Electronic device comprising driving mechanism

Abstract

This electronic device comprises: a housing including a first housing part and a second housing part, which can move relative to the first housing part; a driving mechanism for providing driving force for moving the second housing part; and a processor. The processor is configured to: identify, in a state in which the first housing part and the second housing part are stationary, an external force causing movement; and, on the basis of the identified external force, control the driving mechanism such that the state in which the first housing part and the second housing part are stationary is maintained.

Description

Electronic device including a driving mechanism

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an electronic device including a driving mechanism.

[0002] Electronic devices including large-screen displays can enhance user usability. With the increasing demand for highly portable electronic devices, electronic devices may include deformable displays. The deformable displays may be slidably deformable. The electronic devices may include a drive mechanism for deforming the display. The drive mechanism may include a motor, a rack gear, and / or a pinion gear. When the drive mechanism is driven, the structure of the housing supporting the display is deformed, thereby deforming the display.

[0003] The above information may be provided as background art to aid in understanding the present disclosure. No claim or determination is made as to whether any of the above is applicable as prior art in connection with the present disclosure.

[0004] An electronic device of one embodiment is provided. The electronic device includes a housing, a drive mechanism, a memory, and a processor. The housing includes a first housing part and a second housing part movably coupled to the first housing part and movable to the first housing part. The drive mechanism is configured to provide a drive force for moving the second housing part. The memory includes one or more storage media storing instructions. The instructions, when executed by the processor, cause the electronic device to identify an external force that causes relative movement of the second housing part with respect to the first housing part, while the first and second housing parts are stationary. The instructions, when executed by the processor, cause the electronic device to control the drive mechanism based on the identified external force, so as to maintain the first and second housing parts in the stationary state.

[0005] A method of operating an electronic device is provided. The method includes an operation of identifying an external force that causes a relative movement of a second housing part with respect to the first housing part, while the first housing part and the second housing part of the electronic device are stationary. The method includes an operation of controlling a driving mechanism of the electronic device based on the identified external force so that the first housing part and the second housing part remain stationary.

[0006] The above and other features of the embodiments of the present disclosure will become more apparent by describing them in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0007] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment according to one embodiment.

[0008] FIG. 2A is a top plan view of an electronic device of one embodiment within a first state.

[0009] FIG. 2b is a bottom view of an electronic device of one embodiment within a first state.

[0010] FIG. 2c is a plan view of an electronic device of one embodiment within a second state.

[0011] FIG. 2d is a bottom view of an electronic device of one embodiment within a second state.

[0012] Figures 3a and 3b are exploded perspective views of an electronic device of one embodiment.

[0013] FIG. 4A is a cross-sectional view of an electronic device of one embodiment in a first state.

[0014] FIG. 4b is a cross-sectional view of an electronic device of one embodiment in a second state.

[0015] Figure 5a is a block diagram of an electronic device of one embodiment.

[0016] Figure 5b is a flow chart illustrating an example of the operation of an electronic device that drives a housing.

[0017] Figure 5c is a flowchart illustrating the operation of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0018] Figure 6a illustrates a motor of one embodiment.

[0019] Figure 6b illustrates the operation of a motor of one embodiment.

[0020] Fig. 6c is a graph showing signals provided from multiple Hall sensors in the operation of the motor illustrated in Fig. 6b.

[0021] Fig. 6d is a graph showing the reverse electromotive force in the operation of the motor illustrated in Fig. 6b.

[0022] Fig. 7a is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of an electronic device for fixing a housing.

[0023] FIG. 7b illustrates an electronic device of one embodiment within a usage environment.

[0024] Figure 8 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation for identifying that an electronic device is in a stopped state.

[0025] Figure 9a is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of an electronic device for fixing a housing.

[0026] Figure 9b illustrates a driving mechanism of one embodiment.

[0027] Figure 9c shows a state in which the motor is controlled to have a holding torque.

[0028] FIG. 10A is a cross-sectional view of an electronic device according to one embodiment taken along line C-C' of FIG. 2A.

[0029] FIG. 10b is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation for identifying the magnitude of a holding torque based at least in part on the temperature of a display.

[0030] Figures 11a, 11b, 11c, and 11d illustrate the posture of an electronic device of one embodiment.

[0031] FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation for identifying the magnitude of a holding torque based at least in part on the attitude of an electronic device.

[0032] FIG. 13A illustrates an embodiment of an electronic device for displaying a visual object through a display.

[0033] Figure 13b is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of an electronic device when an external force is applied.

[0034] The present invention will now be more fully described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which various embodiments are illustrated. However, the present invention may be embodied in many different forms and is not limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art. Like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout.

[0035] When an element is said to be "on" another element, it should be understood that this may be directly above the other element, or that there may be other elements intervening between them. Conversely, when an element is said to be "directly on" another element, there are no intervening elements.

[0036] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the terms "a," "an," "the," and "at least one" do not denote limitations of quantity and are intended to cover both the singular and the plural unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, reference to "an" element in a claim followed by reference to "the" element encompasses both one element and multiple elements. For example, "an element" has the same meaning as "at least one element," unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. "At least one" should not be construed as limiting "a" or "an." "Or" means "and / or." As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. The terms "comprises", "includes" or "comprising", as used herein, indicate the presence of stated features, regions, integers, steps, operations, elements and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of other features, regions, integers, steps, operations, elements, components and / or groups.

[0037] Additionally, relative terms such as "lower" or "bottom" and "upper" or "top" may be used herein to describe the relationship of one element to another, as illustrated in the drawings. It will be understood that relative terms are intended to encompass other orientations of the device in addition to the orientation depicted in the drawings. For example, if the device in one of the drawings is flipped, an element depicted as being on the "lower" side of another element will be on the "upper" side of the other element. Thus, the term "lower" may encompass both the "lower" and "upper" orientations, depending on the particular orientation of the drawings. Similarly, if the device in one of the drawings is flipped, an element depicted as being "below" or "beneath" will be "above" the other element. Therefore, the term "below" or "beneath" can include both the above and below directions.

[0038] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used in this disclosure have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. It will be further understood that terms defined in commonly used dictionaries should be interpreted to have a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and this disclosure, and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless specifically defined otherwise.

[0039] Embodiments are described in this disclosure with reference to cross-sectional illustrations that are schematic illustrations of idealized embodiments. Consequently, variations from the shapes of the examples, such as manufacturing techniques and / or tolerances, are expected. Accordingly, the embodiments described in this disclosure should not be construed as limited to the specific shapes of regions as illustrated in this disclosure, and include, for example, deviations from shapes resulting from manufacturing. For example, regions that appear or are described as planar may typically have rough and / or nonlinear features. Moreover, sharp angles illustrated may appear rounded. Accordingly, the regions depicted in the drawings are schematic in nature, and their shapes are not intended to illustrate the precise shape of the regions, nor are they intended to limit the scope of the claims of this disclosure.

[0040] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment, according to one embodiment.

[0041] Referring to FIG. 1, in a network environment (100) of one embodiment, an electronic device (101) may communicate with an electronic device (102) via a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network), or may communicate with an electronic device (104) or a server (108) via a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). According to 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)).

[0042] 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.

[0043] 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, in the electronic device (101) itself where artificial intelligence is performed, 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.

[0044] 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).

[0045] 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).

[0046] 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).

[0047] 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.

[0048] 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. In 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.

[0049] 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).

[0050] 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.

[0051] The interface (177) may support one or more designated protocols that may be used to directly or wirelessly connect the electronic device (101) to 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.

[0052] 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).

[0053] 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.

[0054] The camera module (180) can capture still images and moving images. According to one embodiment, the camera module (180) may include one or more lenses, image sensors, image signal processors, or flashes.

[0055] The power management module (188) can manage the 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).

[0056] 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.

[0057] 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).

[0058] 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) may be configured to achieve a peak data rate (e.g., 20 Gbps (gigabytes per second) or higher) for eMBB implementation, a loss coverage (e.g., 164 dB or lower) for mMTC implementation, or a U-plane latency (e.g., 0 for downlink (DL) and uplink (UL) respectively) for URLLC implementation.It can support 5ms (milliseconds) or less, or round trip 1ms or less.

[0059] 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 by, for example, the communication module (190). A signal or power may be transmitted or received between the communication module (190) and an external electronic device through the selected at least one antenna. In some embodiments, in addition to the radiator, another component (e.g., a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) may be additionally formed as a part of the antenna module (197).

[0060] 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.

[0061] 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)).

[0062] 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 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.

[0063] For example, the display of the display module (160) may be flexible. For example, the display may include a display area that is exposed outside the housing of the electronic device (101), which provides at least a portion of the outer surface of the electronic device (101). For example, since the display has flexibility, at least a portion of the display may be rollable into the housing or slidable into the housing. For example, the size of the display area may change depending on the size of the at least a portion of the display that is rolled into the housing or slid into the housing. For example, the electronic device (101) including the display may be in a plurality of states, including a first state providing the display area having a first size and a second state providing the display area having a second size different from the first size. For example, the first state may be exemplified through the description of FIGS. 2A and 2B.

[0064] FIG. 2A is a top plan view of an electronic device of one embodiment within a first state.

[0065] Referring to FIG. 2A, an electronic device (101) of one embodiment may include a housing (201) including a first housing part (210) and a second housing part (220). For example, the housing (201) may include the first housing part (210), a second housing part (220) movable relative to the first housing part (210) in a first direction (261) parallel to the y-axis or a second direction (262) parallel to the y-axis and opposite to the first direction (261), and a display (230) (e.g., the display). Here, the first direction (261) may be a longitudinal direction of the electronic device (101). However, in another embodiment, for example, the second housing part (220) may be movable relative to the first housing part (210) in an opposite direction that is parallel to the x-axis and perpendicular to the first direction (261).

[0066] Hereinafter, the operation of moving the second housing part (220) with respect to the first housing part (210) is described, but is not limited thereto. For example, the electronic device (101) may have a structure in which the overall size of the electronic device (101) may change according to a change in the relative positional relationship between the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220). For example, the relative positional relationship between the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) may change by the operation of a driving mechanism (e.g., driving mechanism (360) of FIG. 3A) to be described below. For example, either the first housing part (210) or the second housing part (220) may move by the driving mechanism (860), or both the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) may move.

[0067] For example, the electronic device (101) may be in the first state. For example, within the first state, the second housing part (220) may be movable relative to the first housing part (210) in a first direction (261) among the first direction (261) and the second direction (262). For example, within the first state, the second housing part (220) may not be movable relative to the first housing part (210) in the second direction (262).

