KR20240013623A - Electronic device and method for switching of antenna thereof - Google Patents

Abstract

The electronic device includes a foldable housing, a hinge structure, a first antenna disposed on a portion of the first side member, a first antenna configured to transmit and receive signals in a second frequency band different from the first frequency band, and a first antenna disposed on a portion of the first side member. A second antenna, transmitting and receiving signals in a first frequency band, a third antenna disposed on a portion of the second side member, a fourth antenna transmitting and receiving signals in a second frequency band, and disposed on a portion of the second side member, It includes a switch that electrically connects at least one of the first antenna, the second antenna, the third antenna, and the fourth antenna and the wireless communication circuit, a sensor that detects that an external object is in contact with or is close to the electronic device, and a processor. can do.
The processor selects an antenna to output a signal based on the frequency band of the signal transmitted by the wireless communication circuit, the state of the foldable housing, and/or the sensor detects contact or proximity of an external object, and connects the wireless communication circuit and the selected antenna. You can control the switch so that it is electrically connected.

Description

Electronic device and method for switching antenna thereof {ELECTRONIC DEVICE AND METHOD FOR SWITCHING OF ANTENNA THEREOF}

Various embodiments disclosed in this document relate to an electronic device including an antenna and a method of switching the antenna.

Electronic devices are released in various structures. For example, the electronic device may be formed in a folding structure and may include a flip cover, a dual display, or a flexible display. Electronic devices can provide mobile communication services using antennas. The antenna of the electronic device may be placed in some area inside and/or outside the housing.

With recent technological developments, the functions of devices such as Note PCs, Smart Phones, and Tablets are becoming increasingly sophisticated and integrated. In addition, as various types of applications such as games and video streaming continue to be developed, consumer needs are also becoming more diverse. Wireless communication is an essential element for utilizing various applications in electronic devices, and as the transmission/reception of increasingly large amounts of data is required, the implementation of 5G communication technology may be necessary. In order to implement 5G communication technology in electronic devices, the installation of at least four 5G antennas is required.

As foldable electronic devices gain attention, the display area may expand. Foldable electronic devices may require a front display to provide a screen to the user in a folded state. For application as a front display, the exterior of the foldable electronic device may be made of metal. Antennas may be difficult to place on electronic devices without signal interference in situations where metal materials are applied to the exterior of the device.

Foldable electronic devices can be in a folded or unfolded state around a hinge structure. Foldable electronic devices can operate in an in-folding or out-folding manner. The outer side of the housing of the foldable electronic device may be made of a metal material (conductive portion), and a portion of the metal material may be used as an antenna (or radiator). When the metal material formed in the housing of a foldable electronic device is used as an antenna, antenna performance deterioration occurs due to contact with a part of the user's body while the user is carrying and using the electronic device (e.g., death grip). This can happen.

In order to determine the level of electromagnetic waves harmful to the human body generated from wireless communication products, SAR (specific absorption rate) radio waves standards are established and managed by each country. Electronic devices can satisfy SAR by reducing the amount of radio waves output when contacted by the human body. However, when the output amount of radio waves is reduced, it may be difficult for electronic devices to transmit data.

An electronic device comprising a foldable housing, a hinge structure, connected to the hinge structure, a first side facing in a first direction, a second side facing in a second direction opposite to the first side, and a space between the first side and the second side. A first housing structure comprising a first side member surrounding a first space, and connected to the hinge structure, a third side facing in a third direction, a fourth side facing in a fourth direction opposite the third direction, and a It includes a second side member surrounding a second space between the third and fourth sides, and includes a first housing structure and a second housing structure that folds about the hinge structure, and is configured to be configured to be configured to be positioned in a folded (closed) state. The third direction is opposite to the first direction, and in the unfolded (open) state, the third direction transmits and receives signals of the same foldable housing, wireless communication circuit, and first frequency band as the first direction, and the first side member A first antenna disposed on a portion of the first side member, transmitting and receiving signals in a second frequency band different from the first frequency band, and a second antenna disposed on a portion of the first side member, transmitting and receiving signals in the first frequency band, and the second side member. A third antenna disposed on a portion of the member, transmitting and receiving signals in a second frequency band, and a fourth antenna disposed on a portion of the second side member, at least one of the first antenna, the second antenna, the third antenna, and the fourth antenna. It may include a switch that electrically connects one antenna and a wireless communication circuit, a sensor that detects that an external object is touching or approaching the electronic device, and a processor.

The processor selects an antenna to output a signal based on the frequency band of the signal transmitted by the wireless communication circuit, the state of the foldable housing, and/or the sensor detects contact or proximity of an external object, and connects the wireless communication circuit and the selected antenna. You can control the switch so that it is electrically connected.

The antenna switching method of an electronic device is an operation and wireless operation of selecting an antenna to output a signal based on the frequency band of the signal transmitted by the wireless communication circuit, the state of the foldable housing, and/or the sensor detecting the contact or proximity of an external object. It may include controlling a switch so that the communication circuit and the selected antenna are electrically connected.

According to various embodiments, an electronic device expands the antenna connected to a single port of a wireless communication module from a single antenna to a multiple antenna, thereby improving the performance of the Low, Mid, High, and Ultra High Band bands, which were difficult to implement with a single antenna. can be secured at the same time.

According to various embodiments, an electronic device detects when a human body approaches an antenna near the system, and uses an antenna located in another area that is not in contact with the human body to meet the SAR (Specific Absorption Rate) radio wave standard without reducing antenna power. can satisfy.

According to various embodiments, an electronic device can detect when a human body is close to an antenna near the system and improve communication performance by utilizing an antenna located in another area that is not in contact with the human body.

1 is a block diagram of an electronic device in a network environment, according to various embodiments.
FIG. 2A shows an electronic device according to a comparative example.
FIG. 2B illustrates an unfolded state of an electronic device according to various embodiments disclosed in this document.
FIG. 2C shows an antenna arrangement situation of an electronic device according to a comparative example.
FIG. 2D illustrates an antenna arrangement situation of an electronic device according to various embodiments.
FIG. 2E illustrates an intermediate state of an electronic device according to various embodiments disclosed in this document.
Figure 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an electronic device according to various embodiments.
4A is a cross-sectional view of an electronic device according to various embodiments. FIG. 4B is a block diagram of an electronic device according to various embodiments.
FIG. 5A is a cross-sectional view showing an open state of an electronic device according to various embodiments. FIG. 5B is a cross-sectional view showing a closed state of an electronic device according to various embodiments.
6A and 6B are flowcharts of a switching method for an electronic device according to various embodiments.

1 is a block diagram of an electronic device 101 in a network environment 100, according to various embodiments. Referring to FIG. 1, in the network environment 100, the electronic device 101 communicates with the electronic device 102 through a first network 198 (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network) or a second network 199. It is possible to communicate with at least one of the electronic device 104 or the server 108 through (e.g., a long-distance wireless communication network). According to one embodiment, the electronic device 101 may communicate with the electronic device 104 through the server 108. According to one embodiment, the electronic device 101 includes a processor 120, a memory 130, an input module 150, an audio output module 155, a display module 160, an audio module 170, and a sensor module ( 176), interface 177, connection terminal 178, haptic module 179, camera module 180, power management module 188, battery 189, communication module 190, subscriber identification module 196 , or may include an antenna module 197. In some embodiments, at least one of these components (eg, the connection terminal 178) may be omitted or one or more other components may be added to the electronic device 101. In some embodiments, some of these components (e.g., sensor module 176, camera module 180, or antenna module 197) are integrated into one component (e.g., display module 160). It can be.

The processor 120, for example, executes software (e.g., program 140) to operate at least one other component (e.g., hardware or software component) of the electronic device 101 connected to the processor 120. It can be controlled and various data processing or calculations can be performed. According to one embodiment, as at least part of data processing or computation, the processor 120 stores commands or data received from another component (e.g., sensor module 176 or communication module 190) in volatile memory 132. The commands or data stored in the volatile memory 132 can be processed, and the resulting data can be stored in the non-volatile memory 134. According to one embodiment, the processor 120 includes a main processor 121 (e.g., a central processing unit or an application processor) or an auxiliary processor 123 that can operate independently or together (e.g., a graphics processing unit, a neural network processing unit ( It may include a neural processing unit (NPU), an image signal processor, a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor). For example, if the electronic device 101 includes a main processor 121 and a secondary processor 123, the secondary processor 123 may be set to use lower power than the main processor 121 or be specialized for a designated function. You can. The auxiliary processor 123 may be implemented separately from the main processor 121 or as part of it.

