Includes electronic device for automatically opening or closing sliding doors

Abstract

An electronic device and method are disclosed. The electronic device includes: a housing defining an opening; a drive actuator; a sliding door that can move to selectively cover and expose the opening; a connecting rod that connects the sliding door and the drive actuator, the connecting rod being linearly movable according to the driving operation of the drive actuator to move the sliding door; a forced opening blocking member that can move to restrict the opening of the sliding door when the opening is closed, and releases the blocking of the opening of the sliding door based on the linear movement of the connecting rod; and a processor. The processor implements a method, the method including: receiving an external input signal and identifying whether to expose or cover the opening based on the external input signal, and operating the drive actuator to expose or cover the opening according to the result of the identification.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an electronic device including a sliding door that is automatically opened or closed. Background Art

[0002] With the development of digital technology, various electronic devices such as mobile communication terminals, smart phones, tablet personal computers (tablet PCs), notebooks, personal digital assistants (PDAs), wearable devices, or digital cameras have been developed and are now widely used.

[0003] These electronic devices allow insertable / removable components such as an external memory card, a Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) card, and a digital pen.

[0004] In particular, recent trends have sought increased content storage capacity and higher operating speeds in electronic devices. As a result, external memory cards with increased capacity and read / write speeds have been developed. As a result, users now more commonly utilize external memory cards (such as solid state drives (SSDs)), which in turn increases the need for data security for accessing information stored in external memory cards. Summary of the invention

[0005] Technical issues

[0006] The insertable / removable component (e.g., or a component tray containing the component) can be inserted into a designated port (i.e., or opening) of the electronic device. In addition, the component can be removed by a physical removal function (such as pressing an eject button of the component, or using a small and thin tool to access the eject function through a hole in or near the component tray).

[0007] However, these physical extraction methods allow extraction by merely applying physical force without requiring any kind of user authentication. Therefore, these components are easily taken away by non-security personnel, and the security of data may be compromised.

[0008] Technical Solution

[0009] The present disclosure is to provide an electronic device capable of opening or closing an opening thereof (into which a component can be inserted) through a sliding door that automatically opens or closes under a predetermined condition.

[0010] According to a specific embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device may include: a driving actuator; a sliding door capable of moving to selectively cover and expose the opening; a connecting rod connecting the sliding door and the driving actuator, the connecting rod being capable of linearly moving to move the sliding door according to the driving operation of the driving actuator; a forced opening blocker capable of moving to limit the opening of the sliding door when the opening is closed, and releasing the blockage of the opening of the sliding door based on the linear movement of the connecting rod; and a processor configured to: receive an external input signal and identify whether to expose or cover the opening based on the external input signal, and operate the driving actuator to expose or cover the opening according to the result of the identification.

[0011] According to a specific embodiment of the present disclosure, a method in an electronic device includes: receiving an external input signal by an input unit and / or a communication unit; determining by a processor whether to expose or cover an opening defined in a shell of the electronic device based on the external input signal; and when the external input signal satisfies a condition for exposing the opening, operating a driving actuator to generate a linear movement of a connecting rod in a first direction, wherein the linear movement of the connecting rod in the first direction causes a forced opening blocker to release restriction on exposing the opening, and wherein a sliding door connected to the connecting rod moves according to the linear movement of the connecting rod in the first direction to expose the opening.

[0012] Beneficial Effects

[0013] According to a specific embodiment, when a predetermined condition is satisfied, the electronic device may open or close the sliding door to open or close the opening. Specifically, based on the linear movement of the connecting rod according to the driving operation of the driving actuator, the electronic device may easily and automatically open the opening by releasing the forced opening blocking of the forced opening blocking member and moving the sliding door without any additional operation. In addition, based on the linear movement of the connecting rod according to the driving operation of the driving actuator, the electronic device may close the opening by moving the sliding door, and also enable the forced opening blocking member to effectively block the forced opening of the sliding door. This is conducive to enhancing the safety of the component that can be inserted into the opening. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] The above and other aspects, features and advantages of certain embodiments of the present disclosure will become more apparent through the following description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0015] Figure 1A is a block diagram illustrating example electronic devices in a network environment according to certain embodiments.

[0016] Figure 1B is a perspective view showing the appearance of an example electronic device according to certain embodiments.

[0017] FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D is a diagram illustrating an example operation of moving a sliding door to open an opening of an electronic device according to certain embodiments.

[0018] Figure 3A is an exploded perspective view illustrating an example structure of a forced opening stopper that is pushed according to movement of a link in an electronic device according to certain embodiments.

[0019] Figure 3B is a perspective view showing a state in which an opening of a sliding door is blocked by a forced opening stopper in an electronic device according to certain embodiments.

[0020] Figure 3C is a perspective view showing a state in which an example restriction operation of forcibly opening a stopper is released in an electronic device according to certain embodiments.

[0021] Figure 4A is an exploded perspective view illustrating an example sliding door and an arrangement of guide rails for guiding movement of the sliding door according to certain embodiments.

[0022] Figure 4B is a plan view showing an example structure of a guide rail according to certain embodiments.

[0023] Figure 4C is a diagram illustrating an example combining structure of a sliding door, a guide rail, a forced opening stopper, and a link according to certain embodiments.

[0024] Throughout the drawings, like reference numerals will be understood to refer to like parts, components, and structures. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0025] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0026] Figure 1A An electronic device in a network environment according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0027] Reference Figure 1A, the electronic device 101 in the network environment 100 may communicate with the electronic device 102 via the first network 198 (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network), or communicate with the electronic device 104 or the server 108 via the second network 199 (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). The electronic device 101 may communicate with the electronic device 104 via the server 108. The electronic device 101 includes a processor 120, a memory 130, an input device 150, a sound output device 155, a display device 160, an audio module 170, a sensor module 176, an interface 177, a haptic module 179, a camera module 180, a power management module 188, a battery 189, a communication module 190, a user identification module (SIM) 196, or an antenna module 197. In some embodiments, at least one of the components (e.g., the display device 160 or the camera module 180) may be omitted from the electronic device 101, or one or more other components may be added to the electronic device 101. In some embodiments, some of the components may be implemented as a single integrated circuit. For example, the sensor module 176 (eg, a fingerprint sensor, an iris sensor, or an illumination sensor) may be implemented to be embedded in the display device 160 (eg, a display).