[0068] For example, within the first state, the display (230) may provide the display area having the smallest size. For example, within the first state, the display area may correspond to the area (230a) illustrated in FIG. 2A. For example, although not illustrated in FIG. 2A, within the first state, an area of ​​the display (230) other than the area (230a) that is the display area (e.g., area (230b) of FIG. 2C) may be included within the first housing part (210). For example, within the first state, the area (e.g., area (230b) of FIG. 2C) may be covered by the first housing part (210). For example, within the first state, the area may be rolled into the first housing part (210). For example, within the first state, the area (230a) may include a planar portion. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the region (230a) may include a curved portion extending from the planar portion and positioned within the edge portion, within the first state.

[0069] For example, the first state may be referred to as a slide-in state or a closed state in that at least a portion of the second housing part (220) is positioned within the first housing part (210). For example, the first state may be referred to as a reduced state in that it provides the display area having the smallest size, but is not limited thereto.

[0070] For example, the second housing part (220) may include a first image sensor (250-1) within the camera module (180) that is exposed through a portion of the area (230a) and faces a third direction (263) parallel to the z-axis. For example, although not illustrated in FIG. 2A, the second housing part (220) may include one or more second image sensors within the camera module (180) that are exposed through a portion of the second housing part (220) and faces a fourth direction (264) parallel to the z-axis and opposite to the third direction (263). For example, the one or more second image sensors may be exemplified through the description of FIG. 2B.

[0071] FIG. 2b is a bottom view of an electronic device of one embodiment within a first state.

[0072] Referring to FIG. 2B, in the electronic device (101) of one embodiment, in the first state, one or more second image sensors (250-2) disposed within the second housing part (220) may be positioned within a structure disposed within the first housing part (210) for the one or more second image sensors (250-2). For example, light from outside the electronic device (101) may be received by the one or more second image sensors (250-2) through the structure in the first state. For example, since the one or more second image sensors (250-2) are positioned within the structure in the first state, the one or more second image sensors (250-2) may be exposed through the structure in the first state. For example, the structure may be implemented in various ways. For example, the structure may be an opening or a notch. For example, the structure may be an opening (212a) in the first plate (212) of the first housing part (210) that surrounds at least a portion of the second housing part (220). However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, in the first state, one or more second image sensors (250-2) included in the second housing part (220) may be covered by the first plate (212) of the first housing part (210).

[0073] As described above in one embodiment with reference to FIG. 1, the first state can be changed to the second state.

[0074] For example, the first state (or the second state) can be changed to the second state (or the first state) through intermediate states between the first state and the second state.

[0075] For example, the first state (or the second state) may be changed to the second state (or the first state) based on a user input. For example, the first state (or the second state) may be changed to the second state (or the first state) in response to a user input to a physical button exposed through a part of the first housing part (210) or a part of the second housing part (220). For example, the first state (or the second state) may be changed to the second state (or the first state) in response to a touch input to an executable object displayed within the display area. For example, the first state (or the second state) may be changed to the second state (or the first state) in response to a touch input having a contact point on the display area and having a pressing strength greater than or equal to a reference strength. For example, the first state (or the second state) may be changed to the second state (or the first state) in response to a voice input received through a microphone of the electronic device (101). For example, the first state (or the second state) may be changed to the second state (or the first state) in response to an external force applied to the first housing part (210) and / or the second housing part (220) to move the second housing part (220) with respect to the first housing part (210). For example, the first state (or the second state) may be changed to the second state (or the first state) in response to a user input identified from an external electronic device (e.g., earbuds or a smart watch) connected to the electronic device (101). However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0076] The second state can be illustrated through the description of FIGS. 2c and 2d.

[0077] FIG. 2c is a plan view of an electronic device of one embodiment within a second state.

[0078] Referring to FIG. 2C, the electronic device (101) of one embodiment may be in the second state. For example, in the second state, the second housing part (220) may be movable relative to the first housing part (210) in the second direction (262) among the first direction (261) and the second direction (262). For example, in the second state, the second housing part (220) may not be movable relative to the first housing part (210) in the first direction (261).

[0079] For example, within the second state, the display (230) may provide the display area having the largest size. For example, within the second state, the display area may correspond to an area (230c) including an area (230a) and an area (230b). For example, an area (230b) that was included within the first housing part (210) within the first state may be exposed within the second state. For example, within the second state, the area (230a) may include a planar portion. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the area (230a) may also include a curved portion that extends from the planar portion and is positioned within the edge portion. For example, within the second state, the area (230b), unlike the area (230a) within the first state, may include a planar portion among the planar portion and the curved portion. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the region (230b) may include a curved portion extending from the planar portion of the region (230b) and positioned within the edge portion.

[0080] For example, the second state may be referred to as a slide-out state or an open state in that at least a portion of the second housing part (220) disposed outside the first housing part (210) extends relative to the first state. For example, the second state may be referred to as an expanded state in that it provides the display area having the largest size. However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0081] For example, the first image sensor (250-1) facing the third direction (263) may move together with the area (230a) according to the movement of the second housing part (220) in the first direction (261) when the state of the electronic device (101) changes from the first state to the second state. For example, although not shown in FIG. 2c, one or more second image sensors (250-2) facing the fourth direction (264) may move according to the movement of the second housing part (220) in the first direction (261) when the state of the electronic device (101) changes from the first state to the second state. For example, the relative positional relationship between one or more second image sensors (250-2) and the structure illustrated through the description of FIG. 4b may change according to the movement of one or more second image sensors (250-2). For example, the change in the above relative position relationship can be illustrated through Fig. 2d.

[0082] FIG. 2d is a bottom view of an electronic device of one embodiment within a second state.

[0083] Referring to FIG. 2d, within the second state, one or more second image sensors (250-2) may be positioned outside the structure. For example, the structure may include an opening (212a). For example, within the second state, one or more second image sensors (250-2) may be positioned outside the opening (212a) in the first plate (212). For example, one or more second image sensors (250-2) may be exposed through the opening (212a) within the first state. For example, because one or more second image sensors (250-2) are positioned outside the first housing part (210) within the second state, one or more second image sensors (250-2) may be exposed within the second state. For example, since one or more second image sensors (250-2) are positioned outside the structure within the second state, the relative positional relationship within the second state may be different from the relative positional relationship within the first state.

[0084] For example, if the electronic device (101) does not include the above structure such as the opening (212a), one or more second image sensors (250-2) may be exposed within the second state among the first state and the second state.

[0085] Although not shown in FIGS. 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D, the electronic device (101) of one embodiment may be in an intermediate state between the first state and the second state. For example, the size of the display area in the intermediate state may be larger than the size of the display area in the first state and smaller than the size of the display area in the second state. For example, the display area in the intermediate state may correspond to an area including a portion of region (230a) and region (230b). For example, in the intermediate state, a portion of region (230b) may be exposed, and another portion (or a remaining portion) of region (230b) may be covered by the first housing part (210) or rolled into the first housing part (210). However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0086] Referring again to FIG. 1, an electronic device (101) of one embodiment may include structures for moving a second housing (e.g., a second housing part (220) of FIG. 2A) of the electronic device (101) relative to a first housing (e.g., a first housing part (210) of FIG. 2A) of the electronic device (101). For example, the structures may be exemplified through the description of FIGS. 3A and 3B.

[0087] Figures 3a and 3b are exploded perspective views of an electronic device of one embodiment.

[0088] Referring to FIGS. 3A and 3B, an electronic device (101) of one embodiment may include a first housing part (210), a second housing part (220), a display (230), and a driving mechanism (360).

[0089] For example, the first housing part (210) may include a first cover (311), a first plate (212), and a frame (313).

[0090] For example, the first cover (311) may at least partially form a side portion of an outer surface of the electronic device (101). For example, the first cover (311) may include an opening (311a) for one or more second image sensors (250-2). For example, the first cover (311) may include a surface that supports the first plate (212). For example, the first cover (311) may be coupled with the first plate (212). For example, the first cover (311) may include a frame (313). For example, the first cover (311) may be coupled with the frame (313).

[0091] For example, the first plate (212) may at least partially form a rear portion of the outer surface. For example, the first plate (212) may include an opening (212a) for one or more second image sensors (250-2). For example, the first plate (212) may be disposed on the surface of the first cover (311). For example, the opening (212a) may be aligned with the opening (311a).

[0092] For example, the frame (313) may be at least partially surrounded by the first cover (311).

[0093] For example, the frame (313) can be at least partially wrapped by the display (230). For example, although the frame (313) is at least partially wrapped by the display (230), the position of the frame (313) can be maintained independently of movement of the display (230). For example, the frame (313) can be arranged with respect to at least some of the components of the display (230). For example, the frame (313) can include rails (313a) that provide (or guide) a path for movement of at least one component of the display (230).

[0094] For example, the frame (313) can be coupled with at least one component of the electronic device (101). For example, the frame (313) can support the battery (189). For example, the battery (189) can be supported through a recess or hole in a surface (313b) of the frame (313). For example, the frame (313) can be coupled with one end of a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB) (325) on a surface of the frame (313). For example, although not explicitly shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, the other end of the FPCB (325) can be connected to the PCB (324) through at least one connector. For example, the PCB (324) may be electrically connected to another PCB (not shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B) that supplies power to the motor (361) of the drive mechanism (360) via the FPCB (325).

[0095] For example, the frame (313) can be coupled with at least one structure of the electronic device (101) for a plurality of states including the first state and the second state. For example, the frame (313) can fasten the motor (361) of the driving mechanism (360).

[0096] For example, the second housing part (220) may include a second cover (321) and a second plate (322).

[0097] For example, the second cover (321) may be at least partially wrapped by the display (230). For example, the second cover (321) may be coupled to at least a portion of an area (230a) of the display (230) that wraps the second cover (321), unlike the frame (313), such that the display (230) moves relative to the second housing part (220) as the second housing part (220) moves relative to the first housing part (210).

[0098] For example, the second cover (321) may be coupled with at least one component of the electronic device (101). For example, the second cover (321) may be coupled with a printed circuit board (PCB) (324) including components of the electronic device (101). For example, the PCB (324) may include a processor (120) (not shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B). For example, the second cover (321) may support one or more second image sensors (250-2).

[0099] For example, the second cover (321) can be coupled with at least one structure of the electronic device (101) for a plurality of states including the first state and the second state. For example, the second cover (321) can secure the rack gear (363) of the driving mechanism (360).

[0100] For example, the second cover (321) can be combined with the second plate (322).

