KR20230009115A - Method and electronic device for wireless communication - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention provides an electronic device which can save costs by including a circuit configured to select a path. According to one embodiment of the present invention, the electronic device comprises: a housing including a first part, a second part, and a hinge structure connecting the first part and the second part, and switchable to a folded state around the hinge structure or an unfolded state; at least one processor arranged in the housing; a first antenna forming at least a portion of the housing; a second antenna formed at a position corresponding to the first antenna around the hinge structure; a first switch circuit electrically connected to the at least one processor, and including a plurality of input terminals and at least one output terminal; a power distribution circuit electrically connected to the at least one processor, and connected in parallel with the plurality of input terminals; a first electrical path connected from the at least one output terminal of the first switch circuit to the first antenna; a second electrical path connected to one point on the first electrically path from the power distribution circuit; and a third electrical path connected from the power distribution circuit to the second antenna. The at least one processor may select a frequency band of a signal to be transmitted and received through the first antenna and/or the second antenna, transmit the signal of the selected frequency band by supplying power to the first antenna through the first electrical path by controlling the first switch circuit if the electronic device is in the unfolded state, and transmit the signal of the selected frequency band by supplying power to the first antenna through the second electrical path and supplying power to the second antenna through the third electrical path by controlling the first switch circuit if the electronic device is in the folded state.

Description

Method and electronic device for wireless communication {METHOD AND ELECTRONIC DEVICE FOR WIRELESS COMMUNICATION}

Various embodiments disclosed in this document relate to a method and an electronic device for wireless communication.

Recently, efforts have been made to commercialize a next-generation (eg, 5th-generation or pre-5G) communication system in order to meet the growing demand for wireless data traffic after the commercialization of a 4G (4th-generation) communication system. In addition, as part of these efforts, electronic devices including a plurality of antennas for transmitting and receiving various signals are being provided.

In addition, as the processing performance of electronic devices such as smart phones dramatically increases, large-area displays are preferred in order to effectively provide various functions. At the same time, there is still a demand for miniaturization of electronic devices to improve portability. To satisfy these demands, electronic devices may include foldable electronic devices. A foldable electronic device that can be folded or unfolded around a connection portion can provide users with portability and usability.

Such a foldable electronic device may include antennas to perform wireless communication, and may include a plurality of antennas to support wireless communication in each state according to a folding or unfolding operation.

In performing wireless communication through a plurality of antennas disposed in a foldable electronic device, a configuration for preventing performance degradation of the antenna due to a state transition between a folded state and an unfolded state, and requires a power distribution circuit and an additional switch circuit This may result in cost increase and line loss.

In addition, since the wire or circuit has a fixed load value by using this configuration, it may be difficult to control the phase for communication in various frequency bands.

According to various embodiments disclosed in this document, cost can be saved by including a circuit configured to select a path including a power distribution circuit and a phase correction circuit.

An electronic device according to an embodiment includes a first part, a second part, and a hinge structure connecting the first part and the second part, and is in a folded state or an unfolded state around the hinge structure. A housing capable of being switched to an unfolded state, at least one processor disposed inside the housing, a first antenna forming at least a part of the housing, and a position corresponding to the first antenna around the hinge structure. A second antenna, a first switch circuit electrically connected to the at least one processor, including a plurality of input terminals and at least one output terminal, electrically connected to the at least one processor, and having a plurality of input terminals A power distribution circuit connected in parallel, a first electrical path connected from the at least one output terminal of the first switch circuit to the first antenna, and a first electrical path connected from the power distribution circuit to a point on the first electrical path. 2 electrical paths and a third electrical path connected from the power distribution circuit to the second antenna, wherein the at least one processor comprises: A frequency band of a signal to be transmitted and received through the first antenna and/or the second antenna is selected, and when the electronic device is in the unfolded state, the first switch circuit is controlled to transmit and receive the signal through the first electrical path. transmits a signal of the selected frequency band by feeding power to one antenna, controls the first switch circuit to supply power to the first antenna through the second electrical path when the electronic device is in the folded state, and By feeding power to the second antenna through 3 electrical paths, signals of the selected frequency band can be transmitted.

A wireless communication method according to an embodiment includes an operation of selecting a frequency band of a signal to be transmitted and received through a first antenna and/or a second antenna, and a first electrical path by controlling a first switch circuit when the electronic device is in an unfolded state. An operation of transmitting and receiving a signal of the selected frequency band by feeding power to the first antenna through and controlling the first switch circuit when the electronic device is in a folded state to be connected to a point of the first electrical path. and transmitting/receiving signals of the selected frequency band by feeding power to the first antenna through two electrical paths and feeding power to the second antenna through a third electrical path.

An electronic device according to an embodiment includes a first part, a second part, and a hinge structure connecting the first part and the second part, and is folded or unfolded around the hinge structure. A housing capable of being switched to an unfolded state, at least one processor disposed inside the housing, a first antenna forming at least a part of the housing, and formed at a position corresponding to the first antenna around the hinge structure. a second antenna, a switching module disposed between the at least one processor and the first antenna and the second antenna, connected to the first antenna from the at least one output terminal of the plurality of switch circuits a first electrical path, a second electrical path connected from the power distribution circuit to a point on the first electrical path, and a third electrical path connected from the power distribution circuit to the second antenna, wherein the at least one The processor of selects a frequency band of a signal to be transmitted and received through the first antenna and / or the second antenna, and controls the switch circuit when the electronic device is in the unfolded state through the first electrical path. transmits a signal of the selected frequency band by feeding power to the first antenna, controls the switch circuit to supply power to the first antenna through the second electrical path when the electronic device is in the folded state, and By feeding power to the second antenna through 3 electrical paths, signals of the selected frequency band can be transmitted.

According to various embodiments disclosed in this document, in a structure in which a plurality of antennas are arranged, line loss can be reduced and cost can be saved by arranging an electrical path to be selectable.

Also, according to various embodiments, antenna performance in various frequency bands may be secured by including a satellite correction circuit on an electrical path configured to be selectable.

In addition to this, various effects identified directly or indirectly through this document may be provided.

1A illustrates an electronic device in an unfolded state, according to an embodiment.
1B illustrates an electronic device in a folded state, according to an embodiment.
2 illustrates an electronic device according to an exemplary embodiment.
3A illustrates an antenna structure including a switching module according to an embodiment.
3B illustrates a switching module including a phase correction circuit and an antenna structure including the same according to an exemplary embodiment.
4 illustrates the phase correction circuit of FIG. 3B according to one embodiment.
5 is a flowchart illustrating a wireless communication method of an electronic device according to an embodiment.
6 is a flowchart illustrating a wireless communication method including an operation of adjusting an electrical length of an electrical path through a phase correction circuit according to an exemplary embodiment.
7A illustrates an electronic device in an unfolded state, according to another embodiment.
7B illustrates an electronic device in a folded state, according to another embodiment.
8 illustrates an electronic device according to another embodiment.
9 is a diagram illustrating an electronic device in a network environment according to an embodiment.
In connection with the description of the drawings, the same or similar reference numerals may be used for the same or similar elements.

Hereinafter, various embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, it should be understood that this is not intended to limit the present invention to the specific embodiments, and includes various modifications, equivalents, and/or alternatives of the embodiments of the present invention.

1A illustrates an electronic device in an unfolded state, according to an embodiment. 1B illustrates an electronic device in a folded state, according to an embodiment.

Referring together to FIGS. 1A and 1B , in one embodiment, an electronic device 101 is disposed within a space formed by a foldable housing 110 (hereinafter, “housing” 110 for short) and the housing 110 . It may include a flexible or foldable display 160 (hereinafter referred to as “display” 160 for short). In this document, the surface on which the display 160 is disposed is defined as the first surface or the front surface of the electronic device 101 . And, the surface opposite to the front is defined as the second surface or the rear surface of the electronic device 101 . In addition, a surface surrounding the space between the front and rear surfaces is defined as a third surface or a side surface of the electronic device 101 .

In one embodiment, in the unfolded state of FIG. 1A , the electronic device 101 may have a substantially rectangular shape. For example, the electronic device 101 may have a designated width W1 and a designated length L1 longer than the designated width W1. As another example, the electronic device 101 may have a designated width W1 and a designated length L1 that is substantially equal to or shorter than the designated width W1. According to an embodiment, the electronic device 101 has a folding axis B substantially parallel to a short edge of the rectangle (eg, an edge facing the x-axis direction among edges of the electronic device 101 of FIG. 1A ). It can be folded or unfolded on a standard basis.

In one embodiment, the housing 110 may include a first part 111 , a second part 112 , and a connection part 113 . The connection part 113 may be disposed between the first part 111 and the second part 112 . The connection part 113 may be coupled to the first part 111 and the second part 112, and the first part 111 and/or the second part 112 may be connected to the connection part 113 (or the folding shaft (B) )) can be rotated.

In one embodiment, the first part 111 may include a first side member 1011 and a first rear cover 1013. In one embodiment, the second part 112 may include a second side member 1021 and a second rear cover 1023 .