[0028] The processor 120 may run, for example, software (e.g., program 140) to control at least one other component (e.g., hardware component or software component) of the electronic device 101 connected to the processor 120, and may perform various data processing or calculations. As at least part of the data processing or calculation, the processor 120 may load commands or data received from another component (e.g., sensor module 176 or communication module 190) into the volatile memory 132, process the commands or data stored in the volatile memory 132, and store the resultant data in the non-volatile memory 134. The processor 120 may include a main processor 121 (e.g., a central processing unit (CPU) or an application processor (AP)) and an auxiliary processor 123 (e.g., a graphics processing unit (GPU), an image signal processor (ISP), a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor (CP)) that is operationally independent or combined with the main processor 121. Additionally or alternatively, the auxiliary processor 123 may be adapted to consume less power than the main processor 121, or adapted to be specifically used for a specified function. The auxiliary processor 123 may be implemented separately from the main processor 121 , or as part of the main processor 121 .

[0029] When the main processor 121 is in an inactive (e.g., sleep) state, the auxiliary processor 123 may control at least some of the functions or states related to at least one component (e.g., display device 160, sensor module 176, or communication module 190) among the components of the electronic device 101 (not the main processor 121), or when the main processor 121 is in an active state (e.g., running an application), the auxiliary processor 123 may control at least some of the functions or states related to at least one component (e.g., display device 160, sensor module 176, or communication module 190) among the components of the electronic device 101 together with the main processor 121. The auxiliary processor 123 (e.g., ISP or CP) may be implemented as part of another component (e.g., camera module 180 or communication module 190) that is functionally related to the auxiliary processor 123.

[0030] The memory 130 may store various data used by at least one component of the electronic device 101 (e.g., the processor 120 or the sensor module 176). The various data may include, for example, software (e.g., the program 140) and input data or output data for commands related thereto. The memory 130 may include a volatile memory 132 or a nonvolatile memory 134.

[0031] The program 140 may be stored as software in the memory 130 , and may include, for example, an operating system (OS) 142 , middleware 144 , or applications 146 .

[0032] The input device 150 may receive commands or data from outside the electronic device 101 (e.g., a user) to be used by other components of the electronic device 101 (e.g., the processor 120). The input device 150 may include, for example, a microphone, a mouse, a keyboard, or a digital pen (e.g., a stylus).

[0033] The sound output device 155 can output sound signals to the outside of the electronic device 101. The sound output device 155 may include, for example, a speaker or a receiver. The speaker can be used for general purposes such as playing multimedia or playing records, and the receiver can be used for incoming calls. The receiver can be implemented as a separate part from the speaker, or as part of the speaker.

[0034] The display device 160 may visually provide information to the outside of the electronic device 101 (e.g., a user). The display device 160 may include, for example, a display, a holographic device, or a projector, and a control circuit for controlling a corresponding one of the display, the holographic device, and the projector. The display device 160 may include a touch circuit adapted to detect a touch or a sensor circuit (e.g., a pressure sensor) adapted to measure the strength of a force caused by a touch.

[0035] The audio module 170 can convert sound into an electrical signal, or vice versa. The audio module 170 can obtain sound via the input device 150, or output sound via the sound output device 155 or an earphone of an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device 102) directly (e.g., wired) or wirelessly connected to the electronic device 101.

[0036] The sensor module 176 may detect an operating state (e.g., power or temperature) of the electronic device 101 or an environmental state (e.g., a user's state) outside the electronic device 101, and then generate an electrical signal or data value corresponding to the detected state. The sensor module 176 may include, for example, a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, an atmospheric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a proximity sensor, a color sensor, an infrared (IR) sensor, a biometric sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or an illumination sensor.

[0037] The interface 177 may support one or more specific protocols to be used to connect the electronic device 101 directly (e.g., wired) or wirelessly with an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device 102). The interface 177 may include, for example, a high-definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB) interface, a secure digital (SD) card interface, or an audio interface.

[0038] The connection end 178 may include a connector, wherein the electronic device 101 can be physically connected to an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device 102) via the connector. The connection end 178 may include, for example, an HDMI connector, a USB connector, an SD card connector, or an audio connector (e.g., a headphone connector).

[0039] The haptic module 179 may convert the electric signal into mechanical stimulation (eg, vibration or motion) or electric stimulation that can be recognized by the user via his sense of touch or kinesthetic sense. The haptic module 179 may include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electric stimulator.

[0040] The camera module 180 may capture still images or moving images. The camera module 180 may include one or more lenses, an image sensor, an image signal processor, or a flash.

[0041] The power management module 188 may manage power supply to the electronic device 101. The power management module 188 may be implemented as, for example, at least part of a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

[0042] The battery 189 may power at least one component of the electronic device 101. The battery 189 may include, for example, a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable secondary battery, or a fuel cell.

