Electronic device including flexible display and method for operating electronic device

Abstract

An electronic device according to various embodiments can include a first housing, a second housing movable with respect to the first housing, a motor for moving the second housing to be inserted into and / or withdrawn from the first housing, a display for displaying a display area having a size changeable according to movement of the second housing, and a processor operatively connected to the display and the motor, wherein the processor is configured to identify whether a size of the display area is maintained at a determined size in a maintaining mode, control the motor to move the second housing according to a state of the electronic device in correspondence to deactivation of the maintaining mode, and maintain the size of the display area at the determined size in correspondence to activation of the maintaining mode. Various other embodiments are possible.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to an electronic device comprising a display configured to display a display area having a size that can vary depending on the movement of the housing, and a method of operating the electronic device. Background Technology

[0002] Electronic devices have already achieved the ability to provide relatively large screens while maintaining a size that allows users to hold the device comfortably by using shape factors. Among the shape factors for electronic devices, sliding shape factors are gaining attention as the next generation of shape factors because they can expand the display by sliding.

[0003] The sliding method can include a sliding-in method in which a portion of the flexible display is recessed into the internal space of the electronic device, or a sliding-out method in which a portion of the flexible display extends out of the internal space of the electronic device.

[0004] Because the flexible display slides into the electronic device while the user is carrying it, the electronic device, implemented using a sliding shape factor, can have a relatively small size. In the slid-out state, the flexible display slides out of the electronic device, allowing content to be output through a relatively large screen. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Technical issues

[0006] The emergence of flexible displays allows consumers to anticipate the release of new form factors or concepts for electronic devices. Manufacturers have introduced new concepts for electronic devices to meet these consumer expectations.

[0007] The various embodiments disclosed in this document can provide electronic devices with a new form factor using flexible displays and various operations that can be performed by such electronic devices.

[0008] There is no specific technology for controlling electronic devices with new form factors (such as electronic devices implemented with sliding form factors).

[0009] When electronic devices with new form factors are released, the technical challenge for manufacturers is to control the devices in all aspects, focusing on user convenience.

[0010] The technical problems to be solved in this document are not limited to those mentioned above. Other technical problems not mentioned above may be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains from the following description.

[0011] Technical solution

[0012] According to one aspect of this disclosure, an electronic device is provided. The electronic device includes: a first housing; a second housing configured to be movable relative to the first housing; a motor configured to move the second housing such that the second housing is retracted or extended relative to the first housing at least once; a display configured to display a display area having a size that varies depending on the movement of the second housing; and a processor operatively connected to the display and the motor, wherein the processor is configured to: identify whether a holding mode is activated, the holding mode being a mode in which the size of the display area is maintained at a predetermined size; maintain the size of the display area at the predetermined size in response to identifying that the holding mode is activated; and control the motor to move the second housing according to the state of the electronic device in response to identifying that the holding mode is deactivated.

[0013] According to another aspect of this disclosure, an electronic device is provided. The electronic device includes: a first housing; a second housing configured to be movable relative to the first housing; a motor configured to move the second housing such that at least one of the second housing is retracted or extended relative to the first housing; a display configured to display a display area having a size that varies depending on the movement of the second housing; and a processor operatively connected to the display and the motor, wherein the processor is configured to: identify a specified input, the specified input including an instruction to retract the display area; and, in response to the specified input, control the motor to move or fix at least one of the second housing such that the second housing is retracted to a maximum extent.

[0014] Beneficial effects of the invention

[0015] Interest can be realized and new usage environments can be provided by introducing new form factors to electronic devices. Furthermore, new interfaces can be provided using new form factors to allow users to use electronic devices more conveniently.

[0016] Based on user convenience, technologies for controlling electronic devices with new form factors can be provided.

[0017] In the case of a flexible display device that includes a variable display area, it is possible to prevent the display area from expanding or shrinking regardless of the user's intention.

[0018] For example, even if the user does not perform a separate operation in response to the condition that the display switches to an active state, the expanded display area can still provide convenience to the user.

[0019] For example, electronic devices can be managed efficiently by maintaining the size of the display area in response to the condition that the display switches to a deactivated state.

[0020] For example, if the time it takes for the display to switch to a deactivation state is equal to or longer than a predetermined time, the size of the display area changes to a minimum size, which can improve the security of electronic devices.

[0021] For example, regardless of the user's intent, expanding and / or shrinking the display area takes no time, which makes device management efficient. Attached Figure Description

[0022] In conjunction with the description in the accompanying drawings, the same or similar reference numerals may be used for the same or similar parts.

[0023] Figure 1 This is a block diagram of an electronic device in a network environment according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0024] Figure 2a This is a block diagram of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] Figure 2b These are front / rear perspective views of an electronic device according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0026] Figure 2c This illustrates an embodiment according to the present disclosure. Figure 2b Front / rear perspective view of the expanded state of the electronic device's casing.

[0027] Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating a method of controlling an electronic device by a processor according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] Figure 4a This is a flowchart illustrating the operation of an electronic device controlled by a processor in response to a condition that the electronic device switches to a display activation state, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] Figure 4b , Figure 4c , Figure 4d and Figure 4e This illustrates various embodiments according to the present disclosure. Figure 4a The flowchart in the image shows an example view of the operation of an electronic device.

[0030] Figure 5a This is a flowchart illustrating the operation of an electronic device controlled by a processor in response to a condition that the electronic device switches to a display deactivated state, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] Figure 5b , Figure 5c and Figure 5d This illustrates various embodiments according to the present disclosure. Figure 5a The flowchart in the image shows an example view of the operation of an electronic device.

[0032] Figure 6a This is a flowchart illustrating the operation of providing a split-screen mode by a processor in response to a condition that an electronic device obtains a split-screen operation instruction, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] Figure 6b , Figure 6c and Figure 6d This illustrates various embodiments according to the present disclosure. Figure 6a The flowchart in the image shows an example view of the operation of an electronic device.

[0034] Figure 7a , Figure 7b , Figure 7c , Figure 7d and Figure 7e This is a view illustrating a UI included in an electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0035] Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating a method of controlling an electronic device by a processor according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0036] Figure 9a and Figure 9b This is a view used to explain examples of UIs included in electronic devices according to various embodiments of this disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0037] Figure 1 This is a block diagram illustrating an electronic device 101 in a network environment 100 according to various embodiments. (Refer to...) Figure 1 In network environment 100, electronic device 101 can communicate with electronic device 102 via a first network 198 (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network), or with at least one of electronic device 104 or server 108 via a second network 199 (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). According to an embodiment, electronic device 101 can communicate with electronic device 104 via server 108. According to an embodiment, electronic device 101 may include a processor 120, memory 130, input module 150, sound output module 155, display module 160, audio module 170, sensor module 176, interface 177, connection terminal 178, haptic module 179, camera module 180, power management module 188, battery 189, communication module 190, user identification module (SIM) 196, or antenna module 197. In some embodiments, at least one of the above components (e.g., connection terminal 178) may be omitted from electronic device 101, or one or more other components may be added to electronic device 101. In some embodiments, some of the components described above (e.g., sensor module 176, camera module 180, or antenna module 197) may be implemented as a single integrated component (e.g., display module 160).

[0038] Processor 120 may run software (e.g., program 140) to control at least one other component (e.g., hardware or software component) of electronic device 101 connected to processor 120, and may perform various data processing or calculations. According to one embodiment, as at least part of the data processing or calculation, processor 120 may store commands or data received from another component (e.g., sensor module 176 or communication module 190) in volatile memory 132, process the commands or data stored in volatile memory 132, and store the result data in non-volatile memory 134. According to an embodiment, processor 120 may include a main processor 121 (e.g., central processing unit (CPU) or application processor (AP)) or an auxiliary processor 123 (e.g., graphics processing unit (GPU), neural processing unit (NPU), image signal processor (ISP), sensor central processor, or communication processor (CP)) that is operationally independent of or combined with the main processor 121. For example, when electronic device 101 includes a main processor 121 and an auxiliary processor 123, the auxiliary processor 123 may be adapted to consume less power than the main processor 121, or to be dedicated to a specific function. The auxiliary processor 123 may be implemented separately from the main processor 121, or may be implemented as part of the main processor 121.

[0039] When the main processor 121 is inactive (e.g., in sleep mode), the auxiliary processor 123 (rather than the main processor 121) can control at least some of the functions or states associated with at least one component of the electronic device 101 (e.g., display module 160, sensor module 176, or communication module 190), or when the main processor 121 is active (e.g., running an application), the auxiliary processor 123 can work with the main processor 121 to control at least some of the functions or states associated with at least one component of the electronic device 101 (e.g., display module 160, sensor module 176, or communication module 190). According to embodiments, the auxiliary processor 123 (e.g., an image signal processor or a communication processor) may be implemented as part of another component (e.g., camera module 180 or communication module 190) functionally associated with the auxiliary processor 123. According to embodiments, the auxiliary processor 123 (e.g., a neural processing unit) may include hardware architecture dedicated to artificial intelligence model processing. Artificial intelligence models can be generated through machine learning. For example, such learning can be performed via electronic device 101 where artificial intelligence is performed or via a separate server (e.g., server 108). The learning algorithm may include, but is not limited to, supervised learning, unsupervised learning, semi-supervised learning, or reinforcement learning. The artificial intelligence model may include multiple layers of artificial neural networks. The artificial neural network may be a deep neural network (DNN), a convolutional neural network (CNN), a recurrent neural network (RNN), a restricted Boltzmann machine (RBM), a deep belief network (DBN), a bidirectional recurrent deep neural network (BRDNN), or a deep Q-network, or a combination of two or more thereof, but is not limited thereto. Additionally or optionally, the artificial intelligence model may include software structures in addition to hardware structures.

[0040] Memory 130 may store various data used by at least one component of electronic device 101 (e.g., processor 120 or sensor module 176). The various data may include, for example, software (e.g., program 140) and input or output data for commands associated with it. Memory 130 may include volatile memory 132 or non-volatile memory 134. Non-volatile memory 134 may include at least one internal memory 136 and external memory 138.