[0101] For example, the second plate (322) may be coupled with the second cover (321) to protect at least one component of the electronic device (101) coupled within the second cover (321) and / or at least one structure of the electronic device (101) coupled within the second cover (321). For example, the second plate (322) may include a structure for the at least one component. For example, the second plate (322) may include one or more openings (326) for one or more second image sensors (250-2). For example, the one or more openings (326) may be aligned with one or more second image sensors (250-2) disposed on the second cover (321). For example, the size of each of the one or more openings (326) may correspond to the size of each of the one or more second image sensors (250-2).

[0102] For example, the electronic device (101) may include a support member (331) for supporting at least a portion of the display (230). For example, the support member (331) may include a plurality of bars. For example, the plurality of bars may be coupled to each other. The support member (331) may support an area (230b) of the display (230).

[0103] For example, the drive mechanism (360) may include a motor (361), a pinion gear (362), and a rack gear (363).

[0104] For example, the motor (361) may operate based on power from the battery (189). For example, the power may be provided to the motor (361) in response to the user input.

[0105] For example, the pinion gear (362) may be coupled to the motor (361) via a shaft. For example, the pinion gear (362) may be rotated based on the motion of the motor (361) transmitted via the shaft.

[0106] For example, the rack gear (363) can be arranged in relation to the pinion gear (362). For example, teeth of the rack gear (363) can mesh with teeth of the pinion gear (362). For example, the rack gear (363) can be moved in the first direction (261) or the second direction (262) according to the rotation of the pinion gear (362). For example, the second housing part (220) can be moved in the first direction (261) and the second direction (262) by the rack gear (363) that is moved according to the rotation of the pinion gear (362) due to the operation of the motor (361). For example, the first state of the electronic device (101) can be changed to a state different from the first state (e.g., one or more intermediate states or the second state) through the movement of the second housing part (220) in the first direction (261). For example, the second state of the electronic device (101) can be changed to a state different from the second state (e.g., one or more intermediate states or the first state) through the movement of the second housing part (220) in the second direction (262). For example, the first state being changed to the second state by the driving mechanism (360) and the second state being changed to the first state by the driving mechanism (360) can be exemplified through FIGS. 4A and 4B.

[0107] Figure 4a is a cross-sectional view of an electronic device of one embodiment in a first state. Figure 4b is a cross-sectional view of an electronic device of one embodiment in a second state.

[0108] Referring to FIGS. 4A and 4B , in one embodiment, the motor (361) can be operated based at least in part on the defined user input received within the first state (490). For example, the pinion gear (362) can be rotated in the first rotational direction (411) based at least in part on the operation of the motor (361). For example, the rack gear (363) can be moved in the first direction (261) based at least in part on the rotation of the pinion gear (362) in the first rotational direction (411). For example, since the second cover (321) within the second housing part (220) secures the rack gear (363), the second housing part (220) can be moved in the first direction (261) based at least in part on the movement of the rack gear (363) in the first direction (261). For example, since the second cover (321) within the second housing part (220) is coupled with at least a portion of the area (230a) of the display (230) and fixes the rack gear (363), the display (230) can be moved at least in part based on the movement of the rack gear (363) in the first direction (261). For example, the display (230) can be moved along the rails (313a). For example, the shape of at least a portion of the plurality of bars of the support member (331) of the display (230) can be changed when the state (490) is changed to the state (495) which is the second state.

[0109] For example, the area (230b) of the display (230) may be moved according to the movement of the display (230). For example, the area (230b) may be moved through the space between the first cover (311) and the frame (313) when the state (490) is changed to the state (495) according to the user input defined above. For example, the area (230b) in the state (495) may be exposed, unlike the area (230b) that is rolled into the space in the state (490).

[0110] For example, since the second cover (321) within the second housing part (220) is coupled with the PCB (324) connected to the other end of the FPCB (325) and fixes the rack gear (363), the shape of the FPCB (325) can be changed when the state (490) is changed to the state (495).

[0111] The motor (361) can be operated based at least in part on the defined user input received within the state (495). For example, the pinion gear (362) can be rotated in the second rotational direction (412) based at least in part on the operation of the motor (361). For example, the rack gear (363) can be moved in the second direction (262) based at least in part on the rotation of the pinion gear (362) in the second rotational direction (412). For example, since the second cover (321) within the second housing part (220) secures the rack gear (363), the second housing part (220) can be moved in the second direction (262) based at least in part on the movement of the rack gear (363) in the second direction (262). For example, since the second cover (321) of the second housing part (220) is coupled with at least a portion of the area (230a) of the display (230) and fixes the rack gear (363), the display (230) can be moved at least in part based on the movement of the rack gear (363) in the second direction (262). For example, the display (230) can be moved along the rails (313a). For example, the shape of at least a portion of the plurality of bars of the support member (331) of the display (230) can be changed when the state (495) is changed to the state (490). The support member (331) can be moved relative to the first housing part (210). The support member (331) housed inside the first housing part (210) within the state (490) can be positioned between the first cover (311) and the frame (313). As the support member (331) moves, the display (230) can move with respect to the first housing part (210).

[0112] For example, the area (230b) of the display (230) may be moved according to the movement of the display (230). For example, the area (230b) may be moved through the space between the first cover (311) and the frame (313) when the state (495) is changed to the state (490) according to the user input defined above. For example, the area (230b) in the state (490) may be rolled into the space, unlike the area (230b) exposed in the state (495).

[0113] For example, the second cover (321) of the second housing part (220) is coupled with the PCB (324) connected to the other end of the FPCB (325) and fixes the rack gear (363), so that the shape of the FPCB (325) can be changed when the state (495) is changed to the state (490).

[0114] FIGS. 2A to 4B illustrate an electronic device (101) according to an embodiment in which the height of the display area is changed and the width of the display area is maintained when the first state (or the second state) is changed to the second state (or the first state) in the portrait mode, but is not limited thereto. For example, the electronic device (101) may be implemented in such a way that the height of the display area is maintained and the width of the display area is changed when the first state (or the second state) is changed to the second state (or the first state) in the portrait mode.

[0115] Figure 5a is a schematic block diagram of an electronic device according to one embodiment. Figure 5b is a flow chart illustrating an example of the operation of an electronic device that drives a housing.

[0116] One or more components described below with reference to FIG. 5A may be implemented together with components of the electronic device (101) described with reference to FIGS. 2A to 4B. The same reference numerals are assigned to components identical to those described above, and redundant descriptions may be omitted.

[0117] Referring to FIG. 5A, an electronic device (101) of one embodiment may include a housing (e.g., housing (201) of FIG. 2A), a drive mechanism (360) including a motor (361), a memory (130), and a processor (120). In the embodiment, the housing may correspond to the housing (201) described with reference to FIGS. 2A to 4B. For example, the housing (201) may include a first housing part (e.g., first housing part (210) of FIG. 2A) and a second housing part (e.g., second housing part (220) of FIG. 2A) movably coupled or fastened to the first housing part (210).

[0118] It should be understood that the blocks and combinations of flowcharts in each flowchart can be performed by one or more computer programs containing computer-executable instructions. The memory (130) may include one or more storage media for storing the instructions.

[0119] Any function or operation described herein may be processed by a processor (120) (e.g., a single processor or a combination of processors). The single processor or the combination of processors is a circuit that performs processing, and includes an application processor (AP, e.g., a central processing unit (CPU)), a communication processor (CP, e.g., a modem), a graphics processing unit (e.g., a GPU), a neural processing unit (NPU) (e.g., an artificial intelligence (AI) chip), a wireless-fidelity (Wi-Fi) chip, a Bluetooth™ chip, a global positioning system (GPS) chip, a near field communication (NFC) chip, connectivity chips, a sensor controller, a touch controller, a finger-print sensor controller, a display drive integrated circuit (DDI), an audio CODEC chip, a universal serial bus (USB) controller, a camera controller, an image processing IC, a microprocessor unit (MPU), a system on chip (SoC), an IC, or a similar circuit.

[0120] For example, a driving mechanism (360) including a motor (361) may provide a driving force for movement of a second housing part (220) relative to a first housing part (210). For example, the motor (361) may operate based on power provided from a battery (189). For example, the motor (361) may be configured to provide a driving force for movement of the second housing part (220) based on a user input set to move the second housing part (220). In an embodiment, within the present disclosure, the second housing part (220) may be moved relative to the first housing part (210), but is not limited thereto. For example, the housing (201) may have a structure in which the overall size of the housing (201) may change according to a change in the relative positional relationship between the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220). For example, the relative positional relationship between the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) may be changed by the operation of the motor (361) described later. For example, the first housing part (210) or the second housing part (220) may be movable by the motor (361), or both the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) may be movable.

[0121] For example, the processor (120) may be configured to control the motor (361). For example, the electronic device (101) may include a motor driver integrated circuit (IC) (540) and / or an encoder (550) electrically connected to the processor (120) and the motor (361). The motor driver IC (540) may be controlled by the processor (120) to provide a control signal to the motor (361) for controlling the motor (361). For example, the processor (120) may provide a pulse width modulation (PWM) signal to the motor (361) for controlling the speed, rotation direction, and / or torque of the motor (361) through the motor driver IC (540). The motor (361) may cause the rotation of a pinion gear (e.g., the pinion gear (362) of FIG. 4A) by operating based on the pulse width modulation signal. As the pinion gear (362) rotates, a rack gear (e.g., a rack gear (363) of FIG. 4a) engaged with the pinion gear (362) moves, and movement of the rack gear (363) may cause movement of the second housing part (220) (and / or the first housing part (210)). For example, the encoder (550) may include a rotor (e.g., a rotor (610) of FIG. 6a), a stator (e.g., a stator (620) of FIG. 6a), and a plurality of Hall sensors (e.g., a plurality of Hall sensors (623) of FIG. 6a). The processor (120) may be configured to identify an operating state of the rotor (610) (e.g., a rotational direction and a rotational speed of the rotor (610)) through the encoder (550).

[0122] For example, the processor (120) may be configured to cause the motor (361) to operate for moving the second housing part (220) based on a user input set for moving the second housing part (220). As the second housing part (220) moves, the electronic device (101) may change to any one of a first state (e.g., the first state of FIG. 2A), a second state (e.g., the second state of FIG. 2B), and a plurality of intermediate states between the first state and the second state. The plurality of intermediate states may refer to states between a first state in which the overall size of the housing (201) is minimum and a second state in which the overall size of the housing (201) is maximum. For example, within the plurality of intermediate states, the size of the housing (201) may be larger than the size of the housing (201) within the first state and smaller than the size of the housing (201) within the second state.