[0043] The communication module 190 may support establishing a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between the electronic device 101 and an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device 102, electronic device 104, or server 108), and perform communication via the established communication channel. The communication module 190 may include one or more communication processors that can operate independently from the processor 120 (e.g., AP) and support direct (e.g., wired) communication or wireless communication. The communication module 190 may include 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., a local area network (LAN) communication module or a power line communication (PLC) module). A corresponding one of these communication modules can communicate with an external electronic device via a first network 198 (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, Wireless Fidelity (Wi-Fi) Direct, or Infrared Data Association (IrDA)) or a second network 199 (e.g., a long-range communication network such as a cellular network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a LAN or a Wide Area Network (WAN))). These various types of communication modules may be implemented as a single component (e.g., a single chip), or may be implemented as multiple components (e.g., multiple chips) separated from each other. The wireless communication module 192 may identify and authenticate the electronic device 101 in a communication network (such as the first network 198 or the second network 199) using user information (e.g., an International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI)) stored in the SIM 196.

[0044] The antenna module 197 may transmit or receive a signal or power to or from the outside of the electronic device 101 (e.g., an external electronic device). The antenna module 197 may include an antenna including a radiation element implemented using a conductive material formed in a substrate (e.g., a printed circuit board (PCB)) or a conductive pattern on the substrate (e.g., a printed circuit board (PCB)). The antenna module 197 may include a plurality of antennas. In this case, for example, the communication module 190 (e.g., the wireless communication module 192) may select at least one antenna suitable for a communication scheme used in a communication network, such as the first network 198 or the second network 199, from the plurality of antennas. Then, a signal or power may be transmitted or received between the communication module 190 and the external electronic device via the selected at least one antenna. Other components (e.g., a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) other than the radiation element may be additionally formed as part of the antenna module 197.

[0045] At least some of the above components may be connected to each other via an inter-peripheral communication scheme (e.g., a bus, a general purpose input output (GPIO), a serial peripheral interface (SPI), or a mobile industry processor interface (MIPI)) and communicatively transmit signals (e.g., commands or data) therebetween.

[0046] A command or data may be sent or received between the electronic device 101 and the external electronic device 104 via the server 108 connected to the second network 199. Each of the electronic device 102 and the electronic device 104 may be a device of the same type as the electronic device 101, or a device of a different type from the electronic device 101. All or some operations to be executed in the electronic device 101 may be executed in one or more of the external electronic device 102, the external electronic device 104, or the server 108. For example, if the electronic device 101 should automatically execute a function or service or should execute a function or service in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device 101 may request the one or more external electronic devices to execute at least part of the function or service instead of executing the function or service, or the electronic device 101 may request the one or more external electronic devices to execute at least part of the function or service in addition to executing the function or service. The one or more external electronic devices that receive the request may execute the requested at least part of the function or service, or execute another function or another service related to the request, and transmit the result of the execution to the electronic device 101. The electronic device 101 may provide the result as at least a partial reply to the request with or without further processing the result. To this end, for example, cloud computing technology, distributed computing technology, or client-server computing technology may be used.

[0047] The electronic device according to the embodiment may be one of various types of electronic devices. The electronic device may include a portable communication device (e.g., a smart phone), a computer device, a portable multimedia device, a portable medical device, a camera, a wearable device, or a household appliance. However, the electronic device is not limited to those electronic devices described above.

[0048] The specific embodiments of the present disclosure and the terms used herein are not intended to limit the technical features set forth herein to the specific embodiments, but rather include various changes, equivalents, or alternatives to the corresponding embodiments.

[0049] With respect to the description of the drawings, like reference numerals may be used to designate like or related elements.

[0050] Unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise, a noun in the singular form corresponding to an item may include one or more things. As used herein, each of phrases such as "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 "at least one of A, B or C" may include any one or all possible combinations of the items listed together with the corresponding one of the multiple phrases.

[0051] As used herein, terms such as "1st" and "2nd" or "first" and "second" may be used to simply distinguish a corresponding component from another component and do not limit the component in other respects (e.g., importance or order). When the terms "operably" or "communicatively" are used or when the terms "operably" or "communicatively" are not used, if an element (e.g., a first element) is referred to as "combined with another element (e.g., a second element)", "combined to another element (e.g., a second element)", "connected to another element (e.g., a second element)" or "connected to another element (e.g., a second element)", it means that the element may be directly (e.g., wired) connected to the other element, wirelessly connected to the other element, or connected to the other element via a third element.

[0052] The term "module" may include a unit implemented in hardware, software, or firmware, and may be used interchangeably with other terms (e.g., "logic," "logic block," "part," or "circuit"). A module may be a single integrated component adapted to perform one or more functions or a minimum unit or part of the single integrated component. For example, according to an embodiment, a module may be implemented in the form of an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0053] The various embodiments described herein may be implemented as software (e.g., program 140) including one or more instructions stored in a storage medium (e.g., internal memory 136 or external memory 138) that can be read by a machine (e.g., electronic device 101). For example, under the control of a processor, a processor (e.g., processor 120) of the machine (e.g., electronic device 101) may call at least one of the one or more instructions stored in the storage medium and execute the at least one instruction with or without the use of one or more other components. This enables the machine to operate 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 run by an interpreter. A machine-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. The term "non-transitory" only means that the storage medium is a tangible device and does not include signals (e.g., electromagnetic waves), but the term does not distinguish between data being semi-permanently stored in a storage medium and data being temporarily stored in a storage medium.

[0054] The method according to the embodiment of the present disclosure may be included and provided in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded between a seller and a buyer as a product. The computer program product may be published in the form of a machine-readable storage medium (e.g., a compact disk read-only memory (CD-ROM)), or may be published online (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) via an application store (e.g., PlayStoreTM), or may be published (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) directly between two user devices (e.g., smart phones). If published online, at least part of the computer program product may be temporarily generated, or at least part of the computer program product may be at least temporarily stored in a machine-readable storage medium (such as a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or a memory of a forwarding server).