The auxiliary processor 123 may, for example, act on behalf of the main processor 121 while the main processor 121 is in an inactive (e.g., sleep) state, or while the main processor 121 is in an active (e.g., application execution) state. ), together with the main processor 121, at least one of the components of the electronic device 101 (e.g., the display module 160, the sensor module 176, or the communication module 190) At least some of the functions or states related to can be controlled. According to one embodiment, co-processor 123 (e.g., image signal processor or communication processor) may be implemented as part of another functionally related component (e.g., camera module 180 or communication module 190). there is. According to one embodiment, the auxiliary processor 123 (eg, neural network processing unit) may include a hardware structure specialized for processing artificial intelligence models. Artificial intelligence models can be created through machine learning. For example, such learning may be performed in the electronic device 101 itself on which the artificial intelligence model is performed, or may be performed through a separate server (e.g., server 108). Learning algorithms may include, for example, supervised learning, unsupervised learning, semi-supervised learning, or reinforcement learning, but It is not limited. An artificial intelligence model may include multiple artificial neural network layers. Artificial neural networks include deep neural network (DNN), convolutional neural network (CNN), recurrent neural network (RNN), restricted boltzmann machine (RBM), belief deep network (DBN), bidirectional recurrent deep neural network (BRDNN), It may be one of deep Q-networks or a combination of two or more of the above, but is not limited to the examples described above. In addition to hardware structures, artificial intelligence models may additionally or alternatively include software structures.

The memory 130 may store various data used by at least one component (eg, the processor 120 or the sensor module 176) of the electronic device 101. Data may include, for example, input data or output data for software (e.g., program 140) and instructions related thereto. Memory 130 may include volatile memory 132 or non-volatile memory 134.

The program 140 may be stored as software in the memory 130 and may include, for example, an operating system 142, middleware 144, or application 146.

The input module 150 may receive commands or data to be used in a component of the electronic device 101 (e.g., the processor 120) from outside the electronic device 101 (e.g., a user). The input module 150 may include, for example, a microphone, mouse, keyboard, keys (eg, buttons), or digital pen (eg, stylus pen).

The sound output module 155 may output sound signals to the outside of the electronic device 101. The sound output module 155 may include, for example, a speaker or a receiver. Speakers can be used for general purposes such as multimedia playback or recording playback. The receiver can be used to receive incoming calls. According to one embodiment, the receiver may be implemented separately from the speaker or as part of it.

The display module 160 can visually provide information to the outside of the electronic device 101 (eg, a user). The display module 160 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 160 may include a touch sensor configured to detect a touch, or a pressure sensor configured to measure the intensity of force generated by the touch.

The audio module 170 can convert sound into an electrical signal or, conversely, convert an electrical signal into sound. According to one embodiment, the audio module 170 acquires sound through the input module 150, the sound output module 155, or an external electronic device (e.g., directly or wirelessly connected to the electronic device 101). Sound may be output through the electronic device 102 (e.g., speaker or headphone).

The sensor module 176 detects the operating state (e.g., power or temperature) of the electronic device 101 or the external environmental state (e.g., user state) and generates an electrical signal or data value corresponding to the detected state. can do. According to one embodiment, the sensor module 176 includes, 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 biometric sensor, It may include a temperature sensor, humidity sensor, or light sensor.

The interface 177 may support one or more designated protocols that can be used to connect the electronic device 101 directly or wirelessly with an external electronic device (eg, the electronic device 102). According to one embodiment, the interface 177 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 178 may include a connector through which the electronic device 101 can be physically connected to an external electronic device (eg, the electronic device 102). According to one embodiment, the connection terminal 178 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 179 can convert electrical signals into mechanical stimulation (e.g., vibration or movement) or electrical stimulation that the user can perceive through tactile or kinesthetic senses. According to one embodiment, the haptic module 179 may include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

The camera module 180 can capture still images and moving images. According to one embodiment, the camera module 180 may include one or more lenses, image sensors, image signal processors, or flashes.

The power management module 188 can manage power supplied to the electronic device 101. According to one embodiment, the power management module 188 may be implemented as at least a part of, for example, a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

The battery 189 may supply power to at least one component of the electronic device 101. According to one embodiment, the battery 189 may include, for example, a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable secondary battery, or a fuel cell.

Communication module 190 is configured to provide a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or wireless communication channel between electronic device 101 and an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device 102, electronic device 104, or server 108). It can support establishment and communication through established communication channels. Communication module 190 operates independently of processor 120 (e.g., an application processor) and may include one or more communication processors that support direct (e.g., wired) communication or wireless communication. According to one embodiment, the communication module 190 is a wireless communication module 192 (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module 194 (e.g., : LAN (local area network) communication module, or power line communication module) may be included. Among these communication modules, the corresponding communication module is a first network 198 (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, wireless fidelity (WiFi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or a second network 199 (e.g., legacy It may communicate with an external electronic device 104 through a telecommunication network such as a cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., LAN or WAN). These various types of communication modules may be integrated into one component (e.g., a single chip) or may be implemented as a plurality of separate components (e.g., multiple chips). The wireless communication module 192 uses subscriber information (e.g., International Mobile Subscriber Identifier (IMSI)) stored in the subscriber identification module 196 within a communication network such as the first network 198 or the second network 199. The electronic device 101 can be confirmed or authenticated.

The wireless communication module 192 may support 5G networks after 4G networks and next-generation communication technologies, for example, NR access technology (new radio access technology). NR access technology provides high-speed transmission of high-capacity data (eMBB (enhanced mobile broadband)), minimization of terminal power and access to multiple terminals (mMTC (massive machine type communications)), or high reliability and low latency (URLLC (ultra-reliable and low latency). -latency communications)) can be supported. The wireless communication module 192 may support high frequency bands (eg, mmWave bands), for example, to achieve high data rates. The wireless communication module 192 uses various technologies to secure performance in high frequency bands, for example, beamforming, massive array multiple-input and multiple-output (MIMO), and full-dimensional multiplexing. It can support technologies such as input/output (FD-MIMO: full dimensional MIMO), array antenna, analog beam-forming, or large scale antenna. The wireless communication module 192 may support various requirements specified in the electronic device 101, an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device 104), or a network system (e.g., second network 199). According to one embodiment, the wireless communication module 192 supports Peak data rate (e.g., 20 Gbps or more) for realizing eMBB, loss coverage (e.g., 164 dB or less) for realizing mmTC, or U-plane latency (e.g., 164 dB or less) for realizing URLLC. Example: Downlink (DL) and uplink (UL) each of 0.5 ms or less, or round trip 1 ms or less) can be supported.

The antenna module 197 may transmit signals or power to or receive signals or power from the outside (e.g., an external electronic device). According to one embodiment, the antenna module 197 may include an antenna including a radiator made of a conductor or a conductive pattern formed on a substrate (eg, PCB). According to one embodiment, the antenna module 197 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 198 or the second network 199 is connected to the plurality of antennas by, for example, the communication module 190. can be selected. Signals or power may be transmitted or received between the communication module 190 and an external electronic device through the at least one selected antenna. According to some embodiments, in addition to the radiator, other components (eg, radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) may be additionally formed as part of the antenna module 197.

