Digital pen and electronic device comprising same

The integration of a Hall sensor and magnets within the device allows for accurate detection of the digital pen's storage state and device configuration, improving user interaction and functionality by determining the pen's presence and device state through magnetic field changes.

WO2024258097A1PCT designated stage expired Publication Date: 2024-12-19SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD
View PDF 5 Cites 0 Cited by

Patent Information

Application Number
PCT/KR2024/007578
Authority / Receiving Office
WO · WO
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2023-07-19
Filing Date
2024-06-03
Publication Date
2024-12-19

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing electronic devices, such as digital pens and foldable devices, face challenges in accurately detecting the state of a digital pen's storage and the device's folded or unfolded configuration, which affects user interaction and functionality.

Method used

Incorporating a Hall sensor and magnets within the device's housing to detect the magnetic field generated by a digital pen's coil, allowing the system to determine the pen's storage state and the device's configuration through changes in magnetic field strength.

Benefits of technology

Enables precise detection of the digital pen's storage state and the device's configuration, enhancing user interaction and functionality by accurately determining the pen's presence or absence and the device's folded or unfolded status.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

Smart Images

  • Figure KR2024007578_19122024_PF_FP_ABST
    Figure KR2024007578_19122024_PF_FP_ABST
Patent Text Reader

Abstract

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device may comprise: a first housing; a second housing; a hinge structure for connecting the first housing and the second housing to be relatively rotatable; a display disposed on the first housing and the second housing; a first magnet disposed in the first housing; a second magnet disposed in the second housing and positioned to correspond to the first magnet with respect to the hinge structure; and a Hall sensor disposed adjacent to the first magnet in the first housing. The Hall sensor may be configured to detect a magnetic field generated from a coil of a digital pen when the digital pen is accommodated in the first housing. Various other embodiments may be possible.
Need to check novelty before this filing date? Find Prior Art

Description

Digital pen and electronic device including same

[0001] Various embodiments disclosed in this document relate to electronic devices, for example, to digital pens and electronic devices including the same.

[0002] Thanks to remarkable advancements in information and communication technology and semiconductor technology, the proliferation and use of various electronic devices is rapidly increasing. In particular, recent electronic devices are being developed to enable portability and communication.

[0003] Electronic devices can refer to devices that perform specific functions based on the programs installed on them, such as home appliances, electronic notebooks, portable multimedia players, mobile communication terminals, tablet PCs, audio / video devices, desktop / laptop computers, or car navigation systems. For example, these electronic devices can output stored information as audio or video. As electronic device integration increases and ultra-high-speed, high-capacity wireless communications become more widespread, a single electronic device, such as a mobile communication terminal, can now be equipped with a variety of functions. For example, in addition to communication functions, entertainment functions such as games, multimedia functions such as music / video playback, communication and security functions for mobile banking, and functions such as schedule management and electronic wallets are being integrated into a single electronic device. These electronic devices are becoming smaller and more portable for users.

[0004] As mobile communication services expand into the realm of multimedia services, the display size of electronic devices may increase to accommodate users' full access to multimedia services beyond voice calls and text messages. Accordingly, a foldable, flexible display may be placed across the entire housing structure, allowing for a separate, foldable structure.

[0005] The above information may be provided as background art to aid in understanding the present disclosure. No claim or determination is made as to whether any of the above is applicable as prior art related to the present disclosure.

[0006] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device includes a first housing, a second housing, a hinge structure that relatively rotatably connects the first housing and the second housing, a display disposed on the first housing and the second housing, a first magnet disposed within the first housing, a second magnet disposed within the second housing and positioned corresponding to the first magnet with respect to the hinge structure, and a Hall sensor disposed within the first housing and adjacent to the first magnet, wherein the Hall sensor may be configured to detect a magnetic field generated from a coil of a digital pen when the digital pen is accommodated within the first housing.

[0007] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device includes a first housing, a second housing, a hinge structure that relatively rotatably connects the first housing and the second housing, a display including a first display area disposed on the first housing, a second display area disposed on the second housing, and a folding area that connects the first display area and the second display area, a first magnet disposed within the first housing, a second magnet disposed within the second housing and positioned correspondingly to the first magnet with respect to the hinge structure, a Hall sensor disposed within the first housing, and a digital pen configured to be housed in the first housing, the digital pen including a coil, wherein the Hall sensor is configured to detect the second magnet when the electronic device is in a folded state, and is configured to detect a magnetic field generated from a coil of the digital pen when the digital pen is housed within the first housing.

[0008] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device includes a first housing, a second housing, a hinge structure that relatively rotatably connects the first housing and the second housing, a display disposed on the first housing and the second housing, a first magnet disposed within the first housing, a second magnet disposed within the second housing and positioned correspondingly to the first magnet with respect to the hinge structure, a Hall sensor disposed adjacent to the first magnet within the first housing, at least one processor, and at least one memory, wherein the at least one processor may be configured to determine, based on a strength of a magnetic field detected from the Hall sensor, a folded state of the electronic device, an unfolded state of the electronic device, a state in which a digital pen is stored in the first housing, or a state in which the digital pen is not stored in the first housing.

[0009] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment according to various embodiments.

[0010] FIG. 2 is a drawing showing an unfolded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0011] FIG. 3 is a drawing showing a folded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0012] FIG. 4A is a perspective view of an electronic device including a digital pen according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 4b is an exploded perspective view of a digital pen according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 4c is a block diagram of a digital pen according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 6 is a drawing showing a state in which a first housing and a second housing are combined according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of an electronic device including a digital pen according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 8A is a cross-sectional view of an electronic device including a digital pen according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 8B is a cross-sectional view of an electronic device including a digital pen according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 9A is a graph showing the strength of a magnetic field detected by a Hall sensor when an electronic device changes from an unfolded state to a folded state according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 9b is a graph showing the strength of a magnetic field detected by a Hall sensor when an electronic device changes from a folded state to an unfolded state according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 10A is a schematic diagram of an electronic device without a digital pen stored therein, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 10b is a schematic diagram of an electronic device with a digital pen stored therein, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 11A is a graph showing the strength of a magnetic field detected by a Hall sensor when the digital pen changes from an unstowed state to a stowed state according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 11b is a graph showing the strength of a magnetic field detected by a Hall sensor when a digital pen changes from a stored state to an unstored state according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] FIG. 12 is a graph showing the strength of a magnetic field detected by a Hall sensor according to a change in the state of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] FIG. 13a is a graph showing the strength of a magnetic field detected by a Hall sensor according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] FIG. 13b is a graph showing the strength of a magnetic field detected by a Hall sensor according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] FIG. 13c is a graph showing the strength of a magnetic field detected by a Hall sensor according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0030] FIG. 13d is a graph showing the strength of a magnetic field detected by a Hall sensor according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] FIG. 14 is a graph showing the strength of a magnetic field detected by a Hall sensor according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0032] FIG. 15 is a flowchart for determining a state change of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device (101) within a network environment (100) according to various embodiments.

[0034] Referring to FIG. 1, in a network environment (100), an electronic device (101) may communicate with an electronic device (102) via a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network), or may communicate with at least one of an electronic device (104) or a server (108) via a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may communicate with the electronic device (104) via the server (108). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a processor (120), a memory (130), an input module (150), an audio output module (155), a display module (160), an audio module (170), a sensor module (176), an interface (177), a connection terminal (178), a haptic module (179), a camera module (180), a power management module (188), a battery (189), a communication module (190), a subscriber identification module (196), or an antenna module (197). In some embodiments, the electronic device (101) may omit at least one of these components (e.g., the connection terminal (178)), or may have one or more other components added. In some embodiments, some of these components (e.g., the sensor module (176), the camera module (180), or the antenna module (197)) may be integrated into one component (e.g., the display module (160)).

[0035] The processor (120) may, for example, execute software (e.g., a program (140)) to control at least one other component (e.g., a hardware or software component) of the electronic device (101) connected to the processor (120) and perform various data processing or operations. According to one embodiment, as at least a part of the data processing or operations, the processor (120) may store commands or data received from other components (e.g., a sensor module (176) or a communication module (190)) in a volatile memory (132), process the commands or data stored in the volatile memory (132), and store result data in a non-volatile memory (134). According to one embodiment, the processor (120) may include a main processor (121) (e.g., a central processing unit or an application processor) or an auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., a graphics processing unit, a neural processing unit (NPU), an image signal processor, a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor) that can operate independently or together with the main processor (121). For example, when the electronic device (101) includes the main processor (121) and the auxiliary processor (123), the auxiliary processor (123) may be configured to use less power than the main processor (121) or to be specialized for a given function. The auxiliary processor (123) may be implemented separately from the main processor (121) or as a part thereof.

[0036] The auxiliary processor (123) may control at least a portion of functions or states associated with at least one component (e.g., a display module (160), a sensor module (176), or a communication module (190)) of the electronic device (101), for example, on behalf of the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an inactive (e.g., sleep) state, or together with the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an active (e.g., application execution) state. In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., an image signal processor or a communication processor) may be implemented as a part of another functionally related component (e.g., a camera module (180) or a communication module (190)). In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., a neural network processing unit) may include a hardware structure specialized for processing artificial intelligence models. The artificial intelligence models may be generated through machine learning. This learning can be performed, for example, on the electronic device (101) itself where the artificial intelligence model is executed, or can be performed through a separate server (e.g., server (108)). The learning algorithm can include, for example, supervised learning, unsupervised learning, semi-supervised learning, or reinforcement learning, but is not limited to the examples described above. The artificial intelligence model can include multiple artificial neural network layers.The artificial neural network may be one of 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), a deep Q-network, or a combination of two or more of the above, but is not limited to the examples described above. In addition to, or alternatively to, a hardware structure, an artificial intelligence model may include a software structure.

[0037] The memory (130) can store various data used by at least one component (e.g., processor (120) or sensor module (176)) of the electronic device (101). The data can include, for example, software (e.g., program (140)) and input data or output data for commands related thereto. The memory (130) can include volatile memory (132) or non-volatile memory (134).

[0038] The program (140) may be stored as software in the memory (130) and may include, for example, an operating system (142), middleware (144), or an application (146).

[0039] The input module (150) can receive commands or data to be used in a component of the electronic device (101) (e.g., a processor (120)) from an external source (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (101). The input module (150) can include, for example, a microphone, a mouse, a keyboard, a key (e.g., a button), or a digital pen (e.g., a stylus pen).

[0040] The audio output module (155) can output audio signals to the outside of the electronic device (101). The audio output module (155) can include, for example, a speaker or a receiver. The speaker can be used for general purposes, such as multimedia playback or recording playback. The receiver can be used to receive incoming calls. In one embodiment, the receiver can be implemented separately from the speaker or as part of the speaker.

[0041] The display module (160) can visually provide information to an external party (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (101). The display module (160) may include, for example, a display, a holographic device, or a projector and a control circuit for controlling the device. According to one embodiment, the display module (160) may include a touch sensor configured to detect a touch, or a pressure sensor configured to measure the intensity of a force generated by the touch.

[0042] The audio module (170) can convert sound into an electrical signal, or vice versa, convert an electrical signal into sound. According to one embodiment, the audio module (170) can acquire sound through the input module (150), output sound through the sound output module (155), or an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102)) (e.g., speaker or headphone) directly or wirelessly connected to the electronic device (101).

[0043] The sensor module (176) can detect the operating status (e.g., power or temperature) of the electronic device (101) or the external environmental status (e.g., user status) and generate an electrical signal or data value corresponding to the detected status. According to one embodiment, the sensor module (176) can include, for example, a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a proximity sensor, a color sensor, an IR (infrared) sensor, a biometric sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or an illuminance sensor.

[0044] The interface (177) may support one or more designated protocols that may be used to directly or wirelessly connect the electronic device (101) with an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (102)). In one embodiment, the interface (177) may include, for example, a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB) interface, an SD card interface, or an audio interface.

[0045] The connection terminal (178) may include a connector through which the electronic device (101) may be physically connected to an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102)). According to one embodiment, the connection terminal (178) may include, for example, an HDMI connector, a USB connector, an SD card connector, or an audio connector (e.g., a headphone connector).

[0046] The haptic module (179) can convert electrical signals into mechanical stimuli (e.g., vibration or movement) or electrical stimuli that a user can perceive through tactile or kinesthetic sensations. According to one embodiment, the haptic module (179) can include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0047] The camera module (180) can capture still images and videos. According to one embodiment, the camera module (180) may include one or more lenses, image sensors, image signal processors, or flashes.

[0048] The power management module (188) can manage power supplied to the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the power management module (188) can be implemented as, for example, at least a part of a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

[0049] A battery (189) may power at least one component of the electronic device (101). In one embodiment, the battery (189) may include, for example, a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable secondary battery, or a fuel cell.

[0050] The communication module (190) may support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between the electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102), electronic device (104), or server (108)), and the performance of communication through the established communication channel. The communication module (190) may operate independently from the processor (120) (e.g., application processor) and may include one or more communication processors that support direct (e.g., wired) communication or wireless communication. According to one embodiment, the communication module (190) may include a wireless communication module (192) (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module (194) (e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication module, or a power line communication module). Among these communication modules, the corresponding communication module can communicate with an external electronic device (104) via a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, wireless fidelity (WiFi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range communication network such as a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN)). These various types of communication modules can be integrated into a single component (e.g., a single chip) or implemented as multiple separate components (e.g., multiple chips). The wireless communication module (192) can verify or authenticate the electronic device (101) within a communication network such as the first network (198) or the second network (199) by using subscriber information (e.g., an international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI)) stored in the subscriber identification module (196).

[0051] The wireless communication module (192) can support 5G networks and next-generation communication technologies following the 4G network, such as NR access technology (new radio access technology). The NR access technology can support high-speed transmission of high-capacity data (eMBB (enhanced mobile broadband)), minimization of terminal power and connection of multiple terminals (mMTC (massive machine type communications)), or high reliability and low latency (URLLC (ultra-reliable and low-latency communications)). The wireless communication module (192) can support, for example, a high-frequency band (e.g., mmWave band) to achieve a high data transmission rate. The wireless communication module (192) can support various technologies for securing performance in a high-frequency band, such as beamforming, massive multiple-input and multiple-output (MIMO), full dimensional MIMO (FD-MIMO), array antenna, analog beam-forming, or large scale antenna. The wireless communication module (192) can support various requirements specified in the electronic device (101), an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (104)), or a network system (e.g., the second network (199)). According to one embodiment, the wireless communication module (192) can support a peak data rate (e.g., 20 Gbps or more) for eMBB realization, a loss coverage (e.g., 164 dB or less) for mMTC realization, or a U-plane latency (e.g., 0.5 ms or less for downlink (DL) and uplink (UL), or 1 ms or less for round trip) for URLLC realization.

[0052] The antenna module (197) can transmit or receive signals or power to or from an external device (e.g., an external electronic device). In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include an antenna including a radiator formed of a conductor or a conductive pattern formed on a substrate (e.g., a PCB). In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna). In this case, at least one antenna suitable for a communication method used in a communication network, such as the first network (198) or the second network (199), may be selected from the plurality of antennas, for example, by the communication module (190). A signal or power may be transmitted or received between the communication module (190) and an external electronic device via the selected at least one antenna. In some embodiments, in addition to the radiator, another component (e.g., a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) may be additionally formed as a part of the antenna module (197).

[0053] According to various embodiments, the antenna module (197) may form a mmWave antenna module. In one embodiment, the mmWave antenna module may include a printed circuit board, an RFIC disposed on or adjacent a first side (e.g., a bottom side) of the printed circuit board and capable of supporting a designated high-frequency band (e.g., a mmWave band), and a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna) disposed on or adjacent a second side (e.g., a top side or a side side) of the printed circuit board and capable of transmitting or receiving signals in the designated high-frequency band.

[0054] At least some of the above components can be interconnected and exchange signals (e.g., commands or data) with each other via a communication method between peripheral devices (e.g., a bus, GPIO (general purpose input and output), SPI (serial peripheral interface), or MIPI (mobile industry processor interface)).