[0123] Referring to FIG. 5B, in operation 501, a processor (e.g., processor (120) of FIG. 5A) may receive a user input. The user input may be a user input set to drive a housing (e.g., housing (201) of FIG. 2A). For example, the user input may be a user input for commanding a movement (e.g., slide out or slide in) of a second housing part (e.g., second housing part (220) of FIG. 2A) relative to a first housing part (e.g., first housing part (210) of FIG. 2A).

[0124] For example, the user input may include a user input from a physical button exposed through a portion of the housing (201). For example, when a user presses the physical button, an electrical signal corresponding to the pressed physical button is generated, and the generated electrical signal may be provided to the processor (120). As described above, the user input may be diverse. For example, the user input may include a touch input for an executable object displayed within the display area, a touch input having a contact point on the display area and a pressing force greater than or equal to a reference force, and / or a voice input received via a microphone. However, the user input is not limited thereto. For example, the user input may be an intended external force applied to the first housing part (210) and / or the second housing part (220).

[0125] In operation 503, the processor (120) may control the motor (361) to rotate based on a user input (e.g., the motor (361) of FIG. 5A). For example, if the user input received in operation 501 is a user input for changing the electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 5A) from a first state to a second state, the processor (120) may control the motor (361) to withdraw at least a portion of the second housing part (220) from the first housing part (210) based on the user input. For example, if the user input received in operation 501 is a user input for changing the electronic device (101) from a second state to a first state, the processor (120) may control the motor (361) to insert at least a portion of the second housing part (220) into the first housing part (210) based on the user input. The motor (361) may operate based on power from the battery (189). When the motor (361) operates according to user input, the motor (361) may operate by receiving power from the battery (189). For example, the power may be provided to the motor (361) based on the user input. The operation of the motor (361) based on the user input may be referred to as an operation performed based on power.

[0126] The operation illustrated in FIG. 5B may be an operation for driving the housing (201) in response to a user input. For example, the user may provide a user input set to move the second housing part (220) in order to change the state of the electronic device (101). The processor (120), based on receiving the user input intended by the user, may provide a control signal to the motor (361) for the operation of the motor (361) corresponding to the user input. For example, the processor (120) may provide a control signal for rotation of the motor (361) through a motor driver IC (e.g., the motor driver IC (540) of FIG. 5A). The motor (361) may perform an operation for moving the second housing part (220) based on the control signal.

[0127] A situation may occur in which the second housing part (220) moves due to an external force that is not intended by the user. For example, the electronic device (101) may be used in a second state in which the second housing part (220) is pulled out from the first housing part (210). For example, while the user is using a game application, the electronic device (101) may provide a large screen in the second state. When the user holds the electronic device (101) in the second state and uses the game application, the second housing part (220) may receive an external force in a direction toward the first housing part (210) by the user's hand (e.g., the second direction (262) of FIG. 2B). The motor (361) may have a force (e.g., a back drive force) that acts as a load against the external force. When the external force is smaller than the above force, the motor (361) does not rotate, so the second housing part (220) can be fixed without moving. When the external force is larger than the above force, the motor (361) can be rotated by the external force, so the second housing part (220) can be moved. When the second housing part (220) is moved by the external force, the motor (361) can be rotated. For example, in the second state, when the second housing part (220) is moved by the external force, the motor (361) can be rotated based on the direction in which the second housing part (220) moves. When the motor (361) is rotated by the external force, the motor (361) can be rotated regardless of the power. For example, when the second housing part (220) is moved by an unintended external force, the motor (361) can be rotated by the external force without receiving power from the battery (189).

[0128] Since the external force is a force that is not intended by the user, the electronic device (101) may receive intermittent and irregular external forces. If the second housing part (220) is moved by the intermittent external force, the size of the display area of ​​the housing (201) and the display (e.g., the display (230) of FIG. 2A) may be unintentionally changed. According to one embodiment, if a situation occurs in which the second housing part (220) is moved by an external force that is not intended by the user, the electronic device (101) may control the motor (361) to fix the position of the second housing part (220).

[0129] For example, the processor (120) can control the motor (361) so that the motor (361) has a holding torque greater than the external force. For example, when an unintended external force is applied to the housing (201), the processor (120) can be configured to control the current provided to the motor (361) so that the motor (361) can have a holding torque capable of resisting the external force. The holding torque can be referred to as a force that the motor (361) can resist against an external force applied to the housing (201). For example, even if an external force of a magnitude smaller than the holding torque is transmitted to the motor (361), the motor (361) can remain stationary without being rotated by the holding torque. For example, while the motor (361) has a holding torque greater than the external force, even if an external force is applied to the housing (201), the second housing part (220) can be fixed without being moved by the external force because the motor (361) does not rotate. Since the second housing part (220) can be fixed by blocking the rotation of the motor (361) through the controllable holding torque, the electronic device (101) may not include a mechanical structure (e.g., a stopper) and an electrical structure (e.g., an electronic brake) for fixing the second housing part (220). Since the position of the second housing part (220) is effectively prevented from unintentionally changing, the user can use the electronic device (101) stably.

[0130] Referring again to FIG. 5A, the electronic device (101) of one embodiment may further include a first sensor (510), a second sensor (520), and / or a third sensor (530). For example, the first sensor (510) may be configured to obtain data related to movement of the second housing part (220) relative to the first housing part (210). For example, the second sensor (520) may be configured to obtain data related to a temperature of at least a portion of the electronic device (101), such as the display (230). For example, the third sensor (530) may be configured to identify data related to a posture of the electronic device (101). The processor (120) may be operatively coupled to each of the first sensor (510), the second sensor (520), and / or the third sensor (530). For example, the processor (120) being operatively coupled with each of the first sensor (510), the second sensor (520), and / or the third sensor (530) may indicate that the processor (120) is directly coupled to each of the first sensor (510), the second sensor (520), and / or the third sensor (530). For example, the processor (120) being operatively coupled with each of the first sensor (510), the second sensor (520), and / or the third sensor (530) may indicate that the processor (120) is coupled to each of the first sensor (510), the second sensor (520), and / or the third sensor (530) via at least one other component. For example, the processor (120) may be configured to control the magnitude of the holding torque of the motor (361) using the first sensor (510), the second sensor (520), and / or the third sensor (530). Operations of the processor (120) using the first sensor (510), the second sensor (520), and / or the third sensor (530) will be described later.

[0131] Below, the operations of the electronic device (101) for fixing the second housing part (220) by controlling the motor (361) are described.

[0132] Figure 5c is a flowchart illustrating the operation of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0133] The operation illustrated in FIG. 5c may be referred to as an operation of controlling the driving mechanism (360) to resist an external force not intended by the user.

[0134] In operation 502, the processor (120) can identify an external force that causes relative movement of the second housing part (220) with respect to the first housing part (210) while the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) are stationary.

[0135] For example, a state in which the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) are stationary may be referred to as a state in which the second housing part (220) is withdrawn from the first housing part (210) and movement is completed. The stationary state may be identified through the first sensor (510) or based on at least one of power provided from the battery (189) to the driving mechanism (360).

[0136] For example, if a signal provided from the first sensor (510) to the processor (120) is less than a reference value for a first reference time period or longer, the processor (120) may be configured to identify a stationary state in which the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) are stationary. For example, if the second housing part (220) moves relative to the first housing part (210), the first sensor (510) may provide a signal based on the movement to the processor (120). In a stationary state in which the movement of the second housing part (220) is substantially absent, since there is substantially no signal provided from the first sensor (510) to the processor (120), the processor (120) may identify a stationary state based on the signal being less than a reference value for a first reference time period or longer.

[0137] For example, when movement of the second housing part (220) relative to the first housing part (210) is performed by the driving mechanism (360), power may be supplied from the battery (189) to the driving mechanism (360). In a stationary state where there is substantially no movement of the second housing part (220), since the operation of the driving mechanism (360) is stopped, there may be substantially no power supplied from the battery (189) to the driving mechanism (360). The processor (120) may identify a state in which the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) are stationary when the power supplied to the driving mechanism (360) is less than a reference value for a first reference time or longer.

[0138] In operation 504, the processor (120) may control the drive mechanism (360) to maintain the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) in a stationary state based on the identified external force.

[0139] For example, the processor (120) may control the drive mechanism (360) to have a holding torque for the motor (361) to resist an external force provided to the electronic device (101) to maintain the stopped state. For example, the motor (361) may include a coil (622). By controlling the current applied to the coil (coil (622) illustrated in FIG. 6A), the motor (361) may have a holding torque for maintaining the stopped state. The operation controlled by the drive mechanism (360) to maintain the stopped state will be described later.

[0140] Fig. 6a illustrates a motor according to one embodiment. Fig. 6b illustrates the operation of the motor according to one embodiment. Fig. 6c is a graph representing signals provided from a plurality of Hall sensors during the operation of the motor illustrated in Fig. 6b. Fig. 6d is a graph representing the back electromotive force during the operation of the motor illustrated in Fig. 6b.

[0141] For example, the motor (361) may include a brushless direct current (BLDC) motor. A BLDC motor may be referred to as a direct current (DC) motor without brushes for providing current to a commutator. For example, the motor (361) may include a coreless BLDC motor without a metal core. A coreless BLDC motor may be small and lightweight and may be subject to reduced mechanical damage because it does not have brushes that physically contact the commutator. A coreless BLDC motor may have high output and a low moment of inertia, which may enable precise control. A coreless BLDC motor may have a small back drive force because it does not have a metal core.

[0142] Referring to FIG. 6A, a motor (361) of one embodiment may include a rotor (610), a stator (620), and a plurality of Hall sensors (623). For example, the rotor (610) may include a permanent magnet (611). For example, the rotor (610) may include a first portion (611a) of a permanent magnet having a first polarity (e.g., an N pole) (hereinafter, referred to as a “first permanent magnet”) and a second portion (611b) of a permanent magnet having a second polarity (e.g., an S pole) (hereinafter, referred to as a “second permanent magnet”). For example, the stator (620) may include a plurality of teeth (621) having coils (622) wound therearound. For example, the stator (620) may include a first tooth (621a), a second tooth (621b), and / or a third tooth (621c) arranged at regular intervals along the outer side of the rotor (610). For example, the first tooth (621a), the second tooth (621b), and / or the third tooth (621c) may be spaced 120 degrees apart from each other. For example, the stator (620) may include a first coil (622a) wound around the first tooth (621a), a second coil (622b) wound around the second tooth (621b), and / or a third coil (622c) wound around the third tooth (621c). For example, the plurality of Hall sensors (623) may include a first Hall sensor (623a), a second Hall sensor (623b), and / or a third Hall sensor (623c). In FIG. 6A, the motor (361) of the embodiment is illustrated as a BLDC motor capable of switching three phases, but this is merely exemplary and is not limited to what is illustrated in FIG. 6A. For example, the stator (620) may have three or more of these.