[0041] The program 140 may be stored as software in the memory 130, and the program 140 may include, for example, an operating system (OS) 142, middleware 144, or application 146.

[0042] The input module 150 can receive commands or data from outside the electronic device 101 (e.g., a user) that will be used by other components of the electronic device 101 (e.g., processor 120). The input module 150 may include, for example, a microphone, mouse, keyboard, keys (e.g., buttons), or digital pen (e.g., stylus).

[0043] The sound output module 155 can 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. The speaker can be used for general purposes such as playing multimedia or playing records. The receiver can be used to receive incoming calls. According to an embodiment, the receiver can be implemented separately from the speaker or as part of the speaker.

[0044] Display module 160 can visually provide information to the outside of electronic device 101 (e.g., to a user). Display device 160 may include, for example, a display, a holographic device, or a projector, and control circuitry for controlling a respective one of the display, holographic device, and projector. According to an embodiment, display module 160 may include a touch sensor adapted to detect touch or a pressure sensor adapted to measure the intensity of the force caused by touch.

[0045] The audio module 170 can convert sound into electrical signals and vice versa. According to an embodiment, the audio module 170 can obtain sound via the input module 150, or output sound via the sound output module 155 or headphones of an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device 102) that is directly (e.g., wired) or wirelessly connected to the electronic device 101.

[0046] Sensor module 176 can detect the operating state of electronic device 101 (e.g., power or temperature) or the environmental state outside electronic device 101 (e.g., user state), and then generate an electrical signal or data value corresponding to the detected state. According to embodiments, sensor module 176 may include, for example, a gesture sensor, gyroscope sensor, atmospheric pressure sensor, magnetic sensor, accelerometer, grip sensor, proximity sensor, color sensor, infrared (IR) sensor, biometric sensor, temperature sensor, humidity sensor, or illuminance sensor.

[0047] Interface 177 may support one or more specific protocols used to enable electronic device 101 to connect directly (e.g., wired) or wirelessly to external electronic devices (e.g., electronic device 102). According to embodiments, interface 177 may include, for example, a High Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI), a Universal Serial Bus (USB) interface, a Secure Digital Card (SD) interface, or an audio interface.

[0048] Connection end 178 may include a connector, through which electronic device 101 can be physically connected to an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device 102). According to embodiments, 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).

[0049] The tactile module 179 can convert electrical signals into mechanical stimuli (e.g., vibration or motion) or electrical stimuli that can be recognized by a user through his touch or kinesthesia. According to embodiments, the tactile module 179 may include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulator.

[0050] Camera module 180 can capture still or moving images. According to an embodiment, camera module 180 may include one or more lenses, an image sensor, an image signal processor, or a flash.

[0051] The power management module 188 manages the power supply to the electronic device 101. According to an embodiment, the power management module 188 may be implemented as at least part of, for example, a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

[0052] Battery 189 can power at least one component of electronic device 101. According to an embodiment, battery 189 may include, for example, a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable rechargeable battery, or a fuel cell.

[0053] Communication module 190 can support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) or wireless communication channel between electronic device 101 and external electronic devices (e.g., electronic device 102, electronic device 104, or server 108), and perform communication via the established communication channel. Communication module 190 may include one or more communication processors capable of operating independently of processor 120 (e.g., application processor (AP)) and support direct (e.g., wired) or wireless communication. According to embodiments, communication module 190 may include wireless communication module 192 (e.g., cellular communication module, short-range wireless communication module, or Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) communication module) or wired communication module 194 (e.g., local area network (LAN) communication module or power line communication (PLC) module). 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, Wi-Fi Direct, or Infrared Data Association (IrDA)) or a second network 199 (e.g., a long-range communication network such as a traditional cellular network, 5G network, next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a LAN or a wide area network (WAN))). These various types of communication modules can be implemented as a single component (e.g., a single chip) or as multiple components (e.g., multiple chips) that are separate from each other. The wireless communication module 192 can identify and verify the electronic device 101 in the communication network (such as the first network 198 or the second network 199) using user information (e.g., the International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI)) stored in the user identification module 196.

[0054] Wireless communication module 192 can support 5G networks following 4G networks and next-generation communication technologies (such as new radio (NR) access technologies). NR access technologies can support enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB), massive machine-type communication (mMTC), or ultra-reliable low-latency communication (URLLC). Wireless communication module 192 can support high-frequency bands (e.g., millimeter-wave bands) to achieve, for example, high data transmission rates. Wireless communication module 192 can support various technologies used to ensure performance in high-frequency bands, such as, for example, beamforming, massive MIMO, full-dimensional MIMO (FD-MIMO), array antennas, analog beamforming, or massive antennas. Wireless communication module 192 can support various requirements specified in electronic device 101, external electronic devices (e.g., electronic device 104), or network systems (e.g., second network 199). According to an embodiment, the wireless communication module 192 may support peak data rates (e.g., 20 Gbps or greater) for implementing eMBB, lost coverage (e.g., 164 dB or less) for implementing mMTC, or U-plane latency (e.g., 0.5 ms or less for each of the downlink (DL) and uplink (UL), or 1 ms or less round trip) for implementing URLLC.

[0055] Antenna module 197 can transmit or receive signals or power to or from the exterior of electronic device 101 (e.g., external electronic device). According to an embodiment, antenna module 197 may include an antenna comprising a radiating element formed of a conductive material or conductive pattern formed in or on a substrate (e.g., a printed circuit board (PCB)). According to an embodiment, antenna module 197 may include multiple antennas (e.g., an array antenna). In this case, at least one antenna suitable for a communication scheme used in a communication network (such as a first network 198 or a second network 199) can be selected from the multiple antennas by, for example, communication module 190 (e.g., wireless communication module 192). Signals or power can then be transmitted or received between communication module 190 and the external electronic device via the selected at least one antenna. According to an embodiment, additional components besides the radiating element (e.g., a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) may be additionally incorporated into antenna module 197.

[0056] According to various embodiments, antenna module 197 may form a millimeter-wave antenna module. According to embodiments, the millimeter-wave antenna module may include a printed circuit board, a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC), and multiple antennas (e.g., an array antenna), wherein the RFIC is disposed on or adjacent to a first surface (e.g., a bottom surface) of the printed circuit board and is capable of supporting a specified high-frequency band (e.g., a millimeter-wave band), and the multiple antennas are disposed on or adjacent to a second surface (e.g., a top surface or a side surface) of the printed circuit board and are capable of transmitting or receiving signals in the specified high-frequency band.

[0057] At least some of the aforementioned components can be interconnected and communicate signals (e.g., commands or data) between them via an inter-peripheral communication scheme (e.g., bus, general purpose input / output (GPIO), serial peripheral interface (SPI), or mobile industrial processor interface (MIPI)).

[0058] According to an embodiment, commands or data can be sent or received between electronic device 101 and external electronic device 104 via server 108 connected to a second network 199. Each of electronic device 102 or electronic device 104 can be a device of the same type as electronic device 101, or a device of a different type. According to an embodiment, all or some operations that would be performed on electronic device 101 can be performed on one or more of external electronic devices 102, external electronic devices 104, or server 108. For example, if electronic device 101 is required to automatically perform a function or service, or is required to perform a function or service in response to a request from a user or another device, electronic device 101 may request the one or more external electronic devices to perform at least a portion of the function or service, instead of running the function or service, or electronic device 101 may request the one or more external electronic devices to perform at least a portion of the function or service in addition to running the function or service. Upon receiving the request, the one or more external electronic devices may perform at least a portion of the requested function or service, or perform additional functions or services related to the request, and transmit the result of the execution to electronic device 101. Electronic device 101 may provide the result as at least a partial response to the request, with or without further processing of the result. For this purpose, technologies such as cloud computing, distributed computing, mobile edge computing (MEC), or client-server computing may be used. Electronic device 101 may use, for example, distributed computing or mobile edge computing to provide ultra-low latency services. In another embodiment, 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 embodiments, external electronic device 104 or server 108 may be included in a second network 199. Electronic device 101 may be applied to intelligent services based on 5G communication technology or IoT-related technologies (e.g., smart homes, smart cities, smart cars, or healthcare).

[0059] Figure 2a This is a block diagram of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0060] Reference Figure 2a Electronic device 200 (e.g., Figure 1 The electronic device 101 in the middle may include a processor 250 (e.g., Figure 1 The processor 120 and the display 220 (e.g., Figure 1 The display module 160 and sensor module 240 (e.g., Figure 1 The sensor module 176 and / or motor 270 are included. Figure 2aThe constituent elements are some structures included in the electronic device 200, and the electronic device 200 may include, in addition to the aforementioned constituent elements, other components. Figure 1 The various constituent elements shown.

[0061] According to various embodiments, processor 250 may be a reference Figure 1 The processor 120 is described. The display 220 may be a reference. Figure 1 The described display module 160. The processor 250 can be connected to the display 220 and process various information so that the information can be visually displayed on the display 220. The processor 250 can be connected to the sensor module 240 and receive various information measured by the sensor module 240. Furthermore, the processor 250 can be connected to the motor 270 and control the motor 270.

[0062] According to various embodiments, the electronic device 200 may include a first housing (e.g., Figure 2b The first housing 211) and the second housing (e.g., mounted to be slidable relative to the first housing 211) Figure 2b The second shell 213 in the middle.

[0063] According to various embodiments, sensor module 240 may include at least one sensor. For example, sensor module 240 may include a distance sensor capable of measuring the distance between the first housing 211 and the second housing 213. The distance sensor may be a sensor that measures the extent to which the second housing 213 extends as the housing 213 slides relative to the first housing 211.

[0064] According to various embodiments, the sensor module 240 may include a distance sensor capable of measuring the distance from the second housing 213 to an obstacle in the direction in which the second housing 213 extends.

