz and less than or equal to 2700 MHz.

An electronic device according to one embodiment further includes a case (e.g., a rear case (114) of FIG. 10) combined with the metal frame to form a rear surface of the wearable electronic device, and an antenna pattern (e.g., an antenna pattern (1080) of FIG. 10) disposed on an inner surface of the case and electrically connected to the wireless communication circuit, wherein the wireless communication circuit may be configured to supply power to the antenna pattern to receive an RF signal corresponding to a fourth center frequency.

In one embodiment, the fourth center frequency may be higher than the first center frequency.

In one embodiment, the antenna pattern can be electrically connected to the first ground.

An electronic device according to one embodiment may further include a case (e.g., a rear case (114) of FIG. 10) combined with the metal frame to form a rear surface of the wearable electronic device, at least one electronic component (e.g., electronic components (1086) of FIG. 10) disposed below the PCB, and a shielding layer (e.g., a shielding layer (1084) of FIG. 10) disposed between the PCB and the at least one electronic component and formed on an inner surface of the case.

In one embodiment, the case includes a case frame forming an inner surface of the case (e.g., a rear case frame (114a) of FIG. 10) and a rear plate forming at least a portion of a rear surface of the wearable electronic device (e.g., a rear plate (114b) of FIG. 10), and the at least one electronic component can be placed in a space formed by the case frame and the rear plate.

In one embodiment, at least a portion of the shielding layer may overlap the at least one electronic component.

According to an embodiment, a wearable electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (1001) of FIG. 10) includes a display (e.g., the display (120) of FIG. 10), a metal frame (e.g., the metal frame (112) of FIG. 10) surrounding the display and forming at least a portion of a side surface of the wearable electronic device, a rear case (e.g., the rear case (114) of FIG. 10) coupled to the metal frame, a battery (e.g., the battery (150) of FIG. 10), a conductive support member (e.g., the conductive support member (130) of FIG. 10) disposed under the display and supporting the battery, a printed circuit board (PCB) (e.g., the printed circuit board (160) of FIG. 10) disposed under the conductive support member and the battery, a conductive fastening member (e.g., the conductive fastening member (134) of FIG. 10) coupled to the conductive support member and the PCB), and a wireless communication circuit (e.g., the wireless communication circuit (e.g., the wireless communication circuit (10) of FIG. 10)) disposed on the PCB. circuit (102)), an antenna pattern (e.g., antenna pattern (1080) of FIG. 10) disposed on the inner surface of the rear case and electrically connected to the wireless communication circuit, a shielding layer (e.g., shielding layer (1084) of FIG. 10) formed on the inner surface of the case and spaced apart from the antenna pattern, and a switch circuit (e.g., switch circuit (170) of FIG. 10) disposed on the PCB and electrically connected to the wireless communication circuit, the PCB includes a first ground (e.g., first ground (164) of FIG. 10) electrically connected to the metal frame, an opening (e.g., opening (166) of FIG. 3), a second ground (e.g., second ground (167) of FIG. 3) surrounding the opening and spaced apart from the first ground, and a non-conductive region (e.g., non-conductive region (168) of FIG. 3) surrounding the second ground, and the conductive fastening member includes the The conductive support member is coupled through the opening, and is in electrical contact with the second ground of the PCB, the switch circuit is electrically connected to the first ground of the PCB, and is electrically connected to the second ground through a designated path, and the wireless communication circuit can be configured to supply power to the metal frame to receive an RF signal corresponding to a first center frequency, control the switch circuit to change a connection state, and supply power to the antenna pattern to receive an RF signal corresponding to a second center frequency lower than the first center frequency in response to the change in the connection state, and receive an RF signal corresponding to a third center frequency higher than the first center frequency.

In one embodiment, the first center frequency may correspond to LTE B5, and the second center frequency may correspond to LTE B12 or B13.

In one embodiment, the first center frequency may correspond to LTE B2 or B4, and the second center frequency may correspond to LTE B12 or B13.

In one embodiment, the first center frequency may correspond to LTE B2, B4, or B5, and the third center frequency may correspond to LTE B7. In one embodiment, the electronic device includes a rear case including a rear case frame forming an inner surface of the rear case (e.g., a rear case frame (114a) of FIG. 10) and a rear plate forming at least a portion of a rear surface of the wearable electronic device (e.g., a rear plate (114b) of FIG. 10), and the at least one electronic component is disposed in a space formed by the rear case frame and the rear plate, and at least a portion of the shielding layer may overlap the at least one electronic component.

In the specific embodiments of the present disclosure described above, the components included in the disclosure are expressed in the singular or plural form depending on the specific embodiment presented. However, the singular or plural expressions are selected to suit the presented situation for the convenience of explanation, and the present disclosure is not limited to the singular or plural components, and even if a component is expressed in the plural form, it may be composed of the singular form, or even if a component is expressed in the singular form, it may be composed of the plural form.