According to various embodiments, the antenna module 197 may form a mmWave antenna module. According to one embodiment, a mmWave antenna module includes: a printed circuit board, an RFIC disposed on or adjacent to a first side (e.g., bottom side) of the printed circuit board and capable of supporting a designated high frequency band (e.g., mmWave band); And a plurality of antennas (e.g., array antennas) disposed on or adjacent to the second side (e.g., top or side) of the printed circuit board and capable of transmitting or receiving signals in 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 (e.g., 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 one embodiment, commands or data may be transmitted or received between the electronic device 101 and the external electronic device 104 through the server 108 connected to the second network 199. Each of the external electronic devices 102 or 104 may be of the same or different type as the electronic device 101. According to one embodiment, all or part of the operations performed in the electronic device 101 may be executed in one or more of the external electronic devices 102, 104, or 108. For example, when the electronic device 101 needs to perform a certain function or service automatically or in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device 101 may perform the function or service instead of executing the function or service on its own. Alternatively, or additionally, one or more external electronic devices may be requested to perform at least part of the function or service. One or more external electronic devices that have received the request may execute at least part of the requested function or service, or an additional function or service related to the request, and transmit the result of the execution to the electronic device 101. The electronic device 101 may process the result as is or additionally and provide it as at least part of a response to the request. For this purpose, for example, cloud computing, distributed computing, mobile edge computing (MEC), or client-server computing technology can be used. The electronic device 101 may provide an ultra-low latency service using, for example, distributed computing or mobile edge computing. In another embodiment, the external electronic device 104 may include an Internet of Things (IoT) device. Server 108 may be an intelligent server using machine learning and/or neural networks. According to one embodiment, the external electronic device 104 or server 108 may be included in the second network 199. The electronic device 101 may be applied to intelligent services (e.g., smart home, smart city, smart car, or healthcare) based on 5G communication technology and IoT-related technology.

Electronic devices according to various embodiments disclosed in this document may be of various types. Electronic devices may include, for example, portable communication devices (e.g., smartphones), computer devices, portable multimedia devices, portable medical devices, cameras, wearable devices, or home appliances. Electronic devices according to embodiments of this document are not limited to the above-described devices.

The various embodiments of this document and the terms used herein are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, and should be understood to include various changes, equivalents, or replacements of the embodiments. In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numbers may be used for similar or related components. The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of the above items, unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise. As used herein, “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 phrases such as “at least one of , B, or C” may include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase, or any possible combination thereof. Terms such as "first", "second", or "first" or "second" may be used simply to distinguish one component from another, and to refer to that component in other respects (e.g., importance or order) is not limited. One (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 any of the components can be connected to the other components directly (e.g. wired), 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 interchangeable with terms such as logic, logic block, component, or circuit, for example. It can be used as A module may be an integrated part or a minimum unit of the parts or a part 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 the present document are one or more instructions stored in a storage medium (e.g., built-in memory 136 or external memory 138) that can be read by a machine (e.g., electronic device 101). It may be implemented as software (e.g., program 140) including these. For example, a processor (e.g., processor 120) of a device (e.g., electronic device 101) may call at least one command among one or more commands stored from a storage medium and execute it. This allows the device to be operated to perform at least one function according to the at least one instruction called. The one or more instructions may include code generated by a compiler or code that can be executed by an interpreter. A storage medium that can be read by a device may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, 'non-transitory' only means that the storage medium is a tangible device and does not contain signals (e.g. electromagnetic waves), and this term refers to cases where data is semi-permanently stored in the storage medium. There is no distinction between temporary storage cases.

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

According to various embodiments, each component (e.g., module or program) of the above-described components may include a single or plural entity, and some of the plurality of entities may be separately placed in other components. there is. According to various embodiments, one or more of the components or operations described above may be omitted, or one or more other components or operations may be added. Alternatively or additionally, multiple 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 component of the plurality of components in the same or similar manner as those performed by the corresponding component of the plurality of components prior to the integration. . According to various embodiments, operations performed by a module, program, or other component may be executed sequentially, in parallel, iteratively, or heuristically, or one or more of the operations may be executed in a different order, or omitted. Alternatively, one or more other operations may be added.

FIG. 2A shows an electronic device according to a comparative example.

The electronic device according to FIG. 2A may include an electronic device in the form of a laptop PC. The electronic device according to FIG. 2A may include a first housing 201a and a second housing 202a that are folded and coupled to each other. For example, the first housing 201a and the second housing 202a may rotate relative to each other about a folding axis (eg, A-A axis shown in FIG. 2). The electronic device according to FIG. 2A may be folded so that the physical keyboard disposed in the first housing 201a and the display module (eg, display module 160 of FIG. 1) disposed in the second housing 202a face each other.

FIG. 2B illustrates an unfolded state of an electronic device according to various embodiments disclosed in this document.

According to various embodiments disclosed in this document, the electronic device 200 (e.g., the electronic device 101 of FIG. 1) may include an electronic device 200 in the form of a foldable laptop PC, as shown in FIG. 2B. there is. The electronic device 200 may include a first housing 201 and a second housing 202 that are folded and coupled to each other. For example, the first housing 201 and the second housing 202 may rotate relative to each other about a folding axis (eg, the A-A axis shown in FIG. 2). Unlike the electronic device of FIG. 2A, the electronic device 200 of FIG. 2B may include a display module (eg, display module 160 of FIG. 1) in the first housing 201 instead of a physical keyboard. The display module 160 can display various user interfaces. The display module 160 may display a virtual keyboard and receive user input on the virtual keyboard. The electronic device 200 has a structure in which the display module disposed in the first housing 201 and the display module disposed in the second housing 202 (e.g., the display module 160 in FIG. 1) face each other in the folded state. You can. The display module disposed in the first housing 201 and the display module disposed in the second housing 202 may exist in the form of one display.

In one embodiment, the first housing 201 and the second housing 202 are disposed on both sides about a folding axis (e.g., the A-A axis shown in FIG. 2) and have an overall symmetrical shape with respect to the folding axis. You can. In another embodiment, the first housing 201 and the second housing 202 may have an asymmetric shape with respect to the folding axis. The first housing 201 and the second housing 202 have an angle or angle with each other depending on whether the electronic device 200 is in an unfolded state, a folded state, or an intermediate state. Distance may vary. The unfolded state may mean that the electronic device 200 is open. The folded state may mean that the electronic device 200 is closed. The intermediate state may mean a state in which the electronic device 200 is only partially unfolded.

FIG. 2C shows an antenna arrangement situation of an electronic device according to a comparative example.

The electronic device according to FIG. 2C may have the same shape as the electronic device of FIG. 2A. The electronic device according to FIG. 2C can be used as antennas 210c to 218c by dividing metal. The antenna resonance formation frequency and bandwidth of the antennas 210c to 218c may be determined by the length of the metal frame. The electronic device according to FIG. 2C can be used by dividing the antenna into several antennas for each band. The electronic device according to FIG. 2C may use a metal segment antenna.

FIG. 2D illustrates an antenna arrangement situation of an electronic device according to various embodiments. The electronic device of FIG. 2D may have the same shape as the electronic device 200 of FIG. 2B. Unlike FIG. 2C, the electronic device 200 of FIG. 2D may use a wireless communication module 230 to increase packaging design efficiency and reduce costs. The wireless communication module 230 may include four RF connectors. The RF connector may refer to a component that connects the antennas 221d, 222d, 223d, and 224d and the wireless communication module 230. The electronic device 200 according to various embodiments may include antennas 221d to 224d corresponding to each RF connector. Unlike the electronic device of FIG. 2C, the electronic device 200 of FIG. 2D may include a limited number of antennas 221d to 224d. Antennas 221d to 224d may be designed to output signals in at least one frequency band. The antennas 221d to 224d can output signals in different frequency bands depending on the length of the antennas 221d to 224d. The length of the antennas 221d to 224d may be designed in consideration of the frequency band of the signal to be output. For example, the first antenna 221d may be designed to transmit and receive signals corresponding to a low band (frequency of approximately 700Mhz, wavelength of approximately 42.9cm). The first antenna 221d may have an antenna length of approximately 10.7 cm to output a low band signal. The wireless communication module 230 of FIG. 2D may have a fixed frequency band assigned to each RF connector (or port). The antennas 221d to 224d of FIG. 2D may have a predetermined electrical length to operate in response to a communication frequency to be transmitted or received. The electronic device 200 utilizing a metal segment antenna can select an antenna capable of outputting a signal to be transmitted or received among antennas 221d to 224d having different lengths.

FIG. 2E illustrates an intermediate state of an electronic device according to various embodiments disclosed in this document.