In one embodiment, the first side member 1011 may extend along the edge of the first part 111 and form at least a portion of the side surface of the electronic device 101 . The first side member 1011 may include at least one conductive portion formed of a conductive material (eg, metal). The conductive part may operate as an antenna radiator for transmitting and/or receiving an RF signal. Similar to the first side member 1011, the second side member 1021 may form a portion of the side surface of the electronic device 101, and at least a portion of the second side member 1021 is formed of a conductive material. It can act as an antenna radiator. A detailed description of this will be given later.

In one embodiment, the first side member 1011 and the second side member 1021 are disposed on both sides of the folding axis B and may have substantially symmetrical shapes with respect to the folding axis B. .

In one embodiment, the first side member 1011 and the second side member 1021 form an angle or distance from each other depending on whether the electronic device 101 is in an unfolded state, a folded state, or an intermediate state. It can vary.

In one embodiment, housing 110 may form a recess to accommodate display 160 . The recess may correspond to the shape of the display 160 .

In one embodiment, the display 160 may include a flexible display in which at least a partial area may be deformed into a flat or curved surface. In one embodiment, the display 160 may include a folding area 163 , a first area 161 and a second area 163 . The folding area 163 may extend along the folding axis B, and the first area 161 is disposed on one side (the left side of the folding area 163 shown in FIG. 1) based on the folding area 163. The second area 162 may be disposed on the other side (right side of the folding area 163 shown in FIG. 1). As another example, the first area 161 may be an area disposed on the first part 111 and the second area 162 may be an area disposed on the second part 112 . The folding area 163 may be an area disposed on the connection part 113 .

The division of regions of the display 160 shown in FIG. 1A is exemplary, and the display 160 may be divided into a plurality of (eg, four or more or two) regions according to a structure or function. For example, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 1A , areas of the display 160 may be divided by the folding area 163 or the folding axis B, but in another embodiment, the display 160 may have another folding area (eg : The area may be divided based on the folding area 763 of FIG. 7A) or another folding axis (eg, the folding axis A of FIG. 7A).

In one embodiment, the first rear cover 1013 may be disposed on the first part 111 at the back of the electronic device 101 . The first rear cover 1013 may have substantially rectangular edges. Similar to the first rear cover 1013, the second rear cover 1023 may be disposed on the second part 112 on the back of the electronic device 101.

In one embodiment, the first rear cover 1013 and the second rear cover 1023 may have substantially symmetrical shapes around the folding axis A. However, the first rear cover 1013 and the second rear cover 1023 do not necessarily have symmetrical shapes, and in another embodiment, the electronic device 101 includes various shapes of the first rear cover 1013 and / or may include a second rear cover (1023). In another embodiment, the first rear cover 1013 may be integrally formed with the first side member 1011, and the second rear cover 1023 may be integrally formed with the second side member 1021. there is.

In one embodiment, the first rear cover 1013, the second rear cover 1023, the first side member 1011, and the second side member 1021 are various parts of the electronic device 101 (eg: A space in which a printed circuit board or a battery) may be disposed may be formed.

In one embodiment, one or more components may be disposed or visually exposed on the rear surface of the electronic device 101 . For example, at least a portion of the sub display 165 may be visually exposed through at least one area of the first rear cover 1013 . For another example, the rear camera 180 may be visually exposed through at least one area of the second rear cover 1023 . As another example, the rear camera 180 may be disposed in one area of the rear surface of the electronic device 101 .

The housing 110 of the electronic device 101 is not limited to the shape and combination shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B , and may be implemented by other shapes or combinations and/or combinations of parts.

In one embodiment, the display 160 may be disposed on a space formed by the housing 110 . For example, the display 160 may be seated on a recess formed by the housing 110 and form most of the front surface of the electronic device 101 . For example, the front surface of the electronic device 101 may include the display 160, a partial area of the first side member 1011 adjacent to the display 160, and a partial area of the second side member 1021 adjacent to the display 160. As another example, the rear surface of the electronic device 101 includes the first rear cover 1013, a partial area of the first side member 1011 adjacent to the first rear cover 1013, the second rear cover 1023, and the second rear cover 1023. A partial area of the second side member 1021 adjacent to the rear cover 1023 may be included.

In one embodiment, the first region 161 and the second region 162 may have generally symmetrical shapes around the folding region 163 . However, unlike the first area 161, the second area 162 may include a notch cut according to the presence of the sensor area 434, but in other areas, the first area 162 may include a notch. It may have a shape symmetrical to that of the region 161 . For example, the first region 161 and the second region 162 may include a portion having a shape symmetrical to each other and a portion having a shape asymmetrical to each other.

Hereinafter, operations of the first side member 1011 and the second side member 1021 according to the state of the electronic device 101 (eg, an unfolded state and a folded state) and each region of the display 160 will be described.

In one embodiment, when the electronic device 101 is in an unfolded state (eg, FIG. 1A ), the first side member 1011 and the second side member 1021 form an angle of about 180 degrees and face the same direction. It can be. The surface of the first area 161 and the surface of the second area 162 of the display 160 form an angle of about 180 degrees to each other and may face substantially the same direction (eg, the front surface of the electronic device). The folding region 163 may form the same plane as the first region 161 and the second region 162 .

In one embodiment, when the electronic device 101 is in a folded state (eg, FIG. 1B ), the first side member 1011 and the second side member 1021 may face each other. The surface of the first area 161 and the surface of the second area 162 of the display 160 form a narrow angle (eg, between 0 degrees and 10 degrees) and may face each other. At least a portion of the folding region 163 may be formed of a curved surface having a predetermined curvature.

In one embodiment, when the electronic device 101 is in an intermediate state, the first side member 1011 and the second side member 1021 may be disposed at a certain angle from each other. The surface of the first area 161 and the surface of the second area 162 of the display 160 may form an angle greater than that of the folded state and smaller than that of the unfolded state. At least a portion of the folding region 163 may be formed of a curved surface having a predetermined curvature, and the curvature at this time may be smaller than that in a folded state.

Referring to FIG. 1B , the connection part 113 may be implemented such that the first part 111 and the second part 112 are mutually rotatable. For example, the connection part 113 may include a hinge structure coupled to the first part 111 and the second part 112 .

2 illustrates an electronic device according to an exemplary embodiment.

In FIG. 2 , overlapping descriptions of components overlapping those of FIGS. 1A and 1B will be omitted.

According to one embodiment, the first part 121 of the first side member 1011 may form a part of one edge of the first side member 1011 . For example, the first part 121 may be located at the farthest edge from the connection part 113 among the edges of the first side member 1011 . In one embodiment, the first portion 121 may be formed substantially parallel to the connecting portion 113 .

In one embodiment, the first part 121 may be powered from the RFIC 292 through the first path 10 at the second point P2, for transmitting and/or receiving an RF signal of a designated band. It can operate as a second antenna 220 . In one embodiment, the first portion 121 may include a conductive material.

In one embodiment, the first segmented portion 131 may be formed at one end of the first portion 121, and the second segmented portion 132 may be formed at the other end of the first portion 121. The first segmented portion 131 and the second segmented portion 132 may separate the first portion 121 from other portions of the first side member 1011 . In one embodiment, the first segment 131 and/or the second segment 132 may include a material having a specified permittivity or a non-conductive material (eg, air or resin).

In one embodiment, the second part 122 of the second side member 1021 may form a part of one edge of the second side member 1021 . For example, the second part 122 may be located at the farthest edge from the connection part 113 among the edges of the second side member 1021 .

In one embodiment, the second part 122 may be powered from the RFIC 292 through the second path 20 at the second point P2, for transmitting and/or receiving an RF signal of a designated band. It can operate as a second antenna 220 . In one embodiment, the second portion 122 may include a conductive material. In one embodiment, the second path 20 may include a flexible printed circuit board RF cable (FRC) 20a crossing the connection part 113 . In one example, the FRC 20a may be configured as a separate F-PCB and disposed between the PCBs.

In one embodiment, the third segmental part 133 may be formed at one end of the second part 122 and the fourth segmental part 134 may be formed at the other end of the second part 122 . The third segmental portion 133 and the fourth segmental portion 134 may electrically separate the second portion 122 formed of a conductive material from other portions of the second side member 1021 . In one embodiment, the third segment 133 and/or the fourth segment 134 may include a material having a specified permittivity or a non-conductive material (eg, air or resin).

The electronic device 101 according to an embodiment may include a power amplifier module (PAM) 140. In one embodiment, PAM 140 may be disposed in an electrical path between switching module 270 and RFIC 292. In one embodiment, PAM 140 may amplify a signal provided from RFIC 292.

According to an embodiment, the electronic device 101 may include a first printed circuit board (PCB) 221 and a second PCB 222 . According to an embodiment, the electronic device 101 may include a first PCB 221 disposed on the first part 111 and a second PCB 222 disposed on the second part 112 . For example, the first PCB 221 and the second PCB 222 may be disposed at corresponding positions with respect to the folding axis B, but are not limited thereto.

According to one embodiment, the first PCB 221 may be electrically connected to the second PCB 222 . For example, the first PCB 221 may be electrically connected to the second PCB 222 through the FRC 20a.

According to one embodiment, at least one of the RFIC 292 and the PAM 140 may be disposed on the first PCB 221 . According to another embodiment (not shown), at least one of the RFIC 292 and the PAM 140 may be disposed on the second PCB 222 .

