Electronic device for detecting malfunction by using illumination sensor, and control method therefor

Abstract

This electronic device comprises a display, an illuminance sensor, and at least one processor operatively connected to the display and the illuminance sensor. The at least one processor displays a predefined image on the display on the basis that a touch input is received on the display while the display is in a low power mode, and determines, on the basis of a value sensed through the illuminance sensor after the predefined image is displayed, whether to switch the mode of the display to a normal mode.

Description

Electronic device for detecting malfunction using a light sensor and method for controlling the same

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an electronic device and a control method thereof. Specifically, the present disclosure relates to an electronic device that detects malfunction using a light sensor and a control method thereof.

[0002] The variety of services and additional features offered through electronic devices, such as smartphones, is steadily increasing. To enhance the utility of these devices and satisfy the diverse needs of users, telecommunications service providers and electronic device manufacturers are competitively developing electronic devices to offer a variety of features and differentiate themselves from competitors. Consequently, the various functions offered through electronic devices are also becoming increasingly sophisticated.

[0003] In recent years, the increasing integration of electronic devices and the widespread adoption of high-speed, high-capacity wireless communications have enabled a single electronic device, such as a mobile terminal, to incorporate a variety of functions. For example, in addition to communication functions, entertainment features like game play, multimedia capabilities like music and video playback, security features for mobile banking, and other functions like calendar / schedule management and electronic wallets are being integrated into a single device. These electronic devices are also 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] According to one embodiment, an electronic device may include a display, a light sensor, at least one processor, and a memory that stores instructions that, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor, cause the electronic device to perform operations.

[0006] In one embodiment, the instructions may cause the electronic device to display a predefined image on the display based on receiving a touch input to the display while the display is in a low power mode.

[0007] In one embodiment, the instructions may cause the electronic device to determine whether to switch the display to a normal mode based on a value sensed by the light sensor after displaying the predefined image.

[0008] According to one embodiment, a method of controlling an electronic device may include an operation of displaying a predefined image on the display based on receiving a touch input to the display while the electronic device is in a low power mode.

[0009] According to one embodiment, a method for controlling an electronic device may include an operation of determining whether to switch the display to a normal mode based on a value sensed through a light sensor of the electronic device after displaying the predefined image.

[0010] According to one embodiment, a non-transitory computer-readable recording medium storing one or more programs may include instructions for causing an electronic device including a display, an illumination sensor, and at least one processor operatively connected to the display and the illumination sensor to display a predefined image on the display based on receiving a touch input to the display while the display is in a low power mode.

[0011] In one embodiment, the one or more programs may include commands for determining whether the electronic device should switch the display to a normal mode based on a value sensed through the light sensor after displaying the predefined image.

[0012] According to one embodiment, an electronic device and a method of controlling the electronic device as described in the appended claims are provided.

[0013] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment according to one embodiment.

[0014] FIG. 2A is an exemplary drawing showing an unfolded state of an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 2b is an exemplary drawing showing a folded state of the electronic device of FIG. 2a.

[0016] FIG. 2c is an exemplary drawing showing a folded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 3 is a flowchart for explaining a malfunction detection operation of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 4A is a drawing for explaining the arrangement structure of a light sensor of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 4b is a drawing for explaining the arrangement structure of a light sensor of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 5 is a drawing for explaining the arrangement structure of a light sensor of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 6 is a drawing for explaining a malfunction detection operation through a visible light pattern display of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 7A is a diagram for explaining the driving cycle of a light sensor of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 7b is a diagram for explaining the sensing operation of a light sensor of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 8A is a drawing for explaining a visible light pattern of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 8b is a drawing for explaining a visible light pattern of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] FIG. 9A is a diagram for explaining an operation of controlling the driving cycle of a light sensor based on the shape of a visible light pattern of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] FIG. 9b is a diagram for explaining an operation of controlling the driving cycle of a light sensor based on the shape of a visible light pattern of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] FIG. 10 is a drawing for explaining the shape of a visible light pattern of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] FIG. 11A is a drawing for explaining the amount of reflected light detected in an external space of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0030] FIG. 11b is a drawing illustrating the amount of reflected light detected in a pocket of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device (101) within a network environment (100), according to one embodiment. Referring to FIG. 1 , in the network environment (100), the electronic device (101) may communicate with the electronic device (102) via a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network), or may communicate with at least one of the electronic device (104) or the 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)).

[0032] 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.

[0033] 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.

[0034] 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).

[0035] 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).

[0036] 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).

[0037] 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.

[0038] 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.

[0039] 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).

[0040] 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.

[0041] 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.

[0042] 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).

[0043] 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.

[0044] 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.

[0045] 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).

[0046] 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.

[0047] 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).

[0048] 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.

[0049] 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 at least one selected 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).

[0050] In one embodiment, 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.

[0051] 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)).

[0052] 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.

[0053] FIG. 2A is an exemplary drawing showing an unfolded state of a foldable type electronic device (200) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0054] Referring to FIG. 2A, an electronic device (200) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may be a foldable type that can be folded or unfolded, and may include a first housing (210), a second housing (220), and a flexible or foldable display (230) (hereinafter, abbreviated as “display (230)”) arranged in a space provided by the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) (e.g., a display module (160) of FIG. 1).

[0055] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a surface on which a display (230) is arranged may be defined as a front surface of a foldable device (200). The front surface of the foldable device (200) may be formed by a front plate (e.g., a glass plate or a polymer plate including various coating layers) having at least a portion that is substantially transparent. In addition, a surface opposite to the front surface may be defined as a rear surface of the foldable device (200). The rear surface of the foldable device (200) may be formed by a substantially opaque rear plate (hereinafter referred to as a “rear cover”). The rear cover may be formed by, for example, coated or colored glass, ceramic, polymer, metal (e.g., aluminum, stainless steel (STS), or magnesium), or a combination of at least two of the above materials. In addition, a surface surrounding a space between the front surface and the rear surface may be defined as a side surface of the foldable device (200). The side surface is coupled to the front plate and the back cover and may include a metal and / or polymer component or a collection of such components and may be formed by a side bezel structure (or "side member"). In some embodiment devices, the back cover and the side bezel structure may be formed integrally and include the same material (e.g., a metal material such as aluminum).

[0056] A foldable device (200) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include at least one of a display (230), a microphone hole (241), a speaker hole (243, 245), a sensor module (255), a camera module (253), a key input device (211, 212, 213), and a connector hole (214). According to one embodiment, the foldable device (200) may omit at least one of the components (e.g., a key input device (211, 212, 213)) or may additionally include another component (e.g., a light-emitting element).

[0057] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the display (230) may be a display in which at least a portion of the display may be transformed into a flat or curved surface. According to one embodiment, the display (230) may include a folding area (231c), a first area (231a) disposed on one side (e.g., the upper side of the folding area (231c) illustrated in FIG. 2A) with respect to the folding area (231c), and a second area (231b) disposed on the other side (e.g., the lower side of the folding area (231c) illustrated in FIG. 2A). However, the division of the areas of the display (230) illustrated in FIG. 2A is exemplary, and the display (230) may be divided into a plurality of areas (e.g., four or more or two) depending on the structure or function. For example, in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 2A, the display (230) may be divided into regions by a folding region (231c) or a folding axis (A), but in other embodiments, the display (230) may be divided into regions by another folding region (231c) or another folding axis (e.g., a folding axis perpendicular to the folding axis (A)).