Referring to FIG. 2E, the electronic device 200 may be operated to maintain an intermediate state through the hinge module. According to one embodiment, the intermediate state is an operating state corresponding to the unfolded state and the folded state of the first housing 201 and the second housing 202, and the first housing 201 and the second housing 202 It may include an operating state in which the folding angle is within the third reference range (e.g., about 20 degrees to about 170 degrees). According to one embodiment, the electronic device 200 may be operated to maintain the first housing 201 and the second housing 202 unfolded at various angles through a hinge module in an intermediate state. For example, the unfolded state of the first housing 201 and the second housing 202 is such that the folding angle of the first housing 201 and the second housing 202 is within a first reference range (e.g., about 170 degrees to about 180 degrees). It may include the operation state included in (Figure). For example, the folded state of the first housing 201 and the second housing 202 is such that the folding angle of the first housing 201 and the second housing 202 is within a second reference range (e.g., about 0 degrees to about 20 degrees). It may include the operation state included in (Figure).

According to one embodiment, the electronic device 200 may use the first display 210 or the second display 220 based on the folding angle of the first housing 201 and the second housing 202. The first display 210 and the second display 220 may be connected to form one display. For example, the electronic device 200 displays the second display when the folding angle of the first housing 201 and the second housing 202 is within a specified first range (e.g., about 20 degrees to about 75 degrees). (220) can be used. For example, the electronic device 200 displays the first display when the folding angle of the first housing 201 and the second housing 202 is within a specified second range (e.g., about 75 degrees to about 170 degrees). (210) can be used.

In a notebook PC as shown in FIG. 2A, the degree of freedom in the antenna pattern space is relatively high, so a single antenna of the notebook PC can have an electrical length corresponding to multiple frequencies. However, the foldable notebook PC shown in FIG. 2b is implemented using a metal frame as a radiator, so the degree of freedom in the space where the antenna pattern is implemented may be relatively low. In a structure that uses a metal frame as an radiator, a foldable laptop PC may have difficulty securing performance at multiple frequencies with only the length of one metal frame.

The electronic device 200 according to various embodiments of this document can be controlled to separate antennas for each band using a switch even in situations where metal segment antennas 221d to 224d are used.

The electronic device of FIG. 2A (e.g., laptop, note PC, etc.) has an antenna (e.g., antenna module 197 of FIG. 1) built into the system unit, and the area where the antenna 197 radiates signals is not exposed to the outside. You can use structures that don't exist. The electronic device of FIG. 2A may include a plurality of devices between the human body and the radiator that emits radio waves is not exposed to the outside but is built into the system unit. The electronic device 200 of FIG. 2B (e.g., a foldable note PC) may use an externally exposed metal frame as a radiator. The electronic device 200 of FIG. 2B allows direct contact between the radiator and the human body. When the antenna 197 and the human body come into direct contact, radio waves emitted from the antenna 197 may have a relatively greater impact on the human body. When the antenna 197 and the human body come into direct contact, it may be difficult for the electronic device 200 to satisfy the specific absorption rate (SAR) standard. The SAR standard can refer to the rate at which energy per unit mass is absorbed by the human body when exposed to radio frequency (RF) electromagnetic fields. Units of SAR can include watts per kilogram (W/kg). The higher the SAR, the more energy can be absorbed by the human body compared to the case where the SAR is low.

In one embodiment, as the distance between the antenna 197 and the human body decreases, the influence of the human body on the radio wave radiation performance of the antenna may increase. According to one example, when the antenna 197 and the human body come into direct contact, the degree to which the human body affects the radio wave radiation of the antenna 197 may be relatively large. When the human body comes into contact with the antenna 197, the performance of the antenna 197 may be lowered due to the influence of the human body, which has a high dielectric constant. The phenomenon of lowering the performance of the antenna 197 due to the influence of the human body, which has a high dielectric constant, may be called death grip (or antenna gate). The death grip will be explained in Figures 5A and 5B.

The electronic device 200 of FIG. 2B may include relatively more user cases compared to the electronic device of FIG. 2A. For example, the electronic device 200 of FIG. 2B may be used in an open state or a closed state. Alternatively, the electronic device 200 of FIG. 2b may be held horizontally or vertically in a closed state. The electronic device 200 of FIG. 2B needs to satisfy SAR and secure communication performance in various user usage situations. Hereinafter, an operation in which the electronic device 200 switches operating antennas to satisfy SAR and secure communication performance in various usage situations will be described.

Figure 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an electronic device according to various embodiments.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device 300 (e.g., the electronic device 200 of FIG. 2B) includes a processor 310, a sensor module 320, a wireless communication circuit 330, an antenna module 340, It may include a first switch 351 and a second switch 352. The number of switches that the electronic device 300 may include may not be limited to two.

According to various embodiments, the processor 310 is a component capable of performing operations or data processing related to control and/or communication of each component of the electronic device 300, and may be composed of one or more processors. The processor 310 may include at least some of the components and/or functions of the processor 120 of FIG. 1 .

According to various embodiments, there will be no limitation to the calculation and data processing functions that the processor 310 can implement on the electronic device 300, but hereinafter, the antenna module 340, the first switch 351, and the second switch ( 352)'s control-related features will be described in detail. Operations of the processor 310 may be performed by loading instructions stored in memory (not shown).

According to various embodiments, the sensor module 320 may include a plurality of grip sensors (not shown). A plurality of grip sensors (not shown) may be substantially the same as the sensor module 176 of FIG. 1 or may be included in the sensor module 176. According to one embodiment, the electronic device 300 includes a first grip sensor (not shown) to a fourth grip sensor (not shown), but may not be limited thereto. The electronic device 300 may include a plurality of grip sensors electrically connected to each of a plurality of physically adjacent antennas.

According to various embodiments, the antenna module 340 may include a plurality of antennas (not shown). A plurality of antennas (not shown) may transmit and/or receive radio frequency (RF) signals in a designated frequency band to and from an external device. According to one embodiment, a plurality of antennas (not shown) are disposed on at least a portion of the housing (e.g., side plate and/or rear plate) of the electronic device 300 or disposed adjacent to the housing inside the housing. It may be composed of sieves (or conductive parts). As an example, the housing may include at least one non-conductive portion and at least one conductive portion as an external configuration of the electronic device 300. According to one embodiment, a plurality of antennas (not shown) may be placed physically adjacent to each other. For example, a plurality of antennas (not shown) may support long term evolution (LTE), new radio (NR), Bluetooth, bluetooth low energy (BLE), global navigation satellite system (GNSS), or wireless LAN ( At least one frequency band for wireless communication among wireless LANs (local area networks) may be supported. For example, the physically adjacent state includes a first antenna (e.g., the first antenna 221d in FIG. 2D) (e.g., a first conductor) and a second antenna (e.g., the second antenna 222d in FIG. 2D) ( It may include a state in which the shortest distance between (e.g., second conductors) is less than a specified distance (e.g., a state that satisfies the specified distance). For example, in a physically adjacent state, when the electronic device 300 is a foldable device, the first antenna 221d and the second antenna 222d are in the folded (or unfolded) state of the electronic device 300. It may include a state where the shortest distance between is less than or equal to a specified distance (e.g., a state that satisfies the specified distance).

According to various embodiments, the wireless communication circuit 330 may process RF signals for transmission and/or reception to and from an external device through at least one antenna (e.g., 221d to 224d in FIG. 2D). According to one embodiment, the wireless communication circuit 330 may include a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC) and a radio frequency front end (RFFE) for communication with an external device. For example, the RFFE may preprocess an RF signal received from an external device through at least one antenna (not shown). For example, the RFFE can amplify an RF signal received from an external device through at least one antenna (not shown) while suppressing noise through a low noise amplifier (LNA). The RFIC may down-convert the RF signal pre-processed in the RFFE to a baseband signal for processing by the processor 310. For example, the RFIC can modulate the signal received from the processor 310. The RFFE can amplify the RF signal received from the RFIC to transmit it from an external device through at least one antenna 340.

According to various embodiments, the wireless communication circuit 330 may communicate with an external device through a wireless network under the control of the processor 310. The wireless communication circuit 330 is hardware and equipment for transmitting and receiving data from cellular networks (e.g., long term evolution (LTE) networks, 5G networks, new radio (NR) networks) and local networks (e.g., Wi-Fi, bluetooth). May include software modules. The wireless communication circuit 330 may include at least some of the components and/or functions of the communication module 190 of FIG. 1 .