In one embodiment, the first part 121 and the second part 122 may correspond to each other. For example, the first part 121 and the second part 122 may be respectively disposed at edges corresponding to each other among edges of the electronic device 101 while the electronic device 101 is unfolded. For another example, when viewed from above the rear surface of the first part 111, the first part 121 and the second part 122 may overlap each other while the electronic device 101 is folded.

In one embodiment, the first point P1 of the first portion 121 and the second point P2 of the second portion 122 may correspond to each other. For example, when the electronic device 101 is in a folded state (eg, the folded state of FIG. 1B ), when viewed from above the rear surface of the first part 111, the first point P1 of the first part 121 is the first point P1 of the first part 121. It may overlap with the second point P2 of the second portion 122 .

According to an embodiment, the electronic device 101 determines the phase of the first signal provided to the first portion 1211 through the first path 10 and the second portion 1231 through the second path 20. A phase of the second signal provided may be adjusted. For example, the electronic device 101 according to an embodiment controls the switching module 270 in a state in which the electronic device 101 is folded around the folding axis B (eg, in a folded state in FIG. 1B ). The first signal provided to the first part 121 and the second signal provided to the second part 122 may be adjusted to have the same phase. A detailed description of this will be given later.

3A illustrates an antenna structure including a switching module according to an embodiment. 3B illustrates a switching module including a phase correction circuit and an antenna structure including the same according to an exemplary embodiment.

Referring to FIGS. 3A and 3B together, an antenna structure 300 according to an embodiment includes a power amplifier (PA) 340, a frequency selection circuit 310, and a switching module 330 (eg, shown in FIG. 2). switching module 270), a first antenna 351 and a second antenna 352. According to another embodiment, the frequency selection circuit 310 may be formed inside the switching module 330 . According to an embodiment, the first antenna 351 may be referred to as the second antenna 220 of FIG. 2 , and the second antenna 352 may be referred to as the first antenna 210 of FIG. 2 . According to another embodiment, the first antenna 351 may be referred to as the first antenna 210 of FIG. 2 , and the second antenna 352 may be referred to as the second antenna 220 of FIG. 2 .

According to an embodiment, the amplifier 340 (eg, the PAM 140 of FIG. 2 ) may amplify a signal transmitted from a wireless communication circuit (eg, the wireless communication module 992 of FIG. 9 ).

According to an embodiment, at least one processor (not shown) may select a frequency band of a signal to be transmitted and received through the first antenna 351 and/or the second antenna 352 from among a plurality of frequency bands. At least one processor may select a frequency band of a signal to be transmitted and received through the first antenna 351 and/or the second antenna 352 among a plurality of frequency bands by controlling the frequency selection circuit 310 .

According to one embodiment, the frequency selection circuit 310 may include a single input terminal and at least one output terminal. According to one embodiment, the frequency selection circuit 310 may include a single input terminal and a number of output terminals corresponding to the type of frequency band. For example, the frequency selection circuit 310 may be referred to as a single pole triple throw (SP3T) switch or a single pole double throw (SPDT) switch, but is not limited thereto.

According to an embodiment, at least one processor may transmit and receive a signal of a designated frequency band among a plurality of frequency bands using the first antenna 351 and/or the second antenna 352 . The plurality of frequency bands according to an embodiment may include a first frequency band 321 , a second frequency band 322 , and a third frequency band 323 . According to another embodiment, the frequency selection circuit 310 and the plurality of frequency bands 321, 322, and 323 may be referred to as a band pass filter (BPF) or a duplexer.

According to an embodiment, when the antenna structure 300 supports new radio (NR) communication, the plurality of frequency bands include NR77 (about 3.3 GHz to about 4.2 GHz) band, NR78 (about 3.3 GHz to about 3.8 GHz) band, and It may include the NR70 (about 4.4 GHz to 5.0 GHz) band. According to another embodiment, when the antenna structure 300 supports long term evolution (LTE) communication, the plurality of frequency bands include a B1 (about 1.9 GHz to about 2.1 GHz) band and a B2 (about 1.8 GHz to about 1.9 GHz) band. and B3 (about 1.7 GHz to 2.1 GHz) bands. However, the frequency band of the signal transmitted and received through the first antenna 351 and/or the second antenna 352 is not limited to the above example, and may include various frequency bands.

According to one embodiment, the switching module 330 may be disposed in an electrical path formed from the amplifier 340 to the first antenna 351 and the second antenna 352 .

Referring to FIG. 3A , a switching module 330 according to an embodiment may include a first switch circuit 331 and a power distribution circuit 332 connected in parallel with the first switch circuit 331 .

According to an embodiment, the first switch circuit 331 may include a plurality of input terminals and at least one output terminal. According to an embodiment, the first switch circuit 331 may include a number of input terminals and at least one output terminal corresponding to the type of frequency band. For example, when signals of three types of frequency bands can be transmitted and received through the first antenna 351 and/or the second antenna 352, the first switch circuit 331 includes three input terminals. It can be done, but is not limited thereto. According to another embodiment (not shown), the frequency selection circuit 310 may be integrated into the first switch circuit 331.

According to an embodiment, at least a part of the first switch circuit 331 may be connected to ground. According to one embodiment, at least one processor may ground an electrical path through which a signal of a designated frequency band is transmitted by controlling the first switch circuit 331 .

According to an embodiment, the power distribution circuit 332 may be connected in parallel with the first switch circuit 331 (or an input terminal of the first switch circuit).

According to an embodiment, the power distribution circuit 332 may equally supply power supplied from the amplifier 340 to the first antenna 351 and the second antenna 352 . According to one embodiment, the power distribution circuit 332 may include a single input terminal and a plurality of output terminals. For example, the power distribution circuit 332 receives power from the amplifier 340 through a single input terminal, and transmits the supplied power to the first antenna 351 and the second antenna 352 through two output terminals. can be evenly supplied.

According to an embodiment, the antenna structure 300 may include a first electrical path 371 connected from at least one output terminal of the first switch circuit 331 to the first antenna 351 . According to one embodiment, the antenna structure 300 may include a second electrical path 372 connected to a point P on the first electrical path 371 from the power distribution circuit 332 . According to an embodiment, the antenna structure 300 may include a third electrical path 373 connected from the power distribution circuit 332 to the second antenna 352 .

According to one embodiment, the antenna structure 300 may include at least one passive element 361 disposed on the first electrical path 371 . According to one embodiment, the antenna structure 300 may include at least one passive element 361 disposed on the second electrical path 372 . For example, the antenna structure 300 may include an element disposed between a point P on the first electrical path 371 and the first antenna 351 . According to another embodiment, the passive element 361 disposed between a point P on the first electrical path 371 and the first antenna 351 may be referred to as a load due to a transmission line or wiring. there is.

According to an embodiment, the antenna structure 300 may include a phase shifter 362 disposed on the third electrical path 373. According to an embodiment, the phase shifter 362 disposed on the third electrical path 373 may adjust the phase of a signal transmitted and received through the second antenna 352 . For example, the phase shifter 362 may control a signal transmitted and received through the second antenna 352 to have the same phase as a signal transmitted and received through the first antenna 351 .

According to another embodiment (not shown), at least one passive element 361 may be disposed on the third electrical path 373, and the phase shifter 362 may be disposed on the first electrical path 371. .

According to another embodiment (not shown), some of the above-described components (eg, at least one passive element 361 or the phase shifter 362) may be omitted and other components may be added.

According to an embodiment, the at least one processor determines whether the electronic device (eg, the electronic device 101 of FIG. 1A ) is in an unfolded state (eg, an unfolded state in FIG. 1A ) or a folded state (eg, a folded state in FIG. 1B ). can determine whether According to an embodiment, the at least one processor determines whether the electronic device is in an unfolded state (eg, an unfolded state in FIG. 1A ) or a folded state (eg, a folded state in FIG. 1B ) using at least one sensor (eg, a Hall sensor). It can be judged whether or not

According to an embodiment, when the electronic device is in an unfolded state (eg, an unfolded state in FIG. 1A ), the at least one processor controls the first switch circuit 331 to transmit the first antenna through the first electrical path 371. By supplying power to 351, signals in the selected frequency band can be transmitted. For example, when the electronic device is in an unfolded state, the at least one processor controls the first switch circuit 331 to supply power to the first antenna 351 through the first electrical path 371, thereby opening the first antenna. Signals can be transmitted and/or received through

According to an embodiment, when the electronic device is in a folded state (eg, the folded state of FIG. 1B ), the at least one processor controls the first switch circuit 331 to control the first antenna through the second electrical path 372 . By supplying power to 351 and feeding power to the second antenna 352 through the third electrical path 373, a signal of a selected frequency band can be transmitted. For example, when the electronic device is in a folded state, the at least one processor controls the first switch circuit 331 to supply power to the first antenna 351 through the second electrical path 372 and the third electrical path. By feeding power to the second antenna 352 through 373, signals in the Bluetooth band can be transmitted and/or received through the first antenna 351 and the second antenna 352.