[0058] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a microphone hole (241) may be arranged inside a microphone for acquiring external sounds, and in some embodiments, multiple microphones may be arranged to detect the direction of sounds. The speaker holes (243, 245) may include an external speaker hole (243) and a call receiver hole (245). In some embodiments, the speaker holes (243, 245) and the microphone hole (241) may be implemented as a single hole, or a speaker may be included without the speaker holes (243, 245) (e.g., a piezo speaker). The positions and numbers of the microphone holes (241) and the speaker holes (243, 245) may be variously modified in other embodiments as shown.

[0059] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the camera module (253) may include a first camera device (251) disposed on a first side (210a) of a first housing (210) of a foldable device (200), and a second camera device (253) disposed on a second side (210b). In addition, the foldable device (200) may further include a flash (not shown). The camera devices (251, 253) may include one or more lenses, an image sensor, and / or an image signal processor. The flash (not shown) may include, for example, a light-emitting diode or a xenon lamp.

[0060] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the sensor module (255) can generate an electric signal or data value corresponding to an internal operating state of the foldable device (200) or an external environmental state. Although not illustrated in the drawing, the foldable device (200) may additionally or alternatively include another sensor module (e.g., the sensor module (176) of FIG. 1) in addition to the sensor module (255) provided on the second surface (210b) of the first housing (210). The foldable device (200) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include, as a sensor module, at least one of a proximity sensor, a fingerprint sensor, an HRM sensor, a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a color sensor, an IR (infrared) sensor, a biometric sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, an angle sensor, or an illuminance sensor. According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the foldable device (200) can distinguish between the upper side and the lower side of the foldable device (200) using data acquired by the gyro sensor when the foldable device (200) is in a folded state. For example, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the foldable device (200) can determine that the side equipped with the gyro sensor is the upper side if the data acquired by the gyro sensor has substantially changed from the data at a specific point in time. Conversely, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the foldable device (200) can determine that the side equipped with the gyro sensor is the lower side if the data acquired by the gyro sensor has not substantially changed from the data at a specific point in time. According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the foldable device (200) can determine the angle at which the foldable device (200) is folded using an angle sensor disposed around the folding axis (A). Various techniques for determining the angle at which a foldable device (200) is folded can be applied to other embodiments.

[0061] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the key input devices (211, 212, 213) may be disposed on a side of a foldable housing (e.g., the first housing (210) or the second housing (220)). In another embodiment, the foldable device (200) may not include some or all of the above-mentioned key input devices (211, 212, 213), and the key input devices that are not included may be implemented in other forms, such as soft keys, on the display (230). In some embodiments, the key input devices may be configured such that key input is implemented by a sensor module (e.g., a gesture sensor).

[0062] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the connector hole (214) may be configured to accommodate a connector (e.g., a USB connector) for transmitting and receiving power and / or data to and from an external electronic device, or, additionally or alternatively, a connector for transmitting and receiving audio signals to and from an external electronic device.

[0063] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a foldable housing may be implemented by combining a first housing (210), a second housing (220), a first rear cover (240), a second rear cover (250), and a hinge module. The foldable housing of the foldable device (200) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may be implemented by other embodiments that are not limited to the shape and combination illustrated in FIG. 2A, and by other shapes or combinations and / or combinations of parts. For example, in another embodiment, the first housing (210) and the first rear cover (240) may be formed integrally, and the second housing (220) and the second rear cover (250) may be formed integrally. According to various embodiments disclosed in the present disclosure, the term 'housing' may mean a combination and / or combined configuration of various other parts that are not mentioned. For example, the first area (231a) of the display (230) may be described as forming one side of the first housing (210), and in another embodiment, the first area (231a) of the display (230) may be described as being arranged or attached to one side of the first housing (210).

[0064] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first housing (210) may be connected to a hinge structure and include a first face (210a) facing a first direction and a second face (210b) facing a second direction opposite to the first direction. The second housing (220) may be connected to a hinge structure and include a third face (220a) facing a third direction and a fourth face (220b) facing a fourth direction opposite to the third direction, and may rotate or pivot with respect to the first housing (210) about the hinge structure (or folding axis (A)).

[0065] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are arranged on both sides (or upper / lower sides) with respect to the folding axis (A) as the center, and may have an overall symmetrical shape with respect to the folding axis (A). The angle or distance between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) may vary depending on whether the state of the foldable device (200) is an unfolded state, a folded state, or a partially unfolded (or partially folded) intermediate state. According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) may additionally include various sensors compared to the second housing (220), but may have a mutually symmetrical shape in other areas.

[0066] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, 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 size selected to support the display (230). At least a portion formed of the metallic material may serve as a ground plane or a radiating conductor of the foldable device (200), and when served as a ground plane, may be electrically connected to a ground line formed on a printed circuit board.

[0067] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a first rear cover (240) is disposed on one side (e.g., the upper side in FIG. 2A) of the folding axis (A) on the rear of the foldable device (200) and may have, for example, a substantially rectangular periphery, and the periphery may be wrapped by the first housing (210) (and / or a side bezel structure). Similarly, a second rear cover (250) is disposed on the other side (e.g., the lower side in FIG. 2A) of the folding axis (A) on the rear of the foldable device (200) and may have the periphery wrapped by the second housing (220) (and / or a side bezel structure).

[0068] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first rear cover (240) and the second rear cover (250) may have substantially symmetrical shapes with respect to the folding axis (A). However, the first rear cover (240) and the second rear cover (250) do not necessarily have mutually symmetrical shapes, and in other embodiments, the foldable device (200) may include the first rear cover (240) and the second rear cover (250) having various shapes that are different from and / or different from those shown. For example, the first rear cover (240) may be formed integrally with the first housing (210), and the second rear cover (250) may be formed integrally with the second housing (220).

[0069] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first rear cover (240), the second rear cover (250), the first housing (210), and the second housing (220) may form a space in which various components of the foldable device (200) may be arranged. According to one embodiment, one or more components may be arranged or visually exposed on the rear surface of the foldable device (200). For example, at least a portion of the sub-display (239) may be visually exposed through the first rear cover (240). In another embodiment, one or more components or sensors may be visually exposed through the first rear cover (240). In various embodiments, the components or sensors may include a proximity sensor, a rear camera, and / or a flash. In addition, although not separately illustrated in the drawings, one or more components or sensors may be visually exposed through the second rear cover (250).

[0070] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a front camera (251) exposed on the front side of the foldable device (200) through one or more openings or a rear camera (253) exposed through the first rear cover (240) may include one or more lenses, an image sensor, and / or an image signal processor. A flash (not shown) may include, for example, a light-emitting diode or a xenon lamp. In some embodiments, two or more lenses (an infrared camera, a wide-angle lens, and a telephoto lens) and image sensors may be arranged on one side of the foldable device (200).

[0071] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the foldable device (200) can be variable between a folded state and an unfolded state, and vice versa.

[0072] For example, the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) rotate with respect to each other between a first position facing each other and a second position unfolded by a specified angle from the first position (e.g., a state illustrated in FIG. 2A). In FIG. 2A, a state in which the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) unfold to form an angle of approximately 180 degrees is exemplified, and in a folded state, for example, in the first position, the first region (231a) and the second region (231b) of the display (230) are positioned to face each other, and the folding region (231c) can be deformed into a curved shape.

[0073] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the foldable device (200) can be implemented in two ways: 'in-folding', in which the first region (231a) and the second region (231b) are folded to face each other, and 'out-folding', in which the first region (231a) and the second region (231b) are folded to face opposite directions. For example, in a folded state in the in-folding manner, the first region (231a) and the second region (231b) can be substantially concealed, and in a fully unfolded state, the first region (231a) and the second region (231b) can be arranged to face substantially the same direction. For example, in the folded state in an out-folding manner, the first region (231a) and the second region (231b) may be arranged facing in opposite directions and exposed to the outside, and in the fully unfolded state, the first region (231a) and the second region (231b) may be arranged facing in substantially the same direction. According to one embodiment, the folded state will be described below with reference to FIGS. 2b and 2c.