[0055] Each component (e.g., a module or a program) of the above-mentioned components may include a single entity or multiple entities. One or more of the above-mentioned components may be omitted, or one or more other components may be added. Alternatively or additionally, multiple components (e.g., modules or programs) may be integrated into a single component. In this case, the integrated component may still perform the one or more functions of each of the multiple components in the same or similar manner as a corresponding one of the multiple components performing one or more functions before integration. The operations performed by a module, a program or another component may be performed sequentially, in parallel, repeatedly or in a heuristic manner, or one or more of the operations may be run or omitted in a different order, or one or more other operations may be added.

[0056] Figure 1B is a perspective view 103 showing the appearance of an electronic device 101 according to a certain embodiment.

[0057] According to certain embodiments, the electronic device 101 may include a housing 110 and an opening 201 formed inwardly from one surface of the housing 110. The opening 201 allows a component to be inserted or removed.

[0058] According to certain embodiments, the opening 201 may be opened or closed according to an opening or closing operation of the sliding door 200 .

[0059] For example, Figure 1B As shown in FIG. 2 , the opening 201 may be closed by the sliding door 200. In addition, the opening 201 may be opened by moving the sliding door 200 laterally, thereby being exposed to the outside.

[0060] The electronic device 101 according to certain embodiments may control the sliding door 200 to automatically open or close using a driving actuator provided inside the electronic device 101. Thus, the opening 201 may be opened or closed.

[0061] For example, when the user wants to insert a specific component into the opening 201 or remove a specific component from the opening 201 , the electronic device 101 may open the sliding door 200 to open the opening 201 based on the user input.

[0062] For example, the electronic device 101 may close the sliding door 200 to close the opening 201 after the user inserts or removes a component into or from the opening 201. Alternatively or additionally, the electronic device 101 may control the sliding door 200 to automatically close after a predetermined time has passed since the sliding door 200 was opened or in response to a user input.

[0063] According to certain embodiments, a component insertable into the opening 201 opened and closed by the sliding door 200 may include an external memory card or a SIM card recognizable by the electronic device 101. According to another example, such a component may include a digital pen supporting an input function of the electronic device 101.

[0064] According to a specific embodiment, the electronic device 101 may open or close the sliding door 200 based on an external input signal. For example, the electronic device 101 may open or close the sliding door 200 through an input module (e.g., Figure 1A 150) or a communication module (e.g., Figure 1A The communication module 190 in receives external input signals.

[0065] For example, the external input signal may include user input. For example, the electronic device 101 may identify whether the user input satisfies a predetermined verification condition, and based on the recognition result, control the sliding door 200 to open or close. According to an embodiment, the electronic device 101 may identify whether the received external input signal (e.g., user input) satisfies a predetermined verification condition. Then, if it is determined that the external input signal satisfies the verification condition (i.e., successful verification), the electronic device 101 may operate a driving actuator to control the sliding door 200 to open or close. The external input signal may include biometric information of the user, such as fingerprint information, iris information, or facial shape information. For example, the electronic device 101 may obtain an external input signal including biometric information by using its camera module.

[0066] According to another embodiment, the external input signal may include a power control signal for the electronic device 101. For example, if it is determined to stop supplying power to the system of the electronic device 101 based on the power control signal, the electronic device 101 may operate a driving actuator to control the sliding door 200 to automatically close.

[0067] According to still another embodiment, the external input signal may include a physical input signal created by pressing a physical key or a physical button provided in the electronic device 101 .

[0068] According to certain embodiments, when the driving actuator is controlled to open or close the sliding door 200 , the electronic device 101 may display movement status information of the sliding door 200 on its display.

[0069] FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D 2 is a diagram illustrating an operation of moving the sliding door 200 to open the opening 201 in the sliding door driving environment 202 of the electronic device 101 according to certain embodiments.

[0070] Reference FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D , the electronic device 101 may include an opening 201 formed on one surface of the housing 110. Figure 2A As shown in FIG. 1 , the opening 201 can be closed from the outside by movement of the sliding door 200, and can be opened by another movement of the sliding door 200 to be exposed to the outside of the device, which is at least partially Figure 2D Shown in.

[0071] According to certain embodiments, the electronic device 101 may include a driving actuator 210 and a connecting rod 212 connected to the driving actuator 210, and the connecting rod 212 may be linearly moved according to a driving operation of the driving actuator 210. The connecting rod 212 may also be connected to the sliding door 200. For example, the connecting rod 212 may move the sliding door 200 connected to the connecting rod 212 through the linear movement of the connecting rod 212. According to embodiments, the sliding door 200 may be provided to engage with a ring-shaped portion formed at one end of the connecting rod 212, and may be moved together with the connecting rod 212.

[0072] For example, when the actuator 210 is driven by a processor of the electronic device 101 (eg, Figure 1A When the processor 120 in the embodiment of the present invention is operated, the connecting rod 212 can move linearly according to the driving operation of the driving actuator 210. The sliding door 200 can also move based on the linear movement of the connecting rod 212.

[0073] According to certain embodiments, the electronic device 101 may further include a forced opening blocker 230. When the opening 201 is closed by the sliding door 200, the forced opening blocker 230 may block (e.g., restrict or prevent) the opening of the sliding door 200. In certain embodiments, when the link 212 moves linearly according to the driving operation of the driving actuator 210, the blocking of the opening of the sliding door 200 by the forced opening blocker 230 may be released based on the linear movement of the link 212.

[0074] According to certain embodiments, the electronic device 101 may further include a guide rail 250 disposed on and / or below the sliding door 200 to guide movement of the sliding door 200 when the sliding door 200 moves according to movement of the link 212 .

[0075] Reference Figure 2A , in the electronic device 101 , an opening 201 included in the housing 110 may be closed by a sliding door 200 .

[0076] The electronic device 101 may open or close the sliding door 200 based on an external input signal, and may control the sliding door 200 according to the recognition result. For example, the electronic device 101 may control the sliding door 200 through a processor (eg, Figure 1A The processor 120 in the device identifies whether to open the opening 201 currently closed by the sliding door 200.