[0055] According to one embodiment, commands or data may be transmitted or received between the electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (104) via a server (108) connected to a second network (199). Each of the external electronic devices (102 or 104) may be the same or a different type of device as the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, all or part of the operations executed in the electronic device (101) may be executed in one or more of the external electronic devices (102, 104, or 108). For example, when the electronic device (101) is to perform a certain function or service automatically or in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device (101) may, instead of or in addition to executing the function or service itself, request one or more external electronic devices to perform the function or at least a part of the service. One or more external electronic devices that receive the request may execute at least a portion of the requested function or service, or an additional function or service related to the request, and transmit the result of the execution to the electronic device (101). The electronic device (101) may process the result as is or additionally and provide it as at least a portion of a response to the request. For this purpose, cloud computing, distributed computing, mobile edge computing (MEC), or client-server computing technology may be used, for example. The electronic device (101) may provide an ultra-low latency service by using distributed computing or mobile edge computing, for example. In another embodiment, the external electronic device (104) may include an Internet of Things (IoT) device. The server (108) may be an intelligent server utilizing machine learning and / or a neural network. According to one embodiment, the external electronic device (104) or the server (108) may be included in the second network (199).The electronic device (101) can be applied to intelligent services (e.g., smart home, smart city, smart car, or healthcare) based on 5G communication technology and IoT-related technology.

[0056] Electronic devices according to the various embodiments disclosed in this document may take various forms. Electronic devices may include, for example, portable communication devices (e.g., smartphones), computer devices, portable multimedia devices, portable medical devices, cameras, wearable devices, or home appliances. Electronic devices according to the embodiments of this document are not limited to the aforementioned devices.

[0057] The various embodiments of this document and the terminology used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, but should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutes of the embodiments. In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components. The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of the items, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this document, each of the phrases "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" can include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase among those phrases, or all possible combinations thereof. Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used merely to distinguish one component from another, and do not limit the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order). When a component (e.g., a first component) is referred to as "coupled" or "connected" to another (e.g., a second component), with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicatively," it means that the component can be connected to the other component directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0058] The term "module" used in various embodiments of this document may include a unit implemented in hardware, software, or firmware, and may be used interchangeably with terms such as logic, logic block, component, or circuit. A module may be an integral component, or a minimum unit or part of such a component that performs one or more functions. For example, according to one embodiment, a module may be implemented in the form of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0059] Various embodiments of the present document may be implemented as software (e.g., a program (140)) including one or more instructions stored in a storage medium (e.g., an internal memory (136) or an external memory (138)) readable by a machine (e.g., an electronic device (101)). For example, a processor (e.g., a processor (120)) of the machine (e.g., an electronic device (101)) may call at least one instruction among the one or more instructions stored from the storage medium and execute it. This enables the machine to operate to perform at least one function according to the at least one called instruction. The one or more instructions may include code generated by a compiler or code executable by an interpreter. The machine-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, 'non-transitory' simply means that the storage medium is a tangible device and does not contain signals (e.g., electromagnetic waves), and the term does not distinguish between cases where data is stored semi-permanently or temporarily on the storage medium.

[0060] According to one embodiment, the method according to various embodiments disclosed in this document may be provided as included in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded as a product between a seller and a buyer. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable storage medium (e.g., compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM)), or may be distributed online (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) through an application store (e.g., Play Store™) or directly between two user devices (e.g., smart phones). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product may be temporarily stored or temporarily generated in a machine-readable storage medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or an intermediary server.

[0061] According to various embodiments, each component (e.g., a module or a program) of the above-described components may include one or more entities, and some of the entities may be separated and placed in other components. According to various embodiments, one or more components or operations of the aforementioned components may be omitted, or one or more other components or operations may be added. Alternatively or additionally, a plurality of components (e.g., a module or a program) may be integrated into a single component. In such a case, the integrated component may perform one or more functions of each of the plurality of components identically or similarly to those performed by the corresponding component among the plurality of components prior to the integration. According to various embodiments, the operations performed by a module, program, or other component may be executed sequentially, in parallel, iteratively, or heuristically, or one or more of the operations may be executed in a different order, omitted, or one or more other operations may be added.

[0062] FIG. 2 is a drawing showing an unfolded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 is a drawing showing a folded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0063] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an unfolded state among folding states of an electronic device (or foldable electronic device) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a folded state of an electronic device (or foldable electronic device) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The electronic device (101) of FIGS. 2 and 3 is an example of the electronic device (101) illustrated in FIG. 1 and may be a foldable or bendable electronic device.

[0064] The embodiments of FIGS. 2 to 3 may be combined with the embodiments of FIG. 1 or the embodiments of FIGS. 4a to 15.

[0065] The configuration of the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 2 and 3 may be partially or entirely identical to the configuration of the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1.

[0066] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, in one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a foldable housing (201) and a flexible or foldable display (250) (hereinafter, simply referred to as “flexible display” 250) (e.g., the display module (160) of FIG. 1) disposed within a space formed by the foldable housing (201). According to one embodiment, a surface on which the flexible display (250) is disposed (or a surface on which the flexible display (250) is visible from the outside of the electronic device (101)) may be defined as a front surface of the electronic device (101). And, a surface opposite to the front surface may be defined as a rear surface of the electronic device (101). In addition, a surface surrounding the space between the front surface and the rear surface may be defined as a side surface of the electronic device (101).

[0067] According to one embodiment, the foldable housing (201) may include a first housing (210), a second housing (220) including a sensor area (229), a first rear cover (215), a second rear cover (225), and a hinge assembly (230). According to one embodiment, the hinge assembly (230) may include a hinge cover (e.g., the hinge cover (232) of FIG. 5) that covers a foldable portion of the foldable housing (201). The foldable housing (201) of the electronic device (101) is not limited to the shapes and combinations illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3, and may be implemented by other shapes or combinations and / or combinations of parts. For example, in one embodiment, the first housing (210) and the first rear cover (215) may be formed integrally, and the second housing (220) and the second rear cover (225) may be formed integrally.

[0068] According to one embodiment, a light sensor and an image sensor may be arranged in the sensor area (222). The light sensor may detect the amount of light surrounding the electronic device (101), and the image sensor may convert light incident through the camera lens into a digital signal. The light sensor and the image sensor may be visually exposed to the flexible display (250). According to one embodiment, the light sensor and the image sensor may not be visually exposed. For example, the camera may be configured as an under display camera (UDC). The pixels of an area of ​​the flexible display (250) corresponding to the position of the UDC may be configured differently from the pixels of other areas, so that the image sensor and / or the camera may not be visually exposed.

[0069] According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) is connected to the hinge assembly (230) and may include a first front surface facing a first direction and a first rear surface facing in a direction opposite to the first direction. The second housing (220) is connected to the hinge assembly (230) and may include a second front surface facing a second direction and a second rear surface facing in a direction opposite to the second direction. The first housing (210) can rotate relative to the second housing (220) about the hinge assembly (230). The second housing (220) can rotate relative to the first housing (210) about the hinge assembly (230). The electronic device (101) can be variable between a folded state and an unfolded state.

[0070] According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) may include a first-first side (211a) spaced apart from and arranged parallel to the folding axis (A) of the hinge assembly (230) between the first front side and the first rear side, and the second housing (220) may include a second-first side (221a) spaced apart from and arranged parallel to the folding axis (A) of the hinge assembly (230) between the second front side and the second rear side. In addition, the first housing (210) may include a first-second side (211b) that is perpendicular to the first-first side (211a), has one end connected to the first-first side (211a), and has the other end connected to the hinge assembly (230), and a first-third side (211c) that is perpendicular to the first-first side (211a), has one end connected to the first-first side (211a), and has the other end connected to the hinge assembly (230), and is spaced apart in a direction parallel to the first-second side (211b). The second housing (220) may include a second-second side (221b) that is perpendicular to the second-first side (221a), has one end connected to the second-first side (221a), and has the other end connected to the hinge assembly (230), and a second-third side (221c) that is perpendicular to the second-first side (221a), has one end connected to the second-first side (221a), and has the other end connected to the hinge assembly (230), and is spaced apart in a direction parallel to the second-second side (221b). When the first housing (210) is folded relative to the second housing (220) about the hinge assembly (230) (e.g., FIG. 3), the first-first side (211a) can come closer to the second-first side (221a), and when the first housing (210) is unfolded relative to the second housing (220) about the hinge assembly (230) (e.g., FIG. 2), the first-first side (211a) and the second-first side (221a) can move away from each other.

[0071] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may have the first front side and the second front side facing each other in a fully folded state, and the first direction may be the same as the second direction in a fully unfolded state. In a fully unfolded state, the distance between the first-first side side (211a) and the second-first side side side (221a) may be formed to be the greatest.

[0072] According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) may be arranged on both sides with respect to the folding axis (A) as the center, and may have a shape that is overall symmetrical with respect to the folding axis (A). As described below, the angle or distance between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) may vary depending on whether the state of the electronic device (101) is an unfolded state, a folded state, or a partially unfolded (or partially folded) intermediate state.

[0073] According to one embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 2, the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) may together form a recess for accommodating the flexible display (250). According to one embodiment, at least a portion of the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) may be formed of a metallic material or a non-metallic material having a rigidity of a selected size to support the flexible display (250). At least a portion formed of the metallic material may provide a ground plane of the electronic device (101) and may be electrically connected to a ground line formed on a printed circuit board disposed inside the foldable housing (201).

[0074] According to one embodiment, a protective member may be arranged on the periphery of the flexible display (250). The protective member may be formed integrally with the side surface of the foldable housing (201) or as a separate structure. The flexible display (250) may not be adhered to the side surface of the foldable housing (201) and / or the protective member. A gap may be formed between the flexible display (250) and the protective member. The protective member may be configured to cover the internal structure of the electronic device (101) from the outside or protect the internal structure of the electronic device (101) from external impact. According to one embodiment, the protective member may be configured to cover the wiring arranged in the flexible display (250) from the outside or protect it from external impact.

[0075] According to one embodiment, the first rear cover (215) is disposed on one side of the folding axis (A) on the rear of the electronic device (101) and may have, for example, a substantially rectangular periphery, the periphery of which may be wrapped by the first housing (210). Similarly, the second rear cover (225) is disposed on the other side of the folding axis (A) on the rear of the electronic device (101) and the periphery of which may be wrapped by the second housing (220).

[0076] According to one embodiment, the first rear cover (215) and the second rear cover (225) may have substantially symmetrical shapes with respect to the folding axis (A). However, the first rear cover (215) and the second rear cover (225) do not necessarily have mutually symmetrical shapes, and in one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include the first rear cover (215) and the second rear cover (225) of various shapes. In one embodiment, the first rear cover (215) may be formed integrally with the first housing (210), and the second rear cover (225) may be formed integrally with the second housing (220).

[0077] According to one embodiment, the first rear cover (215), the second rear cover (225), the first housing (210), and the second housing (220) may form a space in which various components (e.g., a printed circuit board or a battery) of the electronic device (101) may be placed. According to one embodiment, one or more components may be placed or visually exposed on the rear surface of the electronic device (101). For example, at least a portion of a sub-display (e.g., a sub-display (218) of FIG. 5) may be visually exposed through the first rear area (216) of the first rear cover (215). For example, one or more components or sensors may be visually exposed through the second rear area (226) of the second rear cover (225). In one embodiment, the sensors may include a proximity sensor and / or a rear camera.

[0078] In one embodiment, a front camera disposed on the front side (e.g., the second front side) of the electronic device (101) or a rear camera exposed through the second rear area (226) of the second rear cover (225) may include one or more lenses, image sensors, and / or image signal processors. The flash may include, for example, a light-emitting diode or a xenon lamp. In one embodiment, two or more lenses (infrared camera, wide-angle and telephoto lenses) and image sensors may be disposed on one side of the electronic device (101).

[0079] Referring to FIG. 3, a hinge cover (e.g., hinge cover (232) of FIG. 5) included in a hinge assembly (230) may be configured to be disposed between a first housing (210) and a second housing (220) so as to cover internal components (e.g., hinge structure (231) of FIG. 5). According to one embodiment, the hinge assembly (230) may be covered by a portion of the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) or exposed to the outside depending on the state of the electronic device (101) (unfolded state, intermediate state, or folded state).

[0080] According to one embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 2, when the electronic device (101) is in an unfolded state (e.g., a fully unfolded state), the hinge assembly (230) may be covered by the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) and not exposed. According to one embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 3, when the electronic device (101) is in a folded state (e.g., a fully folded state), the hinge assembly (230) may be exposed to the outside between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220). In one embodiment, when the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are in an intermediate state where they are folded at a certain angle, the hinge assembly (230) may be partially exposed to the outside between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220). However, in this case, the exposed area may be less than in a fully folded state. In one embodiment, the hinge assembly (230) may include a curved surface.

[0081] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (250) may be placed on a space formed by the foldable housing (201). For example, the flexible display (250) may be mounted on a recess formed by the foldable housing (201) and may be viewed from the outside through the front side (e.g., the first front side and / or the second front side) of the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the flexible display (250) may constitute a majority of the front side (e.g., the first front side and / or the second front side) of the electronic device (101). Accordingly, the front side (e.g., the first front side and / or the second front side) of the electronic device (101) may include the flexible display (250) and a portion of the first housing (210) adjacent to the flexible display (250) and a portion of the second housing (220). And, the back side (e.g., the first back side and / or the second back side) of the electronic device (101) may include a first back cover (215), a portion of the first housing (210) adjacent to the first back cover (215), a second back cover (225), and a portion of the second housing (220) adjacent to the second back cover (225).

[0082] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (250) may refer to a display in which at least a portion of the display can be transformed into a flat or curved surface. According to one embodiment, the flexible display (250) may include a folding area (253), a first display area (251) arranged on one side (e.g., the left side of the folding area (253) illustrated in FIG. 2) with respect to the folding area (253), and a second display area (252) arranged on the other side (e.g., the right side of the folding area (253) illustrated in FIG. 2).

[0083] According to one embodiment, the first display area (251) may be disposed on the first housing (210), and the second display area (252) may be disposed on the second housing (220). According to one embodiment, the folding area (253) may connect the first display area (251) and the second display area (252) and may be disposed on the hinge assembly (230).

[0084] The region division of the flexible display (250) illustrated in FIG. 2 is exemplary, and the display (250) may be divided into a plurality of regions (for example, four or more or two) depending on the structure or function. For example, in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 2, the regions of the flexible display (250) may be divided by a folding region (253) extending parallel to the folding axis (A), but the flexible display (250) may also be divided into regions based on another folding axis (for example, a folding axis parallel to the width direction of the electronic device).

[0085] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (250) may be coupled with or disposed adjacent to a touch panel having a touch detection circuit and a pressure sensor capable of measuring the intensity (pressure) of a touch. For example, the flexible display (250) may be coupled with or disposed adjacent to an electromagnetic induction panel that detects an electromagnetic resonance (EMR) stylus pen (e.g., a digital pen (300) of FIG. 4B), as an example of a touch panel.

[0086] According to one embodiment, the first display area (251) and the second display area (252) may have an overall symmetrical shape centered around the folding area (253).

[0087] Hereinafter, the operation of the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) and each area of ​​the flexible display (250) according to the state of the electronic device (101) (e.g., folded state, unfolded state, or intermediate state) will be described.

[0088] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (101) is in an unfolded state (e.g., FIG. 2), the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) may be arranged to form an angle of 180 degrees and face the same direction. The surface of the first display area (251) and the surface of the second display area (252) of the flexible display (250) may form an angle of 180 degrees with each other and face the same direction (e.g., toward the front of the electronic device). At this time, the folding area (253) may form the same plane as the first display area (251) and the second display area (252).

[0089] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (101) is in a folded state (e.g., FIG. 3), the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) may be arranged to face each other. The surface of the first display area (251) and the surface of the second display area (252) of the flexible display (250) may form a narrow angle (e.g., between 0 and 10 degrees) with each other and may face each other. The folding area (253) may be formed as a curved surface having at least a portion of a predetermined curvature.

[0090] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (101) is in an intermediate state, the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) may be arranged at a certain angle with respect to each other. The surface of the first display area (251) and the surface of the second display area (252) of the flexible display (250) may form an angle that is larger than an angle in a folded state and smaller than an angle in an unfolded state. The folding area (253) may be formed as a curved surface having at least a certain curvature, and the curvature at this time may be smaller than that in a folded state.

[0091] According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) may include a first housing hole (281, 283). According to one embodiment, the first housing hole (281, 283) may include a first-first housing hole (281) formed in a first-second side (211b) of the first housing (210) and a first-second housing hole (283) formed in a first-third side (211c) of the first housing (210).

[0092] According to one embodiment, the first-second side (211b) of the first housing (210) may include a first-first segment (212a) made of a non-metallic material. According to one embodiment, the first-first segments (212a) may be provided as a pair spaced apart from each other. According to one embodiment, the first-first housing hole (281) may be formed between a pair of the first-first segments (212a).