According to one embodiment, the antenna structure 300 may include a second switch circuit 334 disposed on the second electrical path 372 . According to an embodiment, the at least one processor may open the second switch circuit 334 when the electronic device is in an unfolded state. According to an embodiment, the at least one processor may disconnect the second electrical path 372 by opening the second switch circuit 334 when the electronic device is in an unfolded state.

According to an embodiment, when the electronic device is in an unfolded state, at least one processor controls the second switch circuit 334 to disconnect the second electrical path 372, thereby disconnecting the first electrical path 371 and the second electrical path 371. The two electrical paths 372 can be electrically isolated. According to an embodiment, when the electronic device is in an unfolded state, at least one processor controls the second switch circuit 334 to disconnect the second electrical path 372, so that the first electrical path 371 and power The distribution circuit 332 may be electrically isolated.

Referring to FIG. 3B , the switching module 330 according to an embodiment includes a first switch circuit 331 and a power distribution circuit 332 and a phase correction circuit 333 connected in parallel with the first switch circuit 331 . can include

According to an embodiment, the phase correction circuit 333 may be electrically connected to the power distribution circuit 332 , the first antenna 351 and the second antenna 352 . According to an embodiment, the phase correction circuit 333 is disposed on the second electrical path 372 and the third electrical path 373, and the power distribution circuit 332 is connected to the first antenna 351 and the second antenna. (352) can be electrically connected.

According to an embodiment, at least one processor may control the phase correction circuit 333 so that a signal transmitted through the first antenna 351 and a signal transmitted through the second antenna 352 have the same phase. there is. According to an embodiment, the at least one processor corresponds to a selected frequency band among parameters stored in a memory (not shown) so that signals transmitted by the first antenna 351 and the second antenna 352 have the same phase. It is possible to control the phase correction circuit 333 based on the parameter to be. A detailed description of this will be given later.

4 illustrates the phase correction circuit of FIG. 3B according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 4 , according to an embodiment, the phase correction circuit 333 includes a plurality of delay elements 440 and a plurality of switches 431 and 432 respectively corresponding to the plurality of delay elements 440 . can include

According to an embodiment, the plurality of delay elements 440 may be referred to as electrical paths having different electrical lengths. For example, the first delay element 441 may have an electrical path of 10 mm, and the second delay element 442 may have an electrical path of 20 mm, but are not limited thereto.

According to an embodiment, the phase correction circuit 333 may include a plurality of input terminals 411 and 412 and a plurality of output terminals 421 and 422 . According to an embodiment, the first path connected from the first input terminal 411 to the first output terminal 421 may form part of the second electrical path 372 . According to an embodiment, the second path connected from the second input terminal 412 to the second output terminal 422 may form part of the third electrical path 373 .

According to an embodiment, at least one processor may control the plurality of switches 431 and 432 based on a parameter corresponding to a selected frequency band among a plurality of parameters stored in a memory (not shown). According to an embodiment, the at least one processor controls the plurality of switches 431 and 432 based on a parameter corresponding to the selected frequency band, so that at least one of the plurality of delay elements 440 is connected to the second electrical path 372. ) and/or the third electrical path 373.

For example, at least one processor may connect the first delay element 441 to the second electrical path 372 by controlling the first switch 431 based on a parameter corresponding to the selected frequency band. As another example, at least one processor may connect the sixth delay element 446 to the third electrical path 373 by controlling the second switch 432 based on a parameter corresponding to the selected frequency band. . However, the electrical connection relationship inside the phase correction circuit 333 is not limited to the above example.

According to an embodiment, at least one processor may control the phase correction circuit 333 based on a look-up table stored in a memory. According to an embodiment, at least one processor may control the phase correction circuit 333 according to a selected frequency band based on a look-up table stored in a memory. According to an embodiment, a lookup table stored in memory may be referred to as Table 1 below.

address
(address) register name
(register name) function
(function) data bits Described
(description) Reg 0x3 Switching module 330 control Band selection [0:3] Switching module control for frequency band selection EPA control [4] EPA enable: 1 phase error correction [7:5] 000 No delay001 1st delay element in 1st path
010 Second delay element in first path
011 Third delay element in first path
100 The first delay element in the second path
101 Second delay element in the second path
110 Third delay element in second path

5 is a flowchart illustrating a wireless communication method of an electronic device according to an embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 5 , an electronic device (eg, the electronic device 101 of FIG. 1A ) according to an embodiment uses a first antenna (eg, the first antenna of FIG. 3A ) through different electrical paths according to states of the electronic device. 351) and/or the second antenna (eg, the second antenna 352 of FIG. 3A) may transmit and/or receive a signal of a selected frequency band.

According to an embodiment, in operation 501, at least one processor may determine a frequency band of a signal to be transmitted/received through the first antenna and/or the second antenna. According to an embodiment, at least one processor may determine a frequency band of a signal to be transmitted/received through the first antenna and/or the second antenna among a plurality of frequency bands. For example, at least one processor may determine one of a plurality of frequency bands as a frequency band of a signal to be transmitted and received through the first antenna and/or the second antenna. For example, at least one processor may determine a frequency band of a signal to be transmitted and received through the first antenna and/or the second antenna by controlling a switch (eg, the frequency selection circuit 310 of FIG. 3A ), but the frequency The method of determining the band is not limited thereto.

According to an embodiment, in operation 503, at least one processor may determine the state of the electronic device. According to an embodiment, in operation 503, at least one processor may determine whether the electronic device is in an unfolded state (eg, the unfolded state of FIG. 1A ). For example, the at least one processor determines whether the electronic device is in an unfolded state (eg, the unfolded state of FIG. 1A ) using at least one sensor (eg, an optical sensor) electrically connected to the at least one processor. can However, the method of determining the state of the electronic device is not limited to the above example.

According to an embodiment, when the electronic device is in an unfolded state, in operation 505, at least one processor supplies power to the first antenna through a first electrical path (eg, the first electrical path 371 of FIG. 3A), Communication can be performed through 1 antenna. According to an embodiment, when the electronic device is in an unfolded state, in operation 505, at least one processor controls a first switch circuit (eg, the first switch circuit 331 of FIG. 3A ) to generate a first electrical path (eg, the first switch circuit 331 of FIG. 3A ). By feeding power to the first antenna through the first electrical path 371 of FIG. 3A , a signal of a selected frequency band may be transmitted and/or received through the first antenna.

According to an embodiment, when the electronic device is in a folded state (eg, the folded state of FIG. 1B), in operation 507, at least one processor connects a second electrical path (eg, the second electrical path 372 of FIG. 3A). Communication may be performed by supplying power to the first antenna through the first antenna and feeding power to the second antenna through a third electrical path (eg, the third electrical path 373 of FIG. 3A ). According to an embodiment, when the electronic device is in a folded state, in operation 507, at least one processor controls the first switch circuit to supply power to the first antenna through a second electrical path, and to supply power to the second antenna through a third electrical path. By feeding power to the antenna, it is possible to transmit and/or receive a signal of a selected frequency band through the first antenna and the second antenna.

6 is a flowchart illustrating a wireless communication method including an operation of adjusting an electrical length of an electrical path through a phase correction circuit according to an exemplary embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 6 , at least one processor may determine a state of an electronic device (eg, the electronic device 101 of FIG. 1A ) in operation 503 and, based on this, perform communication through different electrical paths. there is. The same reference numerals are used for the same or substantially the same operations as the above-described operations, and duplicate descriptions are omitted.

According to an embodiment, when the electronic device is in a folded state (eg, the folded state of FIG. 1B ), in operation 606, the at least one processor controls the phase correction circuit to perform a second electrical path (eg, the second electrical path of FIG. 3A ). Electrical lengths of the second electrical path 372) and the third electrical path (eg, the third electrical path 373 of FIG. 3A) may be adjusted.

According to an embodiment, when the electronic device is in a folded state, in operation 606, at least one processor controls a phase correction circuit based on a parameter corresponding to the selected frequency band among pre-stored parameters, thereby controlling the second electrical path. and/or an electrical length of the third electrical path may be adjusted. According to an embodiment, when the electronic device is in a folded state, in operation 606, at least one processor controls a phase correction circuit so that signals of the selected frequency band transmitted by the first antenna and the second antenna have the same phase. Accordingly, the electrical lengths of the second electrical path and the third electrical path may be adjusted.

According to an embodiment, in operation 607, at least one processor feeds signals of the selected frequency band to the first antenna and the second antenna through the second electrical path and/or the third electrical path, the electrical length of which is adjusted, respectively. can send and receive.

According to an embodiment, in operation 607, at least one processor may perform communication by supplying power to the first antenna through the second electrical path and supplying power to the second antenna through the third electrical path. According to an embodiment, in operation 607, the at least one processor controls the first switch circuit to supply power to the first antenna through a second electrical path and to the second antenna through a third electrical path, thereby feeding the first antenna to the first antenna. and transmits and/or receives signals of the selected frequency band through the second antenna.

7A illustrates an electronic device in an unfolded state, according to another embodiment. 7B illustrates an electronic device in a folded state, according to another embodiment.

Referring to FIGS. 7A and 7B , overlapping descriptions of the same or substantially the same components as those described above in FIGS. 1A and 1B will be omitted.