[0074] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the display (230) may include a display panel and a window member, one or both of which may be formed of a flexible material. Although not separately illustrated, it will be readily understood by those skilled in the art that the display (230) or the display panel includes various layers, such as a light-emitting layer, a substrate(s) encapsulating the light-emitting layer, an electrode or wiring layer, and / or an adhesive layer(s) bonding adjacent different layers. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, when the display (230) (e.g., the folding area (231c)) is deformed from a flat shape to a curved shape, a relative displacement may occur between the layers forming the display (230). The relative displacement due to the deformation of the display (230) may increase as the point or line is further from the folding axis (A) and / or as the thickness of the display (230) increases.

[0075] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the window member may function as a protective film to protect the display panel. The protective film may be a thin film plate that protects the display panel from external impact and is scratch-resistant, and may be made of a material that reduces wrinkles in the folding area (231c) even during repeated folding and unfolding operations of the housings (210, 220). For example, the material of the thin film plate may include a transparent polyimide film (CPI) or ultra-thin glass (UTG).

[0076] According to various embodiments, the foldable device (200) may further include a protective member (206)(s) or a decorative cover (219, 229)(s) disposed on at least a portion of an edge of the display (230) on the front surface (e.g., the first side (210a) or the third side (220a)). The protective member (206) or the decorative cover (219, 229) may prevent at least a portion of an edge of the display (230) from contacting a mechanical structure (e.g., the first housing (210) or the second housing (220)) and may provide a decorative effect on the exterior of the foldable device (200).

[0077] Fig. 2b is an exemplary drawing illustrating a folded state of the foldable device of Fig. 2a. Fig. 2b illustrates a state folded in an 'in-folding' manner.

[0078] Referring to FIG. 2B, an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1 or the foldable device (200) of FIG. 2A) can be changed from an unfolded state as shown in FIG. 2A to a folded state.

[0079] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device is folded in an 'in-folding' manner, a first region (e.g., a first region (231a) of FIG. 2A) and a second region (e.g., a second region (231b) of FIG. 2A) of a flexible display (e.g., a display module (160) of FIG. 1) may be folded to face each other and substantially concealed from the outside of the electronic device.

[0080] According to one embodiment, the first rear cover (e.g., the first rear cover (240) of FIG. 2A) and the second rear cover (e.g., the second rear cover (250) of FIG. 2A), which were arranged to face the same direction in the unfolded state, may be arranged to face opposite directions and be exposed to the outside in the folded state.

[0081] In one embodiment, one or more components may be positioned or visually exposed through the first rear cover (or the second rear cover) in the folded state. For example, in the folded state, at least a portion of the sub-display (239), a sensor module (255) (e.g., a proximity sensor), a rear camera (253), and / or a flash may be visually exposed through the first rear cover (or the second rear cover).

[0082] In one embodiment, in the folded state, the electronic device may provide content through the sub-display (239). For example, the content may include a standby screen or an application execution screen. For example, the standby screen may include date information, time information, battery charge information, and / or notification information such as event occurrence.

[0083] According to one embodiment, the shape and / or size of the sub-display (239), the type, size and / or arrangement of the sub-display (239), the sensor module (255) and / or the rear camera (253) may be changed in other embodiments, as illustrated in FIG. 2c.

[0084] FIG. 2c is an exemplary drawing illustrating a folded state of a foldable device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0085] Referring to FIG. 2c, the rear camera (253) is arranged vertically, unlike that illustrated in FIG. 2a, the size of the sub-display (239) may be longer in vertical length than that illustrated in FIG. 2a, and the sensor module (255) may be arranged above the rear camera (253) rather than between the sub-display (239) and the rear camera (253), unlike that illustrated in FIG. 2a.

[0086] According to one embodiment, the type, shape, size, and / or arrangement of the sub-display (239), sensor module (255), and rear camera (253) in FIGS. 2B and 2C are merely exemplary. For example, the sub-display (239) is a rectangular shape with rounded corners in FIGS. 2B and 2C, but may also be circular or square.

[0087] According to one embodiment, the type and / or number of at least one component visually exposed through the rear cover (e.g., the first rear cover or the second rear cover) is not limited to the examples of FIGS. 2b and 2c.

[0088] According to one embodiment, although the electronic device is illustrated and described as being folded in an 'in-folding' manner in FIGS. 2b and 2c, it may also be folded in an 'out-folding' manner, and when folded in an 'out-folding' manner, one of the first area (e.g., the first area (231a) of FIG. 2a) and the second area (e.g., the second area (231b) of FIG. 2a) of the flexible display (e.g., the display module (160) of FIG. 1) exposed to the outside may become the sub-display (239).

[0089] FIG. 3 is a flowchart for explaining a malfunction detection operation of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0090] Referring to FIG. 3, in operation 310, an electronic device (e.g., an electronic device (101) of FIG. 1, a processor (120) of FIG. 1, or an electronic device (200) of FIG. 2A) may display a predefined image on a display (e.g., a display module (160) of FIG. 1, a sub-display (239) of FIG. 2A, a sub-display (239) of FIG. 2B, or a sub-display (239) of FIG. 2C) in a low power mode (e.g., a power saving state or a sleep state) based on receiving a touch input to the display.

[0091] In one embodiment, the electronic device may be a foldable device. In one embodiment, the display may be positioned in an externally exposed area when the electronic device is in a fully folded state. For example, the display may be a sub-display (e.g., sub-display (239) in FIG. 2A, sub-display (239) in FIG. 2B, or sub-display (239) in FIG. 2C) that is distinct from the flexible display of the foldable device (e.g., display (230) in FIG. 2A).

[0092] In one embodiment, the display may have a driving frequency of 60 Hz and a cycle time of 16.6 ms per frame. In one embodiment, the display may repeat on / off operations within one frame, and a longer on period may be used to increase the brightness displayed by the display.

[0093] In one embodiment, the display may be capable of receiving touch input. In one embodiment, the display may perform one or more of a group of simple functions when the electronic device is in a folded state. For example, the display may perform at least one of the following: displaying an object for music playback, displaying weather information, displaying notifications, or displaying a preview when using the camera.

[0094] According to one embodiment, the electronic device may include a light sensor (e.g., sensor module (176) of FIG. 1, sensor module (255) of FIG. 2A, sensor module (255) of FIG. 2B, or sensor module (255) of FIG. 2C). According to one embodiment, the light sensor may be positioned in an externally exposed area when the electronic device is in a fully folded state. For example, the light sensor may be positioned around a display that is positioned in an externally exposed area when the electronic device is in a folded state. According to one embodiment, the light sensor may be positioned at a location capable of receiving light from an image displayed on the display.

[0095] In one embodiment, the light sensor may be a flicker sensor commonly used to compensate for the flicker effect caused by the camera, or in, or of, the camera.

[0096] For example, a light sensor may be placed around a camera (e.g., a camera module (180) of FIG. 1, a camera module (253) of FIG. 2a, a rear camera (253) of FIG. 2b, or a rear camera (253) of FIG. 2c) that is positioned in an area exposed to the outside when the electronic device is in a folded state to compensate for the flicker phenomenon of the camera.

[0097] In one embodiment, the light sensor may include a light-receiving element (e.g., a photodiode). In one embodiment, the light-receiving element may be arranged to receive a repeating pattern of RGB and Clear, and to receive light in the visible light portion of the optical spectrum.