[0093] According to one embodiment, the first-third side (211c) of the first housing (210) may include a first-second segment (212b) made of a non-metallic material. According to one embodiment, the first-second segments (212b) may be provided as a pair spaced apart from each other. According to one embodiment, the first-second housing hole (283) may be formed between the pair of first-second segments (212b).

[0094] According to one embodiment, the number of at least one first-first housing hole (281) may be equal to the number of at least one first-second housing hole (283).

[0095] According to one embodiment, the first-second side (211b) and the first-third side (211c) may be arranged in parallel. According to one embodiment, the plurality of first-first housing holes (281) and the plurality of first-second housing holes (283) may be arranged to overlap with each other in the longitudinal direction of the electronic device (101) (e.g., the Y-axis direction of FIG. 5). For example, the plurality of first-first housing holes (281) may be arranged correspondingly with the plurality of first-second housing holes (283) in the longitudinal direction of the electronic device (101) (e.g., the Y-axis direction of FIG. 5).

[0096] According to one embodiment, a plurality of first-first housing holes (281) may be arranged on a straight line based on the width direction (e.g., the X-axis direction of FIG. 5) of the electronic device (101) (or the first housing (210)). According to one embodiment, a plurality of first-second housing holes (283) may be arranged on a straight line based on the width direction (e.g., the X-axis direction of FIG. 5) of the electronic device (101) (or the first housing (210)).

[0097] According to one embodiment, the second housing (220) may include a second housing hole (282, 284). According to one embodiment, the second housing hole (282, 284) may include a 2-1 housing hole (282) formed in a 2-2 side surface (221b) of the second housing (220) and a 2-2 housing hole (284) formed in a 2-3 side surface (221c) of the second housing (220).

[0098] According to one embodiment, the second-second side (221b) of the second housing (220) may include a second-first segment (222a) made of a non-metallic material. According to one embodiment, the second-first segments (222a) may be provided as a pair spaced apart from each other. According to one embodiment, some of the second-first housing holes (282) may be formed between a pair of the second-first segments (222a), and the remainder of the second-first housing holes (282) may be formed between the folding axis (A) (or hinge assembly (230)) and one of the second-first segments (222a).

[0099] According to one embodiment, the second-third side (221c) of the second housing (220) may include a second-second segment (222b) made of a non-metallic material. According to one embodiment, the second-second segments (222b) may be provided as a pair spaced apart from each other. According to one embodiment, the second-first housing hole (282) may be formed between a pair of second-second segments (222b).

[0100] According to one embodiment, the second-third side (221c) of the second housing (220) may include a connection terminal (289) (e.g., connection terminal (178) of FIG. 1).

[0101] In the description of the drawings below, a spatial coordinate system is illustrated, which is defined by an X-axis, a Y-axis, and a Z-axis that are orthogonal to each other. Here, the X-axis may represent a width direction of an electronic device or components of an electronic device, the Y-axis may represent a length direction of an electronic device or components of an electronic device, and the Z-axis may represent a height (or thickness) direction of an electronic device or components of an electronic device. In describing one embodiment of the present disclosure, the 'first direction and the second direction' may mean a direction parallel to the Z-axis.

[0102] FIG. 4A is a perspective view of an electronic device including a digital pen according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 4B is an exploded perspective view of a digital pen according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 4C is a block diagram of a digital pen according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0103] The embodiments of FIGS. 4A to 4B may be combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 3 or the embodiments of FIGS. 5 to 15.

[0104] Referring to FIGS. 4A and 4B, an electronic device (101) (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 1 to 3) may include a first housing (210), a second housing (220), a flexible display (250), or a digital pen (300).

[0105] The configuration of the first housing (210), the second housing (220), or the flexible display (250) of FIGS. 4A to 4B may be partially or entirely identical to the configuration of the first housing (210), the second housing (220), or the flexible display (250) of FIGS. 2 to 3.

[0106] The configuration of the digital pen (300) of FIGS. 4a and 4b may be partially or entirely identical to the configuration of the electronic device (101) or input module (150) of FIG. 1.

[0107] According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) may include a first-first side (211a) (e.g., the first-first side (211a) of FIGS. 2 to 3), a first-second side (211b) (e.g., the first-second side (211b) of FIGS. 2 to 3), or a first-third side (211c) (e.g., the first-third side (211c) of FIGS. 2 to 3).

[0108] According to one embodiment, the second housing (220) may include a second-first side (221a) (e.g., the second-first side (221a) of FIGS. 2 to 3), a second-second side (221b) (e.g., the second-second side (221b) of FIGS. 2 to 3), or a second-third side (221c) (e.g., the second-third side (221c) of FIGS. 2 to 3).

[0109] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (250) may include a first display area (251) (e.g., the first display area (251) of FIGS. 2 to 3), a second display area (252) (e.g., the second display area (252) of FIGS. 2 to 3), or a folding area (253) (e.g., the folding area (253) of FIGS. 2 to 3).

[0110] Referring to FIG. 4A, the electronic device (101) may include a structure into which a digital pen (300) (e.g., a stylus pen) can be inserted.

[0111] According to one embodiment, the digital pen (300) may have a separate resonant circuit (e.g., the resonant circuit of FIG. 4C (e.g., the resonant circuit (487) of FIG. 4C) built in and may be linked with an electromagnetic induction panel (e.g., a digitizer) of the electronic device (101). For example, the digital pen (300) may include an electro-magnetic resonance (EMR) method, an active electrical stylus (AES), or an electric coupled resonance (ECR) method.

[0112] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include an insertion hole (227) formed in a portion (e.g., the second-third side (221c)) of the second housing (220). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a storage space (228) (or, an accommodation space) formed inside the second housing (220) connected to the insertion hole (227). According to one embodiment, the digital pen (300) may be inserted into the storage space (228) of the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the storage space (228) may be a space formed between a second plate (e.g., the second plate (223) of FIG. 5) and a second rear cover (e.g., the second rear cover (225) of FIG. 5) of the second housing (220).

[0113] According to one embodiment, the digital pen (300) may include a button portion (313) (e.g., button portion (313) of FIG. 4B) disposed at one end thereof to facilitate taking the digital pen (300) out of the storage space (228) of the electronic device (101). For example, when the button portion (313) is pressed by a user, repulsive mechanisms (e.g., at least one spring) connected to the button portion (313) may operate, thereby allowing the digital pen (300) to be removed from the storage space (228).

[0114] According to one embodiment, the insertion hole (227) of the electronic device (101) may be formed in the 2-3 side (221c) of the second housing (220). According to one embodiment, the insertion hole (227) of the electronic device (101) may be formed in the 2-1 side (221a) or the 2-2 side (221b) of the second housing (220) depending on the location of the storage space (228).

[0115] According to one embodiment, the storage space (228) of the electronic device (101) may be formed inside the first housing (210). In this case, the insertion hole (227) of the electronic device (101) may be formed in the first-first side (211a), the first-second side (211b), or the first-third side (211c) of the first housing (210). According to one embodiment, the storage space (228) may be a space formed between the first plate (e.g., the first plate (213) of FIG. 5) and the first rear cover (e.g., the first rear cover (215) of FIG. 5) of the first housing (210).

[0116] According to one embodiment, the storage space (228) may be arranged parallel to the folding axis (A) (e.g., the folding axis (A) of FIG. 2). According to one embodiment, when the insertion hole (227) is formed in the 1-1 side (211a) or the 2-1 side (221a), the storage space (228) may be arranged parallel to the 1-2 side (211b) (or the 1-3 side (211c)) or the 2-2 side (221b) (or the 2-3 side (221c)).

[0117] According to one embodiment, the storage space (228) may be formed inside the second housing (220) and may be arranged closer to the second-first side (221a) than the folding axis (A). According to one embodiment, the storage space (228) may be formed inside the second housing (220) to be arranged closer to the folding axis (A) than the second-first side (221a). According to one embodiment, the storage space (228) may be arranged in the middle of the second-first side (221a) and the folding axis (A) inside the second housing (220). According to one embodiment, the storage space (228) may be formed inside the first housing (210) and may be arranged closer to the first-first side (211a) than the folding axis (A). According to one embodiment, the storage space (228) may be formed to be positioned closer to the folding axis (A) than the first-first side (211a) within the first housing (210). According to one embodiment, the storage space (228) may be positioned midway between the first-first side (211a) and the folding axis (A) within the first housing (210).

[0118] According to one embodiment, the digital pen (300) may enable handwriting input of the electronic device (101). For example, the digital pen (300) may be coupled with an electromagnetic induction panel (e.g., a digitizer) to provide various input functions.

[0119] Referring to FIG. 4B, the digital pen (300) may include a pen housing (301) that constitutes the exterior of the digital pen (300) and an inner assembly inside the pen housing (301). According to one embodiment, the inner assembly may include all of the various components arranged inside the pen and may be inserted into the pen housing (301) in a single assembly operation.

[0120] According to one embodiment, the pen housing (301) may have a shape that is elongated between a first end (301a) and a second end (301b), and may include a storage space (302) therein. The pen housing (301) may have an elliptical cross-section composed of a long axis and a short axis, and may be formed in the shape of an elliptical column as a whole. The storage space (228) of the electronic device (101) may also have an elliptical cross-section corresponding to the shape of the pen housing (301). The pen housing (301) may include a synthetic resin (e.g., plastic) and / or a metallic material (e.g., aluminum). According to one embodiment, the second end (301b) of the pen housing (301) may be formed of a synthetic resin material.

[0121] According to one embodiment, the inner assembly may have an elongated shape corresponding to the shape of the pen housing (301). The inner assembly may be broadly divided into three components along the longitudinal direction. For example, the inner assembly may include an ejection member (310) positioned corresponding to a first end (301a) of the pen housing (301), a coil portion (320) positioned corresponding to a second end (301b) of the pen housing (301), or a circuit board portion (330) positioned corresponding to a body of the pen housing (301).

[0122] According to one embodiment, the ejection member (310) may include a configuration for taking the digital pen (300) out of the storage space (228) of the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the ejection member (310) may include a shaft (311) and an ejection body (312) and a button portion (313) that are arranged around the shaft (311) and form the overall outer shape of the ejection member (310). When the internal assembly is completely inserted into the pen housing (301), a portion including the shaft (311) and the ejection body (312) is surrounded by the first end (301a) of the pen housing (301), and the button portion (313) (e.g., the button portion (313) of FIG. 4A) may be exposed to the outside of the first end (301a). A plurality of unillustrated components, for example, cam members or elastic members, may be arranged within the ejection body (312) to form a push-pull structure. According to one embodiment, the button portion (313) may be substantially coupled with the shaft (311) to perform a linear reciprocating motion with respect to the ejection body (312). According to one embodiment, the button portion (313) may include a button having a catch structure formed therein so that a user can pull out the digital pen (300) using a fingernail. According to one embodiment, the digital pen (300) may include a sensor that detects the linear reciprocating motion of the shaft (311), thereby providing another input method.

[0123] According to one embodiment, the coil portion (320) may include a pen tip (321), a packing ring (322), a coil (323) wound multiple times, or a pressure sensing portion (324) for obtaining a change in pressure according to the pressing of the pen tip (321) when the internal assembly is fully inserted into the pen housing (301). The packing ring (322) may include epoxy, rubber, urethane, or silicone. The packing ring (322) may be provided for the purpose of waterproofing and dustproofing, and may protect the coil portion (320) and the circuit board portion (330) from submersion or dust. According to one embodiment, the coil (323) can form a resonant frequency in a set frequency band (e.g., 500 kHz), and can be combined with at least one element (e.g., a capacitive element) to adjust the resonant frequency formed by the coil (323) within a certain range.

[0124] According to one embodiment, the circuit board portion (330) may include a printed circuit board (332), a base (331) surrounding at least one surface of the printed circuit board (332), or an antenna. According to one embodiment, a substrate mounting portion (333) on which the printed circuit board (332) is disposed is formed on an upper surface of the base (331), and the printed circuit board (332) may be fixed in a mounted state on the substrate mounting portion (333). According to one embodiment, the printed circuit board (332) may include an upper surface and a lower surface, and a variable capacity capacitor or switch (334) connected to a coil (323) may be disposed on the upper surface, and a charging circuit, a battery, or a communication circuit may be disposed on the lower surface. The battery may include an electric double layered capacitor (EDLC). The charging circuit is located between the coil (323) and the battery and may include voltage detector circuitry or a rectifier.

[0125] According to one embodiment, the antenna may include an antenna embedded in an antenna structure and / or a printed circuit board (332). According to one embodiment, a switch (334) may be provided on the printed circuit board (332). A side button (337) provided in the digital pen (300) is used to press the switch (334) and may be exposed to the outside through a side opening (303) of the pen housing (301). The side button (337) is supported by a support member (338), and when there is no external force acting on the side button (337), the support member (338) provides an elastic restoring force to restore or maintain the side button (337) in a state where it is placed at a certain position.

[0126] In one embodiment, the circuit board portion (330) may include another packing ring, such as an O-ring. For example, an O-ring made of an elastic material may be placed at both ends of the base (331) to form a sealing structure between the base (331) and the pen housing (301). In one embodiment, the support member (338) may partially form a sealing structure by coming into close contact with the inner wall of the pen housing (301) around the side opening (303). For example, the circuit board portion (330) may also form a waterproof and dustproof structure similar to the packing ring (322) of the coil portion (320).

[0127] According to one embodiment, the digital pen (300) may include a battery mounting portion (335) on which a battery (336) is placed on the upper surface of the base (331). The battery (336) that may be mounted on the battery mounting portion (335) may include, for example, a cylindrical type battery.

[0128] According to one embodiment, the digital pen (300) may include a microphone. The microphone may be directly connected to the printed circuit board (332) or may be connected to a separate flexible printed circuit board (FPCB) connected to the printed circuit board (332). According to one embodiment, the microphone may be positioned parallel to the side button (337) in the longitudinal direction of the digital pen (300).

[0129] Referring to FIG. 4C, a digital pen (300) according to one embodiment may include a processor (420), a memory (430), a resonant circuit (487), a charging circuit (488), a battery (489), a communication circuit (490), an antenna (497), and / or a trigger circuit (498). In one embodiment, the processor (420), at least a portion of the resonant circuit (487), and / or at least a portion of the communication circuit (490) of the digital pen (300) may be configured on a printed circuit board (e.g., the printed circuit board (332) of FIG. 4B) or in the form of a chip. The processor (420), the resonant circuit (487), and / or the communication circuit (490) may be electrically connected to the memory (430), the charging circuit (488), the battery (489), the antenna (497), or the trigger circuit (498). A digital pen (300) according to one embodiment may be composed of only a resonant circuit and a button.

[0130] According to one embodiment, the processor (420) may include a generic processor configured to execute a customized hardware module or software (e.g., an application program). The processor may include hardware components (functions) or software components (programs) including at least one of various sensors provided in the digital pen (300), a data measurement module, an input / output interface, a module for managing the state or environment of the digital pen (300), or a communication module. The processor (420) may include, for example, one or a combination of two or more of hardware, software, or firmware. According to one embodiment, the processor (420) may receive a proximity signal corresponding to an electromagnetic field signal generated from a digitizer (160) of the electronic device (101) through a resonant circuit (487). When the above proximity signal is confirmed, the resonant circuit (487) can be controlled to transmit an electromagnetic resonance (EMR) input signal to the electronic device (101).

[0131] According to one embodiment, the memory (430) can store information related to the operation of the digital pen (300). For example, the information can include information for communication with the electronic device (101) and frequency information related to the input operation of the digital pen (300).

[0132] According to one embodiment, the resonant circuit (487) may include at least one of a coil, an inductor, or a capacitor. The resonant circuit (487) may be used by the digital pen (300) to generate a signal including a resonant frequency. For example, to generate the signal, the digital pen (300) may use at least one of an electromagnetic resonance (EMR) method, an active electrostatic (AES) method, or an electrically coupled resonance (ECR) method. When the digital pen (300) transmits a signal by the EMR method, the digital pen (300) may generate a signal including a resonant frequency based on an electromagnetic field generated from an inductive panel of the electronic device (101). When the digital pen (300) transmits a signal using the AES method, the digital pen (300) can generate a signal using capacitive coupling with the electronic device (101). When the digital pen (300) transmits a signal using the ECR method, the digital pen (300) can generate a signal including a resonant frequency based on an electric field generated from a capacitive device of the electronic device. According to one embodiment, the resonant circuit (487) can be used to change the intensity or frequency of the electromagnetic field according to the user's manipulation state. For example, the resonant circuit (487) can provide a frequency for recognizing a hovering input, a drawing input, a button input, or an erasing input.