[0077] For example, when it is determined that the external input signal satisfies the condition for opening the opening 201, the processor 120 of the electronic device 101 may operate the driving actuator 210 so that the connecting rod 212 moves along a first direction (eg, Figure 2A As shown in FIG, the connecting rod 212 moves away from the opening 201 in the direction).

[0078] Reference Figure 2BWhen the link 212 moves in the first direction according to the driving operation of the driving actuator 210, the protrusion 214 formed on one surface of the link 212 may be pushed upward against the forced opening blocker 230 in a direction perpendicular to the first direction in which the link 212 moves. Therefore, the forced opening blocker 230 may be moved from the first position (e.g., Figure 2A and Figure 2D ) to a second position (eg, a position where the blocking member 230 is forced to open) allowing the blocking of the opening to be released. Figure 2B and Figure 2C ).

[0079] For example, when the forced opening blocking member 230 is located at a position blocking the opening of the sliding door 200, the sliding door 200 may be stuck by the forced opening blocking member 230, thereby being blocked from opening. In addition, when the forced opening blocking member 230 is located at a position releasing the blocking of the opening, the sliding door 200 can be opened or closed freely without being hindered by the forced opening blocking member 230.

[0080] Reference Figure 2C and Figure 2D , when the driving actuator 210 operates to open the opening 201 and the link 212 moves along the first direction, the sliding door 200 may move together with the link 212 to open the opening 201 .

[0081] For example, when the sliding door 200 moves to open the opening 201 through movement of the connecting rod 212, the sliding door 200 can move along the guide rail 250 at least partially along the inward direction of the electronic device 101 and at least partially along the first direction (ie, the movement direction of the connecting rod 212).

[0082] The forced opening stopper 230 of the electronic device 101 may include an elastic member that provides elastic force for the forced opening stopper 230 to return to an earlier position to re-block the opening when the pushing pressure of the protruding portion 214 of the link 212 is released. Figure 2A and Figure 2D As shown in FIG, when pressure is no longer applied to the protruding portion 214 of the link 212 (eg, no pushing pressure), the forced opening stopper 230 may be located at a position blocking forced opening of the sliding door 200, thereby preventing the sliding door 200 from being forced open.

[0083] FIG. 3A to FIG. 3C 2 is a diagram illustrating an operation of the forced opening stopper 230 blocking the forced opening of the sliding door 200 according to the movement of the link 212 in the electronic device 101 according to certain embodiments.

[0084] Figure 3A301 is an exploded perspective view showing a structure of a forced opening stopper 230 pushed according to movement of a link 212 in an electronic device 101 according to certain embodiments.

[0085] Reference Figure 3A The link 212 connected to the driving actuator 210 may move linearly according to the driving operation of the driving actuator 210. For example, the link 212 may include a protrusion 214 that pushes the forced opening stopper 230 and an annular portion 216 formed to engage with the sliding door 200.

[0086] For example, when the link 212 is linearly moved along a first direction (e.g., a direction in which the link 212 moves away from the opening 201) or along a second direction opposite to the first direction by driving the actuator 210, the protrusion 214 can move along a direction perpendicular to the first direction or the second direction (e.g., Figure 3A For example, the forced opening blocking member 230 may be disposed adjacent to the protruding portion 214 of the connecting rod 212, and may be pushed along the connecting rod 212 by the pushing pressure of the protruding portion 214. Figure 3A The direction ① shown in FIG. 1 is at least partially moved.

[0087] For example, when the pushing pressure on the protruding portion 214 is released, the forced opening stopper 230 may return in the direction opposite to the direction ①.

[0088] For example, the forced opening stopper 230 may include an elastic member 232. Figure 3A As shown in FIG, the electronic device 101 may have therein a plate 240 for mounting the forced opening stopper 230 and the elastic member 232. Based on the respective structures of the plate 240, the forced opening stopper 230, and the elastic member 232, when the pushing pressure on the protruding portion 214 is released, the forced opening stopper 230 may return to the original position (i.e., the position before the pushing pressure is applied).

[0089] Figure 3B 3 is a perspective view showing a state 302 in which the opening of the sliding door 200 is blocked by the forced opening stopper 230 in the electronic device 101 according to certain embodiments.

[0090] Reference Figure 3B , in a state where forced opening of the sliding door 200 is blocked, that is, in a state where the pushing pressure of the protruding portion 214 is not applied to the forced opening blocker 230, the sliding door 200 is engaged with the forced opening blocker 230 and does not move.

[0091] Figure 3C3 is a perspective view showing a state 303 in which the forced opening blocking operation of the forced opening blocking member 230 is released in the electronic device 101 according to certain embodiments.

[0092] Reference Figure 3C , when the forced opening blocking member 230 is pushed by the protruding portion 214 of the connecting rod 212 and thereby moves along Figure 3A When moving in the direction ① shown in Figure 3B In contrast to the situation of FIG. 1 , the sliding door 200 is not engaged with the forced opening blocking member 230, but is freely movable in the first direction or the second direction perpendicular to the direction ①. Figure 3C When the forced opening blocking operation of the forced opening blocker 230 is released as shown in FIG. 2 , the sliding door 200 may be opened or closed according to the movement of the link 212 .

[0093] Figure 4A is an exploded perspective view showing an arrangement 401 of a sliding door 200 and a guide rail 250 for guiding movement of the sliding door according to certain embodiments. Figure 4B is a plan view showing the structure of a guide rail 250 according to certain embodiments. Figure 4C is a diagram illustrating a coupling structure 403 of a sliding door 200 , a guide rail 250 , a forced opening stopper 230 , and a link 212 according to certain embodiments.