[0098] In some embodiments, the electronic device may not include a proximity sensor due to limitations in the size and / or mounting space of the electronic device. For example, the electronic device may not include a sensor (e.g., a proximity sensor) that includes a light-emitting element (e.g., an LED) for proximity sensing. Alternatively, if the electronic device includes a sensor that includes a light-emitting element, the light-emitting element may be in an inactive state. Additionally or alternatively, if the electronic device is a foldable device, in some embodiments, the electronic device may not include a proximity sensor in an area exposed to the outside when the electronic device is in a folded state.

[0099] In one embodiment, the electronic device may further include a housing (e.g., the first rear cover (240) of FIG. 2A). In one embodiment, the light sensor may be positioned beneath a hole in the housing. For example, the light sensor may be exposed to the outside through the hole in the housing.

[0100] In one embodiment, the light sensor may be positioned at the center of the hole, in a direction opposite to the direction in which the display is positioned relative to the hole. Depending on the arrangement structure of the light sensor, a field of view (FOV) in a desired direction can be secured. According to one embodiment, the arrangement structure of the light sensor will be described in more detail with reference to FIGS. 4A and 4B below.

[0101] In one embodiment, a touch input to the display may include an input to switch from a low-power mode (e.g., an always-on display (AOD) or an inactive state where the entire display area is turned off) to a normal mode. For example, to switch the switch to the normal mode, the touch input to the display may include touching, double-tapping, or long-pressing the display. In the low-power mode, only a portion of the display (e.g., a subset of the available pixels) may be activated or the display may operate with its brightness lowered to reduce power consumption. In one embodiment, in the normal mode, the entire display area is activated, and content may be displayed across the entire display area.

[0102] An electronic device may be configured to use ambient light conditions to determine whether a malfunction of the electronic device may occur when an unintended input is received on the display while in a pocket, thereby preventing the display from turning on and malfunctioning. For example, if the electronic device is a foldable device, the ambient light may be used to determine whether a malfunction of the electronic device may occur when an input for activating the display is received while in a pocket, fully unfolded, partially folded, or fully folded. In one embodiment, if the electronic device is a non-foldable electronic device, such as a bar-shaped electronic device, the ambient light may be used to determine whether a malfunction of the electronic device may occur when an input for activating the display is received. Here, the concept of malfunction is used to describe the performance of a function that is not intended or desired to be activated by the user, but which may be interpreted as potentially intended or desired based on an unintended input received on the display. Such an unintended input may be interpreted as a touch input occurring on the display of the electronic device while in a pocket. These touch inputs are called "false inputs".

[0103] In one embodiment, the electronic device can activate the light sensor based on receiving a touch input while the light sensor is inactive.

[0104] In one embodiment, in operation 320, the electronic device may determine whether to switch the display mode to a normal mode based on a value sensed by the light sensor after displaying a predefined image. In one embodiment, the predefined image may be a visible light pattern. Hereinafter, the predefined image may be referred to as a visible light pattern, but is not limited thereto.

[0105] According to one embodiment, the electronic device may change a predefined image (e.g., a visible light pattern) into a single color or two or more colors in a set order. According to one embodiment, the predefined image may include a plurality of image frames having a specific pattern. For example, the visible light pattern may include at least one of white (W), red (R), green (G), and blue (B). For example, the color order of the visible light pattern may be white (W), red (R), green (G), and blue (B).

[0106] According to one embodiment, the visible light pattern may include a color that combines two or more of white (W), red (R), green (G), and blue (B). For example, the color of the visible light pattern may include yellow (Y) obtained by combining red and green, magenta (M) obtained by combining red and blue, or cyan (C) obtained by combining green and blue. For example, the color order of the visible light pattern may be white (W), yellow (Y), magenta (M), and cyan (C).

[0107] An example of the color order of the visible light pattern is described in more detail below with reference to FIGS. 8a and 8b.

[0108] In one embodiment, the electronic device can determine whether to activate the entire area of ​​the display to switch to a normal mode in response to a touch input based on a value of the visible light pattern and a value sensed by the light sensor after displaying the visible light pattern.

[0109] In one embodiment, the electronic device may sense the reflected light of a predefined image (e.g., a visible light pattern) displayed on a display using a light sensor, and determine whether the electronic device is located in a pocket based on the sensed value. For example, the electronic device may sense the reflected light of the visible light pattern displayed on the display reflected by the folds or fabric of a pants pocket, or the reflected light due to crosstalk, through the light sensor.

[0110] In one embodiment, the electronic device can determine at least one of the magnitude or color of the value sensed by the light sensor. In one embodiment, the electronic device can determine whether the entire area of ​​the display is activated for an input based on comparing at least one of the brightness or color of the visible light pattern with at least one of the magnitude or color of the value sensed by the light sensor. In one embodiment, the electronic device can determine whether the electronic device is placed in a pocket using raw data sensed by the light sensor.

[0111] In one embodiment, the electronic device may turn on the light sensor while a predefined image (e.g., a visible light pattern) is displayed in a portion of the display, and turn off the light sensor while the predefined image is not displayed in a portion of the display.

[0112] In one embodiment, the electronic device can control the period in which the light sensor is turned on based on the position and shape of the visible light pattern. In one embodiment, the electronic device can control the on / off frequency of the light sensor by controlling the period in which the light sensor is turned on and off based on the position and shape of the visible light pattern.

[0113] According to one embodiment, the electronic device can determine whether the entire area of ​​the display is activated for an input based on a difference between a baseline of a sensing value in a section where the light sensor is on and a baseline of a sensing value in a section where the light sensor is off.

[0114] In one embodiment, the electronic device is configured to ignore a touch input if it is determined that the touch input may cause a malfunction of the electronic device based on a value sensed by the light sensor.

[0115] The electronic device may deactivate the entire display area when it receives an input that is judged to be likely to cause a malfunction of the electronic device based on a value sensed through a light sensor, and may activate the entire display area when it is judged that the input is unlikely to cause a malfunction of the electronic device based on a value sensed through the light sensor.

[0116] In one embodiment, the electronic device may deactivate the entire area of ​​the display when the electronic device is placed in a pocket. For example, the electronic device may deactivate the entire area of ​​the display when the sensing value is within a set range corresponding to being in a pocket. In one embodiment, the electronic device may determine that a touch input is a false input and deactivate the entire area of ​​the display when the sensing value is within a set range corresponding to being in a pocket. For example, when the luminance of the visible light pattern of the display is about 500 nits, the electronic device may be configured to deactivate the entire area of ​​the display when the sensing value is between about 300 and 400 Lux.

[0117] According to one embodiment, the electronic device may be configured to switch the display to a normal mode when a touch input does not correspond to an input that causes the electronic device to malfunction.

[0118] Accordingly, the electronic device can activate the entire area of ​​the display when the electronic device is not located in a pocket. For example, the electronic device can activate the entire area of ​​the display when the sensing value is outside a set range corresponding to being in a pocket. According to one embodiment, the electronic device can determine that the touch input is normal and activate the entire area of ​​the display when the sensing value is outside a set range corresponding to being in a pocket. For example, when the luminance of the visible light pattern of the display is about 500 nits, the electronic device can be configured to activate the entire area of ​​the display when the sensing value is outside about 300 to 400 Lux.

[0119] In this way, in response to confirming a misinput from the pocket, the electronic device may be placed back into a Sleep state to prevent the misinput (and reduce or reduce power consumption), ignore the touch input, display a message indicating a potential misinput to prevent the misinput from starting or continuing, and / or prevent further misinputs.

[0120] Additionally, for proximity sensors positioned to overlap with a display, the emitted light is lost as it passes through the display, whereas the loss due to the transmittance of the display can be reduced by displaying a visible light pattern through the display.