[0133] According to one embodiment, when the charging circuit (488) is connected to the resonant circuit (487) based on a switching circuit, the resonant signal generated from the resonant circuit (487) can be rectified into a DC signal and provided to the battery (489). According to one embodiment, the digital pen (300) can use the voltage level of the DC signal detected by the charging circuit (488) to determine whether the digital pen (300) is inserted into the electronic device (101).

[0134] In one embodiment, the battery (489) may be configured to store power required for the operation of the digital pen (300). The battery may include, for example, a lithium-ion battery or a capacitor, and may be rechargeable or replaceable. In one embodiment, the battery (489) may be charged using power (e.g., a direct current signal (direct current power)) provided from the charging circuit (488).

[0135] According to one embodiment, the communication circuit (490) may be configured to perform a wireless communication function between the digital pen (300) and the communication module (190) of the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the communication circuit (490) may transmit status information and input information of the digital pen (300) to the electronic device (101) using a short-range communication method. For example, the communication circuit (490) may transmit direction information (e.g., motion sensor data) of the digital pen (300) obtained through the trigger circuit (498), voice information input through a microphone, or remaining amount information of the battery (489) to the electronic device (101). As an example, the short-range communication method may include at least one of Bluetooth, BLE (Bluetooth low energy), or wireless LAN.

[0136] According to one embodiment, the antenna (497) can be used to transmit or receive signals or power to or from an external device (e.g., the electronic device (101)). According to one embodiment, the digital pen (300) can include a plurality of antennas (497), and among them, at least one antenna (497) suitable for a communication method can be selected. Through the selected at least one antenna (497), the communication circuit (490) can exchange signals or power with an external electronic device.

[0137] According to one embodiment, the trigger circuit (498) may include at least one button or sensor circuit. According to one embodiment, the processor (420) may check the input method (e.g., touch or press) or type (e.g., EMR button or BLE button) of the button of the digital pen (300). According to one embodiment, the sensor circuit may generate an electric signal or data value corresponding to the internal operating state or external environmental state of the digital pen (300). For example, the sensor circuit may include at least one of a motion sensor, a battery level detection sensor, a pressure sensor, a light sensor, a temperature sensor, a geomagnetic sensor, and a biometric sensor. According to one embodiment, the trigger circuit (498) may transmit a trigger signal to the electronic device (101) using an input signal of the button or a signal through a sensor.

[0138] FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0139] The embodiment of FIG. 5 may be combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 4c or the embodiments of FIGS. 6 to 15.

[0140] Referring to FIG. 5, an electronic device (101) (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 1 to 4A) may include a foldable housing (201), a first housing (210), a second housing (220), a hinge assembly (230), a flexible display (250), a first printed circuit board (241), a second printed circuit board (242), a waterproof member (260), a first battery (271), or a second battery (272).

[0141] The configuration of the foldable housing (201), the first housing (210), the second housing (220), the hinge assembly (230), and the flexible display (250) of FIG. 5 may be partially or entirely the same as the configuration of the foldable housing (201), the first housing (210), the second housing (220), the hinge assembly (230), and the flexible display (250) of FIGS. 2 to 4.

[0142] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include various electronic components (or electrical components) arranged in the internal or external space of the first housing (210) and the second housing (220). Various electronic components include, for example, a processor (e.g., a processor (120) of FIG. 1), a memory (e.g., a memory (130) of FIG. 1), an input module (e.g., an input module (150) of FIG. 1), an audio output module (e.g., an audio output module (155) of FIG. 1), a display (250) (e.g., a display module (160) of FIG. 1), an audio module (e.g., an audio module (170) of FIG. 1), a sensor (e.g., a sensor module (176) of FIG. 1), an interface (e.g., an interface (177) of FIG. 1), a connection terminal (e.g., a connection terminal (178) of FIG. 1 or a connection terminal (289) of FIG. 2), a haptic module (e.g., a haptic module (179) of FIG. 1), a camera module (e.g., a camera module (180) of FIG. 1), a power management module (188)), a battery (271, 272) (e.g., a display module (160) of FIG. 1), an audio module (e.g., an audio module (170) of FIG. 1), a sensor (e.g., a sensor module (176) of FIG. 1), an interface (e.g., an interface (177) of FIG. 1), a connection terminal (e.g., a connection terminal (178) of FIG. 1 or a connection terminal (289) of FIG. 2), a haptic module (e.g., a haptic module (179) of FIG. 1), a camera module (e.g., a camera module (180) of FIG. 1), a power management module (188)), and a battery (271, 272) (e.g., a power management module (188) The electronic device (101) may include a battery (189)), a communication module (e.g., a communication module (190) of FIG. 1), a subscriber identification module (e.g., a subscriber identification module (196) of FIG. 1), or an antenna module (e.g., an antenna module (197) of FIG. 1), and the electronic components may be appropriately separated and arranged in the internal or external space of the first housing (210) and the second housing (220). In the electronic device (101), at least one of these components (e.g., a connection terminal (178)) may be omitted, or one or more other components may be added. In addition, some of these components may be integrated into one component.

[0143] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) is a foldable electronic device and may include a plurality of batteries to supply and store power required for operation to electronic components. For example, the electronic device may include a first battery (271) and a second battery (272) disposed in each of the first housing (210) and the second housing (220).

[0144] According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) may include a first-first side (211a) (e.g., the first-first side (211a) of FIGS. 2 to 4A), a first-second side (211b) (e.g., the first-second side (211b) of FIGS. 2 to 4A), a first-third side (211c) (e.g., the first-third side (211c) of FIGS. 2 to 4A), and / or a first plate (213).

[0145] According to one embodiment, the second housing (220) may include a second-first side (221a) (e.g., the second-first side (221a) of FIGS. 2 to 4A), a second-second side (221b) (e.g., the second-second side (221b) of FIGS. 2 to 4A), a second-third side (221c) (e.g., the second-third side (221c) of FIGS. 2 to 4A), and / or a second plate (223).

[0146] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) is a foldable electronic device and may include a first plate (213) and / or a second plate (223) for arranging components in each of a first housing (210) and a second housing (220). In one embodiment, the first plate (213) may be interpreted as a part of the first housing (210), and the second plate (223) may be interpreted as a part of the second housing (220). In one embodiment, the first plate (213) may be interpreted as a separate component from the first housing (210), and the second plate (223) may be interpreted as a separate component from the second housing (220). Various electronic components and / or printed circuit boards (241, 242) may be arranged on the first plate (213) and / or the second plate (223). According to one embodiment, a first plate (213) and a first printed circuit board (241) may be disposed in a first housing (210), and a second plate (223) and a second printed circuit board (242) may be disposed in a second housing (220). The first plate (213) may include a first surface facing a first direction (e.g., the +Z direction of FIG. 5), and the second plate (223) may include a second surface facing a second direction (e.g., the -Z direction of FIG. 5). The first plate (213) and the second plate (223) may be folded or unfolded relative to each other by a hinge structure (231) formed corresponding to a folding area (253) of the flexible display (250), and may be formed to face each other in a folded state, and may be formed such that the directions in which the first surface and the second surface face each other are the same in an unfolded state.

[0147] According to one embodiment, the first printed circuit board (241) can be placed in the first waterproof area (261-1) formed by the first waterproof member (261).

[0148] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (250) may be disposed in a first housing (210) and a second housing (220). According to one embodiment, the first display area (251) may be disposed on the first housing (210) (or the first plate (213)), and the second display area (252) may be disposed on the second housing (220) (or the second plate (223)). According to one embodiment, the folding area (253) may connect the first display area (251) and the second display area (252) and may be disposed on a hinge structure (231).

[0149] According to one embodiment, a first printed circuit board (241) may be placed on the lower portion (-Z-axis direction) of a first plate (213), and a second printed circuit board (242) may be placed on the lower portion (-Z-axis direction) of a second plate (223).

[0150] According to one embodiment, signals of a processor for implementing various functions and operations of an electronic device (101) may be transmitted to electronic components through various conductive lines (243) and / or connectors formed on printed circuit boards (241, 242).

[0151] According to one embodiment, the foldable housing (201) may include a first housing (210), a second housing (220), a first rear cover (215), a second rear cover (225), and a hinge assembly (230).

[0152] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (250) may include a display panel. In one embodiment, a first plate (213) and a second plate (223) may be disposed between the display panel and a first printed circuit board (241) and a second printed circuit board (242). A hinge assembly (230) may be disposed between the first plate (213) and the second plate (223).

[0153] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may further include a sub-display (218) (e.g., the display module (160) of FIG. 1) disposed between the first housing (210) and the first rear cover (215). According to one embodiment, the sub-display (218) may include a display panel. According to one embodiment, the sub-display (218) may be coupled to the first rear cover (215). According to one embodiment, the sub-display (218) may also be coupled to the first printed circuit board (241). For example, the sub-display (218) may be visually exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101) through the first rear area of ​​the first rear cover (215) (e.g., the first rear area (216) of FIG. 2).

[0154] According to one embodiment, the hinge assembly (230) may include a hinge structure (231) and a hinge cover (232). According to one embodiment, the hinge structure (231) may include a hinge module (e.g., hinge module (231-1) of FIG. 6) and a hinge plate (e.g., hinge plate (231-2) of FIG. 6). According to one embodiment, the hinge cover (232) may cover the hinge structure (231).

[0155] According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) can be connected so that the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) can rotate relative to each other.

[0156] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a first printed circuit board (241) and a second printed circuit board (242). The first printed circuit board (241) and the second printed circuit board (242) may be arranged within a space formed by the first plate (213), the second plate (223), the first housing (210), the second housing (220), the first rear cover (215), and the second rear cover (225). Components for implementing various functions of the electronic device (101) may be arranged on the first printed circuit board (241) and the second printed circuit board (242). According to one embodiment, the first printed circuit board (241) and the second printed circuit board (242) may include any one of a printed circuit board (PCB), a flexible PCB, or a rigid flexible PCB (RFPCB).

[0157] According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) can be assembled to each other so that the first plate (213) and the second plate (223) of the flexible display (250) are coupled to both sides of the hinge assembly (230). For example, the first housing (210) can be coupled by sliding on one side of the hinge assembly (230), and the second housing (220) can be coupled by sliding on the other side of the hinge assembly (230).

[0158] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may have a waterproof member (260) disposed inside the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the waterproof member (260) may include a first waterproof member (261), a second waterproof member (262), a third waterproof member (263), and / or a fourth waterproof member (264).

[0159] According to one embodiment, the first waterproofing member (261) may be disposed between the first housing (210) and the flexible display (250). According to one embodiment, the first waterproofing member (261) may be disposed between the first plate (213) and the first display area (251). According to one embodiment, the first waterproofing member (261) may be formed of a waterproofing tape. According to one embodiment, the first waterproofing member (261) may be adhered to the first housing (210) and / or the first plate (213), and may be adhered to the flexible display (250) (e.g., the first display area (251)). According to one embodiment, the first waterproofing member (261) may include a closed loop shape. For example, the first waterproofing member (261) may include at least one closed loop area. According to one embodiment, the first waterproofing member (261) may include a waterproofing tape and may limit liquid inflow from the outside of the closed curve area of ​​the first waterproofing member (261) to the inside of the closed curve area.

[0160] According to one embodiment, the first waterproof member (261) may include at least one first waterproof area (261-1). According to one embodiment, the at least one first waterproof area (261-1) may be defined and interpreted as being inside a closed curve area of ​​the first waterproof member (261).

[0161] According to one embodiment, the second waterproofing member (262) may be disposed between the second housing (220) and the flexible display (250). According to one embodiment, the second waterproofing member (262) may be disposed between the second plate (223) and the second display area (252). According to one embodiment, the second waterproofing member (262) may be formed of a waterproofing tape. According to one embodiment, the second waterproofing member (262) may be adhered to the second housing (220) and / or the second plate (223), and may be adhered to the flexible display (250) (e.g., the second display area (252)). According to one embodiment, the second waterproofing member (262) may include a closed loop shape. For example, the second waterproofing member (262) may include at least one closed loop area. According to one embodiment, the second waterproofing member (262) may include a waterproofing tape and may limit liquid inflow from the outside of the closed curve area of ​​the second waterproofing member (262) to the inside of the closed curve area.

[0162] According to one embodiment, the second waterproofing member (262) may include at least one second waterproofing area (262-1). According to one embodiment, the at least one second waterproofing area (262-1) may be defined and interpreted as being inside a closed curve area of ​​the second waterproofing member (262).

[0163] According to one embodiment, the third waterproofing member (263) may be disposed between the first housing (210) and the first rear cover (215). According to one embodiment, the third waterproofing member (263) may be disposed between the first plate (213) and the sub-display (218). According to one embodiment, the third waterproofing member (263) may be formed of a waterproofing tape. According to one embodiment, the third waterproofing member (263) may be adhered to the first housing (210) and / or the first plate (213), and may be adhered to the first rear cover (215) and / or the sub-display (218). According to one embodiment, the third waterproofing member (263) may include a closed loop shape. For example, the third waterproofing member (263) may include at least one closed loop area. According to one embodiment, the third waterproofing member (263) may include a waterproofing tape and may limit liquid inflow from the outside of the closed curve area of ​​the third waterproofing member (263) to the inside of the closed curve area.

[0164] According to one embodiment, the third waterproofing member (263) may include at least one third waterproofing area (263-1). According to one embodiment, the at least one third waterproofing area (263-1) may be defined and interpreted as being inside a closed curve area of ​​the third waterproofing member (263).

[0165] According to one embodiment, the fourth waterproofing member (264) may be disposed between the second housing (220) and the second rear cover (225). According to one embodiment, the fourth waterproofing member (264) may be disposed between the second plate (223) and the second rear cover (225). According to one embodiment, the fourth waterproofing member (264) may be formed of a waterproofing tape. According to one embodiment, the fourth waterproofing member (264) may be adhered to the second housing (220) and / or the second plate (223) and may be adhered to the second rear cover (225). According to one embodiment, the fourth waterproofing member (264) may include a closed loop shape. For example, the fourth waterproofing member (264) may include at least one closed loop area. According to one embodiment, the fourth waterproofing member (264) may include a waterproofing tape and may limit liquid inflow from the outside of the closed curve area of ​​the fourth waterproofing member (264) to the inside of the closed curve area.

[0166] According to one embodiment, the fourth waterproofing member (264) may include at least one fourth waterproofing region (264-1). According to one embodiment, the at least one fourth waterproofing region (264-1) may be defined and interpreted as being inside a closed curve region of the fourth waterproofing member (264).

[0167] According to one embodiment, the first waterproof member (261), the second waterproof member (262), the third waterproof member (263), and the fourth waterproof member (264) can be positioned so as not to come into contact with the hinge assembly (230).

[0168] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) can limit liquid inflow from the outside of the electronic device (101) into the inside of the electronic device (101) as the waterproof member (260) is disposed inside the electronic device (101).

[0169] According to one embodiment, a storage space (e.g., a storage space (228) of FIG. 4A) for storing a digital pen (e.g., a digital pen (300) of FIGS. 4A to 4C) may be a space formed (or arranged) between a second plate (223) and a second rear cover (225). According to one embodiment, the storage space for storing the digital pen may be a space formed (or arranged) between a first plate (213) and a first rear cover (215).

[0170] FIG. 6 is a drawing showing a state in which a first housing and a second housing are combined according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0171] The embodiment of FIG. 6 may be combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 5 or the embodiments of FIGS. 7 to 15.

[0172] Referring to FIG. 6, an electronic device (101) (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 1 to 5) may include a first housing (210), a second housing (220), a hinge assembly (230), and / or a waterproof member (260).

[0173] The configuration of the first housing (210), the second housing (220), the hinge assembly (230), and / or the waterproof member (260) of FIG. 6 may be partially or entirely the same as the configuration of the first housing (210), the second housing (220), the hinge assembly (230), and / or the waterproof member (260) of FIG. 5.

[0174] According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) (e.g., the first housing (210) of FIG. 5) may include a first plate (213) (e.g., the first plate (213) of FIG. 5), a first-first side (211a) (e.g., the first-first side (211a) of FIGS. 2 to 3), a first-second side (211b) (e.g., the first-second side (211b) of FIGS. 2 to 3), and / or a first-third side (211c) (e.g., the first-third side (211c) of FIGS. 2 to 3).