[0065] In an embodiment, the distance sensor included in the sensor module 240 may include at least one of an optical distance sensor, an ultrasonic distance sensor, and a radio wave distance sensor. Furthermore, the distance sensor may include various sensors capable of measuring distance or displacement.

[0066] According to various embodiments, distance sensors can measure the extent of housing expansion and / or distance to obstacles in various ways. In one embodiment, the distance sensor can measure distance in a time-of-flight (TOF) manner. The distance sensor can measure distance by using the time it takes for light or radio waves output from the distance sensor to be reflected and return from another object. In another embodiment, the distance sensor can measure distance using a light intensity measurement method. A distance sensor that can measure distance using a light intensity measurement method measures distance based on the amount of light entering the distance sensor. The distance sensor can determine that distance increases as the amount of light received by the distance sensor decreases, and that distance decreases as the amount of light received by the distance sensor increases. In another embodiment, the distance sensor can measure distance by using a method of analyzing a light pattern emitted to a specific object and displayed on that specific object. The distance sensor can measure the distance between two points in the light pattern displayed on the specific object. It can be determined that the distance between the distance sensor and the specific object increases as the interval between the two points decreases, and that the distance between the distance sensor and the specific object decreases as the interval between the two points increases. Furthermore, the distance sensor can measure distance in various ways.

[0067] According to various embodiments, sensor module 240 may include an extension detection sensor capable of detecting the extension of the second housing 213. The extension detection sensor may measure the state based on the distance between the second housing 213 and the first housing 211. In embodiments, the extension detection sensor may generate an electrical signal based on the degree of extension of the second housing 213. For example, the extension detection sensor may be a Hall sensor configured to detect changes in a magnetic field based on the extension of the housing, a sensor configured to detect magnetic interactions, a sensor configured to detect the push state of a physical switch, or a sensor configured to detect contact between terminals. The extension detection sensor may detect the second housing 213 in a state of maximum extension, a state of retraction, or an intermediate state.

[0068] According to various embodiments, sensor module 240 may include a pressure sensor. The pressure sensor can measure the pressure applied to electronic device 200. In embodiments, the pressure sensor may be mounted on at least one of the upper, lower, rear, and / or side surfaces of electronic device 200, and measure the magnitude and / or direction of the pressure applied to electronic device 200.

[0069] According to various embodiments, sensor module 240 may include a grip sensor. The grip sensor can detect whether the electronic device 200 is being gripped. In embodiments, the grip sensor can detect (or sense or identify) a change in capacitance (or capacitance change) caused by an external object (e.g., a human body or object) approaching or contacting the electronic device 200. In embodiments, the capacitance detected by the grip sensor when an external object approaches or contacts the electronic device 200 may vary depending on the external object (or the dielectric constant of the external object). For example, when a human body approaches or contacts the electronic device 200, the grip sensor can detect a capacitance having a first strength. When an external electronic device (e.g., a pad for wireless charging) approaches or contacts the electronic device 200, the grip sensor can detect a capacitance having a strength equal to or lower than the first strength.

[0070] Figure 2b These are front / rear perspective views of an electronic device according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 2c This illustrates an embodiment according to the present disclosure. Figure 2b Front / rear perspective view of the expanded state of the electronic device's casing.

[0071] Reference Figure 2a and Figure 2b According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, the electronic device 200 may be an electronic device 200 including a display 220 having a display area having a size that can visually change in response to external variations (e.g., Figure 2b The display area 221 is a region in which visual information can be displayed. According to various embodiments, as the size of the display area 221 of the display 220 increases, the electronic device 200 can display a large amount of information on the display 220. The housing structure of the electronic device 200 described below is merely an example of an electronic device where the size of the display area 221 is variable. Furthermore, the size of the display area 221 of the display 220 can be varied in various ways.

[0072] According to various embodiments, the electronic device 200 may include a slidable housing (e.g., a first housing 211 and a second housing 213). See also... Figure 2a The electronic device 200 may include a first housing 211, a second housing 213, and a display 220.

[0073] According to various embodiments, the display 220 may be a flexible display. The display area 221 of the display 220 may expand or contract as the second housing 213 moves relative to the first housing 211. For example, the display area 221 of the display 220 may expand or contract as the second housing 213 moves relative to the first housing. Figure 2a In the first direction (e.g., in) Figure 2cThe display area 221 of the display 220 can expand as the second housing 213 moves relative to the first housing 211 in the second direction (e.g., D1), and the display area 221 of the display 220 can expand as the second housing 213 moves relative to the first housing 211 in the second direction (e.g., D1). Figure 2c It moves and contracts in the second direction (D2) of the display 220. At least a portion of the display 220 (e.g., Figure 2b The display area 221 may constitute the front surface of the electronic device 200. At least one portion of the area (e.g., display area 221) may be visually exposed to the outside, while the remaining areas (e.g., ...) may be partially exposed to the outside. Figure 2b The second region 222 and / or the third region 223) can be accommodated in the electronic device 200. The front surface can mean based on Figure 2b A surface pointing in the +Z direction. For example, the display area 221 of the display 220 can be configured based on... Figure 2b The front surface of the electronic device 200. At least one portion of the area (e.g., display area 221) may be visually exposed to the outside, and the second area 222 and the third area 223 may be at least partially housed within the electronic device 200. As the second housing 213 moves relative to the first housing 211, the second area 222 and the third area 223 may be visually exposed to the outside.

[0074] According to various embodiments, the rear surface cover 260 of the electronic device 200 may cover the rear surface of the electronic device 200. The rear surface of the electronic device 200 may be a surface pointing in the opposite direction to the front surface of the electronic device. In this case, the rear surface may be based on... Figure 2b A surface pointing in the -Z direction. In an embodiment, the rear surface cover 260 may include a transparent region 261. The transparent region 261 may be an area of ​​the rear surface cover 260 made of a transparent material. In this case, a portion of the display 220 housed in the electronic device 200 (e.g., the second region 222 and / or the third region 223) may be visually visible to the outside of the electronic device 200 through the transparent region 261.

[0075] According to various embodiments, the first housing 211 may accommodate the display 220. For example, a recess may be formed in the front surface of the first housing 211 and accommodate a portion of the display 220. In this case, the front surface may mean based on Figure 2b The surface pointing in the +Z direction. According to an embodiment, at least a portion of the first housing 211 may be made of a metallic or non-metallic material having rigidity configured to support the size of the display 220.

[0076] According to various embodiments, the second housing 213 can be coupled to be slidable relative to the first housing 211. For example, as Figure 2c As shown, the second housing 213 may be in the first direction (e.g., Figure 2cThe first direction D1) or the second direction (e.g., Figure 2c The second housing 213 can slide in the second direction (D2). At least a portion of the second housing 213 can be fixed to the display 220. At least a portion of the second housing 213 can be made of a metallic or non-metallic material having rigidity configured to support the size of the display 220.

[0077] According to various embodiments, the electronic device 200 may include a motor (e.g., motor) within a housing. Figure 2a The motor 270 in the middle). According to various embodiments, the processor (e.g., Figure 1 The processor 120 or Figure 2a The processor 250 in the middle can control the display 220 and the motor 270 (e.g., Figure 2a (Motor 270 in the middle). According to various embodiments, motor 270 may be configured to allow the second housing 213 to slide relative to the first housing 211.

[0078] According to an embodiment, the processor 250 of the electronic device 200 can send control signals to the motor 270.

[0079] According to an embodiment, the motor 270 can operate in response to at least one of a plurality of control signals sent from the processor. For example, in the event of various events occurring in the electronic device 200 (e.g., the operation of an application), the motor 270 can receive control signals from the processor.

[0080] According to an embodiment, the motor 270 may be mounted in either the first housing 211 or the second housing 213, and the second housing 213 may slide relative to the first housing 211 in response to at least one of a plurality of control signals sent from the processor. According to an embodiment, the motor 270 may be replaced by various configurations that allow the second housing 213 to slide relative to the first housing 211. According to an embodiment, various types of actuators may be used. For example, an actuator of a cylinder operable to perform linear motion may be used.

[0081] According to various embodiments, a sliding shaft 230 may be disposed in the electronic device 200. The sliding shaft 230 may guide the expansion or contraction of the display 220 caused by the sliding movement of the second housing 213 relative to the first housing 211. Regions of the display housed in the electronic device 200 (e.g., second region 222 and third region 223) may move to and be visible to the front surface of the electronic device 200 while passing through the sliding shaft 230. In one embodiment, the sliding shaft 230 may be rotated by operation of a motor 270. The second housing 213 may slide relative to the first housing 211 by rotation of the sliding shaft 230. In another embodiment, the sliding shaft 230 may be configured to guide movement of the display 220 caused by the sliding movement of the second housing 213. The sliding shaft 230 may guide the display 220 so that the display 220 does not deviate from the sliding movement.

[0082] According to various embodiments, the electronic device 200 may further include a front surface camera module (not shown) that is visually exposed to the front surface of the electronic device 200, and a rear surface camera module 208 that is visually exposed to the rear surface.

[0083] According to various embodiments, the electronic device 200 may further include a connector hole 206. The connector hole 206 may include: a first connector hole 206 capable of accommodating a connector (e.g., a USB connector) for transmitting power and / or data to or receiving power and / or data from an external electronic device; and / or a second connector hole (not shown) (e.g., a headphone jack) capable of accommodating a connector for transmitting audio signals to or receiving audio signals from an external electronic device.

[0084] According to various embodiments, the electronic device 200 may further include an audio module (e.g., a microphone hole 202 and / or a speaker hole 203). The audio module (e.g., a microphone hole 202 and / or a speaker hole 203) may include a microphone hole 202 and / or a speaker hole 203. A microphone may be disposed in the microphone hole 202 for acquiring external sound. The speaker hole 203 may include an external speaker hole 203 and / or a telephone receiver hole (not shown). In another embodiment, the speaker hole 203 and the microphone hole 202 may be implemented as a single hole, or a speaker (e.g., a piezoelectric speaker) may be included without the speaker hole 203. In the electronic device 200 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure, the size of the display area 221 of the display 220 may vary. As described above, the size variation of the display area 221 can be achieved by sliding movement of the display 220.