According to various embodiments, the processor 310 may obtain operation information of a plurality of grip sensors (not shown). According to one embodiment, the processor 310 may receive operation information of each grip sensor (not shown) at the time a plurality of grip sensors (not shown) are activated. According to one embodiment, the processor 310 may obtain operation information related to a plurality of grip sensors (not shown) from the memory (not shown) of the electronic device 300. As an example, the operation information of the grip sensor may include information related to the operation frequency (eg, sampling frequency) and/or timing offset. As an example, the timing offset may include information related to the timing of starting operation of the grip sensor. As an example, the operating frequency may include information related to the driving cycle of the grip sensor.

In one embodiment, an electronic device may separate frequency bands by placing a diplexer instead of a switch. However, the diplexer is a passive element and can separate low-band frequencies and high-band frequencies based on a specific frequency. When an electronic device uses a diplexer, it may be difficult to separate the antennas by band. For example, when an electronic device uses a diplexer, performance may be implemented in a band below 2 GHz through a first antenna, and performance in a band exceeding 2 GHz may be implemented through a second antenna. That is, when using a diplexer, an electronic device may require at least two antennas to separate bands based on 2 GHz. Additionally, when an electronic device uses a diplexer, the bands of the antennas are fixed, so additional corresponding antennas may be needed to separate the antennas into different frequency bands. Electronic devices using diplexers may find it difficult to secure frequency performance in multiple bands due to the limitation that the number of antennas increases as the frequency band to be used separately increases.

The electronic device 300 according to this document can secure frequency performance in multiple bands with a limited number of antennas by using a switch instead of a diplexer. For example, the electronic device 300 may secure performance in the 800 MHz band by locating the first switch in the first part of the first antenna. The electronic device 300 can secure performance in the 2.5 GHz band by locating the first switch in the second part of the first antenna. The electronic device 300 can adjust the band for securing performance by adjusting the length of the antenna. The electronic device 300 can use a switch to adjust the length of the antenna through which current flows. The electronic device 300 can secure performance in the 1.8 GHz band by locating the second switch in the first part of the second antenna. The electronic device 300 can secure performance in the 3.5 GHz band by locating the second switch in the second portion of the second antenna of the first antenna. The number of antennas, number of antenna parts, and bands mentioned are only examples and are not limited thereto.

The electronic device 300 according to this document uses a switch instead of a diplexer and can secure performance in a plurality of frequency bands in a situation where the physical length of the antenna is determined. The electronic device 300 according to this document uses a switch instead of a diplexer to switch to another antenna when communication performance of one antenna is difficult to secure due to proximity of the human body. The electronic device 300 according to this document uses a switch instead of a diplexer to reduce the human influence of the antenna and secure communication performance while satisfying SAR. Hereinafter, the switching operation of the electronic device 300 using a switch instead of a diplexer will be described.

4A is a cross-sectional view of an electronic device according to various embodiments. FIG. 4B is a block diagram of an electronic device according to various embodiments.

According to various embodiments, an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device 200 of FIG. 2B) may include a wireless communication circuit 410, a Wi-Fi communication circuit 450, and a plurality of antennas. The electronic device 200 may include a system unit 460 and an upper part 470.

According to one embodiment, the wireless communication circuit 410 may be electrically connected to the second antenna 420 and the third antenna 430. The wireless communication circuit 410 connects the 1-1 antenna 411, the 1-2 antenna 412, the 1-3 antenna 413, and the 1-4 antenna 414 through the first switch 401. can be electrically connected to. The wireless communication circuit 410 connects the 4-1 antenna 441, the 4-2 antenna 442, the 4-3 antenna 443, and the 4-4 antenna 444 through the second switch 402. can be electrically connected to.

According to one embodiment, the Wi-Fi communication circuit 450 may be electrically connected to the 5-1 antenna 451 and the 5-2 antenna 452.

The electronic device according to FIG. 2A may include a structure that determines the antenna resonance formation frequency and bandwidth depending on the length of the metal frame. The electronic device according to FIG. 2A can be used by placing components such as a transceiver, LPAMID, FEM, diplexer, and filter on a PCB board. The electronic device according to FIG. 2A can electrically transmit signals for each band generated by the transceiver to a specific antenna using a diplexer.

On the other hand, the electronic device 200 according to various embodiments of this document may use the wireless communication circuit 410 to solve mounting space and cost issues. The wireless communication circuit 410 has internal components such as a transceiver, LPAMID, FEM, diplexer, and filter, so the degree of freedom in antenna design for each band may be low.

The electronic device according to FIG. 2A can use antennas corresponding to signals of various bands separately for each band through a diplexer. On the other hand, since the electronic device 200 according to various embodiments uses the wireless communication circuit 410, the frequency band allocated to each port may be fixed. The electronic device 200 according to various embodiments may use only a limited number (eg, 4) of antennas corresponding to a limited number of ports (eg, 4).

Additionally, the electronic device 200 according to various embodiments may use a metal frame as an antenna. When the distance between the human body and the electronic device 200 decreases, the resonance performance of an antenna implemented to correspond to the target frequency may decrease. When approaching the human body, the resonant frequency of the antenna may change. In a structure that uses a metal frame as an antenna, there may not be an apparatus between the antenna of the electronic device 200 and the human body. The human body may be in direct contact with the antenna on the electronic device 200. Energy radiated from the antenna of the electronic device 200 may be absorbed by the human body. In a situation where the antenna and the human body are in direct contact, the electronic device 200 can lower the energy radiated from the antenna to satisfy the SAR radio wave standard. If you lower the energy radiated from the antenna, the data transmission performance of the antenna may deteriorate.

The electronic device 200 according to various embodiments of this document addresses the problem of covering various bands using a limited number of antennas, the problem of difficulty satisfying SAR due to direct contact between the antenna and the human body, and the problem of satisfying the SAR of the antenna. By lowering the transmission power, the problem of deteriorating data transmission performance can be solved. The electronic device 200 may connect a plurality of antennas to one port using the first switch 401 and the second switch 402. The electronic device 200 can use the first switch 401 and the second switch 402 to separate antennas for each frequency band. When a human body approaches a specific antenna, the electronic device 200 can use the first switch 401 and the second switch 402 to use another antenna placed in a position to avoid the human body.

According to FIG. 4B, the wireless communication circuit 410 may be electrically connected to the second antenna 420 and the third antenna 430. The wireless communication circuit 410 connects the 1-1 antenna 411, the 1-2 antenna 412, the 1-3 antenna 413, and the 1-4 antenna 414 through the first switch 401. can be electrically connected to. The wireless communication circuit 410 connects the 4-1 antenna 441, the 4-2 antenna 442, the 4-3 antenna 443, and the 4-4 antenna 444 through the second switch 402. can be electrically connected to.

According to one embodiment, the 1-1 antenna 411, the 1-2 antenna 412, the 4-1 antenna 441, and the 4-2 antenna 442 are located in the system unit 460. You can. The 1-3 antenna 413, the 1-4 antenna 414, the 4-3 antenna 443, and the 4-4 antenna 444 may be located at the upper part 470.

According to one embodiment, the electronic device 200 uses a relatively long 1-1 antenna 411 when transmitting a signal in a low frequency band or a signal in a mid band. ) and the 4-1 antenna 441 can be used. When transmitting a signal in a high frequency band or an ultra high band, the electronic device 200 uses a first-second antenna 412 and a fourth-antenna 412 that are relatively short in length. 2 Antenna 442 can be used.

The electronic device 200 may determine an antenna electrically connected to the wireless communication circuit 410 by controlling the switch based on the frequency band of the signal to be transmitted. For example, the electronic device 200 uses a first switch to electrically connect the wireless communication circuit 410 and the 1-1 antenna 411 based on determining that a signal in a low frequency band is transmitted. (401) can be controlled. The electronic device 200 turns on the first switch 401 to electrically connect the wireless communication circuit 410 and the first-second antenna 412 based on the decision to transmit a signal in a high frequency band. You can control it.

Alternatively, the electronic device 200 uses a second switch 402 to electrically connect the wireless communication circuit 410 and the 4-1 antenna 441 based on the decision to transmit a signal in a low frequency band. can be controlled. The electronic device 200 turns on the second switch 401 to electrically connect the wireless communication circuit 410 and the 4-2 antenna 442 based on the decision to transmit a signal in a high frequency band. You can control it.