[0143] For example, a processor (e.g., processor (120) of FIG. 5A) may be configured to control a motor (361) by controlling current provided to coils (622) wound around a plurality of these (621). For example, the processor (120) may control the phase and timing of current provided to the first coil (622a), the second coil (622b), and / or the third coil (622c) so that the motor (361) rotates. For example, when current is provided to the coils (622) in a first direction, a first polarity (e.g., a north pole) may be formed at an end of the plurality of these (621) facing the rotor (610) by inducing a magnetic field. For example, when a current is supplied to the coil (622) in a second direction opposite to the first direction, a second polarity (e.g., S pole) may be formed at the ends of the plurality of these (621) facing the rotor (610) by the induced magnetic field.

[0144] Referring to FIG. 6b, the motor (361) can be rotated based on the phase and timing of the current provided to the permanent magnet (611) and coil (622) included in the rotor (610).

[0145] Referring to operation 601, a processor (e.g., processor (120) of FIG. 5A) may control a motor driver IC (e.g., motor driver IC (540) of FIG. 5A) so that a current is provided to a first coil (622a) in a first direction and a current is provided to a second coil (622b) in a second direction. When a current is provided to the first coil (622a) in the first direction, the first magnet (621a) may form a first polarity. When a current is provided to the second coil (622b) in the second direction, the second magnet (621b) may form a second polarity. The first magnet (621a) forming the first polarity may attract the second permanent magnet (611b) of the rotor (610) by an attractive force and repel the first permanent magnet (611a) of the rotor (610) by a repulsive force. The second tooth (621b) forming the second polarity can attract the first permanent magnet (611a) of the rotor (610) by attractive force and repel the second permanent magnet (611b) of the rotor (610) by repulsive force. The rotor (610) can rotate by the attractive and repulsive forces. Since no current is supplied to the third coil (622c), the third tooth (621c) may not form a polarity.

[0146] Referring to operation 602, the processor (120) can control the motor driver IC (540) so that a current is provided in a second direction to the second coil (622b) and a current is provided in a first direction to the third coil (622c). When a current is provided in the second direction to the second coil (622b), the second magnet (621b) can form a second polarity. When a current is provided in the first direction to the third coil (622c), the third magnet (621c) can form a first polarity. The second magnet (621b) forming the second polarity can attract the first permanent magnet (611a) of the rotor (610) by an attractive force and repel the second permanent magnet (611b) of the rotor (610) by a repulsive force. The third tooth (621c) forming the first polarity can attract the second permanent magnet (611b) of the rotor (610) by attractive force and repel the first permanent magnet (611a) of the rotor (610) by repulsive force. The rotor (610) can rotate by the attractive and repulsive forces. Since no current is supplied to the first coil (622a), the first tooth (621a) may not form a polarity.

[0147] Referring to operation 603, the processor (120) can control the motor driver IC (540) so that current is provided in the second direction to the first coil (622a) and current is provided in the first direction to the third coil (622c). When current is provided in the second direction to the first coil (622a), the first magnet (621a) can form a second polarity. When current is provided in the first direction to the third coil (622c), the third magnet (621c) can form a first polarity. The first magnet (621a) forming the second polarity can attract the first permanent magnet (611a) of the rotor (610) by an attractive force and repel the second permanent magnet (611b) of the rotor (610) by a repulsive force. The third tooth (621c) forming the first polarity can attract the second permanent magnet (611b) of the rotor (610) by attractive force and repel the first permanent magnet (611a) of the rotor (610) by repulsive force. The rotor (610) can rotate by the attractive and repulsive forces. Since no current is supplied to the second coil (622b), the first tooth (621a) may not form a polarity.

[0148] Referring to operation 604, the processor (120) can control the motor driver IC (540) so that a current is provided in a second direction to the first coil (622a) and a current is provided in a first direction to the second coil (622b). When a current is provided in the second direction to the first coil (622a), the first magnet (621a) can form a second polarity. When a current is provided in the first direction to the second coil (622b), the second magnet (621b) can form a first polarity. The first magnet (621a) forming the second polarity can attract the first permanent magnet (611a) of the rotor (610) by an attractive force and repel the second permanent magnet (611b) of the rotor (610) by a repulsive force. The second magnet (621b) forming the first polarity can attract the second permanent magnet (611b) of the rotor (610) by attractive force and repel the first permanent magnet (611a) of the rotor (610) by repulsive force. The rotor (610) can rotate by the attractive and repulsive forces. Since no current is supplied to the third coil (622c), the first magnet (621a) may not form a polarity.

[0149] Referring to operation 605, the processor (120) can control the motor driver IC (540) so that current is provided in a first direction to the second coil (622b) and current is provided in a second direction to the third coil (622c). When current is provided in the first direction to the second coil (622b), the second magnet (621b) can form a first polarity. When current is provided in the second direction to the third coil (622c), the third magnet (621c) can form a second polarity. The second magnet (621b) forming the first polarity can attract the second permanent magnet (611b) of the rotor (610) by an attractive force and repel the first permanent magnet (611a) of the rotor (610) by a repulsive force. The third tooth (621c) forming the second polarity can attract the first permanent magnet (611a) of the rotor (610) by attractive force and repel the second permanent magnet (611b) of the rotor (610) by repulsive force. The rotor (610) can rotate by the attractive and repulsive forces. Since no current is supplied to the first coil (622a), the first tooth (621a) may not form a polarity.

[0150] Referring to operation 606, the processor (120) can control the motor driver IC (540) so that current is provided to the first coil (622a) in a first direction and current is provided to the third coil (622c) in a second direction. When current is provided to the first coil (622a) in the first direction, the first magnet (621a) can form a first polarity. When current is provided to the third coil (622c) in a second direction, the third magnet (621c) can form a second polarity. The first magnet (621a) forming the first polarity can attract the second permanent magnet (611b) of the rotor (610) by an attractive force and repel the first permanent magnet (611a) of the rotor (610) by a repulsive force. The third tooth (621c) forming the second polarity can attract the first permanent magnet (611a) of the rotor (610) by attractive force and repel the second permanent magnet (611b) of the rotor (610) by repulsive force. The rotor (610) can rotate by the attractive and repulsive forces. Since no current is supplied to the second coil (622b), the first tooth (621a) may not form a polarity.

[0151] As described above, as operations 601 to 606 are repeatedly performed, the motor (361) may rotate counterclockwise. When the processor (120) rotates the motor (361) clockwise, it may provide current in the opposite direction to operations 601 to 606.

[0152] For example, a plurality of Hall sensors (623) may be disposed on the stator (620) to identify the position of the permanent magnet (611) included in the rotor (610). For example, the motor (361) may include a first Hall sensor (623a) disposed between the first tooth (621a) and the second tooth (621b), a second Hall sensor (623b) disposed between the first tooth (621a) and the third tooth (621c), and / or a third Hall sensor (623c) disposed between the second tooth (621b) and the third tooth (621c). However, the present invention is not limited thereto. The plurality of Hall sensors (623) may provide a signal indicating the position of the rotor (610). For example, the plurality of Hall sensors (623) may be configured to provide a high (1) signal when facing a first polarity (e.g., N pole) and a low (0) signal when facing a second polarity (e.g., S pole). However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0153] Referring to FIGS. 6b and 6c, in operation 601, since the first Hall sensor (623a) faces the second permanent magnet (611b), the first signal provided from the first Hall sensor (623a) may indicate low (0). Since the second Hall sensor (623b) and the third Hall sensor (623c) face the first permanent magnet (611a), the second signal provided from the second Hall sensor (623b) and the third signal provided from the third Hall sensor (623c) may indicate high (1). In operation 601, the first signal, the second signal, and the third signal provided from the plurality of Hall sensors (623) may be represented as (011).

[0154] In operation 602, the first Hall sensor (623a) and the second Hall sensor (623b) may face the second permanent magnet (611b), and the third Hall sensor (623c) may face the first permanent magnet (611a). The first signal and the second signal may indicate low (0). The third signal may indicate high (1). In operation 602, the first signal, the second signal, and the third signal provided from the plurality of Hall sensors (623) may be represented as (001).

[0155] In operation 603, the first Hall sensor (623a) and the third Hall sensor (623c) may face the first permanent magnet (611a), and the second Hall sensor (623b) may face the second permanent magnet (611b). The first signal and the third signal may indicate high (1). The second signal may indicate low (0). In operation 603, the first signal, the second signal, and the third signal provided from the plurality of Hall sensors (623) may be represented as (101).

[0156] In operation 604, the first Hall sensor (623a) may face the first permanent magnet (611a), and the second Hall sensor (623b) and the third Hall sensor (623c) may face the second permanent magnet (611b). The first signal may indicate high (1). The second signal and the third signal may indicate low (0). In operation 604, the first signal, the second signal, and the third signal provided from the plurality of Hall sensors (623) may be represented as (100).

[0157] In operation 605, the first Hall sensor (623a) and the second Hall sensor (623b) may face the first permanent magnet (611a), and the third Hall sensor (623c) may face the second permanent magnet (611b). The first signal and the second signal may indicate high (1). The third signal may indicate low (0). In operation 605, the first signal, the second signal, and the third signal provided from the plurality of Hall sensors (623) may be represented as (110).

[0158] In operation 606, the first Hall sensor (623a) and the third Hall sensor (623c) may face the second permanent magnet (611b), and the second Hall sensor (623b) may face the first permanent magnet (611a). The first signal and the third signal may indicate low (0). The second signal may indicate high (1). In operation 606, the first signal, the second signal, and the third signal provided from the plurality of Hall sensors (623) may be represented as (010).

[0159] Back electromotive force (back EMF) refers to a voltage formed when the magnetic flux of the coil (622) of the stator (620) changes due to the rotation of the rotor (610) including the permanent magnet (611). For example, when approaching a first permanent magnet (611a) having a first polarity (e.g., N pole) and moving away from a second permanent magnet (611b) having a second polarity (e.g., S pole), a back electromotive force of the second polarity may be formed. For example, when moving away from the first permanent magnet (611a) and moving closer to the second permanent magnet (611b), a back electromotive force of the first polarity may be formed. The back electromotive force of the first polarity may be represented by a positive (+) sign, and the back electromotive force of the second polarity may be represented by a negative (-) sign.

[0160] Referring to FIGS. 6b and 6d, when the rotor (610) rotates 360 degrees, the waveform of the counter electromotive force may appear in a trapezoidal shape.