[0085] Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating a method of controlling an electronic device by a processor according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0086] According to various embodiments, electronic devices (e.g., Figure 2b The electronic device 200 in the middle may include a display (e.g., Figure 2b The display area of ​​the monitor 220 in the middle (e.g., Figure 2b The display area 221 in the middle is through the second housing (e.g., Figure 2b The second housing 213) is located from the first housing (e.g., Figure 2b A rollable and / or sliding electronic device that expands or contracts by moving the first housing 211 in the middle.

[0087] Reference Figure 3 According to various embodiments, in operation 1100, the processor (e.g., Figure 2a The processor 250 in the middle can identify the status of the electronic device 200.

[0088] According to various embodiments, the state of the electronic device 200 may include: a display deactivated state, including a state where the display 220 is in a screen-off state and / or a state where the screen is locked and displayed; a display activated state, including a state where the electronic device 200 is unlocked and the display 220 is in a screen-on state; and a power-off state. According to embodiments, the electronic device 200 may switch from a display deactivated state to a display activated state in response to received specified user input. The specified user input may be user input on the display 220 or user input via various components (e.g., hardware buttons) included in the electronic device 200. According to embodiments, the electronic device 200 may receive user identification and / or authentication based on user biometric information (e.g., the user's iris, face, or fingerprint), and switch to a display activated state in response to a condition that the received user biometric information matches stored biometric information.

[0089] According to an embodiment, electronic device 200 can switch from a display active state to a display deactivated state in response to a specified condition being met while in a display active state. The specified condition may include various conditions, including: a condition that electronic device 200 has not received individual user input for a period of time equal to or longer than a specified time in the display active state; and / or a condition that electronic device 200 receives user input requesting electronic device 200 to switch to a display deactivated state.

[0090] According to an embodiment, the electronic device 200 can switch from a display deactivation state and / or a display activation state to a power-off state in response to the fulfillment of specified conditions. Specified conditions may include various conditions, including various user inputs requesting the electronic device 200 to switch to the power-off state (e.g., selecting an end icon on the display, inputting a hardware button provided on the electronic device 200, or specifying a gesture) and / or the absence of a battery in the electronic device 200.

[0091] According to various embodiments, in operation 1200, processor 250 can identify whether a size-holding mode for display area 221 is activated.

[0092] According to an embodiment, the holding mode can be an operating mode in which the size of the display area is changed to a predetermined size when the electronic device 200 is in a display active state, and the display area is reduced when the electronic device 200 is in a power-off state. For example, the holding mode can be an operating mode in which the size of the display area 221 remains unchanged in the display active state. According to an embodiment, the holding mode can be described as a sliding mode, a sliding fixed mode, and a sliding fixed on / off mode.

[0093] Processor 250 can maintain the size of display area 221 at a defined size in response to activation of hold mode. In response to deactivation of hold mode, processor 250 can change the size of display area 221 depending on the state of electronic device 200. According to an embodiment, deactivation of hold mode can be the default state of electronic device 200.

[0094] According to an embodiment, when the holding mode is activated, the determined size can be the size of the display area 221. According to an embodiment, the determined size can be the size when the size of the display area 221 is minimized in response to the second housing 213 being in a state of maximum retraction (slide-in state). According to an embodiment, the determined size can be the size when the size of the display area 221 is maximized in response to the second housing 213 being in a state of maximum extension (slide-out state).

[0095] According to an embodiment, the determined size can be a size specified by the user between the state in which the second housing 213 is retracted to its maximum extent (slid-in state) and the state in which the second housing 213 is extended to its maximum extent (slid-out state).

[0096] Electronic device 200 may include a user interface (UI) of various shapes through which input related to the hold mode can be obtained from a user. The UIs described in this document may include various UIs in software and / or hardware form. UIs according to various embodiments may include... Figures 7a to 7e The UI shown is in the form of the image.

[0097] According to various embodiments, during operation 1300, the processor 250 can identify the size of the display area 221.

[0098] According to various embodiments, sensor module 240 may include a distance sensor capable of measuring the distance between first housing 211 and second housing 213. Sensor module 240, including the distance sensor, can measure the extent to which the space between the first housing 211 and second housing 213 expands as the second housing 213 slides relative to the first housing 211. According to embodiments, processor 250 can identify the size of display area 221 based on the distance between the first housing 211 and second housing 213 measured by sensor module 240.

[0099] According to various embodiments, sensor module 240 may include an extension detection sensor capable of detecting an extension of the second housing 213. Sensor module 240 including the extension detection sensor can measure the state based on the distance between the second housing 213 and the first housing 211. In embodiments, the extension detection sensor can generate an electrical signal based on the degree of extension of the second housing 213. According to embodiments, processor 250 can identify the size of display area 221 based on the degree of extension of the second housing 213, which is measured by sensor module 240.

[0100] According to various embodiments, sensor module 240 may include an overload detection sensor capable of detecting overload of motor 270. Sensor module 240 including the overload detection sensor can detect an overload state of motor 270 when the expansion of second housing 213 is hindered (e.g., the electronics 200 is trapped in a narrow space) and when the amount of current supplied to motor 270 is equal to or greater than a specified amount while second housing 213 is expanded by operation of motor 270.

[0101] According to various embodiments, in operation 1400, processor 250 can move and / or fix the second housing 213 based on the state of electronic device 200, whether a holding mode is activated, and the size of display area 221. For example, when electronic device 200 is switched to a display-activated state, holding mode is activated, and the size of display area 221 is not a defined size, processor 250 can control motor 270 to move the second housing 213. As another example, when electronic device 200 is switched to a display-activated state, holding mode is activated, and the size of display area 221 is a defined size, processor 250 can control motor 270 to fix (e.g., hold) the second housing 213.

[0102] According to an embodiment, when the size of the display area 221 is not a predetermined size selected by the user in the holding mode, the processor 250 can control the motor 270 to move the second housing 213 by providing power and / or signals to the motor 270. As another example, when the size of the display area 221 is a predetermined size selected by the user in the holding mode, the processor 250 can control the motor 270 to fix (e.g., hold) the second housing 213 by blocking the power and / or signals to be provided to the motor 270.

[0103] According to an embodiment, the processor 250 can determine whether the movement of the second housing 213 is obstructed before controlling the motor 270 to move the second housing 213. Obstruction of movement of the second housing 213 could mean that the second housing 213 cannot move a specified length due to an external object. The processor 250 can respond to controlling the motor (e.g., Figure 2a The processor 250 identifies the movement distance of the second housing 213 by moving the second housing 213 a specified length using the motor 270 in the motor 270. The processor 250 can determine that the movement of the second housing 213 is obstructed in response to a condition that the movement distance of the second housing 213 is less than a predetermined value or more than the specified length.

[0104] According to embodiments, the processor 250 can determine whether the movement of the second housing 213 is obstructed while controlling the motor 270 to move the second housing 213. For example, if the sensor module 240 detects that the amount of current supplied to the motor 270 is equal to or greater than a specified amount (e.g., an overload condition), the processor can determine whether the movement of the second housing 213 is obstructed. According to various embodiments, obstruction of movement of the second housing 213 may include situations where an obstacle exists in the first direction D1 and the movement of the second housing 213 in the first direction D1 is obstructed, such as when a user holds the electronic device 200 in the first direction D1 or when the surface of the second housing 213 of the electronic device 200 is in contact with the ground.

[0105] According to various embodiments, sensor module 240 may include: a motor sensor configured to detect a load equal to or greater than a predetermined torque of motor 270; a pressure sensor configured to detect pressure applied to electronic device 200; a grip sensor configured to detect whether electronic device 200 is being gripped; and / or a distance sensor configured to detect the distance between an obstacle and the second housing 213 of electronic device 200. Sensor module 240 may detect whether movement of the second housing 213 is obstructed. Sensor module 240 may provide data indicating obstruction of movement of the second housing 213 to processor 250 in response to detecting obstruction of movement of the second housing 213. Processor 250 may determine the presence or absence of an obstacle based on the data transmitted by sensor module 240. Processor 250 may respond to determining the presence of obstruction to movement of the second housing 213 without controlling operation of motor 270.

[0106] Figure 4a This illustrates an embodiment of the present disclosure using a processor (e.g., Figure 2a The processor in the device controls the electronic device (e.g., the display active state) in response to a condition that the electronic device switches to the display active state. Figure 2a A flowchart of the operation of the electronic device in the process. Figure 4b , Figure 4c , Figure 4d and Figure 4e This is for explaining the various embodiments according to this disclosure. Figure 4a The flowchart in the image shows an example view of the operation of an electronic device.

[0107] According to various embodiments, the processor 250 can be configured based on the size of the display area 221 and the display area (e.g., Figure 2b The size of the display area 221 is maintained in a holding mode, which is activated in response to the condition that the electronic device 200 switches to the display active state, thereby maintaining the size of the display area 221 and / or controlling the motor (e.g., Figure 2a The motor 270 in the middle moves the second housing (e.g., Figure 2b (The second shell in the middle).

[0108] Reference Figures 4b to 4e According to various embodiments, in operation 2100, the processor 250 can identify whether the electronic device 200 has switched to a display active state.

[0109] According to an embodiment, electronic device 200 can switch from a display deactivated state to a display activated state in response to received specified user input. The specified user input can be user input on display 220 or user input via various components (e.g., hardware buttons) included in electronic device 200. Electronic device 200 can receive user identification and / or authentication based on user biometric information (e.g., user's iris, face, or fingerprint), and switch to an activated state in response to a condition that the received user biometric information matches stored biometric information.

[0110] According to various embodiments, in operation 2200, processor 250 may determine whether a holding mode for maintaining the size of display area 221 is activated in response to a condition that electronic device 200 switches to display activation.

[0111] According to various embodiments, in operation 2300, processor 250 may determine whether the size of display area 221 is equal to the size determined in response to activation of hold mode (e.g., "yes" in operation 2200).