In one embodiment, the housing 700 may have a substantially rectangular shape in the unfolded state of FIG. 7A. For example, the housing 700 may have a designated width W2 and a designated length L2 longer than the designated width W2. As another example, the housing 700 may have a designated width W2 and a designated length L2 that is substantially equal to or shorter than the designated width W2 . For example, the designated width W2 may be the width of the display 760 . In one embodiment, the housing 700 of the electronic device 710 has a long edge of the rectangle (eg, an edge facing the y-axis direction among edges of the housing 700 of the electronic device 710 in FIG. 7A) and substantially It can be folded or unfolded based on a parallel folding axis (A).

In one embodiment, the sensor area 734 may be formed to have a predetermined area adjacent to one corner of the second part 702 . However, the arrangement, shape, and size of the sensor area 734 are not limited to the illustrated example. For example, in another embodiment, the sensor area 734 may be provided at another corner of the housing 700 or any area between the upper and lower corners. As another example, the sensor area 734 may be omitted. For example, components disposed in the sensor area 734 may be disposed below the display 760 or in other locations of the housing 700 . In one embodiment, components for performing various functions embedded in the electronic device 710 are electronically transmitted through the sensor area 734 or through one or more openings provided in the sensor area 734. It may be exposed on the front surface of device 710 . In various embodiments, the components may include various types of sensors. The sensor may include, for example, at least one of a front camera, a receiver, and a proximity sensor.

Referring to FIG. 7B , the connection part 703 may be implemented such that the first part 701 and the second part 702 are mutually rotatable. For example, the connection part 703 may include a hinge structure coupled to the first part 701 and the second part 702 .

In one embodiment, the connection part 703 is disposed between the first side member 7011 and the second side member 7021, and a hinge cover 730 for covering an internal part (eg, the hinge structure) can include In one embodiment, the hinge cover 730, according to the state (flat state or folded state) of the electronic device 710, the first side member 7011 and the second side member ( 7021) may be covered by a part or exposed to the outside.

For example, as shown in FIG. 7A , when the electronic device 710 is in an unfolded state, at least a portion of the hinge cover 730 is covered by the first side member 7011 and the second side member 7021 and is not exposed. may not be For example, as shown in FIG. 7B , when the electronic device 710 is in a folded state, the hinge cover 730 may be exposed to the outside between the first side member 7011 and the second side member 7021. . For example, when the first side member 7011 and the second side member 7021 are in an intermediate state where the first side member 7011 and the second side member 7021 are folded with a certain angle, a portion of the hinge cover 730 is A portion may be exposed to the outside between the side member 7011 and the second side member 7021 . However, in this case, the exposed area of the hinge cover 730 may be smaller than the fully folded state of FIG. 7B.

8 illustrates an electronic device according to another embodiment.

According to one embodiment, the configuration of FIGS. 7A to 8 may be referred to as the configuration of FIGS. 1A to 2 . Also, the methods of FIGS. 5 and 6 may be referred to as operations for the structures of FIGS. 7A to 8 . In FIG. 8, the same reference numerals are used for the same or substantially the same components as those described above, and duplicate descriptions are omitted.

Referring to FIG. 8 , the first part 821 of the first side member 7011 may form a part of one edge of the first side member 7011 . In one embodiment, the first portion 821 may be powered at a first point P1 through the first path 10 from the RFIC 292, for transmitting and/or receiving an RF signal of a designated band. It can operate as the first antenna 810 . In one embodiment, the first portion 821 may include a conductive material. According to one embodiment, the first antenna 810 may be referred to as the second antenna 352 of FIG. 3A. According to another embodiment, the first antenna 810 may be referred to as the first antenna 351 of FIG. 3A.

In one embodiment, a first segmented portion 831 may be formed at one end of the first portion 821 and a second segmented portion 832 may be formed at the other end of the first portion 821 . The first segmental portion 831 and the second segmental portion 832 may electrically separate the first portion 821 formed of a conductive material from other portions of the first side member 7011 . In one embodiment, the first segment 831 and the second segment 832 may include a material having a specified permittivity or a non-conductive material (eg, air or resin).

In one embodiment, the second part 822 of the second side member 7021 may form a part of one edge of the second side member 7021 . In one embodiment, the second portion 822 may be powered at a second point P2 through the second path 20 from the RFIC 292, for transmitting and/or receiving an RF signal of a designated band. It can operate as a second antenna 820 . In one embodiment, the second portion 822 may include a conductive material. In an embodiment, the second path 20 may include a flexible printed circuit board RF cable (FRC) 20a crossing the connection part 703 . According to one embodiment, the second antenna 820 may be referred to as the second antenna 352 of FIG. 3A. According to another embodiment, the second antenna 820 may be referred to as the first antenna 351 of FIG. 3A.

In one embodiment, a third segmental portion 833 may be formed at one end of the second portion 822 and a fourth segmental portion 834 may be formed at the other end of the second portion 822 . The third segment 833 and the fourth segment 834 may electrically separate the second portion 822 formed of a conductive material from other portions of the second side member 7021 . In an embodiment, the third segment 833 and the fourth segment 834 may include a material having a specified permittivity or a non-conductive material (eg, air or resin).

The electronic device 710 according to an embodiment includes a power amplifier module (PAM) 840 disposed in an electrical path between a switching module 870 (eg, the switching module 330 of FIG. 3A) and an RFIC 292. can include The PAM 840 may include, for example, a power amplifier for amplifying a signal provided from the RFIC 292.

In one embodiment, the first part 821 and the second part 822 may correspond to each other. For example, the first part 821 and the second part 822 may be positioned at the same edge when the electronic device 710 is unfolded. For another example, the first part 821 and the second part 822 may overlap each other while the electronic device 710 is folded. For example, when the electronic device 710 is in a folded state and viewed from above the rear surface of the first part 701 , the first part 821 may overlap the second part 822 .

In one embodiment, the first point P1 of the first portion 821 and the second point P2 of the second portion 822 may correspond to each other. For example, when the electronic device 710 is folded, the first point P1 of the first portion 821 may substantially overlap the second point P2 of the second portion 822 . For example, when the electronic device 710 is in a folded state and viewed from the rear surface of the first part 701, the first point P1 and the second point P2 may overlap.

In one embodiment, the switch module 870 determines the phase of the first signal provided to the first part 821 through the first path 10 and the second path so that the electronic device 710 operates in the antenna mode. The phase of the second signal provided to the second part 822 may be adjusted through (20).

For example, in the electronic device 710 according to an embodiment, a first signal and a second signal having the same phase are transmitted to a first part 821 and a second part 822 by using a switch module 870. signal can be provided. In this case, even if the electronic device 710 is folded, the current flowing in the ground corresponding to the first part 701 and the ground corresponding to the second part 702 may be formed in the same direction.

9 is a diagram illustrating an electronic device in a network environment according to an embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 9 , in a network environment 900, an electronic device 901 communicates with an electronic device 902 through a first network 998 (eg, a short-range wireless communication network) or through a second network 999. It may communicate with at least one of the electronic device 904 or the server 908 through (eg, a long-distance wireless communication network). According to an embodiment, the electronic device 901 may communicate with the electronic device 904 through the server 908 . According to an embodiment, the electronic device 901 includes a processor 920, a memory 930, an input module 950, a sound output module 955, a display module 960, an audio module 970, a sensor module ( 976), interface 977, connection terminal 978, haptic module 979, camera module 980, power management module 988, battery 989, communication module 990, subscriber identification module 996 , or an antenna module 997. In some embodiments, in the electronic device 901, at least one of these components (eg, the connection terminal 978) may be omitted or one or more other components may be added. In some embodiments, some of these components (eg, sensor module 976, camera module 980, or antenna module 997) are integrated into a single component (eg, display module 960). It can be.

The processor 920, for example, executes software (eg, the program 940) to cause at least one other component (eg, hardware or software component) of the electronic device 901 connected to the processor 920. It can control and perform various data processing or calculations. According to one embodiment, as at least part of data processing or operation, the processor 920 transfers instructions or data received from other components (e.g., sensor module 976 or communication module 990) to volatile memory 932. , processing commands or data stored in the volatile memory 932 , and storing resultant data in the non-volatile memory 934 . According to an embodiment, the processor 920 may include a main processor 921 (eg, a central processing unit or an application processor) or a secondary processor 923 (eg, a graphic processing unit, a neural network processing unit ( NPU: neural processing unit (NPU), image signal processor, sensor hub processor, or communication processor). For example, when the electronic device 901 includes a main processor 921 and an auxiliary processor 923, the auxiliary processor 923 may use less power than the main processor 921 or be set to be specialized for a designated function. can The auxiliary processor 923 may be implemented separately from or as part of the main processor 921 .