According to one embodiment, compared to the 1-1 antenna 411 and the 1-2 antenna 412, the 4-1 antenna 441 and the 4-2 antenna 442 are on the electronic device 400. It can be placed relatively on the left side. The electronic device 400 may use a grip sensor to determine a location where a body is approaching and switch to an antenna placed at a location where the body can be avoided. For example, the electronic device 400 detects that a body is approaching using the grip sensor disposed on the left, and uses the 1-1 antenna 411 or the 1-2 antenna 412 disposed on the right. The first switch 401 can be operated so that The electronic device 400 detects that a body is approaching using the grip sensor disposed on the right side, and uses the second antenna 441 or the 4-2 antenna 442 disposed on the left side. The switch 402 can be operated.

In summary, the electronic device 400 can determine which of the 4-1 antenna 441 and the 4-2 antenna 442 to use based on the transmission frequency band. The electronic device 400 may determine which of the 1-1 antenna 411 and the 4-1 antenna 441 to use based on the human body approach direction. The electronic device 400 may operate the switch based on determining which antenna to use.

The electronic device 200 according to various embodiments of this document can use a switch to separate antennas for each band in a structure that uses a wireless communication circuit 410, and can avoid the influence of the human body.

According to one embodiment, a switch may be placed between the Wi-Fi communication circuit 450, the 5-1 antenna 451, and the 5-2 antenna 452. The 5-1 antenna 451 and the 5-2 antenna 452 may be electrically connected to the Wi-Fi communication circuit 450 through a switch. The electronic device 200 can change the antenna connected to the Wi-Fi communication circuit 450 using a switch. The antenna connected to the Wi-Fi communication circuit 450, like the 5G communication antenna, may have problems with performance degradation due to proximity of the human body and meeting SAR standards. Similar to the embodiments of FIGS. 4A and 4B, the switching structure can be applied to the antenna connected to the Wi-Fi communication circuit 450 to solve the problem of performance degradation due to proximity to the human body and the problem of satisfying the SAR standard.

According to one embodiment, the electronic device 200 may determine a connected antenna based on antenna performance. For example, in a situation where the electronic device 200 transmits a signal in the mid-band (1920-2170 MHz, B1), the second antenna in charge of the high-frequency and ultra-high frequency bands is higher than the 1-1 antenna 411 corresponding to the mid-band. It can be seen that the performance of the 1-2 antenna 412 is relatively good. Even in a situation where a signal in the mid-band (1920-2170 MHz, B1) is transmitted, the electronic device 200 uses a 1-2 antenna ( The switch can be controlled to use 412).

FIG. 5A is a cross-sectional view showing an open state of an electronic device according to various embodiments. FIG. 5B is a cross-sectional view showing a closed state of an electronic device according to various embodiments.

According to various embodiments, a death grip (or antenna gate) is a device that allows a user of an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device 200 of FIG. 2B) to use the electronic device 200 as an antenna. When holding (or gripping) a conductive part, it may mean that the transmission/reception sensitivity of the antenna is reduced due to a change in the dielectric constant of the antenna composed of the conductive part. For example, if a death grip occurs in the first antenna 510, the communication sensitivity of the first antenna may be reduced. For example, the radiation efficiency of the first antenna 510 may decrease.

Referring to FIG. 5A , for example, while using the electronic device 200 in an open state, a part of the user's body 530 (e.g., a finger) touches at least a portion of the first antenna 510. In case of contact, a death grip phenomenon of the first antenna 510 may occur. For example, as shown in FIG. 5A, when a user performs data transmission through the first antenna 510 while holding the electronic device 200 in an open state, a part of the user's body 530 touches the first antenna 510. The performance of the first antenna 510 may be degraded by contacting the conductive part of the first antenna 510.

The electronic device 200 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure may detect the user's grip (or grip) using a grip sensor. For example, the grip sensor may be a sensor that detects whether a part of the user's body is in contact with a specific point of the electronic device 200. For example, according to various embodiments, when the user's grip is not detected (e.g., when contact with a part of the user's body is not detected), the electronic device 200 transmits a communication signal in a low frequency band to the first antenna 510. ), the switch can be controlled so that it can be performed. For example, when the user's grip is detected (e.g., when contact with a part of the user's body is detected), antenna switching can be performed so that communication signals in the low frequency band can also be performed by the second antenna 520. . According to various embodiments, the grip sensor may be formed near the first antenna 510.

According to various embodiments disclosed in this document, in the case of a situation in which a death grip may occur (e.g., detecting a user's grip (or grip)), a phenomenon in which communication sensitivity is deteriorated through antenna switching (e.g., antenna A phenomenon in which radiation efficiency decreases) can be prevented.

The electronic device 200 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure detects the proximity of an external object using a proximity sensor disposed adjacent to a conductive part used as an antenna, thereby preventing situations in which antenna performance deterioration may occur. You can make decisions quickly.

Referring to FIG. 5B , for example, when a user's body part 530 (e.g., a finger) contacts at least a portion of the first antenna 510 while using the electronic device 200 in a closed state. , a death grip phenomenon of the first antenna 510 may occur.

For example, when a part of the user's body 530 touches a part of the first antenna 510, the radiation efficiency of the first antenna 510 may decrease. For example, as shown in FIG. 5B, when a user's body part 530 contacts at least a portion of the conductive portion of the first antenna 510, a death grip phenomenon of the first antenna 510 may occur.

According to one embodiment, when the electronic device 200 is in a closed state, the first antenna 510 located in the system unit (e.g., the system unit 460 in FIG. 4b) and the upper part (e.g., the upper part in FIG. 4b) The second antenna 520 located at 470) may overlap. The electronic device 200 includes a first antenna ( 510) can be operated. The electronic device 200 may reduce the transmission power of the first antenna 510 when a body part 530 of the user approaches.

However, even when the electronic device 200 is in a closed state, antennas that transmit and receive signals in a high frequency band may not overlap. In a situation where the electronic device 200 transmits and receives signals in a high frequency band, a part of the user's body 530 approaches the system unit 460 using a grip sensor, but the user's body part 530 approaches the upper part 470. It may be determined that the body part 530 is not approached. In a situation where a signal in a high frequency band is transmitted and received, the electronic device 200 uses a switch to connect the system unit 460 to the upper part 470 based on the fact that the user's body part 530 does not approach the upper part 470. Instead of the first antenna 510 located at the top 470, the second antenna 520 located at the upper part 470 may be connected.

FIG. 6A is a flowchart of a switching method for an electronic device according to various embodiments.

Operations described through FIG. 6A may be implemented based on instructions that can be stored in a computer recording medium or memory (eg, memory 130 in FIG. 1).

The illustrated method 600 can be executed by the electronic device previously described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 5B (e.g., the electronic device 200 of FIG. 2B), and technical features described above will be omitted below.

In operation 605, a processor (eg, processor 310 of FIG. 3) according to various embodiments may detect the user's body approach using a grip sensor. The processor 310 may determine at which location the user's body is in contact with the antenna using a plurality of grip sensors. For example, in FIG. 5B, the processor 310 detects the user's body in the second grip sensor and detects the user's body as a 4-1 antenna (e.g., the 4-1 antenna 441 in FIG. 4B) and It may be determined that it has contacted the 4-2 antenna (e.g., the 4-2 antenna 442 in FIG. 4B). The processor 310 divides the antenna used based on detection of the user's body by the second grip sensor into a 4-3 antenna (e.g., the 4-3 antenna 443 in FIG. 4B) and a 4-4 antenna (e.g. : Can be changed to the 4-4th antenna 444 in FIG. 4B.

In operation 610, the processor 310 determines the distance of the 1-1 antenna (e.g., the 1-1 antenna 411 of FIG. 4A) responsible for the low frequency band or the mid frequency band. Within this range, you can determine whether your body is detected. The processor 310 may perform operation 605 based on the fact that a body is not detected within a certain distance of the 1-1 antenna 411. The processor 310 may perform operation 620 based on detection of a body within a certain distance of the 1-1 antenna 411.

In operation 620, the processor 310 may determine whether the electronic device 200 is in an open state. Based on the fact that the electronic device 200 is in an open state, the processor 310 connects the wireless communication circuit (e.g., the wireless communication circuit 330 of FIG. 3) to the 1-3 antenna instead of the 1-1 antenna 411 in operation 622. It can be switched to be connected to the antenna 413. The 1-3 antenna 413 is located at the upper part (e.g., the upper part 470 in FIG. 4A) to avoid contact with the user's body.