[0112] According to an embodiment, the determined size may be the size of the display area 221 when the holding mode is activated. According to an embodiment, the determined size may be the size when the size of the display area 221 is minimized in response to the second housing 213 being in a state of maximum retraction (slide-in state). According to an embodiment, the determined size may be the size when the size of the display area 221 is maximized in response to the second housing 213 being in a state of maximum extension (slide-out state).

[0113] Processor 250 can maintain the size of display area 221 at the determined size in response to a condition that the size of display area 221 is equal to a determined size (e.g., "Yes" in operation 2300). According to an embodiment, processor 250 can terminate the operation without controlling the operation of motor 270.

[0114] In operation 2500, in response to a condition that the size of the display area 221 is different from a predetermined size (e.g., "No" in operation 2300), the processor 250 can control the motor 270 to move the second housing 213 so that the size of the display area 221 is equal to the predetermined size. According to an embodiment, if the size of the display area 221 is greater than the predetermined size, the processor 250 can control the motor 270 in the retraction direction (e.g., ...). Figure 2c The second housing 213 is moved in the second direction (D2) so that the size of the display area 221 is equal to a predetermined size. According to an embodiment, when the size of the display area 221 is smaller than the predetermined size, the processor 250 can control the motor 270 in the extension direction (e.g., ...). Figure 2cThe second housing 213 is moved in the first direction D1) so that the size of the display area 221 is equal to the determined size.

[0115] In operation 2400, processor 250 may determine whether various events, including instructions to change the size of display area 221 of display 220, occur in response to the deactivation of hold mode (e.g., "No" in operation 2200). According to various embodiments, the events may be a variety of events, including user selection to expand or shrink display area 221 via various UI elements, selection to view all photos and / or videos, and running a pre-defined application and / or rotating electronics 200 during operation to expand or shrink display area 221.

[0116] According to an embodiment, in operation 2600, processor 250 may control motor 270 to move second housing 213 based on instructions in response to a condition that an event occurs (e.g., "yes" in operation 2400).

[0117] According to an embodiment, the processor 250 may terminate the operation of the motor 270 without controlling the motor 270 in response to a condition that an event on the display 220 has not occurred (e.g., "No" in operation 2400).

[0118] Figure 4b This illustrates an embodiment. Figure 4a This is a view illustrating an example of an electronic device's operation in response to a mode that deactivates in response to the size of the display area.

[0119] according to Figure 4b In the example of part (a), in response to the conditions that the electronic device 200 switches to a display active state via a user's fingerprint recognition operation 901 (e.g., operation 2100), maintains mode deactivation (e.g., "No" in operation 2200), and that no event occurs including an instruction to change the size of the display area 221 (e.g., "No" in operation 2400), the processor 250 may not control the operation of the motor 270. Because the processor 250 does not control the operation of the motor 270, the size A0 of the display area 221 can be maintained.

[0120] On the contrary, according to Figure 4bIn the example in part (b), the processor 250 can control the motor 270 to move the second housing 213 in the first direction D1 (e.g., operation 2600) such that the display area 221 has a maximum size A3 in response to the electronic device 200 switching to a display active state via a user's fingerprint recognition swipe operation 902 (e.g., operation 2100), maintaining mode deactivation (e.g., "No" in operation 2200), and in response to a user's fingerprint recognition swipe operation 902 including an instruction to expand the display area 221 (e.g., "Yes" in operation 2400).

[0121] Figure 4c This illustrates an embodiment. Figure 4a The view of the operation of the electronic device 200 in response to the activation of a hold mode that maintains the size of the display area and the determined size is the size of the display area when the hold mode is activated.

[0122] according to Figure 4c In the example in part (a), because the electronic device 200 switches to a display active state via the user's fingerprint recognition operation 901 (e.g., operation 2100), the hold mode is activated (e.g., "yes" in operation 2200), and the size A0 of the display area 221 is different from the determined size A2 (e.g., "no" in operation 2300), the processor 250 can control the motor 270 to move the second housing 213 in the first direction D1 (e.g., operation 2500).

[0123] In addition, Figure 4c In the example of part (b), in response to the condition that the hold mode is activated despite the user's fingerprint swipe operation 902 including an instruction to expand the display area 221 (e.g., "Yes" in operation 2200), the processor 250 may control the motor 270 to move the second housing 213 in the first direction D1 such that the display area 221 expands only by a defined size A2 and does not expand to have a maximum size (e.g., Figure 4b The largest dimension in the middle is A3.

[0124] Figure 4d This illustrates an embodiment. Figure 4a This is a view of an example of the operation of an electronic device in which a holding mode for maintaining the size of the display area is activated and the determined size corresponds to a sliding state in which the second housing is retracted to the maximum extent, so that the size of the display area has a minimum size.

[0125] according to Figure 4dIn the example of part (a), in response to the electronic device 200 switching to a display active state via a user's fingerprint recognition operation 901 (e.g., operation 2100), the hold mode being activated (e.g., "Yes" in operation 2200), and the size A0 of the display area 221 being equal to a specified minimum size A1 (e.g., "Yes" in operation 2300), the processor 250 may not control the operation of the motor 270. Because the processor does not control the operation of the motor 270, the minimum size A1 of the display area 221 can be maintained.

[0126] In addition, Figure 4d In the example in part (b), in response to the condition that the size A0 of the display area 221 is equal to the specified minimum size A1 (e.g., "Yes" in operation 2300) and that the hold mode is activated despite the user's fingerprint swipe operation 902 including an instruction to expand the display area 221 (e.g., "Yes" in operation 2200), the processor 250 may not control the operation of the motor 270. Because the processor 250 does not control the operation of the motor 270, the minimum size A1 of the display area 221 can be maintained.

[0127] Figure 4e This illustrates an embodiment. Figure 4a This is a view of an example of the operation of an electronic device in which a holding mode for maintaining the size of the display area is activated and the determined size corresponds to the condition that the second housing extends to the maximum extent, resulting in a sliding state where the size of the display area has the maximum size.

[0128] according to Figure 4e In the example in part (a), because the electronic device 200 switches to a display active state via the user's fingerprint recognition operation 901 (e.g., operation 2100), the hold mode is activated (e.g., "yes" in operation 2200), and the size A0 of the display area 221 is different from the determined maximum size A3 (e.g., "no" in operation 2300), the processor 250 can control the motor 270 to move the second housing 213 in the first direction D1 (e.g., operation 2500), such that the size of the display area 221 has the determined maximum size A3.

[0129] In addition, Figure 4eIn the example in part (b), because the hold mode is activated (e.g., "yes" in operation 2200) and the size A0 of the display area 221 is different from the specified maximum size A3 (e.g., "no" in operation 2300) regardless of the condition that the user's fingerprint swipe operation 902 includes an instruction to expand the display area 221, the processor 250 can control the motor 270 to move the second housing 213 in the first direction D1 (e.g., operation 2500) such that the size of the display area 221 is expanded to have the maximum size A3 as the defined size.

[0130] Figure 5a This illustrates an embodiment of the present disclosure using a processor (e.g., Figure 2a The processor 250 controls the electronic device (e.g., ...) in response to a condition that the electronic device switches to a display deactivation state. Figure 2a A flowchart of the operation of an electronic device. Figure 5b , Figure 5c and Figure 5d This illustrates various embodiments according to the present disclosure. Figure 5a The flowchart in the image shows an example view of the operation of an electronic device.

[0131] According to various embodiments, processor 250 may be configured to maintain the size of display area 221 and / or control motors (e.g., based on whether a holding mode for maintaining the size of display area 221 is activated in response to a condition that electronic device 200 switches to a display deactivation state) based on whether a holding mode for maintaining the size of display area 221 is activated. Figure 2a The motor 270 in the middle moves the second housing (e.g., Figure 2b The second shell 213 in the middle.

[0132] For example, refer to Figure 5a In operation 3100, the processor 250 can determine that the electronic device 200 has switched to a display deactivation state.

[0133] According to an embodiment, the electronic device 200 can switch from a display active state to a display deactivated state in response to the fulfillment of specified conditions. The specified conditions may include various conditions, including: a condition that the display has not received individual user input for a period of time equal to or longer than a specified time in the display active state; and a condition that the electronic device 200 receives user input requesting the electronic device 200 to switch to the display deactivated state.

[0134] In operation 3200, the processor 250 can determine whether the holding mode for maintaining the size of the display area 221 is activated in response to a condition that the electronic device 200 switches to a display deactivation state.

[0135] According to various embodiments, in operation 3500, the processor 250 can control the motor 270 in a second direction (e.g., Figure 2c The second housing 213 is retracted to the maximum extent in the second direction D2) so that the size of the display area 221 of the display 220 is minimized in response to the condition that the holding mode is deactivated (e.g., "No" in operation 3200).

[0136] According to various embodiments, in operation 3300, in response to the condition that the hold mode is activated (e.g., "yes" in operation 3200), processor 250 can identify whether the determined size is the minimum value corresponding to the state in which the second housing 213 is retracted to the maximum extent.

[0137] In operation 3500, in response to a condition that the determined size has a minimum value (e.g., "yes" in operation 3300), processor 250 can control motor 270 to retract the second housing 213 to the maximum extent, thereby minimizing the size of display area 221.

[0138] In operation 3400, in response to identifying a condition that the determined size is not the minimum value (e.g., "No" in operation 3300), processor 250 may determine whether the time for electronic device 200 to switch to the display deactivation state is equal to or longer than a predetermined time. The predetermined time may be a time predetermined by the manufacturer when manufacturing electronic device 200 or a time predetermined by the user through the configuration application of electronic device 200.