[0094] Reference Figure 4A , Figure 4B and Figure 4C , when the link 212 moves linearly, the sliding door 200 may move along a path formed by at least one groove 254 and 256 in the guide rail 250 to be opened or closed.

[0095] For example, the guide rail 250 may be disposed below the sliding door 200. The sliding door 200 may include protrusions 204 and 206 corresponding to the grooves 254 and 256 of the guide rail 250, respectively. The protrusions 204 and 206 may slide along the grooves 254 and 256 of the guide rail 250.

[0096] The sliding door 200 may be physically connected to the connecting rod 212. For example, one end of the sliding door 200 may include a protrusion 220 for coupling with the connecting rod 212. The protrusion 220 of the sliding door 200 may be disposed to engage with the annular portion of the connecting rod 212.

[0097] although Figure 4A The guide rail 250 disposed below the sliding door 200 is shown, but this is provided only as an example. Alternatively, the guide rail 250 may be disposed above the sliding door 200, or the guide rail 250 may be disposed above and below the sliding door 200, respectively.

[0098] When the sliding door 200 is opened or closed according to the driving operation of the driving actuator, the sliding door 200 may move at least partially along the moving direction of the connecting rod, and at least partially along the direction perpendicular to the moving direction of the connecting rod. For example, when the sliding door 200 is opened, in order to guide the sliding door 200 to move at least partially along the inward direction of the electronic device 101, the guide rail 250 may include grooves 254 and 256, such as Figure 4A and Figure 4B as shown in .

[0099] Since the sliding door 200 is opened while at least partially moving inwardly into the electronic device 101 and sliding laterally in the electronic device 101 , the electronic device 101 can be formed thinner as a whole.

[0100] Reference Figure 4C , the annular portion of the connecting rod 212 (such as Figure 4C ) is provided as an example, and it should be understood that any other variation of the annular portion may be used if the annular portion can engage with the protruding portion 220 of the sliding door 200.

[0101] According to certain embodiments, the electronic device 101 may include a forced opening stopper 230 that blocks the opening of the sliding door 200 when the opening 201 is closed by the sliding door 200 and moves to release the blocking according to the movement of the link 212 .

[0102] According to certain embodiments, the electronic device 101 may operate the driving actuator to open the sliding door 200 surrounding the opening 201. The link 212 may linearly move according to the driving operation of the driving actuator, thereby opening the sliding door 200 via engagement with the link 212.

[0103] For example, when the driving actuator is operated to open the sliding door 200, the protruding portion 214 of the link 212 may push the forced opening stopper 230 according to the first movement of the link 212 generated by the driving operation of the driving actuator. Therefore, the blocking provided by the forced opening stopper 230 is released.

[0104] In addition, based on the first movement and the subsequent second movement of the link 212 generated by the driving operation of the driving actuator, the sliding door 200 may slide along the groove provided in the guide rail 250 .

[0105] According to certain embodiments, when it is determined that a predetermined condition for closing the opening 201 is satisfied, the electronic device 101 may automatically close the sliding door 200 to close the opening 201. A number of examples of the predetermined condition are provided below.

[0106] For example, an example condition may include detecting that a predetermined time has passed after the sliding door 200 is opened, after which the electronic device 101 may close the sliding door 200 .

[0107] Another example condition may include receiving an external input signal satisfying a predetermined verification condition through the input module or the communication module, after which the electronic device 101 may close the sliding door 200 .

[0108] Another example condition includes determining to stop supplying power to the system of the electronic device 101 based on the power control signal, after which the electronic device 101 may close the sliding door 200 .

[0109] As such, if it is determined that the condition for closing the opening 201 is satisfied, the electronic device 101 may operate the driving actuator to move the link 212 in a second direction opposite to the first direction in which the link 212 moves for opening the opening 201 .

[0110] The sliding door 200 may move to a position closing the opening 201 according to the movement of the link 212 in the second direction.

[0111] According to a specific embodiment, the forced opening stopper 230 may be transferred to the blocking position by the movement of the link 212 in the second direction and the elastic force of the elastic member of the forced opening stopper 230. Therefore, when the opening 201 of the electronic device 101 is closed, the sliding door 200 may not be allowed to be opened at will, and may be allowed to be opened by the driving operation of the driving actuator.

[0112] According to a specific embodiment, when a predetermined condition is satisfied, the electronic device 101 may open or close the sliding door 200 to open or close the opening 201. Specifically, based on the linear movement of the connecting rod 212 according to the driving operation of the driving actuator, the electronic device 101 may easily and automatically open the opening 201 by releasing the forced opening blocking of the forced opening blocking member 230 and moving the sliding door 200 without any additional operation. In addition, based on the linear movement of the connecting rod 212 according to the driving operation of the driving actuator, the electronic device 101 may close the opening 201 by moving the sliding door 200, and also enable the forced opening blocking member 230 to effectively block the forced opening of the sliding door 200. This is conducive to enhancing the safety of the components that can be inserted into the opening 201.

[0113] According to a specific embodiment, an electronic device may include: a driving actuator; a sliding door that opens or closes an opening of the electronic device; a connecting rod that connects the sliding door and the driving actuator and moves linearly according to a driving operation of the driving actuator to move the sliding door; a forced opening blocking member that blocks the forced opening of the sliding door when the opening is closed, and the forced opening blocking member moves based on the linear movement of the connecting rod to release the blocking of the forced opening; and a processor configured to identify whether the opening is opened or closed by the sliding door based on an external input signal, and to operate the driving actuator to open or close the opening based on the result of the identification.

[0114] In the electronic device, when the driving actuator is operated to open the opening, the forced opening blocking member can release the blocking to the forced opening based on the first movement of the connecting rod generated by the driving operation of the driving actuator, and the sliding door can move to open the opening based on the first movement and subsequent second movement of the connecting rod generated by the driving operation of the driving actuator.