The secondary processor 923 may, for example, take the place of the main processor 921 while the main processor 921 is in an inactive (eg, sleep) state, or the main processor 921 is active (eg, running an application). ) state, together with the main processor 921, at least one of the components of the electronic device 901 (eg, the display module 960, the sensor module 976, or the communication module 990) It is possible to control at least some of the related functions or states. According to one embodiment, the co-processor 923 (eg, image signal processor or communication processor) may be implemented as part of other functionally related components (eg, camera module 980 or communication module 990). there is. According to an embodiment, the auxiliary processor 923 (eg, a neural network processing device) may include a hardware structure specialized for processing an artificial intelligence model. AI models can be created through machine learning. Such learning may be performed, for example, in the electronic device 901 itself where the artificial intelligence model is performed, or may be performed through a separate server (eg, the server 908). The learning algorithm may include, for example, supervised learning, unsupervised learning, semi-supervised learning or reinforcement learning, but in the above example Not limited. The artificial intelligence model may include a plurality of artificial neural network layers. Artificial neural networks include deep neural networks (DNNs), convolutional neural networks (CNNs), recurrent neural networks (RNNs), restricted boltzmann machines (RBMs), deep belief networks (DBNs), bidirectional recurrent deep neural networks (BRDNNs), It may be one of deep Q-networks or a combination of two or more of the foregoing, but is not limited to the foregoing examples. The artificial intelligence model may include, in addition or alternatively, software structures in addition to hardware structures.

The memory 930 may store various data used by at least one component (eg, the processor 920 or the sensor module 976) of the electronic device 901 . The data may include, for example, input data or output data for software (eg, the program 940) and commands related thereto. The memory 930 may include volatile memory 932 or non-volatile memory 934 .

The program 940 may be stored as software in the memory 930 and may include, for example, an operating system 942 , middleware 944 , or an application 946 .

The input module 950 may receive a command or data to be used by a component (eg, the processor 920) of the electronic device 901 from the outside of the electronic device 901 (eg, a user). The input module 950 may include, for example, a microphone, a mouse, a keyboard, a key (eg, a button), or a digital pen (eg, a stylus pen).

The sound output module 955 may output sound signals to the outside of the electronic device 901 . The sound output module 955 may include, for example, a speaker or receiver. The speaker can be used for general purposes such as multimedia playback or recording playback. A receiver may be used to receive an incoming call. According to one embodiment, the receiver may be implemented separately from the speaker or as part of it.

The display module 960 may visually provide information to the outside of the electronic device 901 (eg, a user). The display module 960 may include, for example, a display, a hologram device, or a projector and a control circuit for controlling the device. According to one embodiment, the display module 960 may include a touch sensor set to detect a touch or a pressure sensor set to measure the intensity of force generated by the touch.

The audio module 970 may convert sound into an electrical signal or vice versa. According to one embodiment, the audio module 970 acquires sound through the input module 950, the sound output module 955, or an external electronic device connected directly or wirelessly to the electronic device 901 (eg: Sound may be output through the electronic device 902 (eg, a speaker or a headphone).

The sensor module 976 detects an operating state (eg, power or temperature) of the electronic device 901 or an external environmental state (eg, a user state), and generates an electrical signal or data value corresponding to the detected state. can do. According to one embodiment, the sensor module 976 may include, for example, a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, an air pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a proximity sensor, a color sensor, an IR (infrared) sensor, a bio sensor, It may include a temperature sensor, humidity sensor, or light sensor.

The interface 977 may support one or more specified protocols that may be used to directly or wirelessly connect the electronic device 901 to an external electronic device (eg, the electronic device 902). According to one embodiment, the interface 977 may include, for example, a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB) interface, an SD card interface, or an audio interface.

The connection terminal 978 may include a connector through which the electronic device 901 may be physically connected to an external electronic device (eg, the electronic device 902). According to one embodiment, the connection terminal 978 may include, for example, an HDMI connector, a USB connector, an SD card connector, or an audio connector (eg, a headphone connector).

The haptic module 979 may convert electrical signals into mechanical stimuli (eg, vibration or movement) or electrical stimuli that a user can perceive through tactile or kinesthetic senses. According to one embodiment, the haptic module 979 may include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

The camera module 980 may capture still images and moving images. According to one embodiment, the camera module 980 may include one or more lenses, image sensors, image signal processors, or flashes.

The power management module 988 may manage power supplied to the electronic device 901 . According to one embodiment, power management module 988 may be implemented as at least part of a power management integrated circuit (PMIC), for example.

The battery 989 may supply power to at least one component of the electronic device 901 . According to one embodiment, the battery 989 may include, for example, a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable secondary battery, or a fuel cell.

The communication module 990 is a direct (eg, wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between the electronic device 901 and an external electronic device (eg, the electronic device 902, the electronic device 904, or the server 908). Establishment and communication through the established communication channel may be supported. The communication module 990 may include one or more communication processors that operate independently of the processor 920 (eg, an application processor) and support direct (eg, wired) communication or wireless communication. According to one embodiment, the communication module 990 is a wireless communication module 992 (eg, a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module 994 (eg, a : a local area network (LAN) communication module or a power line communication module). Among these communication modules, a corresponding communication module is a first network 998 (eg, a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, wireless fidelity (WiFi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or a second network 999 (eg, legacy It may communicate with the external electronic device 904 through a cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a telecommunications network such as a computer network (eg, LAN or WAN). These various types of communication modules may be integrated as one component (eg, a single chip) or implemented as a plurality of separate components (eg, multiple chips). The wireless communication module 992 uses subscriber information (eg, International Mobile Subscriber Identifier (IMSI)) stored in the subscriber identification module 996 within a communication network such as the first network 998 or the second network 999. The electronic device 901 may be identified or authenticated.

The wireless communication module 992 may support a 5G network after a 4G network and a next-generation communication technology, such as NR access technology (new radio access technology). NR access technologies include high-speed transmission of high-capacity data (enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB)), minimization of terminal power and access of multiple terminals (massive machine type communications (mMTC)), or high reliability and low latency (ultra-reliable and low latency (URLLC)). -latency communications)) can be supported. The wireless communication module 992 may support a high frequency band (eg, mmWave band) to achieve a high data rate, for example. The wireless communication module 992 uses various technologies for securing performance in a high frequency band, such as beamforming, massive multiple-input and multiple-output (MIMO), and full-dimensional multiplexing. Technologies such as input/output (FD-MIMO: full dimensional MIMO), array antenna, analog beam-forming, or large scale antenna may be supported. The wireless communication module 992 may support various requirements defined for the electronic device 901, an external electronic device (eg, the electronic device 904), or a network system (eg, the second network 999). According to one embodiment, the wireless communication module 992 is a peak data rate for eMBB realization (eg, 20 Gbps or more), a loss coverage for mMTC realization (eg, 164 dB or less), or a U-plane latency for URLLC realization (eg, Example: downlink (DL) and uplink (UL) each of 0.5 ms or less, or round trip 1 ms or less) may be supported.

The antenna module 997 may transmit or receive signals or power to the outside (eg, an external electronic device). According to one embodiment, the antenna module 997 may include an antenna including a radiator formed of a conductor or a conductive pattern formed on a substrate (eg, PCB). According to one embodiment, the antenna module 997 may include a plurality of antennas (eg, an array antenna). In this case, at least one antenna suitable for a communication method used in a communication network such as the first network 998 or the second network 999 is selected from the plurality of antennas by, for example, the communication module 990. can be chosen A signal or power may be transmitted or received between the communication module 990 and an external electronic device through the selected at least one antenna. According to some embodiments, other components (eg, a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) may be additionally formed as a part of the antenna module 997 in addition to the radiator. According to various embodiments, the antenna module 997 may form a mmWave antenna module. According to one embodiment, the mmWave antenna module includes a printed circuit board, an RFIC disposed on or adjacent to a first surface (eg, a lower surface) of the printed circuit board and capable of supporting a designated high frequency band (eg, mmWave band); and a plurality of antennas (eg, array antennas) disposed on or adjacent to a second surface (eg, a top surface or a side surface) of the printed circuit board and capable of transmitting or receiving signals of the designated high frequency band. can do.

At least some of the components are connected to each other through a communication method between peripheral devices (eg, a bus, general purpose input and output (GPIO), serial peripheral interface (SPI), or mobile industry processor interface (MIPI)) and signal ( e.g. commands or data) can be exchanged with each other.

According to an embodiment, commands or data may be transmitted or received between the electronic device 901 and the external electronic device 904 through the server 908 connected to the second network 999 . Each of the external electronic devices 902 or 904 may be the same as or different from the electronic device 901 . According to an embodiment, all or part of operations executed in the electronic device 901 may be executed in one or more external electronic devices among the external electronic devices 902 , 904 , or 908 . For example, when the electronic device 901 needs to perform a certain function or service automatically or in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device 901 instead of executing the function or service by itself. Alternatively or additionally, one or more external electronic devices may be requested to perform the function or at least part of the service. One or more external electronic devices receiving the request may execute at least a part of the requested function or service or an additional function or service related to the request, and deliver the execution result to the electronic device 901 . The electronic device 901 may provide the result as at least part of a response to the request as it is or additionally processed. To this end, for example, cloud computing, distributed computing, mobile edge computing (MEC), or client-server computing technology may be used. The electronic device 901 may provide an ultra-low latency service using, for example, distributed computing or mobile edge computing. In another embodiment, the external electronic device 904 may include an internet of things (IoT) device. Server 908 may be an intelligent server using machine learning and/or neural networks. According to an embodiment, the external electronic device 904 or server 908 may be included in the second network 999 . The electronic device 901 may be applied to intelligent services (eg, smart home, smart city, smart car, or health care) based on 5G communication technology and IoT-related technology.