[0139] When the electronic device switches to a display deactivation state for a time shorter than a predetermined time (e.g., "No" in operation 3400), the processor 250 may not control the operation of the motor 270, so that the size of the display area 221 remains unchanged. For example, when the electronic device switches to a display deactivation state for a time shorter than a predetermined time, the processor 250 may be configured to fix the second housing 213 without controlling the operation of the motor 270. According to an embodiment, the processor 250 may repeatedly execute the determination in operation 3400 until a predetermined time is reached. The repetition interval may be a time predetermined by the manufacturer when manufacturing the electronic device 200 or a time predetermined by the user through the configuration application of the electronic device 200.

[0140] In operation 3500, in response to a condition that the time for which the electronic device switches to the display deactivation state is equal to or longer than a predetermined time (e.g., "Yes" in operation 3400), the processor 250 can control the motor 270 to cause the second housing 213 to move in the second direction (e.g., Figure 2c The display area 221 of the display 220 is minimized by retracting to the maximum extent in the second direction D2).

[0141] Figure 5b This illustrates an embodiment. Figure 5a This is a view illustrating an example of an electronic device's operation in response to a mode that deactivates in response to the size of the display area.

[0142] Reference Figure 5b In response to the condition that the electronic device 200 switches to the display deactivated state (e.g., operation 3100) and maintains the mode deactivated (e.g., "No" in operation 3200), the processor 250 can control the motor 270 to retract the second housing 213 to the maximum extent in the second direction D2 (e.g., operation 3500), so that the display area 221 has a minimum size A1.

[0143] Figure 5c This illustrates an embodiment. Figure 5a This is a view of an example of the operation of an electronic device in response to the condition that the minimum value of the holding mode for maintaining the size of the display area is activated in a state where a defined size is required.

[0144] Reference Figure 5c In response to the electronic device 200 switching to a display deactivation state (e.g., operation 3100), the activation of a mode that maintains the size of the display area (e.g., "Yes" in operation 3200), and the condition that the determined size is the minimum size A1 (e.g., "Yes" in operation 3300), the processor 250 may execute control to deactivate the motor 270, thereby maintaining the size of the display area 221 at the minimum size A1 (e.g., operation 3500).

[0145] Figure 5d This illustrates an embodiment. Figure 5a This is a view of an example of the operation of an electronic device in response to the activation of a size-holding mode for the display area and the condition that the determined size is not the minimum value.

[0146] Reference Figure 5d In response to the conditions that the electronic device 200 switches to a display deactivation state (e.g., operation 3100), the hold mode is activated (e.g., "Yes" in operation 3200), and the specified size is not the minimum value (e.g., "No" in operation 3300), when the time for the electronic device 200 to switch to the display deactivation state is less than a predetermined time, the processor 250 does not control the operation of the motor, so that the size of the display area 221 does not change (e.g., "No" in operation 3400). When the time for the electronic device 200 to switch to the display deactivation state is equal to or longer than the predetermined time (e.g., "Yes" in operation 3400), the processor can control the motor 270 to retract the second housing 213 to a maximum extent in the second direction D2, so that the display area 221 has a minimum size A1 (e.g., operation 3500).

[0147] Figure 6a This illustrates an embodiment of the present disclosure using a processor (e.g., Figure 2a The flowchart shows the process by which the processor provides a split-screen mode operation in response to the condition that the electronic device obtains a split-screen operation instruction. Figure 6b , Figure 6c and Figure 6d This illustrates various embodiments according to the present disclosure. Figure 6a The flowchart in the image shows an example view of the operation of an electronic device.

[0148] According to various embodiments, when processor 250 receives a split-screen operation instruction, processor 250 can, based on the size of display area 221 and maintaining the display area (e.g., Figure 2b Whether the size retention mode of the display area 221) in the middle is activated to provide split-screen mode.

[0149] For example, refer to Figure 6a During operation 4100, processor 250 can obtain split-screen operation instructions.

[0150] According to an embodiment, an event including a split-screen operation command may include: split-screen related commands, configurations, and user input, such as when a user selects to enable split-screen via an application, selects an application registered on the edge panel, runs a one-handed operation command configured to be split-screen related, and displays split-screen when a specified application is run.

[0151] In operation 4200, in response to the acquisition of an instruction, processor 250 can determine whether the holding mode for maintaining the size of display area 221 is activated.

[0152] In operation 4430, in response to a condition that deactivates the hold mode (e.g., "No" in operation 4200), processor 250 can provide a split-screen mode based on instructions. According to an embodiment, in operation 4430, processor 250 can control a motor based on instructions (e.g., Figure 2a The motor 270 moves the second housing 213, thereby changing the size of the display area 221.

[0153] In operation 4300, in response to a condition that the hold mode is activated (e.g., "yes" in operation 4200), processor 250 may determine whether the size of display area 221 is equal to or greater than a predetermined size. For example, the predetermined size may mean that it is large enough to provide a split-screen mode based on the attributes of the application to be displayed. This predetermined size may be pre-configured or configured by the user.

[0154] In operation 4410, in response to a condition that the size of the display area 221 is equal to or greater than a predetermined size (e.g., "Yes" in operation 4300), the processor 250 can provide a split-screen mode. According to various embodiments, the split-screen mode, i.e., the form of the displayed split screens (such as the number of split screens, the ratio between the displayed split screens, and the separation direction), can be configured by the user or vary depending on the attributes of the instructions.

[0155] In operation 4420, in response to a condition that the display area 221 is equal to or smaller than a predetermined size (e.g., "No" in operation 4300), the processor 250 may not run the split-screen mode. According to an embodiment, the processor 250 may display only one designated application on the screen. The designated application may be selected and displayed on the display 220 depending on a predetermined level of importance. According to another embodiment, recently run applications may be displayed on the display 220.

[0156] Figure 6b This illustrates an embodiment. Figure 6a In operation, the electronic device that is deactivated in response to the mode of maintaining the size of the display area (e.g., Figure 2a A view showing an example of the operation of an electronic device.

[0157] Reference Figure 6b In response to the split-screen operation command and the command to expand the display area 221, based on conditions generated by the user's multi-window operation 903 (e.g., operation 4100), the processor 250 can control the motor 270 to move the second housing 213 in the expansion direction (e.g., the first direction D1) based on the command to expand the display area 221. Furthermore, separate screens (e.g., the first screen W1 and / or the second screen W2) can be provided in response to the condition that the holding mode for maintaining the size of the display area 221 is deactivated (e.g., "No" in operation 4200) (e.g., operation 4430).

[0158] Figure 6c This illustrates an embodiment. Figure 6a In operation, an electronic device that responds to the activation of a holding mode that maintains the size of the display area and the size of the display area being equal to or greater than a predetermined size (e.g., Figure 2a A view showing an example of the operation of an electronic device.

[0159] Reference Figure 6cIn response to the conditions that the split-screen operation instruction is generated based on the user's multi-window operation 903 (e.g., operation 4100), the hold mode for maintaining the size of the display area 221 is active (e.g., "Yes" in operation 4200), and the size of the display area 221 is equal to or greater than a predetermined size (e.g., "Yes" in operation 4300), the processor 250 can provide separate screens (e.g., first screen W1 and / or second screen W2) (e.g., operation 4410).

[0160] Figure 6d This illustrates an embodiment. Figure 6a This is a view of an example of the operation of an electronic device in response to the activation of a holding mode that maintains the size of the display area and the condition that the size of the display area is smaller than a predetermined size.

[0161] Reference Figure 6d In response to the conditions that the split-screen operation instruction is generated based on the user's multi-window operation 903 (e.g., operation 4100), the hold mode for maintaining the size of the display area 221 is activated (e.g., "yes" in operation 4200), and the size of the display area 221 is equal to or less than a predetermined size (e.g., "no" in operation 4300), the processor 250 may display only the second screen W2 without executing the split-screen mode (e.g., operation 4420).

[0162] Figure 7a , Figure 7b , Figure 7c , Figure 7d and Figure 7e This is a view used to explain examples of UIs included in electronic devices according to various embodiments of this disclosure. The UIs described in this document can include various UIs in software and / or hardware form.

[0163] Electronic device 200 can provide a user interface (UI) of various shapes to receive input from the user regarding the hold mode, in which an area is displayed (e.g., ...) Figure 2b The size of the display area 221 in the middle becomes a defined size.

[0164] Reference Figure 7a The UI associated with the size of the display area 221 being maintained in a fixed size mode can be provided in the form of icons 292 in the top bar 291 and displayed on the display 220.

[0165] According to an embodiment, in the standby state of the electronic device 200, the processor 250 does not display the top bar 291 on the display 220. Based on input such as a user scrolling down or touching, the processor 250 may display the top bar 291 at the top of the display area 221 of the display 220.

[0166] According to various embodiments, processor 250 may display icons (e.g., icon 292) related to the selection of the holding mode, depending on the selected mode. According to embodiments, processor 250 may display icons (e.g., icon 292) with different shapes or colors depending on the selected mode.

[0167] According to various embodiments, the first icon 292-1 may be an icon displayed when the holding mode is activated, and its determined size is configured to match the size of the display area 221 when the holding mode is activated. The second icon 292-2 may be an icon displayed when the holding mode is activated, and its determined size is configured to match the size of the second housing (e.g., Figure 2b The size of the second housing 213 in its fully retracted state corresponds to the size of the second housing 213 in its fully extended state. The third icon 292-3 may be an icon displayed when the holding mode is activated, and its size is configured to correspond to the size of the second housing 213 in its fully extended state. The fourth icon 292-4 may be an icon displayed when the holding mode is deactivated.

[0168] According to an embodiment, in response to receiving input made by long-pressing icon 292, processor 250 may display at least one of the first icon 292-1, second icon 292-2, third icon 292-3, and fourth icon 292-4 in a pop-up shape on display 220. Processor 250 may receive user input for selecting one of the first icon 292-1, second icon 292-2, and third icon 292-3 and activate a hold mode corresponding to the user input.