The processor 310 may reduce the transmission power of the 1-1 antenna 411 in use in operation 624 based on the fact that the electronic device 200 is not in the open state. The 1-1 antenna 411 may be located in the system unit (e.g., the system unit 460 in FIG. 4A). If the electronic device 200 is not in an open state, the processor 310 may determine that the system unit 460 and the upper part 470 overlap. When the system unit 460 and the upper part 470 overlap, it may be difficult for both the 1-1 antenna 411 and the 1-3 antenna 413 to avoid contact with the user's body. In a situation where it is difficult to avoid contact with the user's body, the processor 310 uses the 1-1 antenna ( 411) can be used to transmit data.

FIG. 6B is a flowchart of a switching method for an electronic device according to various embodiments.

The operations described through FIG. 6B may be implemented based on instructions that can be stored in a computer recording medium or memory (eg, memory 130 in FIG. 1). The illustrated method 600 can be executed by the electronic device previously described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 5B (e.g., the electronic device 200 of FIG. 2B), and technical features described above will be omitted below.

In operation 605, the processor 310 may detect the user's body approach using a first grip sensor (not shown). The first grip sensor (not shown) may be placed at the bottom of the system unit 460.

In operation 630, the processor 310 schedules the 1-2 antenna (e.g., the 1-2 antenna 412 in FIG. 4A) responsible for a high frequency band or an ultra high frequency band. It can determine whether a body is detected within a distance. The processor 310 may perform operation 605 based on the fact that a body is not detected within a certain distance of the 1-1 antenna 411. The processor 310 may perform operation 640 based on detection of a body within a certain distance of the 1-2 antenna 412.

In operation 640, the processor 310 may determine whether the electronic device 200 is in an open state. Based on the fact that the electronic device 200 is in the open state, the processor 310 operates the wireless communication circuit (e.g., the wireless communication circuit 330 of FIG. 3) instead of the 1-2 antenna 412 in operation 642. It can be switched to be connected to the antenna 414. The 1-4th antenna 414 is located at the upper part (eg, the upper part 470 in FIG. 4A) to avoid contact with the user's body.

The processor 310 may determine that the electronic device 200 is in a closed state in operation 645 based on the fact that the electronic device 200 is not in an open state. In operation 650, the processor 310 may determine whether a body approach is detected around the second grip sensor (not shown) based on the electronic device 200 being in a closed state. A second grip sensor (not shown) may be placed at the top of the system unit 460.

In operation 652, the processor 310 may reduce the transmission power of the first-second antenna 412 in use based on detection of a body approaching in the vicinity of the second grip sensor (not shown). The 1-2 antenna 412 may be located in the system unit (eg, the system unit 460 in FIG. 4A). When both the first grip sensor and the second grip sensor detect the approach of the user's body, it may be difficult for both the 1-2 antenna 412 and the 1-4 antenna 414 to avoid contact with the user's body. In a situation where it is difficult to avoid contact with the user's body, the processor 310 uses the 1-2 antenna ( 412) can be used to transmit data.

If the electronic device 200 is not in an open state, the processor 310 may determine that the system unit 460 and the upper part 470 overlap. However, the 1-2 antenna 412 and the 1-4 antenna 414, which are responsible for transmitting high frequency and ultra-high frequency bands, may not overlap each other even when the system unit 460 and the upper part 470 overlap. . Even when the system unit 460 and the upper part 470 overlap, the 1-2 antenna 412 may be located around the first grip sensor and located at the bottom of the system unit 460. Even when the system unit 460 and the top unit 470 overlap, the first to fourth antennas 414 may be located on the top of the system unit 460 around the second grip sensor.

Even if the processor 310 detects the approach of the user's body with the first grip sensor, based on not detecting the approach of the user's body with the second grip sensor, in operation 654, the wireless communication circuit 330 detects the approach of the user's body with the first to fourth antennas. It can be switched to be connected to (414). The 1-4 antenna 414 is located at the top of the system unit 460, and unlike the 1-2 antenna 412 located at the bottom of the system unit 460, in a situation where the user touches only the first grip sensor, body contact is possible. can be avoided.

An electronic device comprising a foldable housing, a hinge structure, connected to the hinge structure, a first side facing in a first direction, a second side facing in a second direction opposite to the first side, and a space between the first side and the second side. A first housing structure comprising a first side member surrounding a first space, and connected to the hinge structure, a third side facing in a third direction, a fourth side facing in a fourth direction opposite the third direction, and a It includes a second side member surrounding a second space between the third and fourth sides, and includes a first housing structure and a second housing structure that folds about the hinge structure, and is configured to be configured to be configured to be positioned in a folded (closed) state. The third direction is opposite to the first direction, and in the unfolded (open) state, the third direction transmits and receives signals of the same foldable housing, wireless communication circuit, and first frequency band as the first direction, and the first side member A first antenna disposed on a portion of the first side member, transmitting and receiving signals in a second frequency band different from the first frequency band, and a second antenna disposed on a portion of the first side member, transmitting and receiving signals in the first frequency band, and the second side member. A third antenna disposed on a portion of the member, transmitting and receiving signals in a second frequency band, and a fourth antenna disposed on a portion of the second side member, at least one of the first antenna, the second antenna, the third antenna, and the fourth antenna. It may include a switch that electrically connects one antenna and a wireless communication circuit, a sensor that detects that an external object is touching or approaching the electronic device, and a processor.

The processor selects an antenna to output a signal based on the frequency band of the signal transmitted by the wireless communication circuit, the state of the foldable housing, and/or the sensor detects contact or proximity of an external object, and connects the wireless communication circuit and the selected antenna. You can control the switch so that it is electrically connected.

In one embodiment, the processor may control the switch to connect either the first antenna or the third antenna to the wireless communication circuit based on the wireless communication circuit transmitting and receiving signals in the first frequency band.

In one embodiment, the processor may control the switch to connect the first antenna to the wireless communication circuit based on no contact of the user's body part being detected through the sensor.

In one embodiment, the processor detects contact with a part of the user's body through a sensor and controls the switch to connect the third antenna to the wireless communication circuit based on the electronic device being in an unfolded state.

In one embodiment, the processor detects contact with a part of the user's body through a sensor, controls the switch to connect the first antenna to the wireless communication circuit based on the electronic device being in a folded state, and adjusts the transmission power of the first antenna. It can be controlled to reduce it to a certain level.

In one embodiment, the processor may control the switch to connect either the second antenna or the fourth antenna to the wireless communication circuit based on the wireless communication circuit transmitting and receiving signals in the second frequency band.

In one embodiment, the processor may control the switch to connect the second antenna to the wireless communication circuit based on no contact of the user's body part being detected through the sensor.

In one embodiment, the processor detects contact with a part of the user's body through a sensor and controls the switch to connect the fourth antenna to the wireless communication circuit based on the electronic device being in an unfolded state.

In one embodiment, the processor detects contact with a part of the user's body through a sensor, controls the switch to connect the second antenna to the wireless communication circuit based on the electronic device being in a folded state, and adjusts the transmission power of the second antenna. It can be controlled to reduce it to a certain level.

In one embodiment, the processor determines if the distance between the second and fourth antennas exceeds a specified level and the sensor determines whether a part of the user's body is in contact with the second antenna but not with the fourth antenna. The switch can be controlled so that the fourth antenna is connected to the wireless communication circuit.

In one embodiment, the processor controls the switch to connect either the first antenna or the third antenna to the wireless communication circuit based on the wireless communication circuit transmitting and receiving signals in the first frequency band, and the wireless communication circuit connects the second antenna to the wireless communication circuit. The switch can be controlled so that either the second antenna or the fourth antenna is connected to the wireless communication circuit based on the change to transmitting and receiving signals in the frequency band.

In one embodiment, in a situation where the processor transmits and receives a signal in the first frequency band,

Based on the fact that the data transmission rate of the second antenna is relatively higher than the data transmission rate of the first antenna, the switch can be controlled so that a signal in the first frequency band is transmitted and received through the second antenna.

In one embodiment, the wireless communication circuitry may include Wi-Fi communication circuitry.