[0175] According to one embodiment, the second housing (220) (e.g., the second housing (220) of FIG. 5) may include a second plate (223) (e.g., the second plate (223) of FIG. 5), a second-first side (221a) (e.g., the second-first side (221a) of FIGS. 2 to 3), a second-second side (221b) (e.g., the second-second side (221b) of FIGS. 2 to 3), and / or a second-third side (221c) (e.g., the second-third side (221c) of FIGS. 2 to 3).

[0176] According to one embodiment, the hinge assembly (230) (e.g., the hinge assembly (230) of FIG. 5) may include a hinge structure (231) (e.g., the hinge structure (231) of FIG. 5) and a hinge cover (e.g., the hinge cover (232) of FIG. 5). According to one embodiment, the hinge structure (231) may include a hinge module (231-1) and a hinge plate (231-2). According to one embodiment, the hinge module (231-1) may be disposed at both ends of the hinge plate (231-2) in the longitudinal direction (e.g., the Y-axis direction of FIG. 6). According to one embodiment, the hinge module (231-1) may include a first hinge module (231-11) and a second hinge module (231-12). According to one embodiment, the first hinge module (231-11) may be arranged on the left side (e.g., the -X direction of FIG. 6) with respect to the folding axis (e.g., the folding axis (A) of FIG. 2), and the second hinge module (231-12) may be arranged on the right side (e.g., the +X direction of FIG. 6) with respect to the folding axis. According to one embodiment, the first hinge module (231-11) may be connected to the first housing (210) and / or the first plate (213), and the second hinge module (231-12) may be connected to the second housing (220) and / or the second plate (223). According to one embodiment, the first hinge module (231-11) and the second hinge module (231-12) may be connected to each other and may be capable of rotational movement relative to each other. According to one embodiment, the hinge plate (231-2) may include a first hinge plate (231-21) and a second hinge plate (231-22). According to one embodiment, the first hinge plate (231-21) may be arranged on the left side (e.g., the -X direction in FIG. 6) with respect to the folding axis (e.g., the folding axis (A) in FIG. 2), and the second hinge plate (231-22) may be arranged on the right side (e.g., the +X direction in FIG. 6) with respect to the folding axis.According to one embodiment, the first hinge plate (231-21) can be connected to the first housing (210) and / or the first plate (213), and the second hinge plate (231-22) can be connected to the second housing (220) and / or the second plate (223). According to one embodiment, the first hinge plate (231-21) can be connected to the first hinge module (231-11), and the second hinge module (231-12) can be connected to the second hinge module (231-12). According to one embodiment, the first hinge plate (231-21) and the second hinge plate (231-22) can be connected to each other and can be rotated relative to each other. In some embodiments, the first hinge plate (231-21) and the second hinge plate (231-22) may not be connected to each other. In one embodiment, the hinge module (231-1) and the hinge plate (231-2) may include various components and / or substrates necessary for the operation of the electronic device (101).

[0177] According to one embodiment, a first waterproof member (261) may be placed between a first housing (210) and a flexible display (e.g., a flexible display (250) of FIG. 5), and a second waterproof member (262) may be placed between a second housing (220) and a flexible display (e.g., a flexible display (250) of FIG. 5).

[0178] According to one embodiment, the first waterproof member (261) may be arranged to form a closed curve, and at least one first waterproof area (261-1) surrounded by the closed curve of the first waterproof member (261) may be formed. According to one embodiment, the first waterproof member (611) may include a waterproof tape and may be adhered to the first housing (210) and / or a flexible display (e.g., the flexible display (250) of FIG. 5). According to one embodiment, the first waterproof member (261) can be adhered to the first plate (213) of the first housing (210) and the first display area of ​​the flexible display (e.g., the first display area (251) of FIG. 5). According to one embodiment, the first waterproof member (611) can limit the inflow of liquid and / or foreign substances from the outside of the electronic device (101) into the space inside the electronic device (101) (e.g., the first waterproof area (261-1)). According to one embodiment, the first waterproof member (261) can be spaced apart from the hinge assembly (230), and the adhesion can be maintained with the first housing (210) and the flexible display regardless of the folding state of the electronic device (101) (e.g., the folded state or the unfolded state).

[0179] According to one embodiment, the second waterproof member (262) may be arranged to form a closed curve, and at least one second waterproof area (262-1) surrounded by the closed curve of the second waterproof member (262) may be formed. According to one embodiment, the second waterproof member (262) may include a waterproof tape and may be adhered to the second housing (220) and / or the flexible display (e.g., the flexible display (250) of FIG. 5). According to one embodiment, the second waterproof member (262) can be adhered to the second plate (223) of the second housing (220) and the second display area of ​​the flexible display (e.g., the second display area (252) of FIG. 5). According to one embodiment, the second waterproof member (262) can limit the inflow of liquid and / or foreign substances from the outside of the electronic device (101) into the space inside the electronic device (101) (e.g., the second waterproof area (262-1)). According to one embodiment, the second waterproof member (262) can be spaced apart from the hinge assembly (230), and the adhesion between the second housing (220) and the flexible display can be secured regardless of the folding state of the electronic device (101) (e.g., the folded state or the unfolded state).

[0180] According to one embodiment, a storage space (e.g., a storage space (228) of FIG. 4A) of an electronic device (101) may be formed at various locations (or areas) within the electronic device (101). The storage space may be defined as an internal space of the electronic device (101) for storing a digital pen (e.g., a digital pen (300) of FIGS. 4A to 4C).

[0181] According to one embodiment, the storage space may be formed inside the second housing (220). The storage space may be formed between the second plate (223) of the second housing (220) and the second rear cover (e.g., the second rear cover (225) of FIG. 5).

[0182] For example, the storage space may be formed in the first region (S1) of the second housing (220). According to one embodiment, the first region (S1) may be disposed adjacent to the second-first side (221a). For example, the first region (S1) may be an region disposed closer to the second-first side (221a) than the folding axis (A) (e.g., the folding axis (A) of FIG. 2). In addition, the first region (S1) may be defined as an region disposed adjacent to one side (e.g., a portion facing the +X direction of FIGS. 5 to 6) of the second battery (e.g., the second battery (272) of FIG. 5).

[0183] For example, the storage space may be formed in the second region (S2) of the second housing (220). According to one embodiment, the second region (S2) may be disposed adjacent to the folding axis (A). For example, the second region (S2) may be an region disposed closer to the folding axis (A) than the second-first side (221a). In addition, the second region (S2) may be defined as an region disposed adjacent to the other side (e.g., a portion facing the -X direction in FIGS. 5 to 6) of the second battery (e.g., the second battery (272) of FIG. 5).

[0184] For example, the storage space may be formed in the third region (S3) of the first housing (210). According to one embodiment, the third region (S3) may be disposed adjacent to the folding axis (A). For example, the third region (S3) may be an region disposed closer to the folding axis (A) than the first-first side (211a). In addition, the third region (S3) may be defined as an region disposed adjacent to one side (e.g., a portion facing the +X direction in FIGS. 5 to 6) of the first battery (e.g., the first battery (271) of FIG. 5).

[0185] For example, the storage space may be formed in the fourth area (S4) of the first housing (210). According to one embodiment, the fourth area (S4) may be disposed adjacent to the 1-1 side surface (211a). For example, the fourth area (S4) may be an area disposed closer to the 1-1 side surface (211a) than the folding axis (A) (e.g., the folding axis (A) of FIG. 2). In addition, the fourth area (S4) may be defined as an area disposed adjacent to one side (e.g., a portion facing the -X direction of FIGS. 5 to 6) of the first battery (e.g., the first battery (271) of FIG. 5).

[0186] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a storage space (e.g., storage space (228) of FIG. 4A) formed in any one of the first region (S1) to the fourth region (S4) described above. According to one embodiment, the storage space may be formed inside the first housing (210) or the second housing (220) of the electronic device (101).

[0187] According to one embodiment, when the storage space is formed in either the first area (S1) or the second area (S2), the storage space may not overlap with the second battery (e.g., the second battery (272) of FIG. 5) in the thickness direction (e.g., the Z-axis direction of FIGS. 5 and 6) of the electronic device (101) when the electronic device (101) is unfolded (e.g., FIG. 2). For example, the thickness direction (e.g., the Z-axis direction of FIGS. 5 and 6) may be defined as a direction (or an opposite direction) from the second display area (e.g., the second display area (252) of FIG. 5) toward the second rear cover (e.g., the second rear cover (225) of FIG. 5) when the electronic device (101) is unfolded (e.g., FIG. 2). According to one embodiment, when the storage space is formed in either the first region (S1) or the second region (S2), the storage space may overlap at least a portion of the second battery (e.g., the second battery (272) of FIG. 5) in the width direction (e.g., the X-axis direction of FIGS. 5 and 6) of the electronic device (101) when at least a portion of the electronic device (101) is unfolded (e.g., FIG. 2). For example, the width direction (e.g., the X-axis direction of FIGS. 5 and 6) may be defined as a direction (or an opposite direction) toward the folding axis (A) from the second-first side surface (221a).

[0188] According to one embodiment, when the storage space is formed in either the third area (S3) or the fourth area (S4), the storage space may not overlap the first battery (e.g., the first battery (271) of FIG. 5) in the thickness direction (e.g., the Z-axis direction of FIGS. 5 and 6) of the electronic device (101) when the electronic device (101) is unfolded (e.g., FIG. 2). For example, the thickness direction (e.g., the Z-axis direction of FIGS. 5 and 6) may be defined as a direction (or an opposite direction) from the first display area (e.g., the first display area (251) of FIG. 5) toward the first rear cover (e.g., the first rear cover (215) of FIG. 5) when the electronic device (101) is unfolded (e.g., FIG. 2). According to one embodiment, when the storage space is formed in either the third region (S3) or the second region (S2), the storage space may overlap at least a portion of the first battery (e.g., the first battery (271) of FIG. 5) in the width direction (e.g., the X-axis direction of FIGS. 5 and 6) of the electronic device (101) when at least a portion of the electronic device (101) is unfolded (e.g., FIG. 2). For example, the width direction (e.g., the X-axis direction of FIGS. 5 and 6) may be defined as a direction (or an opposite direction) toward the folding axis (A) from the first-first side surface (211a).

[0189] FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of an electronic device including a digital pen according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0190] FIG. 8A is a cross-sectional view of an electronic device including a digital pen according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 8A is a cross-sectional view taken along line BB' of FIG. 7.

[0191] FIG. 8B is a cross-sectional view of an electronic device including a digital pen according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0192] FIG. 9A is a graph showing the strength of a magnetic field detected by a Hall sensor when an electronic device changes from an unfolded state to a folded state according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0193] FIG. 9b is a graph showing the strength of a magnetic field detected by a Hall sensor when an electronic device changes from a folded state to an unfolded state according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0194] FIG. 10A is a schematic diagram of an electronic device without a digital pen stored therein, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0195] FIG. 10b is a schematic diagram of an electronic device with a digital pen stored therein, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0196] FIG. 11A is a graph showing the strength of a magnetic field detected by a Hall sensor when the digital pen changes from an unstowed state to a stowed state according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0197] FIG. 11b is a graph showing the strength of a magnetic field detected by a Hall sensor when a digital pen changes from a stored state to an unstored state according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0198] The embodiments of FIGS. 7 to 11b may be combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 6, or the embodiments of FIGS. 12 to 15.

[0199] Referring to FIGS. 7 to 11B, an electronic device (101) (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 1 to 6) may include a first housing (210), a second housing (220), a first printed circuit board (241), a hall sensor (245), a first magnet (291), a second magnet (292), a digital pen (300), or a coil (323).

[0200] The configuration of the first housing (210), the second housing (220), or the first printed circuit board (241) of FIGS. 7 to 11b may be partially or entirely identical to the configuration of the first housing (210), the second housing (220), or the first printed circuit board (241) of FIGS. 5 to 6. The configuration of the digital pen (300) or the coil (323) of FIGS. 7 to 11b may be partially or entirely identical to the configuration of the digital pen (300) or the coil (323) of FIGS. 4a to 4c.

[0201] According to one embodiment, a hinge structure (e.g., hinge structure (231) of FIG. 5) can relatively rotatably connect the first housing (210) and the second housing (220).

[0202] According to one embodiment, the digital pen (300) may be configured to be stored in the first housing (210) of the electronic device (101). For example, the digital pen (300) may be configured to be stored in the first storage space (e.g., the first storage space (S1) of FIG. 6) of the electronic device (101). However, the location where the digital pen (300) is stored in the electronic device (101) is exemplary, and the digital pen (300) may be stored in another storage space (e.g., the second to fourth storage spaces (S2 to S4) of FIG. 6) of the electronic device (101).

[0203] According to one embodiment, the digital pen (300) can be stored in the first housing (210) of the electronic device (101) from the outside of the electronic device (101) by the user. In addition, the digital pen (300) can be taken out of the electronic device (101) from the state in which it is stored in the first housing (210) of the electronic device (101) by the user. For example, the digital pen (300) can be removed from the outside of the first housing (210).

[0204] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a first magnet (291) or a second magnet (292). The first magnet (291) may be disposed in the first housing (210). For example, the first magnet (291) may be disposed inside the first housing (210) and may be positioned adjacent to a first-first side surface (e.g., the first-first side surface (211a) of FIGS. 5 and 6) of the first housing (210). The second magnet (292) may be disposed in the second housing (220). For example, the second magnet (292) may be disposed inside the second housing (220) and may be positioned adjacent to a second-first side surface (e.g., the second-first side surface (221a) of FIGS. 5 and 6) of the second housing (220).

[0205] According to one embodiment, the first magnet (291) and the second magnet (292) may be arranged to face each other when the electronic device (101) is in a folded state (e.g., FIG. 2 or FIG. 8B). For example, when the electronic device (101) is in a folded state (e.g., FIG. 8B), the first magnet (291) may overlap the second magnet (292) based on the direction from the first rear cover (e.g., the first rear cover (215) of FIG. 6 or FIG. 8B) toward the second rear cover (e.g., the second rear cover (225) of FIG. 6 or 8B). For example, when the electronic device (101) is in an unfolded state (e.g., FIG. 2 or FIG. 8a), the second magnet (291) may be positioned corresponding to the first magnet (291) with respect to the hinge structure (e.g., the hinge structure (231) of FIG. 5) as the center. According to one embodiment, the first magnet (291) and / or the second magnet (292) may include a permanent magnet or a Halbach array magnet. According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (101) is in a folded state, the electronic device (101) may be maintained in the folded state by the attractive force acting between the first magnet (291) and the second magnet (292).

[0206] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a Hall sensor (245) disposed or mounted on a first printed circuit board (241). According to one embodiment, the Hall sensor (245) is a sensor whose voltage changes depending on the intensity of a magnetic field and may be configured to detect a change in the intensity of a magnetic field through the Hall effect. The first printed circuit board (241) may be defined and / or referred to as a circuit board (241). A processor (e.g., the processor (120) of FIG. 1) and / or a memory (e.g., the memory (130) of FIG. 1) may be disposed or mounted on the circuit board (241).

[0207] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (101) is unfolded (e.g., FIG. 2, FIG. 7, or FIG. 8a), the Hall sensor (245) may be disposed between the first magnet (291) and the second magnet (292) in the width direction of the electronic device (101) (e.g., the X-axis direction of FIG. 7), but is not limited thereto and may be disposed at various positions. The Hall sensor (245) may be disposed adjacent to the first magnet (291). For example, the Hall sensor (245) may be disposed adjacent to the first magnet (291) and relatively far from the second magnet (292) when the electronic device (101) is unfolded (e.g., FIG. 2, FIG. 7, or FIG. 8a).

[0208] In one embodiment, the Hall sensor (245) may be configured to detect a change in an electrical signal according to the proximity or distance of a first magnet (291), a second magnet (292), or a coil (323) having a magnetic force. The Hall sensor (245) may measure, sense, or detect a magnetic force value (e.g., the strength of a magnetic field). The Hall sensor (245) may transmit (or transfer) information about the measured magnetic force value (e.g., the strength of a magnetic field) to a processor (e.g., the processor (120) of FIG. 1).

[0209] According to one embodiment, the Hall sensor (245) can measure the strength of a magnetic field in three directions based on the Hall sensor (245). For example, the Hall sensor (245) can measure the strength of a magnetic field in the X-axis direction, the Y-axis direction, and the Z-axis direction, which are orthogonal to each other. The Hall sensor (245) can be configured to measure the strength of a magnetic field in the X-axis direction, the Y-axis direction, and the Z-axis direction, respectively.