[0115] In the electronic device, the link may include a protruding portion formed on one surface thereof, and the forced opening stopper may be configured to release the blocking of the forced opening when the protruding portion pushes the forced opening stopper by the first movement of the link.

[0116] In the electronic device, the forced opening stopper may include an elastic member which provides elastic force for the forced opening stopper to return to a position blocking the forced opening when the pushing pressure of the protruding portion is released.

[0117] In the electronic device, the sliding door may be disposed to engage with a ring portion formed at one end of the link, and to open or close the opening according to the linear movement of the link.

[0118] In the electronic device, the opening of the electronic device may allow an external memory card to be inserted.

[0119] In the electronic device, the processor may also be configured to receive user input for opening or closing the sliding door as an external input signal through an input module or a communication module to identify whether the received user input satisfies a predetermined verification condition, and operate the drive actuator in response to the user input when the user input satisfies the verification condition.

[0120] In the electronic device, the user input may include biometric information of the user.

[0121] In the electronic device, the external input signal may include a power control signal for the electronic device.

[0122] In the electronic device, the link may be linearly movable in a direction parallel to one surface of a housing of the electronic device in which the opening is formed, according to the driving operation of the driving actuator.

[0123] In the electronic device, the sliding door may open or close the opening by at least partially moving in a direction perpendicular to the linear movement direction of the link according to the driving operation of the driving actuator.

[0124] The electronic device may further include a guide rail for guiding movement of the sliding door, so that in order to open the opening, the sliding door moves along the guide rail at least partially along an inward direction of the electronic device.

[0125] According to a specific embodiment, a method for opening or closing an opening of an electronic device by means of a sliding door, a connecting rod and a driving actuator provided in the electronic device may include: receiving an external input signal; determining whether to open or close the opening based on the external input signal; and when it is determined that the external input signal satisfies a condition for opening the opening, operating the driving actuator to generate a linear movement of the connecting rod connected to the driving actuator in a first direction, so that a forced opening blocking member provided to block the forced opening of the sliding door moves according to the linear movement of the connecting rod in the first direction to release the blocking of the forced opening, and so that the sliding door connected to the connecting rod moves according to the linear movement of the connecting rod in the first direction to open the opening.

[0126] The method may also include: when it is determined that the external input signal satisfies the condition for closing the opening, operating the driving actuator to generate linear movement of the connecting rod in a second direction opposite to the first direction, so that the sliding door connected to the connecting rod moves according to the linear movement of the connecting rod in the second direction to close the opening, and so that the forced opening blocking member moves according to the linear movement of the connecting rod in the second direction to block the forced opening of the sliding door.

[0127] In the method, the forced opening stopper may be provided in the electronic device so as not to allow the sliding door to be forcedly opened when the opening is closed.

[0128] In the method, the link may include a protruding portion formed on one surface thereof, and when the protruding portion pushes the forced opening stopper, the forced opening stopper releases the stopper of the forced opening.

[0129] In the method, the first direction and the second direction may be parallel to a surface of the housing of the electronic device where the opening is formed, and the sliding door may open or close the opening by at least partially moving in a direction perpendicular to the first direction and the second direction.

[0130] In the method, determining whether to open or close the opening based on the external input signal may include receiving a user input as the external input signal through an input module or a communication module, and determining whether the received user input satisfies a predetermined verification condition.

[0131] In the method, the user input may include biometric information of the user.

[0132] The method may further include operating the drive actuator to generate linear movement of the connecting rod in a second direction opposite to the first direction to close the opening when a predetermined time has passed after the opening is opened, when a power control signal for the electronic device is received, or when a user input for closing the sliding door is received.

[0133] The electronic device according to a specific embodiment may be one of various types of electronic devices. The electronic device may include, for example, a portable communication device (e.g., a smart phone), a computer device, a portable multimedia device, a portable medical device, a camera, a wearable device, or a household appliance. According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the electronic device is not limited to those described above.

[0134] It should be understood that the specific embodiments of the present disclosure and the terms used herein are not intended to limit the technical features set forth herein to specific embodiments, but include various changes, equivalent forms or alternative forms for corresponding embodiments. For the description of the accompanying drawings, similar reference numerals may be used to refer to similar or related elements. It will be understood that, unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise, the noun in the singular form corresponding to the item may include one or more things. As used herein, each phrase in the phrases such as "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 "at least one of A, B or C" may include any one or all possible combinations of the items listed together in the corresponding one of the multiple phrases. As used herein, terms such as "1st" and "2nd" or "first" and "second" may be used to simply distinguish the corresponding component from another component, and do not limit the component in other aspects (e.g., importance or order). It will be understood that if an element (e.g., a first element) is referred to as being “combined with another element (e.g., the second element)”, “combined to another element (e.g., the second element)”, “connected with another element (e.g., the second element)”, or “connected to another element (e.g., the second element)” when the terms “operably” or “communicatively” are used or when the terms “operably” or “communicatively” are not used, it means that the element may be directly (e.g., wired) connected to the other element, wirelessly connected to the other element, or connected to the other element via a third element.

[0135] As used herein, the term "module" may include a unit implemented in hardware, software, or firmware, and may be used interchangeably with other terms (e.g., "logic," "logic block," "portion," or "circuit"). A module may be a single integrated component adapted to perform one or more functions or a minimum unit or portion of the single integrated component. For example, according to an embodiment, a module may be implemented in the form of an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0136] The specific embodiments described herein may be implemented as software (e.g., program 140) including one or more instructions stored in a storage medium (e.g., internal memory 136 or external memory 138) that can be read by a machine (e.g., electronic device 101). For example, under the control of a processor, a processor (e.g., processor 120) of the machine (e.g., electronic device 101) may call at least one of the one or more instructions stored in the storage medium and execute the at least one instruction with or without the use of one or more other components. This enables the machine to operate 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 run by an interpreter. The machine-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. The term "non-transitory" only means that the storage medium is a tangible device and does not include signals (e.g., electromagnetic waves), but the term does not distinguish between data being semi-permanently stored in the storage medium and data being temporarily stored in the storage medium.