[0161] For example, in operation 601, the first tooth (621a) may move away from the first permanent magnet (611a) and closer to the second permanent magnet (611b). A counter electromotive force (+) of the first polarity may be formed at the first tooth (621a). The second tooth (621b) may move away from the second permanent magnet (611b) and closer to the first permanent magnet (611a). A counter electromotive force (-) of the second polarity may be formed at the second tooth (621b). The third tooth (621c) may face the first permanent magnet (611a). No counter electromotive force may be formed at the third tooth (621c).

[0162] For example, in operation 602, a counter electromotive force may not be formed in the first tooth (621a). A counter electromotive force (-) of the second polarity may be formed in the second tooth (621b). A counter electromotive force (+) of the first polarity may be formed in the third tooth (621c).

[0163] For example, in operation 603, a counter electromotive force (-) of the second polarity may be formed in the first tooth (621a). No counter electromotive force may be formed in the second tooth (621b). A counter electromotive force (+) of the first polarity may be formed in the third tooth (621c).

[0164] For example, in operation 604, a counter electromotive force (-) of the second polarity may be formed in the first tooth (621a). A counter electromotive force (+) of the first polarity may be formed in the second tooth (621b). No counter electromotive force may be formed in the third tooth (621c).

[0165] For example, in operation 605, a counter electromotive force may not be formed in the first tooth (621a). A counter electromotive force (+) of the first polarity may be formed in the second tooth (621b). A counter electromotive force (-) of the second polarity may be formed in the third tooth (621c).

[0166] For example, in operation 606, a counter electromotive force (+) of the first polarity may be formed in the first tooth (621a). A counter electromotive force may not be formed in the second tooth (621b). A counter electromotive force (-) of the second polarity may be formed in the third tooth (621c).

[0167] For example, the processor (120) can identify the rotation angle of the rotor (610) through signals provided from a plurality of Hall sensors and counter electromotive force formed in each of the plurality of these (621). When the rotor (610) rotates 360 degrees, the signals provided from the first Hall sensor (623a), the second Hall sensor (623b), and / or the third Hall sensor (623c) and / or counter electromotive force formed in each of the plurality of these (621) are as shown in [Table 1] below.

[0168] Action Multiple Hall sensors (623) Multiple of these (621) First Hall sensor Second Hall sensor Third Hall sensor First Second Third Action 601110+1-10 Action 6021000-1+1 Action 603101-10+1 Action 604001-1+10 Action 6050110+1-1 Action 606010+10-1

[0169] For example, the processor (120) can identify the rotation angle of the rotor (610) rotated by an external force through the plurality of Hall sensors (623). For example, when the rotor (610) rotates, each of the plurality of Hall sensors (623) can provide a 1 signal or a 0 signal to the processor (120). The processor (120) can identify the rotation angle of the rotor (610) based on the signal provided from the plurality of Hall sensors (623). Since the rotation angle of the rotor (610) is substantially the same as the rotation angle of the motor (361), the rotation angle of the rotor (610) can be referred to as the rotation angle of the motor (361).

[0170] For example, the processor (120) may be configured to identify a movement distance by which the second housing part (e.g., the second housing part (220) of FIG. 2A) is moved by an external force based on a rotation angle of the rotor (610), and to identify the external force based at least in part on the rotation speed of the rotor (610) and the movement distance. For example, when the second housing part (220) is moved by an external force, the rotor (610) may rotate. When the rotor (610) rotates, the processor (120) may identify the rotation angle of the rotor (610) and the rotation speed of the rotor (610) through a back electromotive force formed in the plurality of Hall sensors (623) and / or the plurality of these (621). The rotation angle of the rotor (610) may be substantially the same as the rotation angle of the motor (361). The processor (120) can calculate an external force by identifying a change in momentum of the second housing part (220) and the display (e.g., the display (230) of FIG. 2A) based on a movement distance of the second housing part (220) corresponding to a predetermined rotation angle of the rotor (610). The operation of the processor (120) to identify the external force will be described later. For example, the processor (120) can control the motor (361) so that the motor (361) has a holding torque greater than or equal to the magnitude of the identified external force. Since the motor (361) has the holding torque, the second housing part (220) can be fixed without being moved by the external force. Since the second housing part (220) is not moved by the external force, the user can use the electronic device (101) stably. The electronic device (101) of one embodiment may not include a mechanical structure (e.g., a stopper) and an electrical structure (e.g., an electronic brake) for fixing the position of the second housing part (220), so that the weight of the electronic device (101) may be lightened and the structure of the electronic device (101) may be simplified.

[0171] Figure 7a is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of an electronic device for securing a housing. Figure 7b illustrates an example of an electronic device within a usage environment.

[0172] Referring to FIGS. 7A and 7B , in operation 701, a processor (e.g., processor (120) of FIG. 5A ) may identify that the second housing part (220) is stationary for a first reference time or longer within a state in which the second housing part (220) is moved from the first housing part (210). For example, the moved state may be referred to as a stationary state as the second housing part (220) completes moving in the first direction (261) from the first housing part (210).

[0173] For example, referring to FIG. 7b, a user may use the electronic device (101) in a state in which the second housing part (220) is moved in the first direction (261) from the first housing part (210) to expand the display area of ​​the display (230). For example, the user may hold and use the electronic device (101) in the second state. In the second state, at least a portion of the second area of ​​the display (230) (e.g., the second area (230b) of FIG. 4b) may be pulled out from the first housing part (210), thereby expanding the display area of ​​the display (230).

[0174] For example, the processor (120) can identify a state in which the second housing part (220) has moved in a first direction (261) from the first housing part (210). For example, the electronic device (101) can include a first sensor (e.g., the first sensor (510) of FIG. 5A). For example, the first sensor (510) can be configured to obtain data related to the movement of the second housing part (220). The first sensor (510) can provide the data to the processor (120). For example, the processor (120) can identify a distance by which the second housing part (220) has moved with respect to the first housing part (210) using the first sensor (510). For example, the first sensor (510) can include at least one or a combination of a proximity sensor, an illuminance sensor, a distance sensor, a magnetic sensor, a Hall sensor, and / or an infrared sensor. For example, the first sensor (510) may be a Hall sensor disposed between the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220), and the second housing part (220) may include a magnetic material that causes a Hall effect. When the second housing part (220) moves, the first sensor (510) may detect the movement of the magnetic material, thereby providing data related to the movement of the second housing part (220) to the processor (120). The processor (120) may identify the position of the second housing part (220) based on the data provided from the first sensor (510). The first sensor (510) described above is merely exemplary and is not limited thereto.

[0175] For example, the processor (120) can identify a state in which the second housing part (220) is moved from the first housing part (210) through the first sensor (510). For example, the processor (120) can identify whether the electronic device (101) is in an intermediate state or a second state. The processor (120) can be configured to identify that the second housing part (220) is in a state in which the second housing part (220) is stopped for a first reference time or longer within the intermediate state or the second state (i.e., identify that the second housing part (220) is in a stopped state). For example, the processor (120) can identify a state in which the second housing part (220) is stopped by identifying a state in which the motor (361) is stopped and not rotated for a first reference time or longer. The stopped state of the motor (361) can be identified through the counter electromotive force formed in the plurality of Hall sensors (623) included in the motor (361) and / or the plurality of these (621). For example, the processor (120) can identify the stopped state of the second housing part (220) by identifying that the change in the movement distance of the second housing part (220) provided through the first sensor (510) is less than or equal to the change in the specified distance for a period of time longer than the first reference time. For example, the processor (120) can identify the stopped state of the second housing part (220) by identifying that the power provided from the battery (189) to the motor (361) is less than or equal to a certain value for a period of time longer than the first reference time. However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0176] In operation 703, the processor (120) can identify an external force causing movement of the second housing part (220) based on identifying that the second housing part (220) has been stopped for a first reference time or longer.

[0177] Referring to FIG. 7B, when a user uses the electronic device (101), an unintended external force may be applied to the second housing part (220) by the user's hand. For example, the external force may be a resultant force (F3) of a force (F1) directed in the second direction (262) and a force (F2) perpendicular to the second direction (262). A portion of the actual external force that causes movement of the second housing part (220) may correspond to the force (F1) directed in the second direction (262). For example, when the magnitude of the force (F1) directed in the second direction (262) is greater than the back drive force of the motor (361) and the repulsive force of the display (230), the second housing part (220) may be moved in the second direction (262) by the external force. The repulsive force of the display (230) can be referred to as a force required to bend at least a portion of the second region (230b) that can be bent, as a force that attempts to unfold at least a portion of the second region (230b). When the second housing part (220) is moved in the second direction (262) by an external force, the motor (361) can be rotated by the movement of the second housing part (220).

[0178] For example, when the second housing part (220) is moved by an external force while the second housing part (220) is stopped for a first reference time or longer, the processor (120) may be configured to identify the external force that causes the movement of the second housing part (220). For example, when the second housing part (220) is moved, the processor (120) may identify the rotation angle of the rotor (610) through the counter electromotive force formed in the plurality of Hall sensors (623) and / or the plurality of these (621). The processor (120) may calculate the external force by identifying the change in momentum of the second housing part (220) through the movement distance of the second housing part (220) corresponding to the predetermined rotation angle of the rotor (610) and the mass of the second housing part (220). The operation of the processor (120) to identify the external force will be described later.

[0179] In operation 705, the processor (120) can control the motor (361) so that the second housing part (220) is fixed.

[0180] For example, the processor (120) can control the force required to rotate the motor (361). For example, the processor (120) can be configured to control the holding torque of the motor (361) by controlling the strength and direction of the current provided to the first coil (622a), the second coil (622b), and / or the third coil (622c). As the holding torque of the motor (361) is controlled, the force required to rotate the rotor (610) can be changed. The processor (120) can effectively prevent further movement of the second housing part (220) due to the external force by controlling the motor (361) so that the motor (361) has a holding torque greater than the magnitude of the identified external force. For example, when the motor (361) has a holding torque greater than the external force, even if an external force is additionally applied to the second housing part (220), the second housing part (220) can be fixed without moving in the second direction. In a state where the second housing part (220) is fixed, the user can use the electronic device (101) stably. The electronic device (101) according to one embodiment can provide stable usability to the user. Since the movement of the second housing part (220) due to an unintended force is effectively prevented, the user experience can be enhanced. Since the electronic device (101) may not include a mechanical structure (e.g., a stopper) and an electrical structure (e.g., an electronic brake) for fixing the position of the second housing part (220), the weight of the electronic device (101) can be lightened, and the structure of the electronic device (101) can be simplified. According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) does not continuously control the motor (361) so that the motor (361) has a strong holding torque, but controls the motor (361) so that the motor (361) has a second magnitude of holding torque set based on a first magnitude of an external force, so that power consumption for holding torque can be reduced.For example, the processor (120) can control the motor (361) so that the power provided to the motor (361) is not continuous, but is provided in the form of PWM (pulse width modulation).