[0210] According to one embodiment, the processor of the electronic device (101) (e.g., the processor (120) of FIG. 1) may be configured to recognize or determine the current state of the electronic device (101) based on information about the strength of the magnetic field provided from the Hall sensor (245). For example, the processor of the electronic device (101) may be configured to recognize or determine, based on information about the strength of the magnetic field, an unfolded state of the electronic device (101) (e.g., FIG. 2 or FIG. 8a), a folded state of the electronic device (101) (e.g., FIG. 3 or FIG. 8b), a state in which the digital pen (300) is not stored in the electronic device (101) (or the first housing (310)) (e.g., FIG. 10a), or a state in which the digital pen (300) is stored in the electronic device (101) (or the first housing (310)) (e.g., FIG. 10b).

[0211] According to one embodiment, when the digital pen (300) is housed inside the first housing (210) in an unfolded state of the electronic device (101) (e.g., FIG. 2, FIG. 7, or FIG. 8a), the coil (323) of the digital pen (300) may be disposed between the first magnet (291) and the second magnet (292) with respect to the width direction of the electronic device (101) (e.g., the X-axis direction of FIG. 7). In addition, the coil (323) of the digital pen (300) may overlap the Hall sensor (245) with respect to the height direction of the electronic device (101) (e.g., the Y-axis direction of FIG. 7), but is not limited thereto.

[0212] Fig. 8a is a cross-sectional view of the electronic device (101) in an unfolded state, and Fig. 8b is a cross-sectional view of the electronic device (101) in a folded state.

[0213] Referring to FIGS. 8A and 8B, the first magnet (291) may be positioned between the display (250) (e.g., the display (250) of FIG. 5) and the first rear cover (215) (e.g., the first rear cover (215) of FIG. 5). For example, the first magnet (291) may be positioned between the first display area (e.g., the first display area (250) of FIG. 5) and the first rear cover (215).

[0214] According to one embodiment, the second magnet (292) may be positioned between the display (250) and the second rear cover (225) (e.g., the second rear cover (225) of FIG. 5). For example, the second magnet (225) may be positioned between the second display area (e.g., the second display area (250) of FIG. 5) and the second rear cover (225).

[0215] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (101) is unfolded (e.g., FIG. 8a), the Hall sensor (245) may be positioned within a magnetic field range (291a) formed by the first magnet (291). Since the second magnet (292) is positioned relatively far from the Hall sensor (245), the magnetic field formed by the second magnet (292) may not substantially affect the Hall sensor (245). For example, the Hall sensor (245) may not be positioned within a magnetic field range formed by the second magnet (292). When the electronic device (101) is unfolded (e.g., FIG. 8a), the Hall sensor (245) may be positioned within a magnetic field range (291a) formed by the first magnet (291), and the intensity of the magnetic field detected by the Hall sensor (245) may be the first magnetic field value.

[0216] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (101) is in a folded state (e.g., FIG. 8b), the Hall sensor (245) may be positioned within a magnetic field range (291a) formed by the first magnet (291) and a magnetic field range (291b) formed by the second magnet (292). Compared to an unfolded state (e.g., FIG. 8b) of the electronic device (101), the second magnet (292) in the folded state (e.g., FIG. 8b) is positioned relatively closer to the Hall sensor (245) than the second magnet (292) in the unfolded state (e.g., FIG. 8a) of the electronic device (101), and therefore, the magnetic field formed by the second magnet (292) may substantially affect the Hall sensor (245). For example, the Hall sensor (245) may be placed within the magnetic field range (291b) formed by the second magnet (292). When the electronic device (101) is folded (e.g., FIG. 8b), the Hall sensor (245) may be positioned overlappingly within the magnetic field range (291a) formed by the first magnet (291) and the magnetic field range (291b) formed by the second magnet (292), and the intensity of the magnetic field detected by the Hall sensor (245) may be a second magnetic field value greater than the first magnetic field value.

[0217] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (101) is in an unfolded state (e.g., FIG. 8a), the Hall sensor (245) may be configured to detect the first magnet (291). When the electronic device (101) is in a folded state (e.g., FIG. 8b), the Hall sensor (245) may be configured to detect the first magnet (291) and the second magnet (292). When the electronic device (101) is in an unfolded state (e.g., FIG. 8a), the intensity value of the magnetic field detected by the Hall sensor (245) may be different from the intensity value of the magnetic field detected by the Hall sensor (245) when the electronic device (101) is in a folded state (e.g., FIG. 8b).

[0218] FIG. 9A is a graph showing the intensity of a magnetic field detected by a Hall sensor (245) when an electronic device (101) changes from an unfolded state (e.g., FIG. 8A) to a folded state (e.g., FIG. 8B), and FIG. 9B is a graph showing the intensity of a magnetic field detected by a Hall sensor (245) when an electronic device (101) changes from a folded state (e.g., FIG. 8B) to an unfolded state (e.g., FIG. 8A). The horizontal axis of FIGS. 9A and 9B represents time (t), and the vertical axis represents the intensity of the magnetic field (G).

[0219] Referring to FIGS. 8A, 8B, and 9A, the intensity of a magnetic field detected by the Hall sensor (245) when the electronic device (101) changes from an unfolded state (e.g., FIG. 8A) to a folded state (e.g., FIG. 8B) will be described. Before the time point (t1) at which the magnetic field of the second magnet (292) is detected, the Hall sensor (245) can detect only the magnetic field by the first magnet (291), and the intensity of the magnetic field detected by the Hall sensor (245) can be the first magnetic field value (g1). When the electronic device (101) changes to a folded state within a predetermined range, the Hall sensor (245) can detect the magnetic field of the second magnet (292). Before the time point (t2) when the electronic device (101) is completely transformed into a folded state (e.g., FIG. 8b), the Hall sensor (245) can gradually get closer to the second magnet (292), and the intensity of the magnetic field detected by the Hall sensor (245) can gradually increase. After the time point (t2) when the electronic device (101) is completely transformed into a folded state (e.g., FIG. 8b), the Hall sensor (245) can be positioned within the range of the magnetic fields of the first magnet (291) and the second magnet (292), and the intensity of the magnetic field detected by the Hall sensor (245) can be a second magnetic field value (g2) greater than the first magnetic field value (g1).

[0220] Referring to FIGS. 8A, 8B, and 9B, the intensity of a magnetic field detected by the Hall sensor (245) when the electronic device (101) changes from a folded state (e.g., FIG. 8B) to an unfolded state (e.g., FIG. 8A) will be described. Before a time point (t3) at which the second magnet (292) moves relatively far from the Hall sensor (245), the Hall sensor (245) may be positioned within the range of the magnetic fields of the first magnet (291) and the second magnet (292), and the intensity of the magnetic field detected by the Hall sensor (245) may be a third magnetic field value (g3). The third magnetic field value (g3) may be substantially the same as the second magnetic field value (g2) (e.g., the second magnetic field value (g2) of FIG. 9A). Before the time point (t4) when the electronic device (101) is completely transformed into a fully unfolded state (e.g., FIG. 8a), the Hall sensor (245) may gradually move away from the second magnet (292), and the intensity of the magnetic field detected by the Hall sensor (245) may gradually decrease. After the time point (t4) when the electronic device (101) is completely transformed into a fully unfolded state (e.g., FIG. 8a), the Hall sensor (245) may only detect the magnetic field by the first magnet (291), and the intensity of the magnetic field detected by the Hall sensor (245) may be a fourth magnetic field value (g4) that is smaller than the third magnetic field value (g3). The fourth magnetic field value (g4) may be substantially the same as the first magnetic field value (g1) (e.g., the first magnetic field value (g1) of FIG. 9a).

[0221] FIG. 10a is a schematic diagram of a state in which a digital pen (300) is not stored in the first housing (210) of an electronic device (101), and a schematic diagram of a state in which a digital pen (300) is stored in the first housing (210) of an electronic device (101).

[0222] Referring to FIG. 10A, when the digital pen (300) is not stored in the first housing (210), the Hall sensor (245) may be directly affected by the magnetic field (M1) of a portion of the first magnet (291) (e.g., an upper portion of the first magnet (291) in FIG. 10A), but may not be directly affected by the magnetic field (M2) of a remaining portion of the first magnet (291) (e.g., a lower portion of the first magnet (291) in FIG. 10A). In this case, the Hall sensor (245) may be affected by the magnetic field only from a portion of the first magnet (291), and the intensity of the magnetic field detected by the Hall sensor (245) may be the fifth magnetic field value.

[0223] Referring to FIG. 10b, when the digital pen (300) is housed in the first housing (210), the Hall sensor (245) can be directly influenced by the magnetic field (M1) of a portion of the first magnet (291) (e.g., the upper portion of the first magnet (291) in FIG. 10b) and can be directly influenced by the magnetic field (M3) of the coil (323) of the digital pen (300). For example, when the digital pen (300) is housed in the first housing (210), the coil (323) can be directly influenced by the magnetic field (M2) of the remaining portion of the first magnet (291) (e.g., the lower portion of the first magnet (291) in FIG. 10b). The coil (323) can be magnetized by the magnetic field (M2) of the first magnet (291) to form a magnetic field (M3) generated from the coil (323). In this case, the magnetic field (M3) generated from the coil (323) can affect the Hall sensor (245). For example, when the digital pen (300) is housed in the first housing (210), the Hall sensor (245) can be configured to detect the magnetic field generated from the coil (323) of the digital pen (300). The Hall sensor (245) can be influenced by the magnetic field from a portion of the first magnet (291) and additionally can be influenced by the magnetic field from the coil (323). The intensity of the magnetic field detected by the Hall sensor (245) can be a sixth magnetic field value that is greater than the fifth magnetic field value.

[0224] According to one embodiment, when the digital pen (300) is stored in the first housing (210) (e.g., FIG. 10b), the intensity value of the magnetic field detected by the hall sensor (245) may be different from the intensity value of the magnetic field detected by the hall sensor (245) when the digital pen (300) is not stored in the first housing (210) (e.g., FIG. 10a).

[0225] FIG. 11a is a graph showing the intensity of a magnetic field detected by a Hall sensor (245) when the state of a digital pen (300) in a first housing (210) of an electronic device (101) is changed from a state in which the digital pen (300) is not stored (e.g., FIG. 10a) to a state in which the digital pen (300) is stored (e.g., FIG. 10b), and FIG. 11b is a graph showing the intensity of a magnetic field detected by a Hall sensor (245) when the state of a digital pen (300) in a first housing (210) of an electronic device (101) is changed from a state in which the digital pen (300) is not stored (e.g., FIG. 10a). The horizontal axis of FIGS. 11a and 11b represents time (t), and the vertical axis represents the intensity (G) of the magnetic field.

[0226] Referring to FIGS. 10A, 10B, and 11A, before the time point (t5) when the digital pen (300) is accommodated in the first housing (210), the Hall sensor (245) may be influenced by a magnetic field only from a portion of the first magnet (291). In this case, the intensity of the magnetic field detected by the Hall sensor (245) may be a fifth magnetic field value (g5). After the time point (t5) when the digital pen (300) is accommodated in the first housing (210), the Hall sensor (245) may be influenced by a magnetic field from a portion of the first magnet (291) and additionally may be influenced by a magnetic field from the coil (323). In this case, the intensity of the magnetic field detected by the Hall sensor (245) may be a sixth magnetic field value (g6) that is greater than the fifth magnetic field value (g5).

[0227] Referring to FIGS. 10A, 10B, and 11B, before the time point (t6) at which the digital pen (300) is detached or separated from the first housing (210), the Hall sensor (245) may be influenced by a magnetic field from a portion of the first magnet (291) and may additionally be influenced by a magnetic field from the coil (323). In this case, the intensity of the magnetic field detected by the Hall sensor (245) may be a seventh magnetic field value (g7). The seventh magnetic field value (g7) may be substantially the same as the sixth magnetic field value (g6). After the time point (t6) at which the digital pen (300) is detached or separated from the first housing (210), the Hall sensor (245) may be influenced only by a magnetic field from a portion of the first magnet (291). In this case, the strength of the magnetic field detected by the Hall sensor (245) may be an eighth magnetic field value (g8) that is smaller than the fourth magnetic field value (g7). The eighth magnetic field value (g8) may be substantially equal to the fifth magnetic field value (g5).

[0228] FIG. 12 is a graph showing the strength of a magnetic field detected by a Hall sensor according to a change in the state of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0229] FIG. 13a is a graph showing the strength of a magnetic field detected by a Hall sensor according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0230] FIG. 13b is a graph showing the strength of a magnetic field detected by a Hall sensor according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0231] FIG. 13c is a graph showing the strength of a magnetic field detected by a Hall sensor according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0232] FIG. 13d is a graph showing the strength of a magnetic field detected by a Hall sensor according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0233] FIG. 14 is a graph showing the strength of a magnetic field detected by a Hall sensor according to a change in the state of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0234] FIG. 15 is a flowchart for determining a state change of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0235] The embodiments of FIGS. 12 to 15 may be combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 11b.

[0236] To explain the embodiments of FIGS. 12 to 15, reference may be made to the configurations of FIGS. 7, 8a, 8b, 10a, and 10b.

[0237] Hereinafter, for the convenience of explanation of FIGS. 12 to 15, a state in which the digital pen (300) is not stored in the unfolded state of the electronic device (101) may be defined and referred to as a first state of the electronic device (101), a state in which the digital pen (300) is stored in the unfolded state of the electronic device (101) may be defined and referred to as a second state of the electronic device (101), a state in which the digital pen (300) is stored in the folded state of the electronic device (101) may be defined and referred to as a third state of the electronic device (101), and a state in which the digital pen (300) is not stored in the folded state of the electronic device (101) may be defined and referred to as a fourth state of the electronic device (101).

[0238] Referring to FIG. 12, in a first state in which the electronic device (101) is unfolded (e.g., FIG. 8a) and the digital pen (300) is not stored in the first housing (210) (e.g., FIG. 10a), the Hall sensor (245) may be influenced by a magnetic field only from a portion of the first magnet (291). In such a case (e.g., before time t11 of FIG. 12), the intensity of the magnetic field detected by the Hall sensor (245) may be a first magnetic field value (g11).

[0239] According to one embodiment, when the digital pen (300) is stored in the first housing (210) (e.g., FIG. 10b), and the electronic device (101) is in a folded state (e.g., FIG. 8b), the intensity value of the magnetic field detected by the hall sensor (245) may be different from the intensity value of the magnetic field detected by the hall sensor (245) when the electronic device (101) is in an unfolded state (e.g., FIG. 8a).

[0240] In a second state in which the electronic device (101) is unfolded (e.g., FIG. 8a) and the digital pen (300) is housed in the first housing (210) (e.g., FIG. 10b), the Hall sensor (245) may be influenced by a magnetic field from a portion of the first magnet (291) and additionally may be influenced by a magnetic field from the coil (323) of the digital pen (300). In this case (e.g., from after the time point t11 ​​to before the time point t12 in FIG. 12), the strength of the magnetic field detected by the Hall sensor (245) may be a second magnetic field value (g12) greater than the first magnetic field value (g11).

[0241] In a third state in which the electronic device (101) is folded (e.g., FIG. 8b) and the digital pen (300) is housed in the first housing (210) (e.g., FIG. 10b), the Hall sensor (245) may be influenced by a magnetic field from the first magnet (291), may be influenced by a magnetic field from the coil (323) of the digital pen (300), and may additionally be influenced by a magnetic field from the second magnet (292). In this case (e.g., from time t12 to time t13 in FIG. 12), the intensity of the magnetic field detected by the Hall sensor (245) may be a fourth magnetic field value (g14) that is greater than the second magnetic field value (g12). The point in time (t12) at which the intensity of the magnetic field detected by the Hall sensor (245) changes from the second magnetic field value (g12) to the fourth magnetic field value (g14) may be the point in time at which the electronic device (101) is folded and the second magnet (292) is detected. The change from the second magnetic field value (g12) to the fourth magnetic field value (g14) may gradually increase as the second magnet (292) gets closer to the Hall sensor (245). In addition, when the electronic device (101) is completely folded, the intensity of the magnetic field detected by the Hall sensor (245) may have a constant value.

[0242] According to one embodiment, when the digital pen (300) is not stored in the first housing (210) (e.g., FIG. 10a) and the electronic device (101) is in a folded state (e.g., FIG. 8b), the intensity value of the magnetic field detected by the hall sensor (245) may be different from the intensity value of the magnetic field detected by the hall sensor (245) when the electronic device (101) is in an unfolded state (e.g., FIG. 8a).