[0121] FIG. 4A is a drawing for explaining the arrangement structure of a light sensor of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0122] Referring to FIG. 4A, an electronic device (e.g., an electronic device (101) of FIG. 1, a processor (120) of FIG. 1, or an electronic device (200) of FIG. 2A) includes a housing (420) (e.g., a first rear cover (240) of FIG. 2A), a light emitting unit (410) (e.g., an LED), and a light sensor (411) (e.g., a sensor module (176) of FIG. 1, a sensor module (255) of FIG. 2A, a sensor module (255) of FIG. 2B, or a sensor module (255) of FIG. 2C) (e.g., a flicker sensor).

[0123] According to one embodiment, the light sensor (411) may be positioned at a preset position relative to the hole of the housing (420) with respect to the included photo diode (PD) (412). For example, the light sensor (411) may be positioned in a direction opposite to the direction in which the display (e.g., the display module (160) of FIG. 1, the sub-display (239) of FIG. 2A, the sub-display (239) of FIG. 2B, or the sub-display (239) of FIG. 2C) is positioned relative to the hole of the housing (420). For example, the PD (412) may be arranged such that the angle between a reference line passing through one end of the PD (412) and a line connecting the one end of the PD (412) to the farthest position among the boundaries of the hole in the housing (420) is X, and the angle between a reference line passing through the other end of the PD (412) and a line connecting the other end of the PD (412) to the nearest position among the boundaries of the hole in the housing (420) is Y. In one embodiment, the PD (412) may be arranged such that the sum of X and Y is 60 degrees or greater, and Y is 0 degrees or greater.

[0124] In one embodiment, the FOV for the PD / light sensor may be determined by considering the X, Y, size of the PD (412) and / or the position of the PD (412) within the light sensor (411).

[0125] In one embodiment, X may be greater than Y, and the display may be positioned in the direction of angle X.

[0126] In this way, the mounting direction of the light sensor (411) can be rotated to secure the FOV in the desired direction. For example, as illustrated in Fig. 4b, the light sensor (411) can be positioned so that the FOV is secured in the display direction.

[0127] FIG. 4b is a drawing for explaining the arrangement structure of a light sensor of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0128] Referring to FIG. 4B, the electronic device may include a sub-display (239) disposed in an area of ​​the housing (e.g., the display module (160) of FIG. 1, the sub-display (239) of FIG. 2A, the sub-display (239) of FIG. 2B, or the sub-display (239) of FIG. 2C), a light-emitting unit (410) disposed under a hole of the housing, and a light sensor (411).

[0129] According to one embodiment, the light sensor (411) may be positioned in the opposite direction to the direction in which the display (239) is positioned relative to the hole in the housing. For example, the light sensor (411) may be positioned in the lower left direction relative to the hole in the housing, which is opposite to the upper right direction in which the display (239) is positioned relative to the hole in the housing.

[0130] According to one embodiment, the electronic device can secure a wider FOV (430) in the direction of the display (239) by having the light sensor (411) positioned in the opposite direction to the direction in which the display (239) is positioned based on the hole of the housing.

[0131] FIG. 5 is a drawing for explaining the arrangement structure of a light sensor of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0132] Referring to FIG. 5, an electronic device (e.g., an electronic device (101) of FIG. 1, a processor (120) of FIG. 1, or an electronic device (200) of FIG. 2A) includes an illumination sensor (411) (e.g., a sensor module (176) of FIG. 1, a sensor module (255) of FIG. 2A, a sensor module (255) of FIG. 2B, or a sensor module (255) of FIG. 2C) arranged such that the FOV direction faces the direction in which a display (e.g., a display module (160) of FIG. 1, a sub-display (239) of FIG. 2A, a sub-display (239) of FIG. 2B, or a sub-display (239) of FIG. 2C) is arranged.

[0133] For example, if the display is positioned to the right with respect to the hole (510) of the housing (e.g., the first rear cover (240) of FIG. 2A), the light sensor (411) may be positioned to the left with respect to the center of the hole (510) of the housing.

[0134] For example, the upper FOV of the light sensor (411) may be about 30 degrees to about 40 degrees, the lower FOV may be about 30 degrees to about 40 degrees, the left FOV may be about 5 degrees, and the right FOV may be about 45 degrees.

[0135] In one embodiment, the light receiving capability of the light sensor (411) may vary depending on the direction based on the FOV of the light sensor (411).

[0136] For example, if the direct light is 100 Lux, it may be measured at about 34 Lux to 36 Lux when illuminated from above or below, about 49 Lux when illuminated from the right, and about 7 Lux when illuminated from the left.

[0137] In this way, since the light receiving ability varies depending on the FOV, the light sensor (411) can be positioned so that the direction in which the display is positioned based on the hole (510) of the housing has the maximum FOV in order to minimize the influence of an external light source and receive light from the display.

[0138] This allows the display's light reflection to be captured more efficiently.

[0139] FIG. 6 is a drawing for explaining a malfunction detection operation through a visible light pattern display of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0140] Referring to FIG. 6, an electronic device (e.g., an electronic device (101) of FIG. 1, a processor (120) of FIG. 1, or an electronic device (200) of FIG. 2A) is configured to activate a portion of the display when a touch input is received while the display (239) (e.g., a display module (160) of FIG. 1, a sub-display (239) of FIG. 2A, a sub-display (239) of FIG. 2B, or a sub-display (239) of FIG. 2C) is in a low power mode. For example, the electronic device may be configured to activate only a portion of the display, rather than the entire display, when a touch input is received while the display is in a low power mode.

[0141] According to one embodiment, the electronic device is configured to display a visible light pattern (610) on an activated portion of the display. According to one embodiment, the electronic device is configured to activate a portion of the entire area of ​​the sub-display (239) that includes an area closest to a location of a light sensor (255) (e.g., the sensor module (176) of FIG. 1, the sensor module (255) of FIG. 2A, the sensor module (255) of FIG. 2B, or the sensor module (255) of FIG. 2C), and to display the visible light pattern (610) on the activated portion of the area.

[0142] According to one embodiment, the electronic device is configured to detect the reflected light of the visible light pattern (610) using the light sensor (255). For example, when the electronic device is placed in a pocket, the light of the visible light pattern (610) may be reflected by the folds or fabric of the pocket, or the reflected light due to crosstalk may be sensed through the light sensor (255). According to one embodiment, the electronic device may determine whether the electronic device is placed in a pocket using the raw data sensed through the light sensor.

[0143] In Fig. 6, the visible light pattern (610) is depicted as having a square shape displayed on the upper right side of the sub-display (239), but is not limited thereto. The visible light pattern (610) may have a rectangular shape as illustrated in Figs. 9a and 9b below, or may be an image or animation as illustrated in Fig. 10 below.

[0144] FIG. 7A is a diagram for explaining the driving cycle of a light sensor of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0145] Referring to FIG. 7A, an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1, the processor (120) of FIG. 1, or the electronic device (200) of FIG. 2A) activates a portion of the display and displays a visible light pattern in the activated portion of the display when an input for activating the display (e.g., the display module (160) of FIG. 1, the sub-display (239) of FIG. 2A, the sub-display (239) of FIG. 2B, or the sub-display (239) of FIG. 2C) is received while the display is in a low power mode. According to one embodiment, the electronic device may display the visible light pattern by periodically turning the display on (710) / off (711). For example, the frequency of the display is about 60 Hz, and therefore, the driving cycle for performing the on (710) / off (711) operation once may be 16.6 ms.