Electronic devices according to various embodiments disclosed in this document may be devices of various types. The electronic device may include, for example, a portable communication device (eg, a smart phone), a computer device, a portable multimedia device, a portable medical device, a camera, a wearable device, or a home appliance. An electronic device according to an embodiment of the present document is not limited to the aforementioned devices.

Various embodiments of this document and terms used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, but should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutes of the embodiments. In connection with the description of the drawings, like reference numbers may be used for like or related elements. The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one item or a plurality of items, unless the relevant context clearly dictates otherwise. In this document, "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B or C", "at least one of A, B and C", and "A Each of the phrases such as "at least one of , B, or C" may include any one of the items listed together in that phrase, or all possible combinations thereof. Terms such as "first", "second", or "first" or "secondary" may simply be used to distinguish a given component from other corresponding components, and may be used to refer to a given component in another aspect (eg, importance or order) is not limited. A (e.g., first) component is said to be "coupled" or "connected" to another (e.g., second) component, with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicatively." When mentioned, it means that the certain component may be connected to the other component directly (eg by wire), wirelessly, or through a third component.

The term "module" used in various embodiments of this document may include a unit implemented in hardware, software, or firmware, and is interchangeably interchangeable with terms such as, for example, logic, logic blocks, components, or circuits. can be used A module may be an integrally constructed component or a minimal unit of components or a portion thereof that performs one or more functions. For example, according to one embodiment, the module may be implemented in the form of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

Various embodiments of this document provide one or more instructions stored in a storage medium (eg, internal memory 936 or external memory 938) readable by a machine (eg, electronic device 901). It may be implemented as software (eg, the program 940) including them. For example, a processor (eg, the processor 920) of a device (eg, the electronic device 901) may call at least one command among one or more instructions stored from a storage medium and execute it. This enables the device to be operated to perform at least one function according to the at least one command invoked. The one or more instructions may include code generated by a compiler or code executable by an interpreter. The device-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, 'non-temporary' only means that the storage medium is a tangible device and does not contain a signal (e.g. electromagnetic wave), and this term refers to the case where data is stored semi-permanently in the storage medium. It does not discriminate when it is temporarily stored.

According to one embodiment, the method according to various embodiments disclosed in this document may be included and provided in a computer program product. Computer program products may be traded between sellers and buyers as commodities. A computer program product is distributed in the form of a device-readable storage medium (eg compact disc read only memory (CD-ROM)), or through an application store (eg Play Store ^TM ) or on two user devices ( It can be distributed (eg downloaded or uploaded) online, directly between smart phones. In the case of online distribution, at least part of the computer program product may be temporarily stored or temporarily created in a device-readable storage medium such as a manufacturer's server, an application store server, or a relay server's memory.

According to various embodiments, each component (eg, module or program) of the above-described components may include a single object or a plurality of entities, and some of the plurality of entities may be separately disposed in other components. there is. According to various embodiments, one or more components or operations among the aforementioned corresponding components may be omitted, or one or more other components or operations may be added. Alternatively or additionally, a plurality of components (eg modules or programs) may be integrated into a single component. In this case, the integrated component may perform one or more functions of each of the plurality of components identically or similarly to those performed by a corresponding component of the plurality of components prior to the integration. . According to various embodiments, the actions performed by a module, program, or other component are executed sequentially, in parallel, iteratively, or heuristically, or one or more of the actions are executed in a different order, or omitted. or one or more other actions may be added.

The electronic device 101 according to an embodiment includes a first part 111, a second part 112, and a hinge structure connecting the first part 111 and the second part 112 (e.g., FIG. A housing including the connecting portion 113 of 1a) and capable of being switched to a folded state or an unfolded state around the hinge structure, at least one processor disposed inside the housing, of the housing A first antenna 351 forming at least a part, a second antenna 352 formed at a position corresponding to the first antenna 351 around the hinge structure (eg, the connecting portion 113 of FIG. 1A), A first switch circuit electrically connected to the at least one processor and including a plurality of input terminals and at least one output terminal, electrically connected to the at least one processor and connected in parallel to the plurality of input terminals A power distribution circuit 332, a first electrical path 371 connected from the at least one output terminal of the first switch circuit to the first antenna 351, and the first electrical path 371 from the power distribution circuit 332 A second electrical path 372 connected to a point on a path 371 and a third electrical path 373 connected from the power distribution circuit 332 to the second antenna 352, wherein the at least one the processor of Selecting a frequency band of a signal to be transmitted and received through the first antenna 351 and/or the second antenna 352, and controlling the first switch circuit when the electronic device 101 is in the expanded state By feeding power to the first antenna 351 through the first electrical path 371, the signal of the selected frequency band is transmitted, and when the electronic device 101 is in the folded state, the first switch circuit is controlled. by feeding power to the first antenna 351 through the second electrical path 372 and feeding power to the second antenna 352 through the third electrical path 373, thereby generating a signal of the selected frequency band. can be sent

According to an embodiment, the electronic device 101 is disposed on a memory electrically connected to the at least one processor and the second electrical path 372 and the third electrical path 373, and the power distribution circuit 332 and a phase correction circuit 333 electrically connecting the first antenna 351 and the second antenna 352, wherein the at least one processor comprises the first antenna 351 and the second antenna 352. The phase correction circuit 333 may be controlled based on a parameter corresponding to the selected frequency band among parameters stored in the memory so that signals of the selected frequency band transmitted by the second antenna 352 have the same phase. there is.

According to an embodiment, the phase correction circuit 333 includes a plurality of delay elements 440 and a plurality of switches respectively corresponding to the plurality of delay elements, and the at least one processor, By controlling the plurality of switches based on the parameter, at least one of the plurality of delay elements may be connected to the second electrical path 372 and/or the third electrical path 373 .

According to an embodiment, the electronic device 101 may further include at least one passive element 361 disposed on the second electrical path 372 .

According to an embodiment, the electronic device 101 is disposed on the third electrical path 373 and includes a phase shifter for adjusting the phase of a signal transmitted and received through the second antenna 352. can include more.

According to an embodiment, the power distribution circuit 332 may equally supply power supplied from the power amplifier to the first antenna 351 and the second antenna 352 .

According to an embodiment, the electronic device 101 further includes at least one sensor electrically connected to the at least one processor, and the at least one processor uses the at least one sensor, so that the electronic device ( 101) can determine whether it is in the expanded state or the folded state.

According to an embodiment, when the electronic device 101 is in the folded state, the at least one processor controls the first switch circuit (eg, the first switch circuit 334 of FIG. 1 electrical path 371 can be disconnected.

According to an embodiment, the at least one processor may select a frequency band of a signal to be transmitted and received through the first antenna 351 and/or the second antenna 352 by controlling the first switch circuit. there is.

According to an embodiment, the electronic device 101 further includes a second switch circuit disposed on the second electrical path 372, and the at least one processor determines that the electronic device 101 is in the unfolded state. In this case, the second electrical path 372 may be disconnected by opening the second switch circuit.

A wireless communication method according to an embodiment includes an operation of selecting a frequency band of a signal to be transmitted and received through a first antenna 351 and/or a second antenna 352, and when the electronic device 101 is in an unfolded state, a first An operation of transmitting and receiving a signal of the selected frequency band by feeding power to the first antenna 351 through a first electrical path 371 by controlling a switch circuit and when the electronic device 101 is in a folded state, the first antenna 351 1 By controlling the switch circuit, power is supplied to the first antenna 351 through the second electrical path 372 connected to a point of the first electrical path 371, and the power is supplied to the first antenna 351 through the third electrical path 373. An operation of transmitting and receiving a signal of the selected frequency band by feeding power to the second antenna 352 may be included.

In the wireless communication method according to an embodiment, when the electronic device 101 is in the folded state, signals of the selected frequency band transmitted by the first antenna 351 and the second antenna 352 have the same phase. electrical lengths of the second electrical path 372 and/or the third electrical path 373 by controlling the phase correction circuit 333 based on a parameter corresponding to the selected frequency band among pre-stored parameters. by adjusting, supplying power to the first antenna 351 through the second electrical path 372, and feeding power to the second antenna 352 through the third electrical path 373, thereby providing the selected frequency band. It may include an operation of transmitting and receiving a signal of.

According to an embodiment, when the electronic device 101 is in the folded state, an operation of disconnecting the first electrical path 371 by opening a switch disposed on the first electrical path 371 is included. can

According to an embodiment, when the electronic device 101 is in the unfolded state, an operation of disconnecting the second electrical path 372 by opening a second switch circuit disposed on the second electrical path 372 can include

According to an embodiment, an operation of controlling a phase of a signal transmitted and received through the second antenna 352 may be included by controlling a phase shifter disposed on the third electrical path 373 .