[0243] In a fourth state in which the digital pen (300) is separated from the first housing (210) (e.g., FIG. 10a) while the electronic device (101) is folded (e.g., FIG. 8b), the Hall sensor (245) may be influenced by a magnetic field from the first magnet (291) and additionally may be influenced by a magnetic field from the second magnet (292). In this case (e.g., after time t13 of FIG. 12), the intensity of the magnetic field detected by the Hall sensor (245) may be a third magnetic field value (g13) that is smaller than the fourth magnetic field value (g14).

[0244] The third magnetic field value (g13) in the fourth state may be greater than the first magnetic field value (g11) in the first state because the second magnet (292) affects the Hall sensor (245).

[0245] The third magnetic field value (g13) in the fourth state is illustrated to have a relatively large value compared to the second magnetic field value (g12) in the second state. However, depending on the arrangement of the components of the electronic device (101), the third magnetic field value (g13) may be smaller than the second magnetic field value (g12). For example, if the electronic device (101) is designed such that the influence of the magnetic field from the coil (323) of the digital pen (300) is greater than the influence of the magnetic field from the second magnet (292), the absolute value of the change from the fourth magnetic field value (g14) to the third magnetic field value (g13) may be greater than the absolute value of the change from the second magnetic field value (g12) to the third magnetic field value (g14).

[0246] According to one embodiment, a processor of an electronic device (101) (e.g., processor (120) of FIG. 1) may be configured to recognize a state (e.g., first state to fourth state) of the electronic device (101) based on the strength of a magnetic field detected by a Hall sensor (245). The processor may be configured to control the operation of the electronic device (101) based on the recognized current state of the electronic device (101).

[0247] Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 13a to 13d as examples, the sequential change of states from the first state to the fourth state will be described as an example, but it will be apparent to a person of ordinary skill that the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0248] X(G)Y(G)Z(G)Example 1First state 73.1-91.99.1Second state 71.0-78.315.5Third state 138.5-215.742.9Fourth state 141.4-228.132.3Example 2First state 49.7-62.56.2Second state 48.3-58.110.5Third state 94.2-146.629.2Fourth state 96.1-142.321.9Example 3First state 29.2-36.83.6Second state 28.4-35.56.2Third state 55.4-86.317.2Fourth state 56.5-88.012.9

[0249] X(G)Y(G)Z(G)Example 1First change value-2.113.66.4Second change value67.6-137.427.5Third change value2.8-12.5-10.7Example 2First change value-1.44.44.4Second change value45.9-88.518.7Third change value1.94.3-7.3Example 3First change value-0.81.22.6Second change value27.0-50.711.0Third change value1.1-1.8-4.3

[0250] FIGS. 13A to 13D are graphs illustrating an example of Example 3 of Tables 1 to 2. FIG. 13A is a graph showing the intensity value of a magnetic field in three directions detected by a Hall sensor (245) in a first state, FIG. 13B is a graph showing the intensity value of a magnetic field in three directions detected by a Hall sensor (245) when changing from a first state to a second state, FIG. 13C is a graph showing the intensity value of a magnetic field in three directions detected by a Hall sensor (245) when changing from a second state to a third state, and FIG. 13D is a graph showing the intensity value of a magnetic field in three directions detected by a Hall sensor (245) when changing from a third state to a fourth state. For example, the time point t11 ​​of FIG. 13b represents the time point when the digital pen (300) is stored in the first housing (210) of the electronic device (101), the time point t12 of FIG. 13c represents the time point when the second magnet (245) is recognized by the hall sensor (245) when the electronic device (101) is folded, and the time point t13 of FIG. 13d represents the time point when the digital pen (300) is removed from the first housing (210) of the electronic device (101). In FIGS. 13a to 13d, the horizontal axis represents time, and the vertical axis represents the strength of the magnetic field. In FIGS. 13a to 13d, L1 represents the strength of the magnetic field in the X-axis direction detected by the Hall sensor (245), L2 represents the strength of the magnetic field in the Z-axis direction detected by the Hall sensor (245), and L3 represents the strength of the magnetic field in the Y-axis direction detected by the Hall sensor (245).

[0251] Table 1 above shows the strength of the magnetic field in the three-axis directions (e.g., the X-axis direction, the Y-axis direction, and the Z-axis direction of FIG. 7) detected by the Hall sensor (245) in four states (e.g., the first to fourth states) of the electronic device (101). Table 2 above shows the change value of the strength of the magnetic field in the three-axis directions detected by the Hall sensor (245) according to the change in the state of the electronic device (101). In Tables 1 and 2, the Gaussian unit indicating the strength of the magnetic field represents a value in which 10 Gauss (10 G) is equal to 1 millitesla (1 mT). For example, in Table 1, 29.1 G, which is the strength value of the magnetic field in the X-axis direction in the first state of Example 3, can be represented as 2.92 (mT), which is the strength value of the magnetic field of L1 of FIG. 13a.

[0252] In the above embodiment 1, the first magnet (291) and the Hall sensor (245) are spaced apart by 3 mm in the width direction of the electronic device (101) (e.g., the X-axis direction of FIG. 7), in the above embodiment 2, the first magnet (291) and the Hall sensor (245) are spaced apart by 5 mm in the width direction of the electronic device (101), and in the above embodiment 3, the first magnet (291) and the Hall sensor (245) are spaced apart by 10 mm in the width direction of the electronic device (101).

[0253] Examples 1 to 3 used an AK099735D Hall sensor from AKM as the Hall sensor (245), and the first magnet (291) and the second magnet (292) used Halbach array magnets.

[0254] Referring to Table 2, the change value of the intensity value of the magnetic field in the three-axis direction detected by the Hall sensor (245) according to each state change of the electronic device (101) is described. For example, the first change value may be a value obtained by subtracting the intensity value of the magnetic field in the first state from the intensity value of the magnetic field in the second state, the second change value may be a value obtained by subtracting the intensity value of the magnetic field in the second state from the intensity value of the magnetic field in the third state, and the third change value may be a value obtained by subtracting the intensity value of the magnetic field in the third state from the intensity value of the magnetic field in the fourth state. For example, the second change value in the Y-axis direction of Example 1 may be -137.4 (G), which is obtained by subtracting -78.3 (G), which is the intensity value of the magnetic field in the Y-axis direction in the second state, from -215.7 (G), which is the intensity value of the magnetic field in the Y-axis direction in the third state of Example 1 of Table 1.

[0255] Referring to Tables 1 and 2, when the Hall sensor (245) and the first magnet (291) are arranged relatively close together (e.g., Example 1), it can be confirmed that the intensity value of the magnetic field detected by the Hall sensor (245) changes significantly according to the change in the state of the electronic device (101) compared to when the Hall sensor (245) and the first magnet (291) are arranged relatively far apart (e.g., Example 2 and Example 3).

[0256] Referring to Tables 1 and 2, it can be confirmed that the strength value of the magnetic field detected by the Hall sensor (245) in the Y-axis direction changes significantly more than in other axis directions.

[0257] According to one embodiment, the memory of the electronic device (101) (e.g., the memory (130) of FIG. 1) may store information about the intensity value of a magnetic field for a first state in which the electronic device (101) is unfolded and the digital pen (300) is not stored, information about the intensity value of a magnetic field for a second state in which the electronic device (101) is unfolded and the digital pen (300) is stored, information about the intensity value of a magnetic field for a third state in which the electronic device (101) is folded and the digital pen (300) is stored, and information about the intensity value of a magnetic field for a fourth state in which the electronic device (101) is folded and the digital pen (300) is not stored. A processor (e.g., processor (120) of FIG. 1) may be set to determine the current state of the electronic device (101) by comparing the current strength value of the magnetic field detected from the Hall sensor with information stored in the memory (e.g., memory (130) of FIG. 1).

[0258] According to one embodiment, the memory of the electronic device (101) (e.g., the memory (130) of FIG. 1) may store at least one instruction. The at least one instruction, when executed by the electronic device and / or the processor, may cause the electronic device to perform at least one operation. The at least one operation may be defined as an operation performed by the electronic device and / or the processor, but is not limited thereto.

[0259] According to one embodiment, the processor of the electronic device (101) (e.g., the processor (120) of FIG. 1) may be configured to recognize a current state (e.g., a first state to a fourth state) of the electronic device (101) according to a change in the intensity value of the magnetic field in the Y-axis direction detected by the Hall sensor (245). For example, the processor may be configured to recognize that the current state of the electronic device (101) is any one of the first state to the fourth state when the intensity value of the magnetic field in the Y-axis direction detected by the Hall sensor (245) matches a value that is pre-input, stored, or set in a memory (e.g., the memory (130) of FIG. 1), or falls within a specified range from the value set in the memory.

[0260] However, it is exemplary to detect the current state of the electronic device (101) according to the strength value of the magnetic field in the Y-axis direction detected by the Hall sensor (245). For example, depending on the design position of the first magnet (291) and the Hall sensor (245) of the electronic device (101) or the positions of other components, the change value of the magnetic field detected by the Hall sensor (245) may have a larger value in the X-axis direction or the Z-axis direction than in the other directions, so the change in the magnetic field of the Hall sensor (245) that the processor is set to determine may be a change in the X-axis direction or a change in the Z-axis direction. In addition, in an exemplary embodiment, the processor may be set to recognize the current state of the electronic device (101) through a change in the magnetic field in one axis direction, or through a change in the magnetic field in two or more axis directions.

[0261] Referring to FIG. 14, a method for a processor of an electronic device (101) (e.g., processor (120) of FIG. 1) to recognize the current state of the electronic device (101) is described.

[0262] The embodiment of FIG. 14 is illustrated in the same manner as the embodiment of FIG. 12 in terms of horizontal axis, vertical axis, magnetic field values ​​(g11, g12, g13, g14) and time points (t11, t12, t13), but as previously described, the direction of change in the intensity values ​​of the magnetic field may vary, as described with reference to FIGS. 13a to 13d and Tables 1 to 2 as examples.

[0263] FIG. 14 illustrates an example in which, when the state of the electronic device (101) changes from the first state to the third state, the intensity value of the magnetic field in a specific direction detected by the Hall sensor (245) increases, and when the state of the electronic device (101) changes from the third state to the fourth state, the intensity value of the magnetic field in a specific direction detected by the Hall sensor (245) decreases, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0264] According to one embodiment, a plurality of threshold values ​​may be stored in a memory of the electronic device (101) (e.g., memory (130) of FIG. 1). For example, a first threshold value (THD1), a second threshold value (THD2), and a third threshold value (THD3) may be stored in the memory (130) of the electronic device (101).

[0265] The first threshold value (THD1) may be greater than the first magnetic field value (g11) and less than the second magnetic field value (g12). The second threshold value (THD2) may be greater than the second magnetic field value (g12) and less than the fourth magnetic field value (g14). The second threshold value (THD2) may be less than the third magnetic field value (g13). The third threshold value may be less than the fourth magnetic field value (g14) and greater than the second magnetic field value (g12). The third threshold value (TH3) may be greater than the third magnetic field value (g13).

[0266] According to one embodiment, a processor of the electronic device (101) (e.g., processor (120) of FIG. 1) may be set to determine the current state of the electronic device (101) by comparing a current strength value of a magnetic field detected from a Hall sensor (245) with a plurality of threshold values ​​stored in the memory (e.g., memory (130) of FIG. 1).

[0267] According to one embodiment, the processor of the electronic device (101) (e.g., the processor (120) of FIG. 1) may be set to determine that the current state of the electronic device (101) is the first state when the intensity value of the magnetic field detected by the Hall sensor (245) is smaller than a first threshold value (THD1) pre-stored in a memory (e.g., the memory (130) of FIG. 1).

[0268] According to one embodiment, the processor of the electronic device (101) (e.g., the processor (120) of FIG. 1) may be set to determine that the current state of the electronic device (101) is the second state when the intensity value of the magnetic field detected by the Hall sensor (245) is greater than a first threshold value (THD1) pre-stored in a memory (e.g., the memory (130) of FIG. 1) and less than a second threshold value (THD2).

[0269] According to one embodiment, the processor of the electronic device (101) (e.g., the processor (120) of FIG. 1) may be set to determine that the current state of the electronic device (101) is the third state when the strength value of the magnetic field detected by the Hall sensor (245) is greater than a third threshold value (THD1) pre-stored in a memory (e.g., the memory (130) of FIG. 1).

[0270] According to one embodiment, the processor of the electronic device (101) (e.g., the processor (120) of FIG. 1) may be set to determine that the current state of the electronic device (101) is the fourth state when the intensity value of the magnetic field detected by the Hall sensor (245) is greater than the second threshold value (THD2) pre-stored in the memory (e.g., the memory (130) of FIG. 1) and less than the third threshold value (TH3).

[0271] FIG. 15 is a flowchart for determining a state change of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0272] According to one embodiment, the memory of the electronic device (101) (e.g., the memory (130) of FIG. 1) may store magnetic values ​​for each state (e.g., the first state to the fourth state) of the electronic device (101) (1001). For example, the intensity value of the magnetic field detected by the Hall sensor (245) in each state of the electronic device (101) may be stored, set, or input in advance in the memory. For example, the range of the intensity values ​​of the magnetic field detected in each of the first state to the fourth state may be stored in the memory of the electronic device (101).

[0273] According to one embodiment, the memory of the electronic device (101) may store an open / close recognition threshold value and a digital pen detection value (1003). For example, the memory may pre-store a change value of a magnetic value (e.g., a change amount of a magnetic field strength value) when the electronic device (101) changes from an unfolded state to a folded state, or vice versa. In addition, the memory may pre-store a change value of a magnetic value (e.g., a change amount of a magnetic field strength value) when the digital pen (300) changes from a non-stored state to a stored state in the first housing (210) of the electronic device (101), or vice versa. The processor may be configured to determine the current state of the electronic device (101) by comparing the current intensity value of the magnetic field detected by the Hall sensor (245) with the open / close recognition value and the digital pen detection value stored in the memory.

[0274] For example, the above open / close recognition threshold value may be set to 136.2G, which is the absolute value of -136.2G, which is the difference between the intensity value of the magnetic field in the first state in the Y-axis direction (-91.9G) and the intensity value of the magnetic field in the fourth state (-228.1G) in the Y-axis direction of Embodiment 1. In addition, the above open / close recognition threshold value may be set to the absolute value of the difference between the intensity value of the magnetic field in the second state in the Y-axis direction of Embodiment 1 and the intensity value of the magnetic field in the third state. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and may be set to various values ​​depending on design changes.

[0275] For example, the digital pen detection value may be set to 13.6G, which is the absolute value of 13.6G, which is the difference between the intensity value of the magnetic field in the first state (-91.9G) in the Y-axis direction of Example 1 and the intensity value of the magnetic field in the second state (-78.3G), as described with Table 1 as an example. In addition, the open / close recognition threshold value may be set to the absolute value of the difference between the intensity value of the magnetic field in the third state and the intensity value of the magnetic field in the fourth state in the Y-axis direction of Example 1. However, the digital pen detection value is not limited thereto, and may have various values ​​depending on design changes.

[0276] As an example, a case in which a digital pen detection value is lower than an open / close recognition threshold value is described, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The digital pen detection value may be defined and / or referred to as a digital pen threshold value, and the open / close recognition threshold value may be defined and / or referred to as an open / close recognition detection value.

[0277] According to one embodiment, the processor of the electronic device (101) may be configured to store the current magnetic sensing value detected by the Hall sensor (245) as a base value in the memory (1005). For example, the current magnetic sensing value may be a magnetic field intensity value detected by the Hall sensor (245). The processor of the electronic device (101) may be configured to determine which range of the pre-stored first to fourth states the base value belongs to. The processor of the electronic device (101) may determine the range to which the base value belongs and, accordingly, recognize the current state of the electronic device (101).

[0278] According to one embodiment, the processor of the electronic device (101) may be configured to check the current magnetic sensing value detected by the Hall sensor (245) at a specified time interval. For example, the specified time interval may be 50 ms, but is not limited thereto.

[0279] According to one embodiment, the processor of the electronic device (101) may be configured to determine whether the current magnetic sensing value detected by the Hall sensor (245) has changed from the magnetic sensing value of the previous time period (or, previous time period) (1007). For example, if the current magnetic sensing value detected by the Hall sensor (245) has not changed from the magnetic sensing value of the previous time period, the processor may store the current magnetic sensing value in memory (1005).