[0146] In one embodiment, the electronic device can determine that the electronic device is in a pocket by determining the intensity and frequency components of light based on raw data sensed by a light sensor (e.g., a flicker) when the display is powered on. For example, the light sensor can have a sampling rate of approximately 1024 Hz and can determine one raw data point approximately every 0.0097 seconds.

[0147] According to this embodiment, during the 16.6ms in which the display turns on (710) / off (711) once, the light sensor can perform 17 samplings.

[0148] In one embodiment, the on (710) period of the display may vary depending on the brightness of the display. For example, the light sensor may sample 6 times (720) during the on (710) period of the display, and the light sensor may sample 11 times (721) during the off (711) period of the display.

[0149] FIG. 7b is a diagram for explaining the sensing operation of a light sensor of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0150] Referring to FIG. 7B, the electronic device can check the baseline of raw data sampled 6 times (720) from the light sensor during the on period of the display. According to one embodiment, the electronic device can check the baseline of raw data sampled 11 times (721) from the light sensor during the off period of the display.

[0151] According to one embodiment, the electronic device can distinguish the on / off condition of the display through the baseline during the on period of the display and the baseline during the off period of the display.

[0152] According to one embodiment, the electronic device can determine the frequency of the on / off of the display through the baseline during the on period of the display and the baseline during the off period of the display, and can distinguish whether the sensed light is due to a visible light pattern based on the frequency of the on / off of the display.

[0153] According to one embodiment, the electronic device may obtain a difference value between the baselines by comparing the baseline during the on period of the display with the baseline during the off period of the display, and may determine whether the electronic device is in a pocket based on the difference value between the baselines. According to one embodiment, if the electronic device is determined to be in a pocket, the electronic device may determine that the touch input is an incorrect input and maintain the display in a low power mode.

[0154] FIG. 8A is a drawing for explaining a visible light pattern of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0155] Referring to FIG. 8A, an electronic device (e.g., an electronic device (101) of FIG. 1, a processor (120) of FIG. 1, or an electronic device (200) of FIG. 2A) is configured to activate a portion of the display and display a visible light pattern in the activated portion of the display when an input for activating the display (e.g., a display module (160) of FIG. 1, a sub-display (239) of FIG. 2A, a sub-display (239) of FIG. 2B, or a sub-display (239) of FIG. 2C) is received while the display is in a low power mode.

[0156] According to one embodiment, the electronic device is configured to utilize RGB data of a light source of the display to increase efficiency when receiving light from the display with a light sensor (e.g., sensor module (176) of FIG. 1, sensor module (255) of FIG. 2a, sensor module (255) of FIG. 2b, or sensor module (255) of FIG. 2c).

[0157] In one embodiment, the light sensor includes a photodiode for detecting specific wavelengths of RGB in addition to a clear band photodiode covering the entire visible light spectrum.

[0158] According to one embodiment, the visible light pattern may sequentially change multiple colors in one cycle (810) (1 duty). For example, the visible light pattern may sequentially change colors in one cycle (810) in the order of White (811), Red (812), Green (813), and Blue (814). According to one embodiment, the visible light pattern may include three or fewer display-on periods or five or more display-on periods. According to one embodiment, the visible light pattern may include three or fewer colors, and may also include overlapping colors.

[0159] In one embodiment, the electronic device may determine that the reflected light is due to the display's light emission rather than an external light source by considering not only the intensity of the light received through the light sensor but also its color.

[0160] In one embodiment, the electronic device can determine whether an entire area of ​​the display is activated for an input based on comparing at least one of a luminance or a color of a visible light pattern with at least one of a magnitude or a color of a value sensed by a light sensor.

[0161] According to one embodiment, the electronic device may display a visible light pattern comprising combined colors as illustrated in FIG. 8b.

[0162] FIG. 8b is a drawing for explaining a visible light pattern of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0163] Referring to Fig. 8b, the visible light pattern may sequentially change multiple colors in one cycle (820) (1 duty). For example, the visible light pattern may sequentially change colors in one cycle (820) in the following order: White (821), Yellow (822) which is a combination of red and green, Magenta (823) which is a combination of red and blue, and Cyan (824) which is a combination of green and blue.

[0164] According to one embodiment, the visible light pattern may include three or fewer display-on periods or five or more display-on periods. According to one embodiment, the visible light pattern may include three or fewer colors, and may include overlapping colors. According to one embodiment, the visible light pattern may include two or more of the four colors illustrated in FIG. 8A and the combined three colors illustrated in FIG. 8B.

[0165] In one embodiment, the electronic device can determine that the reflected light is due to the display's light emission rather than an external light source by considering not only the intensity of the light received through the light sensor but also its color. For example, if the visible light pattern includes a combination of colors, the electronic device can analyze the frequency components of the RGB colors of the received light.

[0166] In one embodiment, the electronic device can determine whether an entire area of ​​the display is activated for an input based on comparing at least one of a luminance or a color of a visible light pattern with at least one of a magnitude or a color of a value sensed by a light sensor.

[0167] FIG. 9A is a diagram for explaining an operation of controlling the driving cycle of a light sensor based on the shape of a visible light pattern of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0168] FIG. 9b is a diagram for explaining an operation of controlling the driving cycle of a light sensor based on the shape of a visible light pattern of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0169] According to one embodiment, an electronic device (e.g., an electronic device (101) of FIG. 1, a processor (120) of FIG. 1, or an electronic device (200) of FIG. 2A) is configured to control a period of reflected light sensed through an illuminance sensor (e.g., a sensor module (176) of FIG. 1, a sensor module (255) of FIG. 2A, a sensor module (255) of FIG. 2B, or a sensor module (255) of FIG. 2C) by adjusting a light-emitting area of ​​a display (e.g., a display module (160) of FIG. 1, a sub-display (239) of FIG. 2A, a sub-display (239) of FIG. 2B, or a sub-display (239) of FIG. 2C).

[0170] For example, the on / off cycle of the light sensor can be controlled by adjusting the light-emitting area of ​​the display. According to one embodiment, the electronic device can adjust the display on / off interval through the shape of the light-emitting area, taking into account the display on time according to the brightness of the display. According to one embodiment, the electronic device can adjust the frequency component of the light received by the light sensor to a desired value by adjusting the display on / off interval.

[0171] Referring to FIG. 9A, the electronic device may activate only the upper region (910) of the display close to the light sensor and display a visible light pattern in the activated upper region (910). For example, the activated upper region (910) may include three lines. In one embodiment, the remaining region (911) of the display, distinct from the activated upper region (910), may be in an inactive state.

[0172] According to one embodiment, the electronic device can sequentially turn on / off (921) pixels of a row included in an upper area (910) of a display in the order of the rows, and keep pixels of a row included in an area (911) other than the activated upper area (910) off (922).

[0173] According to one embodiment, the electronic device can control the on / off frequency (920) of the light sensor based on the on / off (921) intervals of the pixels in a row included in the upper area (910) of the display.

[0174] According to one embodiment, the electronic device can turn on the light sensor during a period in which at least one of three rows of pixels included in the upper region (910) of the display is on, and turn off the light sensor during a period in which all three rows of pixels included in the upper region (910) of the display are off.

[0175] Referring to FIG. 9B, the electronic device may activate only the upper right region (930) of the display near the light sensor and display a visible light pattern in the activated upper region (930). For example, the activated upper region (930) may include eight lines. In one embodiment, the lower right region (931) of the display, distinct from the activated upper right region (930), may be in an inactive state.

[0176] According to one embodiment, the electronic device can sequentially turn on / off (941) pixels in a row included in an upper right area (930) of a display in row order, and keep pixels in a row included in a lower right area (931) excluding the activated upper right area (910) off (942).