[0181] For example, between operations 703 and 705, operation 704 may be added. For example, in operation 704, the processor (120) may control the motor (361) to move the second housing part (220) to the original position. The original position may be referred to as the position of the second housing part (220) before the second housing part (220) is moved by an external force.

[0182] For example, the processor (120) can identify the distance (d) that the second housing part (220) is moved by an external force. For example, the processor (120) can identify the distance (d) that the second housing part (220) is moved by an external force through a counter electromotive force formed in a plurality of Hall sensors (623) and / or a plurality of these (621). For example, the processor (120) can identify the distance (d) that the second housing part (220) is moved by an external force through the first sensor (510). For example, the processor (120) can identify the distance (d) that the second housing part (220) is moved by in one direction (e.g., the second direction (262)) due to the external force.

[0183] The processor (120) may control the motor (361) to move the second housing part (220) to its original position before controlling the motor (361) to fix the second housing part (220). For example, the processor (120) may control the motor (361) to move the second housing part (220) by the distance (d) moved by the external force. For example, the processor (120) may control the motor (361) to move the second housing part (220) by the distance (d) moved in another direction opposite to the one direction (e.g., the first direction (261)). By operation 704, the second housing part (220) may compensate for the distance (d) moved by the unintended external force. The processor (120) can fix the second housing part (220) by performing operation 705 after the second housing part (220) has been moved to its original position. For example, operation 704 may be omitted. For example, whether or not the processor (120) performs operation 704 may be determined in advance.

[0184] FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation for identifying that an electronic device is in a stopped state. The operations of FIG. 8 may correspond to specific examples of operations 701 of FIG. 7a.

[0185] In operation 801, a processor (e.g., processor (120) of FIG. 5A) may identify movement of a second housing part (e.g., second housing part (220) of FIG. 2A) before a user input is received.

[0186] For example, the user input may include a user input configured to move the second housing part (220). For example, the user may input a preset user input to move the second housing part (220) in a first direction (e.g., the first direction (261) of FIG. 2A) or a second direction (e.g., the second direction (262) of FIG. 2A). The motor (e.g., the motor (361) of FIG. 5A) may be rotated based on the user input to move the second housing part (220) in the first direction (261) or the second direction (262). As described above, in response to the user input, the motor (361) may operate using power provided from a battery (e.g., the battery (189) of FIG. 5A). The user input may be intended by the user.

[0187] For example, “movement of the second housing part (220) before a user input is received” may refer to movement of the second housing part (220) in a state in which no user input is received. For example, in a state in which no user input is received, when an external force that is not intended by the user is applied to the second housing part (220), the second housing part (220) may be moved by the external force. For example, the processor (120) may identify movement of the second housing part (220) through a counter electromotive force formed in a plurality of Hall sensors (e.g., a plurality of Hall sensors (623) of FIG. 6A) included in the motor (361) and / or a plurality of these (e.g., a plurality of these (621) of FIG. 6A)) in a state in which no user input is provided. For example, in a state where no user input is provided, the processor (120) may identify movement of the second housing part (220) through the first sensor (e.g., the first sensor (510) of FIG. 5A). However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0188] In operation 803, the processor (120) can identify a first time at which the position of the second housing part (220) was maintained.

[0189] For example, the processor (120) can identify the first time by identifying the interval between the first timing at which the movement of the second housing part (220) by the user input is completed and the second timing at which the second housing part (220) is moved before the user input is received. The first timing may be the timing at which the movement of the second housing part (220) by the user's intention is completed. The second timing may be the timing at which the movement of the second housing part (220) is started by an external force that is not intended by the user. The interval between the first timing and the second timing may be the first time at which the position of the second housing part (220) was maintained. The processor (120) can reduce unnecessary power consumption consumed in continuously measuring the first time by identifying the first time through the interval between the first timing and the second timing.

[0190] In operation 805, the processor (120) may identify that the second housing part (220) is stopped for a first reference time or longer based on a first time period that is longer than the first reference time period. For example, the first reference time period may be a reference time period for identifying a case where an external force intended by a user is applied to the second housing part (220).

[0191] For example, the processor (120) can compare the first time with the first reference time. For example, when the second housing part (220) is moved by an unintended external force while the user is using the electronic device in the second state (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 5A), the processor (120) can compare the first time with the first reference time so that the operation 703 of FIG. 7A is triggered.

[0192] For example, if the first time is shorter than the first reference time, the operation 703 may not be triggered. For example, after a user provides a user input to change the electronic device (101) from the first state to the second state, the user may intentionally prevent the movement of the second housing part (220) before the electronic device (101) enters the second state. For example, the user may intentionally prevent the movement of the second housing part (220) to use the electronic device (101) within an intermediate state. For example, the user may intentionally prevent the movement of the second housing part (220) to cancel the change of the electronic device (101) to the second state. When the user applies an intended force, the processor (120) may not trigger the operation 703 if the first time is shorter than the first reference time so that the second housing part (220) is not fixed.

[0193] For example, if the first time is longer than the first reference time, the processor (120) may identify that the second housing part (220) has been moved by an external force that is not intended by the user. For example, the user may provide a user input to use the electronic device (101) in the second state. While the user is using the electronic device (101) in the second state, the user may apply an unintended external force to the second housing part (220). In the above-described case, since the electronic device (101) is maintained in the second state for a certain period of time, the first time may be longer than the first reference time. If an external force that is not intended by the user is applied to the second housing part (220), the processor (120) may be configured to trigger the operation 703 based on identifying the first time that is longer than the first reference time so that the second housing part (220) can be fixed. By means of actions 801, 803, and 804, the situation in which the second housing part (220) is fixed when an external force intended by the user is applied can be reduced.

[0194] Figure 9a is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of an electronic device for securing a housing. Figure 9b illustrates a driving mechanism according to one embodiment. Figure 9c illustrates a state in which a motor is controlled to have a holding torque.

[0195] Hereinafter, an operation for a processor (e.g., processor (120) of FIG. 5a) to identify an external force and secure a second housing part (e.g., second housing part (220) of FIG. 2a) based on the identified external force is described.

[0196] In operation 901, the processor (120) can identify a rotation angle of a rotor (e.g., rotor (610) of FIG. 6A). For example, the processor (120) can identify the rotation angle of the rotor (610) through a back electromotive force formed in a plurality of Hall sensors (e.g., a plurality of Hall sensors (623) of FIG. 6A) and / or a plurality of these (e.g., a plurality of these (621) of FIG. 6A).

[0197] In operation 903, the processor (120) can identify the movement distance of the second housing part (220) due to the external force through the movement distance of the second housing part (220) corresponding to the rotation angle of the rotor (610).

[0198] Referring to FIG. 9B, an electronic device (101) of one embodiment may include a drive mechanism (360). The drive mechanism (360) of one embodiment may include a motor (361), a shaft (920) coupled to a rotational axis of the motor (361), a pinion gear (362) coupled to the shaft (920), and a rack gear (363) engaged with the pinion gear (362). For example, the drive mechanism (360) may be referred to as the drive mechanism (360) illustrated in FIGS. 4A and 4B.

[0199] For example, the movement distance of the second housing part (220) corresponding to the rotation angle of the rotor (610) may be determined in advance. For example, the processor (120) may identify the movement distance of the second housing part (220) through information about the movement distance of the second housing part (220) based on the rotation angle of the rotor (610).

[0200] For example, the motor (361) may include a reduction gear (910). For example, the reduction gear (910) may include a sun gear (911), a plurality of planetary gears (912), and a ring gear (913). As the sun gear (911) rotates, the plurality of planetary gears (912) may rotate and revolve. The ring gear (913) may be rotated by the plurality of planetary gears (912). The rotational angle of the rotor (610) transmitted to the pinion gear (362) by the reduction gear (910) may be reduced. For example, the reduction ratio may be, but is not limited to, 1:36.

[0201] For example, the pinion gear (362) can be rotated based on the rotation of the rotor (610). The rack gear (363) can be moved in a first direction or a second direction based on the rotation of the pinion gear (362). When the rack gear (363) is moved in the first direction (e.g., the first direction (261) of FIG. 2A) by the pinion gear (362), the second housing part (220) can be moved in the first direction (261). When the rack gear (363) is moved in the second direction (e.g., the second direction (262) of FIG. 2A) by the pinion gear (362), the second housing part (220) can be moved in the second direction (262).

[0202] For example, the processor (120) can identify the rotation angle of the rotor (610) through the counter electromotive force formed in the plurality of Hall sensors (e.g., the plurality of Hall sensors (623) of FIG. 6A) and / or the plurality of these (e.g., the plurality of these (621) of FIG. 6A). The processor (120) can identify the movement distance of the second housing part (220) based on the identified rotation angle of the rotor (610). For example, when the rotor (610) rotates once, the second housing part (220) can be set to move about 0.24 mm, but is not limited thereto. For example, the processor (120) can identify the movement distance of the second housing part (220) as about 0.48 mm based on identifying that the rotor (610) has rotated twice. Since the display (e.g., the display (230) of FIG. 2A) is moved by the second housing part (220), the movement distance of the display (230) may be substantially the same as the movement distance of the second housing part (220). For example, when the rotor (610) rotates once, the movement distance of the display (230) may be about 0.24 mm.

[0203] At operation 905, the processor (120) can identify a first magnitude of an external force applied to the second housing part (220) based at least in part on the identified movement distance.

[0204] For example, an external force can be identified through the change in momentum with respect to time. The external force can be calculated based on [Mathematical Equation 1] below.

[0205]

[0206] In the above [Mathematical Formula 1], F represents (or means) an external force. represents the change in momentum of an object to which an external force is applied. represents the change in time that causes a change in momentum due to an external force. m represents the mass of the object moved by the external force. represents the change in velocity of an object moved by an external force.

[0207] For example, the processor (120) may be configured to identify an external force by calculating the external force based on the above [Mathematical Formula 1]. For example, the second housing part (220) may be moved by the external force. The display (230) supported by the second housing part (220) may be moved based on the movement of the second housing part (220). For example, since the object moved by the external force may include the second housing part (220) and the display (230), the mass of the above [Mathematical Formula 1] may be the sum of the mass of the second housing part (220) and the mass of the display (230).