[0280] If the current magnetic sensing value detected by the Hall sensor (245) has changed from the magnetic sensing value of the previous time period, the processor may be set to determine whether the change in the magnetic sensing value is greater than the digital pen detection value (1009). For example, the processor may be set to determine whether the change in the magnetic sensing value is greater than or equal to the digital pen detection value. For example, if the change in the magnetic sensing value is less than the digital pen detection value, or if the change in the magnetic sensing value is less than the digital pen detection value, the processor may determine that there is no change in the state of the electronic device (1011). The change in the magnetic sensing value may be defined and / or referred to as an absolute value of the difference between the magnetic sensing value of the previous time period and the magnetic sensing value of the current time period.

[0281] If the change value of the magnetic sensing value is greater than the digital pen detection value, or if the change value of the magnetic sensing value is greater than or equal to the digital pen detection value, the processor may be configured to determine whether the change value of the magnetic sensing value is less than an open / closed recognition threshold value (1013). For example, if the change value of the magnetic sensing value is less than the open / closed recognition threshold value, or if the change value of the magnetic sensing value is less than or equal to the open / closed recognition threshold value, the processor may be configured to determine that a storage change event of the digital pen (300) of the electronic device (101) has occurred (1015). For example, if the change value of the magnetic sensing value is greater than the digital pen detection value and less than the open / closed recognition threshold value (or if the change value of the magnetic sensing value is greater than or equal to the digital pen detection value and less than the open / closed recognition threshold value), the processor may determine that the digital pen (300) has changed from an unstored state to a stored state, or that the digital pen (300) has changed from a stored state to an unstored state. For example, if a change event of storing a digital pen (300) occurs when the electronic device (101) was previously stored with the digital pen (300), the processor can determine that an event of removing the digital pen (300) has occurred. In addition, if a change event of storing a digital pen (300) occurs when the electronic device (101) was previously stored with the digital pen (300) not, the processor can determine that an event of storing the digital pen (300) has occurred.

[0282] For example, if the change value of the magnetic sensing value is greater than the open / close recognition threshold value, or if the change value of the magnetic sensing value is equal to or greater than the open / close recognition threshold value, the processor may be set to determine that an open / close change event of the electronic device (101) has occurred (1017). For example, if the change value of the magnetic sensing value is greater than the open / close recognition threshold value, or if the change value of the magnetic sensing value is equal to or greater than the open / close recognition threshold value, the processor may determine that the electronic device (101) has changed from a folded state to an unfolded state, or that the electronic device (101) has changed from an unfolded state to a folded state. For example, if the electronic device (101) was just folded and an open / close change event occurs, the processor may determine that an event of unfolding the electronic device (101) has occurred. Additionally, when an open / close change event occurs while the electronic device (101) is in an unfolded state, the processor can determine that an event of folding the electronic device (101) has occurred.

[0283] According to one embodiment, the processor may be configured to determine the current state of the electronic device (101) based on processes 1011, 1015, and 1017 (1019). After determining the current state of the electronic device (101), the processor may be configured to sequentially determine the current state of the electronic device (101) again starting from process 1005.

[0284] A foldable electronic device may include a foldable flexible display arranged over the entire area of ​​a housing structure and may include multiple housing structures to support the display. Accordingly, the foldable electronic device may have various components arranged and / or mounted on each of the multiple housing structures. As the functions of the foldable electronic device diversify, the number of components arranged and / or mounted within the foldable electronic device is increasing. However, since the overall size or internal space of the foldable electronic device is limited, it may be difficult to secure sufficient space for the arrangement and / or mounting of various components.

[0285] Additionally, a stylus pen for implementing a user's handwriting input may be configured to be stored inside the foldable electronic device. In such a case, the foldable electronic device may have separate components for detecting the handwriting input of the stylus pen and for detecting the stylus pen's storage status, making it difficult to secure space for arranging multiple components for the stylus pen.

[0286] Additionally, the foldable electronic device may be provided with components for detecting the folding state of the foldable electronic device.

[0287] In this way, since the components for detecting whether the stylus pen is stored and the components for detecting the folding state of the foldable electronic device are provided separately, it may be difficult to secure installation space for each component in the limited internal space of the foldable electronic device.

[0288] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device may be provided that provides a structure capable of detecting a folding state of an electronic device and a storage state of a digital pen through one hall sensor.

[0289] However, the problem to be solved in this disclosure is not limited to the problem mentioned above, and may be determined in various ways without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure.

[0290] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a hall sensor can provide information for recognizing a folding state of an electronic device and information for recognizing a storage state of a digital pen.

[0291] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, since both the folding state of the electronic device and the stowed state of the digital pen can be detected through a single hall sensor, no separate additional component is required for detection of the digital pen, thereby reducing costs.

[0292] The effects that can be obtained from the present disclosure are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects that are not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure belongs from the description below.

[0293] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device (101) may include a first housing (210), a second housing (220), a hinge structure (231), a display (250), a first magnet (291), a second magnet (292), or a Hall sensor (245). The hinge structure may relatively rotatably connect the first housing (210) and the second housing (220). The display may be disposed on the first housing and the second housing. The first magnet may be disposed within the first housing. The second magnet may be disposed within the second housing. The second magnet may be positioned relative to the first magnet with respect to the hinge structure. The Hall sensor may be disposed adjacent to the first magnet within the first housing. The above Hall sensor may be configured to detect a magnetic field generated from a coil (323) of the digital pen (300) when the digital pen (300) is stored in the first housing.

[0294] In one embodiment, the Hall sensor may be configured to detect the first magnet when the electronic device is in an unfolded state. The Hall sensor may be configured to detect the first magnet and the second magnet when the electronic device is in a folded state.

[0295] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device is in an unfolded state, the strength value of the magnetic field detected by the Hall sensor may be different from the strength value of the magnetic field detected by the Hall sensor when the electronic device is in a folded state.

[0296] According to one embodiment, when the digital pen is stored in the first housing, the strength value of the magnetic field detected by the Hall sensor may be different from the strength value of the magnetic field detected by the Hall sensor when the digital pen is not stored in the first housing.

[0297] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device is in a folded state with the digital pen stored in the first housing, the strength value of the magnetic field detected by the Hall sensor may be different from the strength value of the magnetic field detected by the Hall sensor when the electronic device is in an unfolded state.

[0298] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device is in a folded state and the digital pen is not stored in the first housing, the strength value of the magnetic field detected by the Hall sensor may be different from the strength value of the magnetic field detected by the Hall sensor when the electronic device is in an unfolded state.

[0299] According to one embodiment, the electronic device may further include a circuit board (241), at least one memory (130), or at least one processor (120). The at least one memory may be disposed on the circuit board. The at least one processor may be disposed on the circuit board.

[0300] According to one embodiment, the circuit board may be disposed in the first housing.

[0301] According to one embodiment, the Hall sensor may be disposed on the circuit board.

[0302] According to one embodiment, the Hall sensor may be positioned between the first magnet and the second magnet when the electronic device is in an unfolded state.

[0303] According to one embodiment, when the digital pen is housed in the first housing, the coil of the digital pen may be positioned between the first magnet and the second magnet.

[0304] According to one embodiment, when the digital pen is accommodated in the first housing, the Hall sensor may be configured to detect a magnetic field formed when the coil of the digital pen is magnetized by the first magnet.

[0305] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device (101) may include a first housing (210), a second housing (220), a hinge structure (231), a display (250), a first magnet (291), a second magnet (292), a hall sensor (245), or a digital pen (300). The hinge structure may relatively rotatably connect the first housing (210) and the second housing (220). The display may include a first display area (251), a second display area (252), or a folding area (253). The first display area may be disposed on the first housing. The second display area may be disposed on the second housing. The folding area may connect the first display area and the second display area. The first magnet may be disposed within the first housing. The second magnet may be disposed within the second housing. The second magnet may be positioned corresponding to the first magnet with respect to the hinge structure. The hall sensor may be disposed within the first housing. The digital pen may be configured to be retractable within the first housing. The digital pen may include a coil (323). The hall sensor may be configured to detect the second magnet when the electronic device is in a folded state. The hall sensor may be configured to detect a magnetic field generated from the coil (323) of the digital pen (300) when the digital pen is retracted within the first housing.

[0306] In one embodiment, the Hall sensor may be configured to detect the first magnet when the electronic device is in an unfolded state. The Hall sensor may be configured to detect the first magnet and the second magnet when the electronic device is in a folded state.

[0307] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device is in an unfolded state, the strength value of the magnetic field detected by the Hall sensor may be different from the strength value of the magnetic field detected by the Hall sensor when the electronic device is in a folded state.

[0308] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device (101) may include a first housing (210), a second housing (220), a hinge structure (231), a display (250), a first magnet (291), a second magnet (292), a Hall sensor (245), at least one processor (120), or at least one memory (130). The hinge structure may relatively rotatably connect the first housing (210) and the second housing (220). The display may be disposed on the first housing and the second housing. The first magnet may be disposed within the first housing. The second magnet may be disposed within the second housing. The second magnet may be positioned relative to the first magnet with respect to the hinge structure. The Hall sensor may be disposed adjacent to the first magnet within the first housing. The at least one processor (120) may be configured to determine, based on the strength of the magnetic field detected from the Hall sensor (245), whether the electronic device is in a folded state, an unfolded state, a state in which the digital pen is stored in the first housing, or a state in which the digital pen is not stored in the first housing.

[0309] According to one embodiment, the memory (130) of the electronic device (101) may store at least one instruction. The at least one instruction, when executed by the electronic device (101) and / or at least one processor (120), may cause the electronic device (101) to perform at least one operation. The at least one operation may be an operation that causes the at least one processor (120) to determine, based on the strength of a magnetic field detected by the Hall sensor (245), whether the electronic device is in a folded state, an unfolded state, a state in which a digital pen is stored in the first housing, or a state in which the digital pen is not stored in the first housing.

[0310] According to one embodiment, the memory may store information about a magnetic field intensity value for a first state in which the electronic device is unfolded and the digital pen is not stored, information about a magnetic field intensity value for a second state in which the electronic device is unfolded and the digital pen is stored, information about a magnetic field intensity value for a third state in which the electronic device is folded and the digital pen is stored, and information about a magnetic field intensity value for a fourth state in which the electronic device is folded and the digital pen is not stored. The processor may be configured to determine a current state of the electronic device by comparing a current intensity value of a magnetic field detected by the Hall sensor with information stored in the memory.

[0311] According to one embodiment, at least one instruction of the memory, when executed by the electronic device and / or the processor, may cause the electronic device to perform at least one operation. The at least one operation may be an operation that causes the processor to compare a current strength value of a magnetic field detected by the Hall sensor with information stored in the memory to determine a current state of the electronic device.

[0312] According to one embodiment, a plurality of threshold values ​​may be stored in the memory. The processor may be configured to determine the current state of the electronic device by comparing the current strength value of the magnetic field detected by the Hall sensor with the plurality of threshold values ​​stored in the memory.

[0313] According to one embodiment, at least one instruction of the memory, when executed by the electronic device and / or the processor, may cause the electronic device to perform at least one operation. The at least one operation may be an operation of causing the processor to compare a current strength value of a magnetic field detected by the Hall sensor with a plurality of threshold values ​​stored in the memory to determine a current state of the electronic device.

[0314] According to one embodiment, the memory may store an open / close recognition threshold value and a digital pen detection value. The processor may be configured to compare the current strength value of the magnetic field detected by the Hall sensor with the open / close recognition threshold value and the digital pen detection value stored in the memory to determine the current state of the electronic device.

[0315] According to one embodiment, at least one instruction of the memory, when executed by the electronic device and / or the processor, may cause the electronic device to perform at least one operation. The at least one operation may be an operation of causing the processor to compare a current strength value of a magnetic field detected from the Hall sensor with the open / close recognition threshold value stored in the memory and the digital pen detection value to determine a current state of the electronic device.

[0316] According to one embodiment, the processor may be configured to check the strength value of the magnetic field detected by the Hall sensor at specified intervals.

[0317] According to one embodiment, at least one instruction of the memory, when executed by the electronic device and / or the processor, may cause the electronic device to perform at least one operation. The at least one operation may be an operation that causes the processor to check the strength value of the magnetic field detected by the Hall sensor at specified intervals.

[0318] Although the detailed description of this document has described specific embodiments, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications are possible without departing from the scope of this document.

Claims

1. In an electronic device (101), First housing (210); Second housing (220); A hinge structure (231) that relatively rotatably connects the first housing (210) and the second housing (220); A display (250) arranged on the first housing and the second housing; A first magnet (291) arranged within the first housing; A second magnet (292) positioned within the second housing and positioned corresponding to the first magnet around the hinge structure; and In the first housing, a Hall sensor (245) is included, which is positioned adjacent to the first magnet. The above Hall sensor, An electronic device configured to detect a magnetic field generated from a coil (323) of a digital pen (300) when the digital pen is stored in the first housing.

2. In paragraph 1, The above Hall sensor, When the electronic device is in an unfolded state, it is configured to detect the first magnet, The above Hall sensor, configured to detect the first magnet and the second magnet when the electronic device is in a folded state; Electronic devices.

3. In any one of paragraphs 1 and 2, When the electronic device is in an unfolded state, the intensity value of the magnetic field detected by the Hall sensor is different from the intensity value of the magnetic field detected by the Hall sensor when the electronic device is in a folded state. Electronic devices.

4. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 3, When the digital pen is stored in the first housing, the intensity value of the magnetic field detected by the Hall sensor is different from the intensity value of the magnetic field detected by the Hall sensor when the digital pen is not stored in the first housing. Electronic devices.

5. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 4, With the digital pen stored in the first housing above, When the electronic device is in a folded state, the intensity value of the magnetic field detected by the Hall sensor is different from the intensity value of the magnetic field detected by the Hall sensor when the electronic device is in an unfolded state. Electronic devices.

6. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 5, When the digital pen is not stored in the first housing above, When the electronic device is in a folded state, the intensity value of the magnetic field detected by the Hall sensor is different from the intensity value of the magnetic field detected by the Hall sensor when the electronic device is in an unfolded state. Electronic devices.

7. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 6, Circuit board (241); At least one memory (130) arranged on the circuit board; and Further comprising at least one processor (120) arranged on the circuit board; Electronic devices.

8. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 7, The above circuit board, placed in the first housing, Electronic devices.

9. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 8, The above Hall sensor, placed on the above circuit board, Electronic devices.

10. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 9, The above Hall sensor, When the electronic device is unfolded, it is positioned between the first magnet and the second magnet. Electronic devices.

11. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 10, When the digital pen is stored in the first housing, The coil of the digital pen is positioned between the first magnet and the second magnet. Electronic devices.

12. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 11, When the digital pen is accommodated in the first housing, The above Hall sensor, The coil of the digital pen is configured to detect a magnetic field formed by magnetization by the first magnet. Electronic devices.

13. In an electronic device (101), First housing (210); Second housing (220); A hinge structure (231) that relatively rotatably connects the first housing (210) and the second housing (220); A display (250) including a first display area (251) arranged on the first housing, a second display area (252) arranged on the second housing, and a folding area (253) connecting the first display area and the second display area; A first magnet (291) arranged within the first housing; A second magnet (292) disposed within the second housing and positioned correspondingly to the first magnet around the hinge structure; A hall sensor (245) arranged within the first housing; and A digital pen (300) configured to be stored in the first housing, comprising a digital pen including a coil (323), The above Hall sensor, When the electronic device is in a folded state, it is configured to detect the second magnet, The above Hall sensor, An electronic device configured to detect a magnetic field generated from a coil (323) of a digital pen (300) when the digital pen is stored in the first housing.

14. In paragraph 13, The above Hall sensor, When the electronic device is in an unfolded state, it is configured to detect the first magnet, The above Hall sensor, configured to detect the first magnet and the second magnet when the electronic device is in a folded state; Electronic devices.

15. In any one of paragraphs 13 to 14, When the electronic device is in an unfolded state, the intensity value of the magnetic field detected by the Hall sensor is different from the intensity value of the magnetic field detected by the Hall sensor when the electronic device is in a folded state. Electronic devices.

Citation Information

Patent Citations

  • Electronic device and method for operating the electronic device by an electronic pen

    KR1020160023163A

  • Plug-in insert

    KR1020230167723A

  • Folding door system capable of free storage in both directions

    KR102317097B1

  • Wireless Charging Apparatus and Electronic Device

    US20230179019A1

  • KR20230023455A