[0177] According to one embodiment, the electronic device can control the on / off frequency (940) of the light sensor based on the on / off (941) interval of the pixels in a row included in the upper right area (930) of the display.

[0178] According to one embodiment, the electronic device may turn on the light sensor during a period in which at least one of eight rows of pixels included in an upper right area (930) of the display is on, and turn off the light sensor during a period in which all eight rows of pixels included in the upper right area (930) of the display are off.

[0179] In one embodiment, the on time of the light sensor of FIG. 9B, which has a larger number of rows included in the activated area, may be longer than the on time of the light sensor of FIG. 9A, which has a smaller number of rows included in the activated area. In one embodiment, the off time of the light sensor of FIG. 9B may be shorter than the off time of the light sensor of FIG. 9A.

[0180] In this way, by controlling the on / off time of the visible light pattern, it is possible to more efficiently confirm that the value sensed by the light sensor is due to the visible light pattern rather than an external light source.

[0181] FIG. 10 is a drawing for explaining the shape of a visible light pattern of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0182] According to one embodiment, an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1, the processor (120) of FIG. 1, or the electronic device (200) of FIG. 2A) is configured to display a visible light pattern at a location near an illumination sensor (e.g., the sensor module (176) of FIG. 1, the sensor module (255) of FIG. 2A, the sensor module (255) of FIG. 2B, or the sensor module (255) of FIG. 2C) during a low power mode when a touch input is received. For example, the visible light pattern may include light of a single color, and the color may change periodically based on a sequence.

[0183] In one embodiment, the visible light pattern is not limited to a single color of light, and may include an image or animation (1010), as illustrated in FIG. 10.

[0184] FIG. 11A is a diagram illustrating the amount of reflected light detected in an external space surrounding an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. For example, FIG. 11A is a diagram illustrating reflected light from a hand intentionally touching an electronic device in a location surrounded by external space.

[0185] Referring to FIG. 11A, an electronic device (e.g., an electronic device (101) of FIG. 1, a processor (120) of FIG. 1, or an electronic device (200) of FIG. 2A) is configured to display a visible light pattern on a portion of a display when a touch input is received while the display (e.g., a display module (160) of FIG. 1, a sub-display (239) of FIG. 2A, a sub-display (239) of FIG. 2B, or a sub-display (239) of FIG. 2C) is in a low power mode.

[0186] In one embodiment, when a visible light pattern is displayed in an external space, most of the light (1110) by the visible light pattern may spread into the external space. In one embodiment, the amount of light (1111) reflected by the hand (10) touching the display and the amount of light (1112) causing crosstalk may be small, so that the intensity of light received by the light sensor (e.g., the sensor module (176) of FIG. 1, the sensor module (255) of FIG. 2a, the sensor module (255) of FIG. 2b, or the sensor module (255) of FIG. 2c) may be low. When the display is touched by the hand (10) at a location surrounded by an external space, the value sensed by the light sensor may be about 16 to about 32 Lux.

[0187] FIG. 11B is a diagram illustrating the amount of reflected light detected within a pocket of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. For example, FIG. 11B is a diagram illustrating reflected light within a pocket.

[0188] Referring to FIG. 11A, when the electronic device receives a touch input while the display is in a low power mode, it can display a visible light pattern on a portion of the display.

[0189] In one embodiment, when a visible light pattern is displayed on a pocket of a trouser or similar garment, light by the visible light pattern is reflected (1121) by the fabric (20), and the amount of light (1122) that causes crosstalk may be large because the light does not spread much due to the difference in size caused by the air gap (1120) due to the gaps and wrinkles of the fabric (20).

[0190] In one embodiment, the intensity of light received by the light sensor may be high within the pocket. For example, if a visible light pattern is displayed on the display due to a misinput within the pocket, the value sensed by the light sensor may be approximately 300 Lux or higher.

[0191] According to one embodiment, when the same visible light pattern is displayed, the ADC (analog to digital converter) values ​​sensed by the light sensor in pockets of different fabrics may be as shown in [Table 1] below.

[0192] Fabric Jeans Jeans (Black) Cotton Pants (White) Cotton Pants (Beige) Cotton Pants (Black) Light Sensor ADC (Lux) 386332398376314

[0193] Referring to [Table 1], depending on the fabric type, jeans with loose fibers may exhibit greater internal crosstalk than cotton pants due to a larger air gap. In one embodiment, the sensed reflected light values ​​are measured higher for light-colored pants, but the overall deviation is not large, and sufficient light can be sensed to measure frequency components.

[0194] In this way, when the display is triggered by an unintended input, such as in a pocket or bag where the user is not actively using the electronic device, the display can be determined to be a misinput and prevented from malfunctioning. By determining a misinput and maintaining the display in a low-power mode, the power consumption of the electronic device due to malfunction can be reduced.

[0195] According to one embodiment, an electronic device (e.g., electronic device (101) of FIG. 1 or electronic device (200) of FIG. 2A) includes a display (e.g., display module (160) of FIG. 1, sub-display (239) of FIG. 2A, sub-display (239) of FIG. 2B or sub-display (239) of FIG. 2C), an illuminance sensor (e.g., sensor module (176) of FIG. 1, sensor module (255) of FIG. 2A, sensor module (255) of FIG. 2B or sensor module (255) of FIG. 2C), at least one processor (e.g., processor (120) of FIG. 1), and a memory (e.g., memory (130) of FIG. 1) that stores instructions that cause the electronic device to perform operations.

[0196] In one embodiment, the instructions may cause the electronic device to display a predefined image on the display based on receiving a touch input to the display while the display is in a low power mode.

[0197] In one embodiment, the instructions may cause the electronic device to determine whether to switch the display to a normal mode based on a value sensed by the light sensor after displaying the predefined image.

[0198] In one embodiment, the instructions may cause the electronic device to ignore the touch input if the touch input causes a malfunction of the electronic device based on a value sensed by the light sensor.

[0199] In one embodiment, the instructions may cause the electronic device to switch the display to a normal mode if the touch input does not cause a malfunction of the electronic device.

[0200] In one embodiment, the predefined image may be displayed only in a portion of the display.

[0201] According to one embodiment, the electronic device may further include a camera.

[0202] In one embodiment, the light sensor may include a flicker sensor disposed around the camera.

[0203] According to one embodiment, the light sensor may be positioned to receive light from an image displayed on the display.

[0204] In one embodiment, the instructions may cause the electronic device to turn on the light sensor while the predefined image is displayed on the display.

[0205] In one embodiment, the instructions may cause the electronic device to turn off the light sensor while the predefined image is not displayed on the display.

[0206] According to one embodiment, the instructions may cause the electronic device to determine whether to switch the display to a normal mode based on a difference between a baseline of a sensing value in a section where the light sensor is on and a baseline of a sensing value in a section where the light sensor is off.

[0207] According to one embodiment, the light sensor can sense the reflected light of the defined image displayed on the display, which is reflected from an object.

[0208] According to one embodiment, the defined image may include a plurality of image frames having a specific pattern.

[0209] In one embodiment, the electronic device may be a foldable device.

[0210] According to one embodiment, the display and the light sensor may be arranged in an area that is visually exposed to the outside when the electronic device is in a folded state.

[0211] According to one embodiment, a method of controlling an electronic device may include an operation of displaying a predefined image on the display based on receiving a touch input to the display while the electronic device is in a low power mode.

[0212] According to one embodiment, a method for controlling an electronic device may include an operation of determining whether to switch the display to a normal mode based on a value sensed through a light sensor of the electronic device after displaying the predefined image.

[0213] According to one embodiment, a method for controlling an electronic device may further include ignoring the touch input if the touch input causes a malfunction of the electronic device based on a value sensed through the light sensor, and switching the display to a normal mode if the touch input does not cause a malfunction of the electronic device.