[0169] According to another embodiment, in response to a condition that icon 292 has received one touch input, processor 250 may display a first icon 292-1 on display 220. In response to a condition that icon 292 has received two touch inputs, processor 250 may display a second icon 292-2 on display 220. In response to a condition that icon 292 has received three touch inputs, processor 250 may display a third icon 292-3 on display 220. In response to a condition that icon 292 has received four touch inputs, processor 250 may display a fourth icon 292-4 on display 220. Processor 250 may activate a hold mode corresponding to user input. According to another embodiment, in response to a condition that icon 292 has received five touch inputs, processor 250 may display a first icon 292-1. For example, when the number of types of icon 292 is n, in response to a condition that n+1 touch inputs have been received, processor may display a first icon 291-1 on display 220. For example, in response to a condition that touch input has been received for the fourth icon 292-4, the processor may display the first icon 292-1 on the display 220.

[0170] Reference Figure 7b The UI associated with maintaining a defined size for the display area 221 of the display 220 can be provided in the form of a widget 293. According to an embodiment, the widget 293 may include a first widget icon 293-1, a second widget icon 293-2, and / or a third widget icon 293-3.

[0171] According to various embodiments, processor 250 may display a first widget icon 293-1 associated with the state where the hold mode is activated, and the determined size is the size corresponding to the state where the second housing 213 is retracted to its maximum extent. Processor 250 may display a second widget icon 293-2 as "locked" with respect to the state where the hold mode is activated, and the determined size is the size of the display area 221 when the hold mode is activated. Processor 250 may display the second widget icon 293-2 as "unlocked" with respect to the state where the hold mode is deactivated.

[0172] The processor can display the third widget icon 293-3 in the form of a bar related to the adjustment of the display area 221 of the display 220, such that the bar can be moved in the horizontal direction to adjust the display area 221. For example, the processor 250 can expand the display area 221 by moving the second housing 213 in the extending direction based on input for moving the third widget icon 293-3 in the right direction. The processor 250 can shrink the display area 221 by moving the second housing 213 in the retracting direction based on input for moving the third widget icon 293-3 in the left direction. According to various embodiments, the UI provided in the form of widgets can have various shapes according to user preferences, and is not limited to these. Figure 7b The shape shown.

[0173] Reference Figure 7c The UI associated with the mode in which the size of the display area 221 is maintained at a defined size can be provided in the form of a hardware key 294 on the electronic device 200. According to various embodiments, the hardware key 294 can be disposed on at least one of the side surface, front surface, and / or rear surface of the electronic device 200, and is not limited to these embodiments. Figure 7c The location shown.

[0174] According to an embodiment, the hardware key 294 can be an on / off switch 294-1. For example, the state of switch 294-1 being in the ON state in the first direction can correspond to the state where the hold mode is activated. The state of switch 294-1 being in the OFF state in the second direction can correspond to the state where the hold mode is deactivated.

[0175] According to yet another embodiment, hardware key 294 can be button 294-2. For example, the state in which button 294-2 is clicked and turned on can correspond to the state in which hold mode is activated. The state in which button 294-2 is turned off can correspond to the state in which hold mode is deactivated.

[0176] Reference Figure 7d The UI associated with maintaining the size of the display area in a defined size holding mode can be provided in the form of a touchpad 295 on the electronic device 200. According to various embodiments, the touchpad 295 can be disposed on at least one of the side surface, rear surface, front surface, and lower surface of the electronic device 200, and is not limited to these embodiments. Figure 7d The location shown.

[0177] Reference Figure 7d In part (a), in response to receiving a sliding touch in a first direction (e.g., upward direction) via touchpad 295, processor 250 may control motor 270 to move the second housing in the extension direction (e.g., Figure 2bThe second housing 213 is of a predetermined size. As the second housing 213 moves by a predetermined size, the display area can expand by that predetermined size. Furthermore, refer to... Figure 7d In part (b), in response to a long touch received via touchpad 295 after a sliding motion in a first direction (e.g., upward direction), processor 250 can control motor 270 to continuously move second housing 213 in the extension direction until second housing 213 is extended to its maximum extent. As second housing 213 moves continuously, display area 221 can continuously expand. Similarly, refer to... Figure 7d In part (c), in response to receiving a swipe touch in a second direction (e.g., downward direction) via touchpad 295, processor 250 can control motor 270 to move second housing 213 by a predetermined size in the retraction direction. As second housing 213 moves by the predetermined size, display area 221 can retract by that predetermined size. (Refer to...) Figure 7d In part (d), in response to a long touch received via touchpad 295 after a sliding motion in a second direction (e.g., downward direction), processor 250 can control motor 270 to continuously move second housing 213 in the retraction direction until second housing 213 is retracted to its maximum extent. As second housing 213 moves continuously, display area 221 can continuously retract. (See reference...) Figure 7d In response to receiving a tap input via touchpad 295, processor 250 can activate a hold mode. The operation performed using the touchpad 295 can be configured by the user or can be a mode configured by the manufacturer during the manufacture of touchpad 295. According to embodiments, tap input via touchpad 295 can include double-tap, multi-tap, and / or specified gesture input. For example, hold mode can be activated in response to receiving a double-tap input via touchpad 295.

[0178] Reference Figure 7e The UI associated with maintaining a defined size for the display area 221 of the display 220 can be provided in the form of a combination of a touchpad 295 and / or hardware keys 294 provided on the electronic device 200. According to various embodiments, the touchpad 295 and hardware keys 294 can be located on at least one of the side surface, rear surface, front surface, and lower surface of the electronic device 200, and are not limited to these configurations. Figure 7e The location shown.

[0179] According to an embodiment, the touchpad 295 may be a UI associated with the retraction and / or expansion of the display area 221 of the display 220. For example, in response to a condition that a long touch is received via the touchpad 295 after a sliding movement in a first direction (e.g., upward direction), the processor 250 may control the motor 270 to continuously move the second housing 213 in the extension direction until the second housing 213 is extended to its maximum extent. In response to a condition that a sliding touch is received via the touchpad 295 in a second direction (e.g., downward direction), the processor 250 may control the motor 270 to move the second housing 213 by a predetermined size in the retraction direction. In response to a condition that a long touch is received via the touchpad 295 after a sliding movement in a second direction (e.g., downward direction), the processor 250 may control the motor 270 to continuously move the second housing 213 in the retraction direction until the second housing 213 is retracted to its maximum extent. In response to a condition that an upward sliding touch is input to the touchpad 295, the second housing (e.g., Figure 2b The second housing 213 can move a predetermined size in the extension direction, and the display area 221 of the display 220 can expand by that predetermined size. Furthermore, in response to a long touch input to the touchpad 295 after an upward sliding movement, the second housing can move continuously in the extension direction, and the display area 221 of the display 220 can continuously expand until the second housing extends to its maximum extent. Similarly, in response to a downward sliding touch input to the touchpad 295, the second housing 213 can move a predetermined size in the retraction direction, and the display area 221 of the display 220 can retract by that predetermined size. In response to a long touch input to the touchpad 295 after a downward sliding movement, the second housing can move continuously in the retraction direction, and the display area 221 of the display 220 can continuously retract until the second housing retracts to its maximum extent.

[0180] According to an embodiment, hardware key 294 may be a UI associated with a mode in which the size of the display area 221 of display 220 is maintained at a defined size. For example, the hold mode may be activated in response to hardware key 294 being clicked and turned on, and the hold mode may be deactivated in response to hardware key 294 being turned off.

[0181] Figure 8 This illustrates an embodiment of the present disclosure using a processor (e.g., Figure 2b The processor controls the electronic devices (e.g., Figure 2b A flowchart of a method for using an electronic device.

[0182] According to various embodiments, electronic device 200 may include rollable and / or slidable electronic devices, wherein the display (e.g., Figure 2b The display area of ​​the display module 160 in the middle (e.g., Figure 2bThe display area 221 in the middle is through the second housing (e.g., Figure 2b The second housing 213) is located from the first housing (e.g., Figure 2b The first shell 211 in the middle moves and expands or contracts.

[0183] Reference Figure 8 According to various embodiments, in operation 6100, processor 250 can recognize specified input including instructions to shrink display area 221.

[0184] For example, the specified input may include a recessed button that selects a display deactivation instruction for the electronic device 200. The shape of the recessed button may include various UI shapes, and... Figure 9a and Figure 9b As shown in the image.

[0185] According to an embodiment, in operation 6200, the processor 250 can identify the size of the display area 221 of the display 220.

[0186] According to an embodiment, in operation 6300, the processor 250 can control the movement of the motor and / or fix the second housing 213 based on identification, such that the second housing 213 is in a maximally retracted state. For example, in response to the condition that an input is identified and the size of the display area 221 is not a size corresponding to the maximally retracted state of the second housing 213, the processor 250 can control the motor to move the second housing 213 in the maximally retracted state. According to an embodiment, in response to the condition that the size of the display area 221 is a size corresponding to the maximally retracted state of the second housing 213, the processor 250 can terminate the operation of the motor without controlling the operation of the motor.

[0187] Figure 9a and Figure 9b This is a view used to explain examples of UIs included in electronic devices according to various embodiments of this disclosure.

[0188] Reference Figure 9a ,and Figure 8 The UI associated with a specific input can be provided in the form of a recessed button 301 displayed on the display 220. The recessed button 301 can be displayed on the display 220 and selected as the screen touch input in the corresponding area.

[0189] Reference Figure 9b ,and Figure 8The UI related to specified inputs can be provided in the form of hardware buttons 302-1, 302-2, and 302-3 of various shapes on the electronic device 200. Hardware button 302-1 can be provided on the side surface of the electronic device 200, hardware button 302-2 can be provided on the front surface of the electronic device 200, and hardware button 302-3 can be provided on the rear surface of the electronic device 200. The location of the hardware buttons is not limited to... Figure 9b The location shown.

[0190] An electronic device according to various embodiments includes: a first housing; a second housing configured to be movable relative to the first housing; a motor configured to move the second housing such that the second housing retracts and / or extends relative to the first housing; a display configured to display a display area having a size that varies depending on the movement of the second housing; and a processor operatively connected to the display and the motor, wherein the processor is configured to: identify whether a holding mode in which the size of the display area is held to a determined size is activated; control the motor to move the second housing according to the state of the electronic device in response to the deactivation of the holding mode; and hold the size of the display area to a determined size in response to the activation of the holding mode.