[0137] According to an embodiment, a method according to a specific embodiment of the present disclosure may be included and provided in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded between a seller and a buyer as a product. The computer program product may be published in the form of a machine-readable storage medium (e.g., a compact disk read-only memory (CD-ROM)), or may be published online (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) via an application store (e.g., Play StoreTM), or may be published (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) directly between two user devices (e.g., smart phones). If published online, at least part of the computer program product may be temporarily generated, or at least part of the computer program product may be at least temporarily stored in a machine-readable storage medium (such as a memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or a relay server).

[0138] According to a specific embodiment, each of the above-mentioned components (e.g., a module or a program) may include a single entity or multiple entities. According to a specific embodiment, one or more of the above-mentioned components may be omitted, or one or more other components may be added. Alternatively or additionally, multiple components (e.g., modules or programs) may be integrated into a single component. In this case, according to a specific embodiment, the integrated component may still perform the one or more functions of each of the multiple components in the same or similar manner as a corresponding one of the multiple components performs one or more functions before integration. According to a specific embodiment, the operations performed by a module, a program or another component may be performed sequentially, in parallel, repeatedly or in a heuristic manner, or one or more of the operations may be run or omitted in a different order, or one or more other operations may be added.

[0139] While the present disclosure has been particularly shown and described with reference to example embodiments thereof, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and details may be made therein without departing from the subject matter defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. An electronic device, comprising: a housing defining an opening; driving an actuator; a sliding door capable of being moved to cover or expose said opening; a connecting rod connecting the sliding door and the driving actuator, the connecting rod being linearly movable according to a driving operation of the driving actuator to move the sliding door; a forced opening stopper movable to restrict opening of the sliding door when the opening is closed and releasing the blocking of the opening of the sliding door based on the linear movement of the link; as well as The processor is configured as: receiving an external input signal and identifying whether the opening is exposed or covered based on the external input signal, and operating the driving actuator to expose or cover the opening according to the result of the identification, wherein, when the drive actuator is operating to expose the opening, the forced opening stopper releases the restriction on exposing the opening based on a first movement of the connecting rod generated by the driving operation of the drive actuator, wherein the sliding door moves to expose the opening based on the first movement and subsequent second movement of the link generated by the driving operation of the driving actuator.

2. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein: The forced opening stopper restricts movement of the sliding door when the opening is covered by the sliding door.

3. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein: The connecting rod includes a protruding portion formed on one surface thereof, and The forced opening stopper is configured to release the restriction on exposing the opening when the protruding portion pushes against the forced opening stopper in response to the first movement of the connecting rod.

4. The electronic device according to claim 3, wherein: The forced opening stopper includes an elastic member that provides an elastic force that returns the forced opening stopper to a first position that blocks the opening when the pushing pressure applied to the protruding portion is released.

5. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein: The sliding door is engaged with a ring-shaped portion formed at one end of the link, and Wherein, the opening is covered and / or exposed according to the linear movement of the connecting rod.

6. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein: The opening defined in the housing of the electronic device is formed for inserting an external memory card.

7. The electronic device according to claim 1, further comprising an input module and a communication module, wherein: The processor is further configured to: receiving a user input requesting to cover or expose the opening as the external input signal through the input module or the communication module, and identifying whether the received user input satisfies a predetermined verification condition, Wherein, when the user input satisfies the predetermined verification condition, the driving actuator is operated.

8. The electronic device according to claim 7, wherein: The user input includes biometric information.

9. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein: The external input signal includes a power control signal for the electronic device.

10. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein: According to the driving operation of the driving actuator, the link moves linearly in a direction parallel to one surface of the housing of the electronic device in which the opening is formed.

11. The electronic device according to claim 10, wherein: According to the driving operation of the driving actuator, the sliding door exposes or covers the opening by at least partially moving in a direction perpendicular to the direction of the linear movement of the link.

12. The electronic device according to claim 1, further comprising: a guide rail for guiding the linear movement of the sliding door, The sliding door moves at least partially in an inward direction toward the electronic device along the guide rail.

13. A method in an electronic device, the method comprising: Receiving an external input signal by an input device and / or a communication device; determining, by a processor based on the external input signal, whether to expose or cover an opening defined in a housing of the electronic device; as well as When the external input signal satisfies a condition for exposing the opening, operating the driving actuator to generate a linear movement of the connecting rod in a first direction, wherein the linear movement of the connecting rod in the first direction causes the forced opening blocking member to release the restriction on exposing the opening, and wherein the sliding door connected to the connecting rod moves according to the linear movement of the connecting rod in the first direction to expose the opening, wherein, when the drive actuator is operating to expose the opening, the forced opening stopper releases the restriction on exposing the opening based on the first movement of the connecting rod generated by the driving operation of the drive actuator, wherein the sliding door moves to expose the opening based on the first movement and subsequent second movement of the link generated by the driving operation of the driving actuator.

14. The method according to claim 13, further comprising: When it is determined that the external input signal satisfies the condition for closing the opening, operating the driving actuator to generate a second linear movement of the connecting rod in a second direction opposite to the first direction, wherein the sliding door connected to the connecting rod moves to cover the opening according to the second linear movement of the connecting rod in the second direction, and wherein the forced opening stopper moves to restrict exposure of the opening by movement of the sliding door according to the second linear movement of the link in the second direction.

15. The method according to claim 13, wherein: The forced opening stopper is provided in the electronic device and restricts movement of the sliding door when the opening is covered by the sliding door.

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