[0214] In one embodiment, the predefined image may be displayed only in a portion of the display.

[0215] In one embodiment, the light sensor may include a flicker sensor disposed around a camera of the electronic device.

[0216] According to one embodiment, the light sensor may be positioned so as to receive light from an image displayed on the display.

[0217] In one embodiment, the operation of determining whether to switch the display to a normal mode may include turning on the light sensor while the predefined image is displayed on the display, and turning off the light sensor while the predefined image is not displayed on the display.

[0218] According to one embodiment, the operation of determining whether to switch the display to the normal mode may determine whether to switch the display to the normal mode based on a difference between a baseline of a sensing value in a section where the light sensor is on and a baseline of a sensing value in a section where the light sensor is off.

[0219] In one embodiment, the operation of determining whether to switch the display to a normal mode may include an operation of sensing, through the light sensor, a reflection of light of the defined image displayed on the display, which is reflected from an object roll.

[0220] According to one embodiment, the above-defined image may include a plurality of image frames having a specific pattern.

[0221] In one embodiment, the electronic device may be a foldable device.

[0222] According to one embodiment, the display and the light sensor may be arranged in an area that is visually exposed to the outside when the electronic device is in a folded state.

[0223] According to one embodiment, a non-transitory computer-readable recording medium storing one or more programs may include instructions for causing an electronic device including a display, an illumination sensor, and at least one processor operatively connected to the display and the illumination sensor to display a predefined image on the display based on receiving a touch input to the display while the display is in a low power mode.

[0224] In one embodiment, the one or more programs may include commands for determining whether the electronic device should switch the display to a normal mode based on a value sensed through the light sensor after displaying the predefined image.

[0225] According to one embodiment, the one or more programs may include instructions for the electronic device to ignore the touch input if the touch input causes a malfunction of the electronic device based on a value sensed through the light sensor.

[0226] In one embodiment, the one or more programs may include commands for the electronic device to switch the display to a normal mode if the touch input does not cause the malfunction of the electronic device.

[0227] In one embodiment, the predefined image may be displayed only in a portion of the display.

[0228] According to one embodiment, the electronic device may further include a camera.

[0229] In one embodiment, the light sensor may include a flicker sensor disposed around the camera.

[0230] According to one embodiment, the light sensor may be positioned to receive light from an image displayed on the display.

[0231] In one embodiment, the one or more programs may include commands for the electronic device to turn on the light sensor while the predefined image is displayed on the display.

[0232] In one embodiment, the one or more programs may include commands for the electronic device to turn off the light sensor while the predefined image is not displayed on the display.

[0233] According to one embodiment, the one or more programs may determine whether the electronic device should switch the display to a normal mode based on a difference between a baseline of a sensing value in a section where the light sensor is on and a baseline of a sensing value in a section where the light sensor is off.

[0234] According to one embodiment, the light sensor can sense the reflected light of the defined image displayed on the display, which is reflected from an object.

[0235] According to one embodiment, the defined image may include a plurality of image frames having a specific pattern.

[0236] In one embodiment, the electronic device may be a foldable device.

[0237] According to one embodiment, the display and the light sensor may be arranged in an area that is visually exposed to the outside when the electronic device is in a folded state.

[0238] Electronic devices according to the 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 disclosed in this document are not limited to the aforementioned devices.

[0239] The embodiments of this document and the terminology used herein 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.

[0240] The term "module" used in the 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).

[0241] One embodiment 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.

[0242] According to one embodiment, the method according to one embodiment 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) via 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.

[0243] According to one embodiment, 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 arranged in other components. According to one embodiment, 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 this case, the integrated component may perform one or more functions of each of the plurality of components identically or similarly to those performed by the corresponding component among the plurality of components prior to the integration. According to one embodiment, 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.

Claims

1. In an electronic device (101, 200), display(160, 239); Light sensor (176, 255); Processor (120); and When executed individually or collectively by the processor, the electronic device (101, 200) causes: the display (160, 239) to display a predefined image on the display (160, 239) based on receiving a touch input to the display (160, 239) while the display (160, 239) is in a low power mode; An electronic device including a memory (130) storing instructions (140) for determining whether to switch the mode of the display (160, 239) to a normal mode based on a value sensed through the light sensor (176, 255) after displaying the above-described image.

2. In paragraph 1, The above instructions (140) cause the electronic device (101, 200) to: An electronic device (101, 200) that ignores the touch input if the touch input causes a malfunction of the electronic device (101, 200) based on the value sensed through the light sensor (176, 255), and switches the display to a normal mode if the touch input does not cause the malfunction of the electronic device (101, 200).

3. In paragraph 1 or 2, The image defined above is, An electronic device (101, 200) that is displayed only in a portion of the above display (160, 239).

4. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 3, The above electronic device (101, 200) Including cameras; The above light sensor (176, 255) An electronic device (101, 200) comprising a flicker sensor arranged around the camera.

5. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 4, The above light sensor (176, 255) An electronic device (101, 200) positioned so as to receive light from an image displayed on the display (160, 239).

6. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 5, The above instructions (140) cause the electronic device (101, 200) to: An electronic device (101, 200) that turns on the light sensor (176, 255) while the predefined image is displayed on the display (160, 239), and turns off the light sensor (176, 255) while the predefined image is not displayed on the display (160, 239).

7. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 6, The above instructions (140) cause the electronic device (101, 200) to: An electronic device (101, 200) that determines whether to switch the display (160, 239) to a normal mode based on the difference between the baseline of the sensing value in the section where the light sensor (176, 255) is turned on and the baseline of the sensing value in the section where the light sensor (176, 255) is turned off.

8. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 7, The above light sensor (176, 255) An electronic device (101, 200) for sensing reflected light of the defined image displayed on the display (160, 239) reflected from an object.

9. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 8, The above electronic device (101, 200) is a foldable device, The above display (160, 239) and the light sensor (176, 255) An electronic device (101, 200) that is placed in an area that is visually exposed to the outside when the electronic device (101, 200) is in a folded state.

10. In a method for controlling an electronic device, An operation of displaying a predefined image on the display based on receiving a touch input to the display while the electronic device is in a low power mode (Operation 310); and A control method of an electronic device, comprising: an operation (operation 320) of determining whether to switch the mode of the display to a normal mode based on a value sensed through a light sensor of the electronic device after displaying the above-described image.

11. In paragraph 10, A control method of an electronic device further comprising: an operation of ignoring the touch input if the touch input causes a malfunction of the electronic device based on the value sensed through the light sensor, and switching the display to a normal mode based on the value sensed through the light sensor if the touch input does not cause the malfunction of the electronic device.

12. In clause 10 or 11, The action of displaying the image defined above is: A method of controlling an electronic device, comprising an action of displaying the above-described image only in a part of the display and / or an action of displaying a plurality of image frames having a specific pattern.

13. In any one of paragraphs 10 to 12, The action to determine whether to switch the above display to normal mode is: A control method of an electronic device for turning on the light sensor while the predefined image is displayed on the display, and turning off the light sensor while the predefined image is not displayed on the display.

14. In any one of paragraphs 10 to 13, The action to determine whether to switch the above display to normal mode is: A control method of an electronic device, the method being determined based on the difference between the baseline of the sensing value in the section where the light sensor is on and the baseline of the sensing value in the section where the light sensor is off.

15. In any one of paragraphs 10 to 14, The action to determine whether to switch the above display to normal mode is: A control method of an electronic device including an operation of sensing reflected light from an object derived from light of the defined image displayed on the display through the light sensor.

Images