[0191] In electronic devices according to various embodiments, a processor may be configured to determine a size such that when a hold mode is activated, the determined size has the same value as the size of the display area.

[0192] In an electronic device according to various embodiments, when a holding mode is activated, the processor may be configured to control a motor to move a second housing in response to recognizing a condition that the size of the display area is different from a predetermined size, such that the size of the display area is equal to the predetermined size.

[0193] In electronic devices according to various embodiments, a processor may be configured to fix a second housing in response to a condition that the state of the electronic device switches to a display deactivation state.

[0194] In an electronic device according to various embodiments, in response to a condition that the time for which the electronic device switches to a display deactivation state is equal to or longer than a specified time, the processor may be configured to control a motor to move a second housing to reduce the size of the display area.

[0195] In electronic devices according to various embodiments, the processor may be configured to control a motor so that the second housing retracts to a maximum extent.

[0196] In an electronic device according to various embodiments, in response to a condition that a request to execute a split-screen mode is detected, the processor may be configured to: identify whether a determined size is equal to or greater than a determined size; execute the split-screen mode in response to a condition that the determined size is equal to or greater than the determined size; and not execute the split-screen mode in response to a condition that the determined size is less than the determined size.

[0197] In electronic devices according to various embodiments, the processor may be configured to determine a size such that the determined size corresponds to the size of the second housing in a state of maximum retraction.

[0198] In electronic devices according to various embodiments, the processor may be configured to determine a size such that the determined size corresponds to the state in which the second housing is extended to its maximum extent.

[0199] The electronic device according to various embodiments may include a sensor module configured to detect whether movement of the second housing in the extension and / or retraction direction is obstructed, wherein if the sensor module detects that movement of the second housing is obstructed, the processor is configured to prevent movement of the second housing.

[0200] An electronic device according to various embodiments may include: a user interface for configuring a hold mode, wherein a processor is configured to activate and / or deactivate a hold mode in response to receiving a specified user input through the user interface.

[0201] In electronic devices according to various embodiments, the user interface may include a top bar configured to be displayed at the top of a display area and including icons for receiving user input, the processor of which may display the shape and / or color of the icons differently based on user input associated with a hold mode.

[0202] In an electronic device according to various embodiments, the user interface may include a component configured to be displayed in a display area and including a first icon and / or a second icon for receiving user input. The processor may display the first icon based on user input related to the activation of a hold mode and the second icon based on user input related to changes in the size of the display area.

[0203] In an electronic device according to various embodiments, the user interface may include a hardware key provided on the electronic device, wherein the processor performs activation in response to a condition that the hardware key is in a first state, and the processor performs deactivation in response to a condition that the hardware key is in a second state.

[0204] In an electronic device according to various embodiments, the user interface may include a touchpad provided on the electronic device, and the processor may be configured to: control a motor to move a second housing in an extension direction in response to a condition of inputting a sliding touch in a first direction to the touchpad; control a motor to move the second housing in a retraction direction in response to a condition of inputting a sliding touch in a second direction to the touchpad; and activate and / or deactivate a hold mode in response to a condition of inputting a click to the touchpad.

[0205] Methods of operating an electronic device according to various embodiments may include: identifying whether a holding mode in which the size of a display area is held to a determined size is activated, the size of the display area being configured to change according to movement of a second housing, the second housing being configured to retract and / or extend relative to a first housing; controlling a motor to move the second housing in response to deactivation of the holding mode in order to move the second housing according to the state of the electronic device; and holding the size of the display area to a determined size in response to activation of the holding mode.

[0206] An electronic device according to various embodiments includes: a first housing; a second housing configured to be movable relative to the first housing; a motor configured to move the second housing such that the second housing retracts and / or extends relative to the first housing; a display configured to display a display area having a size that varies depending on the movement of the second housing; and a processor operatively connected to the display and the motor, wherein the processor is configured to: recognize a specified input including an instruction to retract the display area; and, in response to the specified input, control the motor to move and / or fix the second housing such that the second housing retracts to a maximum extent.

[0207] In an electronic device according to various embodiments, a processor may include instructions in a specified input for switching the electronic device to a display deactivated state.

[0208] Electronic devices according to various embodiments may include a user interface configured to receive specified input, wherein a processor is configured to control a motor to move and / or fix a second housing in response to a condition that specified user input has been received via the user interface, such that the second housing is retracted to a maximum extent.

[0209] Methods of operating electronic devices according to various embodiments may include: identifying an operation of a specified input, the specified input including an instruction to retract a display area having dimensions that vary depending on movement of a second housing, the second housing being configured to retract and / or extend relative to a first housing; and an operation of moving and / or fixing the second housing in response to the specified input to retract the second housing to a maximum extent.

[0210] Furthermore, the embodiments disclosed in this specification and illustrated in the accompanying drawings are provided as specific examples to facilitate the explanation of the technical content of the embodiments according to this disclosure and to aid in the understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this document, but are not intended to limit the scope of the embodiments disclosed in this document.

[0211] Therefore, the scope of the various embodiments of this disclosure should be interpreted as including not only the embodiments disclosed herein, but also all changes or modifications to the technical spirit derived from the various embodiments of this disclosure.

[0212] It should be understood that the various embodiments of this disclosure and the terminology used therein are not intended to limit the technical features set forth herein to the specific embodiments, but rather to include various changes, equivalents or substitutions to the respective embodiments.

[0213] In the description of the accompanying drawings, similar reference numerals may be used to refer to similar or related elements.

[0214] It will be understood that the singular form of a noun corresponding to a term may include one or more things unless the relevant context explicitly indicates otherwise. As used herein, each of 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 with the corresponding phrase among the plurality of phrases. As used herein, terms such as “first” and “second” or “first” and “second” may be used to simply distinguish one part from another and do not limit the parts in other respects (e.g., importance or order). It will be understood that, whether the terms “operably” or “communically” are used or not, 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 “attached to another element (e.g., a second element)”, it means that the first element can be directly (e.g., wiredly) connected to the second element, wirelessly connected to the second element, or connected to the second element via a third element.

Claims

1. An electronic device comprising: First shell; The second housing is configured to be movable relative to the first housing; The motor is configured to move the second housing, causing the second housing to retract or extend relative to the first housing; The display is configured to display an area having a size that varies depending on the movement of the second housing; as well as The processor is operationally connected to the display and motor. The processor is configured as follows: In response to receiving a first specified input, the system switches from a display deactivation state to a display activation state, whereby the display deactivation state includes a screen-off state, a lock screen display state, or a power-off state of the electronic device. When the mode where the display area size remains at a predetermined size is activated, and when the display area size differs from the predetermined size, the control motor moves the second housing so that the display area size equals the predetermined size. When the mode is activated and the size of the display area is equal to a predetermined size, the size of the display area is maintained.

2. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein, The processor is further configured as follows: When the electronic device switches to the display deactivation state, the position of the second housing relative to the first housing is maintained.

3. The electronic device according to claim 2, wherein, The processor is further configured as follows: If the electronic device is in a display deactivated state for a period of time equal to or longer than a specified time, the control motor moves the second housing to reduce the size of the display area.

4. The electronic device according to claim 3, wherein, The processor is further configured as follows: The motor is controlled to retract the second housing to the maximum extent.

5. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein, The processor is further configured as follows: Upon detecting a request to execute split-screen mode, determine whether the size of the display area is equal to or greater than a predetermined size. If the size of the display area is equal to or greater than a defined size, execute the split-screen mode, and Avoid executing split-screen mode when the size of the display area is smaller than a given size.

6. The electronic device of claim 1, further comprising: The sensor circuit is configured to detect whether the movement of the second housing in the extension or retraction direction is obstructed. The processor is configured as follows: The sensor circuit detects that the movement of the second housing is obstructed, thus preventing the second housing from moving.

7. The electronic device of claim 1, further comprising: User interface for configuring the mode. The processor is further configured as follows: Upon receiving specified user input via the user interface, the mode is activated and / or deactivated.

8. The electronic device according to claim 7, in, The user interface includes a top bar, which is displayed at the top of the display area and includes an icon for receiving input from a specified user. The processor is further configured as follows: Based on specified user input associated with the pattern, at least one of the shapes or colors of the icons is displayed differently.

9. The electronic device according to claim 7, in, The user interface further includes widgets configured to be displayed in the display area. The widget includes at least one of a first icon or a second icon for receiving input from a specified user, and The processor is further configured as follows: Based on the specified user input related to the activation of the mode, a first icon is displayed, and A second icon is displayed based on the relationship between specified user input and changes in the size of the display area.

10. The electronic device according to claim 7, in, The user interface further includes hardware keys provided on the electronic device, and The processor is further configured as follows: With the hardware key in the first state, the mode is activated, and The mode is activated when the hardware key is in the second state.

11. The electronic device according to claim 7, in, The user interface further includes a touchpad provided on the electronic device, and The processor is further configured as follows: When a sliding touch is input to the touchpad in the first direction, the control motor moves the second housing in the extension direction; When a sliding touch in the second direction is input to the touchpad, the control motor moves the second housing in the retraction direction; and When a click is input to the touchpad, the mode is activated and / or deactivated.

12. An electronic device comprising: First shell; The second housing is configured to be movable relative to the first housing; The motor is configured to move the second housing, causing the second housing to retract or extend relative to the first housing; The display is configured to display an area having a size that varies depending on the movement of the second housing; as well as The processor is operationally connected to the display and motor. The processor is configured as follows: The system identifies a specified input received on a user interface displayed on a predetermined area, wherein the user interface includes an icon among multiple different icons of various sizes that define the retracted or extended display area. When the icon is selected, the control motor adjusts the size of the display area to the size indicated by the selected icon.

13. The electronic device according to claim 12, wherein, The processor is further configured to switch the electronic device to a display deactivation state based on a specified input.

Images