Meanwhile, although the detailed description of the present disclosure has described specific embodiments, it is obvious that various modifications are possible without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, the scope of the present disclosure should not be limited to the described embodiments, but should be determined not only by the scope of the claims described below, but also by equivalents of the scope of the claims.

Claims (20)

In wearable electronic devices,
display;
A metal frame surrounding the display and forming at least a portion of a side surface of the wearable electronic device;
battery;
A conductive support member disposed under the display and supporting the battery;
A printed circuit board (PCB) positioned below the above-mentioned conductive support member and the battery;
A conductive fastening member that connects the conductive support member and the PCB;
A wireless communication circuit arranged on the above PCB; and
A switch circuit disposed on the PCB and electrically connected to the wireless communication circuit;
The above PCB is:
A first ground electrically connected to the above metal frame;
opening;
A second ground surrounding the opening and spaced apart from the first ground; and
Including a non-conductive area surrounding the second ground,
The above challenging fastening member is:
is coupled to the conductive support member through the above opening,
In electrical contact with the second ground of the above PCB;
The above switch circuit:
electrically connected to the first ground of the above PCB,
electrically connected to the second ground through a designated path,
The above wireless communication circuit,
Power is supplied to the metal frame to receive an RF signal corresponding to the first center frequency,
Controls the above switch circuit to change the connection state.
A wearable electronic device configured to receive an RF signal corresponding to a second center frequency lower than the first center frequency in response to a change in the connection state. In claim 1,
The above first center frequency corresponds to LTE B5,
The second center frequency corresponds to LTE B12 or B13, wearable electronic device. delete In claim 1,
A wearable electronic device, wherein the wireless communication circuit is configured to control the connection state so that the switch circuit electrically separates the first ground and the second ground. In claim 1,
A wearable electronic device, wherein the wireless communication circuit is set to control the connection state so that the switch circuit electrically connects the first ground and the second ground through the first capacitor. In claim 5,
The above wireless communication circuit is set to control the connection state so that the switch circuit electrically connects the first ground and the second ground through the second capacitor,
A wearable electronic device, wherein the second capacitor has a capacitance value greater than that of the first capacitor. In claim 1,
The above wireless communication circuit controls the switch circuit to electrically connect the first ground and the second ground through the first inductor,
A wearable electronic device configured to receive an RF signal corresponding to a third center frequency higher than the first center frequency. In claim 7,
The above wireless communication circuit controls the connection state so that the switch circuit electrically connects the first ground and the second ground through a second inductor having an inductance value greater than that of the first inductor,
A wearable electronic device configured to receive an RF signal having a center frequency higher than the third center frequency. delete In claim 1,
A case combined with the metal frame to form the rear surface of the wearable electronic device; and
further comprising an antenna pattern disposed on the inner surface of the case and electrically connected to the wireless communication circuit;
The above wireless communication circuit:
A wearable electronic device, wherein the antenna pattern is configured to receive an RF signal corresponding to a fourth center frequency. delete In claim 10,
A wearable electronic device, wherein the antenna pattern is electrically connected to the first ground. delete delete delete In wearable electronic devices,
display;
A metal frame surrounding the display and forming at least a portion of a side surface of the wearable electronic device;
A rear case combined with the above metal frame;
battery;
A conductive support member disposed below the display and supporting the battery;
A printed circuit board (PCB) positioned below the above-mentioned conductive support member and the battery;
A conductive fastening member that connects the conductive support member and the PCB;
A wireless communication circuit arranged on the above PCB;
An antenna pattern disposed on the inner surface of the rear case and electrically connected to the wireless communication circuit;
A shielding layer formed on the inner surface of the case and spaced apart from the antenna pattern;
At least one electronic component disposed under the shielding layer; and
A switch circuit disposed on the PCB and electrically connected to the wireless communication circuit;
The above PCB is:
A first ground electrically connected to the above metal frame;
opening;
A second ground surrounding the opening and spaced apart from the first ground; and
Including a non-conductive area surrounding the second ground,
The above challenging fastening member is:
is coupled to the conductive support member through the above opening,
In electrical contact with the second ground of the above PCB;
The above switch circuit:
electrically connected to the first ground of the above PCB,
electrically connected to the second ground through a designated path,
The above wireless communication circuit,
Power is supplied to the metal frame to receive an RF signal corresponding to the first center frequency,
Controls the above switch circuit to change the connection state.
In response to a change in the above connection state, an RF signal corresponding to a second center frequency lower than the first center frequency is received,
A wearable electronic device, wherein the antenna pattern is configured to receive an RF signal having a third center frequency higher than the first center frequency. delete delete delete delete

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