The electronic device 101 according to an embodiment includes a first part 111, a second part 112, and a hinge structure connecting the first part 111 and the second part 112 (eg: A housing that includes the connecting portion 113 of FIG. 1A and can be switched to a folded state or an unfolded state around the hinge structure (eg, the connecting portion 113 of FIG. 1A), the housing At least one processor disposed inside, a first antenna 351 forming at least a part of the housing, and corresponding to the first antenna 351 centered on the hinge structure (eg, the connection part 113 of FIG. 1A) a second antenna 352 formed at a location where the at least one processor and a switching module 330 disposed between the first antenna 351 and the second antenna 352; A first electrical path 371 connected from the at least one output terminal of the switch circuit to the first antenna 351 and connected to a point on the first electrical path 371 from the power distribution circuit 332 A second electrical path 372 and a third electrical path 373 connected from the power distribution circuit 332 to the second antenna 352, wherein the at least one processor includes the first antenna 351 ) and/or selects a frequency band of a signal to be transmitted and received through the second antenna 352, and controls the switch circuit when the electronic device 101 is in the unfolded state to generate the first electrical path 371 The signal of the selected frequency band is transmitted by feeding power to the first antenna 351 through a power supply, and when the electronic device 101 is in the folded state, the switch circuit is controlled to open the second electrical path 372. By supplying power to the first antenna 351 through the third electrical path 373 and feeding power to the second antenna 352 through the third electrical path 373, the signal of the selected frequency band can be transmitted. can

According to one embodiment, the switching module may include a switch circuit including a plurality of input terminals and at least one output terminal, and a power distribution circuit 332 connected in parallel to the plurality of input terminals.

According to an embodiment, the electronic device 101 is disposed on a memory electrically connected to the at least one processor and the second electrical path 372 and the third electrical path 373, and the power distribution circuit 332 and a phase correction circuit 333 electrically connecting the first antenna 351 and the second antenna 352, wherein the at least one processor comprises the first antenna 351 and the second antenna 352. The phase correction circuit 333 may be controlled based on a parameter corresponding to the selected frequency band among parameters stored in the memory so that signals of the selected frequency band transmitted by the second antenna 352 have the same phase. there is.

According to an embodiment, in the electronic device 101, the switching module further includes a power amplifier, and the power distribution circuit 332 transmits power from the power amplifier to the first antenna 351 and the second antenna 351. The antenna 352 can be supplied evenly.

The electronic device 101 according to an embodiment further includes a switch disposed between the phase correction circuit 333 and the first antenna 351 on the second electrical path 372, and the at least one processor may disconnect the second electrical path 372 by opening the switch when the electronic device 101 is in the unfolded state.

The phase correction circuit 333 according to an embodiment includes a plurality of delay elements 440 and a plurality of switches respectively corresponding to the plurality of delay elements, and the at least one processor performs the By controlling a plurality of switches, at least one of the plurality of delay elements may be connected to the second electrical path 372 and/or the third electrical path 373 .

Claims (20)

In electronic devices,
It includes a first part, a second part, and a hinge structure connecting the first part and the second part, and can be switched to a folded state or an unfolded state around the hinge structure housing;
at least one processor disposed inside the housing;
a first antenna forming at least a portion of the housing;
a second antenna formed at a position corresponding to the first antenna around the hinge structure;
a first switch circuit electrically connected to the at least one processor and including a plurality of input terminals and at least one output terminal;
a power distribution circuit electrically connected to the at least one processor and connected in parallel to the plurality of input terminals;
a first electrical path connected from the at least one output terminal of the first switch circuit to the first antenna;
a second electrical path connected from the power distribution circuit to a point on the first electrical path; and
a third electrical path from the power distribution circuit to the second antenna;
The at least one processor is:
Selecting a frequency band of a signal to be transmitted and received through the first antenna and / or the second antenna;
When the electronic device is in the expanded state, transmits a signal of the selected frequency band by controlling the first switch circuit to supply power to the first antenna through the first electrical path;
When the electronic device is in the folded state, by controlling the first switch circuit to supply power to the first antenna through the second electrical path and to the second antenna through the third electrical path, the selected An electronic device that transmits a signal in a frequency band. The method of claim 1,
a memory electrically connected to the at least one processor; and
a phase correction circuit disposed on the second electrical path and the third electrical path and electrically connecting the power distribution circuit to the first antenna and the second antenna;
The at least one processor performs the processing based on a parameter corresponding to the selected frequency band among parameters stored in the memory so that signals of the selected frequency band transmitted by the first antenna and the second antenna have the same phase. An electronic device that controls a phase correction circuit. The method of claim 2,
The phase correction circuit includes a plurality of delay elements and a plurality of switches respectively corresponding to the plurality of delay elements,
The at least one processor connects at least one of the plurality of delay elements to the second electrical path and/or the third electrical path by controlling the plurality of switches based on the parameter. The method of claim 1,
The electronic device further comprises at least one passive element disposed on the second electrical path. The method of claim 4,
The electronic device further includes a phase shifter disposed on the third electrical path and adjusting a phase of a signal transmitted and received through the second antenna. The method of claim 1,
The electronic device of claim 1 , wherein the power distribution circuit equally supplies power supplied from a power amplifier to the first antenna and the second antenna. The method of claim 1,
Further comprising at least one sensor electrically connected to the at least one processor,
The at least one processor determines whether the electronic device is in the expanded state or the folded state by using the at least one sensor. The method of claim 1,
The electronic device, wherein the at least one processor disconnects the first electrical path by controlling the first switch circuit when the electronic device is in the folded state. The method of claim 1,
The electronic device, wherein the at least one processor selects a frequency band of a signal to be transmitted and received through the first antenna and/or the second antenna by controlling the first switch circuit. The method of claim 1,
Further comprising a second switch circuit disposed on the second electrical path,
The at least one processor disconnects the second electrical path by opening the second switch circuit when the electronic device is in the unfolded state. In the wireless communication method,
selecting a frequency band of a signal to be transmitted and received through the first antenna and/or the second antenna;
transmitting and receiving a signal of the selected frequency band by supplying power to the first antenna through a first electrical path by controlling a first switch circuit when the electronic device is in an unfolded state; and
When the electronic device is in a folded state, power is supplied to the first antenna through a second electrical path connected to a point of the first electrical path by controlling the first switch circuit, and power is supplied to the first antenna through a third electrical path. and transmitting and receiving signals of the selected frequency band by feeding power to two antennas. The method of claim 11,
When the electronic device is in the folded state, based on a parameter corresponding to the selected frequency band among pre-stored parameters so that signals of the selected frequency band transmitted by the first antenna and the second antenna have the same phase adjusting the electrical length of the second electrical path and/or the third electrical path by controlling the phase correction circuit;
and transmitting and receiving signals of the selected frequency band by feeding power to the first antenna through the second electrical path and feeding power to the second antenna through the third electrical path. The method of claim 11,
and disconnecting the first electrical path by opening a switch disposed on the first electrical path when the electronic device is in the folded state. The method of claim 11,
and disconnecting the second electrical path by opening a second switch circuit disposed on the second electrical path when the electronic device is in the unfolded state. The method of claim 11,
and controlling a phase of a signal transmitted and received through the second antenna by controlling a phase shifter disposed on the third electrical path. In electronic devices,
It includes a first part, a second part, and a hinge structure connecting the first part and the second part, and can be switched to a folded state or an unfolded state around the hinge structure housing;
at least one processor disposed inside the housing;
a first antenna forming at least a portion of the housing;
a second antenna formed at a position corresponding to the first antenna around the hinge structure;
A switching module disposed between the at least one processor and the first antenna and the second antenna;
The switching module:
A switch circuit including a plurality of input terminals and at least one output terminal, and
including a power distribution circuit connected in parallel with the plurality of input terminals;
a first electrical path connected from the at least one output terminal of the plurality of switch circuits to the first antenna;
a second electrical path connected from the power distribution circuit to a point on the first electrical path; and
a third electrical path from the power distribution circuit to the second antenna;
The at least one processor is:
Selecting a frequency band of a signal to be transmitted and received through the first antenna and / or the second antenna;
When the electronic device is in the expanded state, transmits a signal of the selected frequency band by controlling the switch circuit to supply power to the first antenna through the first electrical path;
When the electronic device is in the folded state, the selected frequency band is controlled by controlling the switch circuit to supply power to the first antenna through the second electrical path and to the second antenna through the third electrical path. An electronic device that transmits a signal of The method of claim 16
a memory electrically connected to the at least one processor; and
a phase correction circuit disposed on the second electrical path and the third electrical path and electrically connecting the power distribution circuit to the first antenna and the second antenna;
The at least one processor performs the processing based on a parameter corresponding to the selected frequency band among parameters stored in the memory so that signals of the selected frequency band transmitted by the first antenna and the second antenna have the same phase. An electronic device that controls a phase correction circuit. The method of claim 16
The switching module further includes a power amplifier,
The electronic device of claim 1 , wherein the power distribution circuit equally supplies power transmitted from the power amplifier to the first antenna and the second antenna. The method of claim 17
Further comprising a switch disposed between the phase correction circuit and the first antenna on the second electrical path;
The at least one processor disconnects the second electrical path by opening the switch when the electronic device is in the unfolded state. The method of claim 17
The phase correction circuit includes a plurality of delay elements and a plurality of switches respectively corresponding to the plurality of delay elements,
The at least one processor connects at least one of the plurality of delay elements to the second electrical path and/or the third electrical path by controlling the plurality of switches based on the parameter.

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