The antenna switching method of an electronic device is an operation and wireless operation of selecting an antenna to output a signal based on the frequency band of the signal transmitted by the wireless communication circuit, the state of the foldable housing, and/or the sensor detecting the contact or proximity of an external object. It may include controlling a switch so that the communication circuit and the selected antenna are electrically connected.

In one embodiment, the operation of selecting an antenna to output a signal based on the frequency band of a signal transmitted from the wireless communication circuit is performed by selecting the first antenna or the third antenna based on the wireless communication circuit transmitting and receiving a signal in the first frequency band. It may further include controlling a switch so that any one of them is connected to a wireless communication circuit.

In one embodiment, the antenna switching method of the electronic device further includes detecting contact with a part of the user's body through a sensor and controlling the switch to connect the third antenna to the wireless communication circuit based on the electronic device being in an unfolded state. It can be included.

In one embodiment, the antenna switching method of the electronic device detects contact with a part of the user's body through a sensor, controls the switch to connect the first antenna to the wireless communication circuit based on the electronic device being in a folded state, and controls the switch to connect the first antenna to the wireless communication circuit. It may further include a control operation to reduce the transmission power of the antenna to a certain level.

In one embodiment, the operation of determining the antenna to be used for signal transmission based on the band of the signal to be transmitted in the wireless communication circuit may be performed by selecting one of the second antenna and the fourth antenna based on the wireless communication circuit transmitting and receiving signals in the second frequency band. It may further include controlling the switch so that one of the switches is connected to the wireless communication circuit.

In one embodiment, the antenna switching method of the electronic device includes detecting contact with a part of the user's body through a sensor and controlling the switch to connect the fourth antenna to the wireless communication circuit based on the electronic device being in an unfolded state. can do.

In one embodiment, the antenna switching method of the electronic device detects contact with a part of the user's body through a sensor, controls the switch to connect the second antenna to the wireless communication circuit based on the electronic device being in a folded state, and controls the switch to connect the second antenna to the wireless communication circuit. It may further include a control operation to reduce the transmission power of the antenna to a certain level.

Claims (20)

In electronic devices,
As a foldable housing,
hinge structure;
A second surface connected to the hinge structure and surrounding a first side facing in a first direction, a second side facing in a second direction opposite to the first side, and a first space between the first side and the second side. A first housing structure including one side member; and
a third side connected to the hinge structure and surrounding a third side facing in a third direction, a fourth side facing in a fourth direction opposite to the third direction, and a second space between the third side and the fourth side. It includes two side members, and includes a second housing structure that folds with the first housing structure about the hinge structure,
a foldable housing in which, in a folded (closed) state, the third direction is opposite to the first direction, and in an unfolded (open) state, the third direction is the same as the first direction;
wireless communication circuit;
a first antenna that transmits and receives signals in a first frequency band and is disposed on a portion of the first side member;
a second antenna configured to transmit and receive signals in a second frequency band different from the first frequency band and disposed on a portion of the first side member;
a third antenna configured to transmit and receive signals in the first frequency band and disposed on a portion of the second side member;
a fourth antenna configured to transmit and receive signals in the second frequency band and disposed on a portion of the second side member;
a switch electrically connecting at least one of the first antenna, the second antenna, the third antenna, and the fourth antenna to the wireless communication circuit;
A sensor that detects when an external object touches or approaches the electronic device; and
Includes a processor,
The processor,
Selecting an antenna to output the signal based on the frequency band of the signal transmitted from the wireless communication circuit, the state of the foldable housing, and/or the sensor detecting contact or proximity of the external object,
An electronic device configured to control the switch to electrically connect the wireless communication circuit and the selected antenna.
According to clause 1,
The processor is
An electronic device that controls the switch to connect either the first antenna or the third antenna to the wireless communication circuit based on the wireless communication circuit transmitting and receiving a signal in the first frequency band.
According to clause 2,
The processor is
An electronic device that controls the switch to connect the first antenna to the wireless communication circuit based on the sensor not detecting contact with a part of the user's body.
According to clause 2,
The processor is
Contact with a part of the user's body is detected through the sensor,
Based on the electronic device being in an unfolded state
An electronic device that controls the switch to connect the third antenna to the wireless communication circuit.
According to clause 2,
The processor is
Contact with a part of the user's body is detected through the sensor,
Based on the electronic device being in a folded state
An electronic device that controls the switch to connect the first antenna to the wireless communication circuit and controls the switch to reduce transmission power of the first antenna to a certain level.
According to clause 1,
The processor is
An electronic device that controls the switch to connect either the second antenna or the fourth antenna to the wireless communication circuit based on the wireless communication circuit transmitting and receiving signals in the second frequency band.
According to clause 6,
The processor is
An electronic device that controls the switch to connect the second antenna to the wireless communication circuit based on the fact that no contact with a part of the user's body is detected through the sensor.
According to clause 6,
The processor is
Contact with a part of the user's body is detected through the sensor,
Based on the electronic device being in an unfolded state
An electronic device that controls the switch to connect the fourth antenna to the wireless communication circuit.
According to clause 6,
The processor is
Contact with a part of the user's body is detected through the sensor,
Based on the electronic device being in a folded state
An electronic device that controls the switch to connect the second antenna to the wireless communication circuit and controls the switch to reduce transmission power of the second antenna to a certain level.
According to clause 9,
The processor is
the distance between the second antenna and the fourth antenna exceeds a specified level,
An electronic device that controls the switch to connect the fourth antenna to the wireless communication circuit based on the fact that a part of the user's body is in contact with the second antenna through the sensor but does not contact the fourth antenna.
According to clause 1,
The processor is
Controlling the switch so that either the first antenna or the third antenna is connected to the wireless communication circuit based on the wireless communication circuit transmitting and receiving a signal in the first frequency band,
An electronic device that controls the switch to connect either the second antenna or the fourth antenna to the wireless communication circuit based on the wireless communication circuit changing to transmitting and receiving signals in the second frequency band.
According to clause 1,
The processor is
In a situation where signals in the first frequency band are transmitted and received,
An electronic device that controls the switch so that a signal in the first frequency band is transmitted and received through the second antenna based on the fact that the data transmission rate of the second antenna is relatively higher than the data transmission rate of the first antenna.
According to clause 1,
The wireless communication circuit is
An electronic device that includes Wi-Fi communications circuitry.
In the antenna switching method of an electronic device,
An operation of selecting an antenna to output the signal based on the frequency band of a signal transmitted from a wireless communication circuit, the state of the foldable housing, and/or a sensor detecting contact or proximity of the external object;
A method comprising controlling a switch to electrically connect the wireless communication circuit and the selected antenna.
According to clause 14,
The operation of selecting an antenna to output the signal based on the frequency band of the signal transmitted from the wireless communication circuit is
The method further includes controlling the switch to connect either a first antenna or a third antenna to the wireless communication circuit based on the wireless communication circuit transmitting and receiving a signal in a first frequency band.
According to clause 15,
The antenna switching method of the electronic device is
Contact with a part of the user's body is detected through the sensor,
Based on the electronic device being in an unfolded state
The method further includes controlling the switch to connect the third antenna to the wireless communication circuit.
According to clause 15,
The antenna switching method of the electronic device is
Contact with a part of the user's body is detected through the sensor,
Based on the electronic device being in a folded state
The method further includes controlling the switch to connect the first antenna to the wireless communication circuit, and controlling the switch to reduce transmission power of the first antenna to a certain level.
According to clause 14,
The operation of determining the antenna to be used for signal transmission based on the band of the signal to be transmitted in the wireless communication circuit is
The method further includes controlling the switch to connect either a second antenna or a fourth antenna to the wireless communication circuit based on the wireless communication circuit transmitting and receiving a signal in a second frequency band.
According to clause 18,
The antenna switching method of the electronic device is
Contact with a part of the user's body is detected through the sensor,
Based on the electronic device being in an unfolded state
A method further comprising controlling the switch so that the fourth antenna is connected to the wireless communication circuit.
According to clause 18,
The antenna switching method of the electronic device is
Contact with a part of the user's body is detected through the sensor,
Based on the electronic device being in a folded state
The method further includes controlling the switch to connect the second antenna to the wireless communication circuit, and controlling the switch to reduce transmission power of the second antenna to a certain level.

Images