[0208] For example, the processor (120) can identify the time at which the second housing part (220) is moved by an external force. For example, the processor (120) can identify the time at which the rotor (610) is rotated by the movement of the second housing part (220). For example, the processor (120) can identify the time at which the rotor (610) is rotated through a signal provided from a plurality of Hall sensors (623). For example, the processor (120) can identify the time at which the second housing part (220) is moved through the first sensor (e.g., the first sensor (510) of FIG. 5A). The change in time (of the above [Mathematical Formula 1]) ) may be the time the rotor (610) rotates or the time the second housing part (220) moves.

[0209] For example, the processor (120) can identify the speed of the second housing part (220) due to an external force. For example, since the second housing part (220) is moved by an external force while the second housing part (220) is stopped for a first reference time or longer, the initial speed may be 0. The processor (120) can identify the speed at which the rotor (610) rotates through the counter electromotive force formed in the plurality of Hall sensors (623) and / or the plurality of these (621). The processor (120) can identify the movement speed of the second housing part (220) and the display (230) from the rotational speed of the rotor (610). For example, when the rotor (610) rotates once, if the second housing part (220) is configured to move about 0.24 mm, the rotational speed of the second housing part (220) and the display (230) corresponding to the rotational speed of the rotor (610) can be identified. The change in speed of the above [Mathematical Formula 1] ( ) may be the final speed of the second housing part (220) and the display (230) due to an external force. The processor (120) may calculate the first magnitude, which is the magnitude of the external force, by substituting the mass, the amount of change in speed, and the amount of change in time into [Mathematical Formula 1].

[0210] At operation 907, the processor (120) may control the current provided to the coil (e.g., coil (622) of FIG. 6A) so that the motor (361) has a holding torque of a second magnitude.

[0211] For example, the processor (120) can control the current provided to the coil (622) so that the motor (361) has a holding torque of a second magnitude greater than or equal to the first magnitude. Referring to FIG. 9C, a rotor (610) including permanent magnets (e.g., permanent magnets (611) of FIG. 6A) can be rotated by current provided to coils (622) wound around a plurality of magnets (621). Depending on the polarity formed by the coils (622), each of the plurality of magnets (621) can provide attractive and repulsive forces to the permanent magnets (611). The processor (120) can control the current provided to the coils (622) so that the motor (361) has a holding torque of the second magnitude.

[0212] Referring to FIG. 9C, in a state where the first permanent magnet (611a) faces the second magnet (621b) and the second permanent magnet (611b) faces the first magnet (621a), the processor (120) can control the current provided to the coil (622) to fix the rotor (610). For example, the processor (120) can control the motor driver IC (e.g., the motor driver IC (540) of FIG. 5A) to provide a current in a first direction to the first coil (622a). The first magnet (621a) can attract the second permanent magnet (611b) by having a first polarity due to the current flowing along the first coil (622a). For example, the processor (120) can control the motor driver IC (540) to provide a current in a second direction to the second coil (622b). The second tooth (621b) can attract the first permanent magnet (611a) by having a second polarity due to the current flowing along the second coil (622b). The rotor (610) can be fixed without rotating by the attractive force between the first tooth (621a) and the second permanent magnet (611b) facing each other and the attractive force between the second tooth (621b) and the first permanent magnet (611a) facing each other. The strength of the current provided to the first coil (622a) and the second coil (622b) can be adjusted so that the holding torque of the motor (361) has a second magnitude that is greater than the first magnitude.

[0213] For example, while the motor (361) has a holding torque of the second magnitude, even if an external force of the first magnitude is applied to the first housing part (210), the motor (361) can be fixed without rotating. When the motor (361) is fixed, movement of the second housing part (220) is blocked, so the position of the second housing part (220) can be maintained. As the position of the second housing part (220) is maintained, the user can use the electronic device (101) stably.

[0214] At operation 909, the processor (120) can identify a second time during which the position of the second housing part (220) was maintained while being controlled to have a holding torque.

[0215] For example, the processor (120) may be configured to identify a second time period during which the position of the second housing part (220) is maintained while the motor (361) is controlled to have a holding torque of a second magnitude. If an external force of a third magnitude greater than the second magnitude is applied to the second housing part (220), the second housing part (220) may be moved. In the above-described case, as the second housing part (220) is moved, the processor (120) may again perform operations 901, 903, 905, and 907. For example, the processor (120) may control the current provided to the coil (622) so that the motor (361) has a holding torque greater than the third magnitude.

[0216] For example, while the motor (361) is controlled to have a holding torque of the second magnitude, even if an external force of the first magnitude is applied to the second housing part (220), the position of the second housing part (220) can be maintained because the motor (361) does not rotate. For example, the processor (120) can identify the second time period during which the second housing part (220) is maintained based on identifying the time period during which the rotor (610) is stopped through the counter electromotive force formed in the plurality of Hall sensors (623) and / or the plurality of these (621). For example, the processor (120) can identify the second time period during which the second housing part (220) is maintained through the first sensor (510).

[0217] In operation 911, the processor (120) can control the motor (361) to release the holding torque based on a second time that is longer than the second reference time.

[0218] For example, the processor (120) may compare the second time with the second reference time. For example, if the second time during which the position of the second housing part (220) is maintained by the holding torque is longer than the second reference time, the processor (120) may cause the motor (361) to release the holding torque. If the holding torque is not released and is maintained continuously, current may be continuously supplied to the coil (622) within a state in which an external force may be applied to the second housing part (220). As the motor (361) maintains the holding torque within a state in which fixation of the second housing part (220) by the holding torque is not required, unnecessary power may be consumed, which may cause discharge of the battery (e.g., battery (189) of FIG. 5A). The processor (120) can control the motor (361) to release the holding torque based on determining that the second time has elapsed from the second reference time. For example, the processor (120) can release the holding torque by releasing the current provided to the coil (622). For example, unnecessary power consumption can be reduced by releasing the holding torque within a state where the user has stopped using the electronic device (101).

[0219] For example, if the second time is less than the second reference time, the processor (120) may control the current provided to the coil (622) so that the motor (361) maintains the second magnitude of holding torque. For example, if the second time has not passed the second reference time, the motor (361) may be required to maintain the holding torque because a situation in which an external force is applied to the second housing part (220) may occur again.

[0220] As described above in one embodiment, the processor (120) may control the motor (361) so that the motor (361) has a holding torque to resist an external force. For example, the external force may include, but is not limited to, a force unintentionally applied by a user. For example, a force that causes movement of the second housing part (220) unintentionally by the user may include, in addition to the external force, a repulsive force of the display (230) depending on the temperature of the display (230) and / or a weight applied to the motor (361) depending on the posture of the electronic device (101). The external force may be a sum of a force applied by the user, a repulsive force of the display (230) depending on the temperature, and a weight applied to the motor (361). In order to precisely control the motor (361), the processor (120) can control the motor (361) so that the motor (361) has a holding torque based on the repulsive force of the display (230) and gravity according to temperature.

[0221] FIG. 10A is a cross-sectional view of an electronic device according to one embodiment taken along line C-C' of FIG. 2A. FIG. 10B is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation for identifying the magnitude of a holding torque based at least in part on the temperature of a display.

[0222] Referring to FIG. 10A, an electronic device (101) of one embodiment may include a second sensor (520) configured to obtain data related to the temperature of a display (230). For example, the second sensor (520) may include, but is not limited to, at least one or a combination of a resistance temperature sensor, a thermocouple sensor, a non-contact temperature sensor, and / or a digital temperature sensor. For example, the second sensor (520) may obtain data related to the temperature of the display (230) and provide the obtained data to a processor (e.g., the processor (120) of FIG. 5A). However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0223] Referring back to FIG. 4A, the display (230) may include a first region (230a) and a second region (230b). The first region (230a) may be a portion of the display (230) that can always be viewed (or exposed) from the outside, independent of the state of the electronic device (101). For example, regardless of whether the electronic device (101) is in the first state or the second state, the first region (230a) may be a flat planar part. The second region (230b) may be a bendable part that can be at least partially deformed according to the movement of the second housing part (220). For example, the display (230) may be coupled to the second housing part (220). The display (230) may be configured to move based on the movement of the second housing part (220).

[0224] Within the first state, at least a portion of the second region (230b) can be rolled into the first housing part (210). Within the second state, at least a portion of the second region (230b) can be unfolded. As the display (230) moves, the position of the second region (230b) can change. For example, within the first state, the second region (230b) can be positioned on the inside of the first housing part (210). For example, within the second state, at least a portion of the second region (230b) can be positioned on the outside of the first housing part (210). When the second region (230b) is positioned on the outside of the first housing part (210), the second region (230b) can be unfolded, thereby expanding the display area of ​​the display (230). For example, the first region (230a) may correspond to the region (230a) of FIG. 2a, and the second region (230b) may correspond to the region (230b) of FIG. 2c described above.

[0225] For example, as the electronic device (101) changes from the second state to the first state, at least a portion of the second region (230b) may change from a flat state to a curved state. When at least a portion of the flat second region (230b) is curved, the second region (230b) may have a repulsive force. In order for at least a portion of the second region (230b) to be curved, a force greater than the repulsive force generated in the process of changing the shape of at least a portion of the second region (230b) may be required. Since the display (230) may have different physical properties depending on the temperature, the repulsive force may change depending on the temperature. For example, when the force required to bend at least a portion of the second region (230b) at a temperature of about 0°C or higher is 1 F, the force may increase as the temperature decreases. For example, the 1 F may be about 1 kgf, but is not limited thereto. For example, at a temperature of about -10°C, the force required to bend at least a portion of the second region (230b) may be about 3 F. For example, at a temperature of about -20°C, the force required to bend at least a portion of the second region (230b) may be about 6 F. The above figures are merely exemplary and are not limiting. Since the above force may act as a force resisting the movement of the second housing part (220), the processor (120) may identify the magnitude of the holding torque required for the motor (361) based on at least a portion of data related to the temperature of the display (230).

[0226] Referring to FIG. 10B, in operation 1001, a processor (e.g., processor (120) of FIG. 5A) may identify a temperature of a display (e.g., display (230) of FIG. 10B) through a second sensor (e.g., second sensor (520) of FIG. 10A). For example, the second sensor (520) may obtain data related to the temperature of the display (230). The second sensor (520) may provide the data to the processor (120). The temperature of the display (230) is exemplary and is not limited thereto. For example, the second sensor (520) may provide data related to the temperature of at least a portion of an electronic device (101) different from the display (230) to the processor (120).

[0227] At operation 1003, the processor (120) may identify a second magnitude of the holding torque based at least in part on the temperature of the display (230).

[0228] For example, the processor (120) may be configured to identify the second magnitude of the holding torque based at least in part on the temperature of the display (230) identified through the second sensor (520). For example, since the force required to bend at least a portion of the second region (230b) varies depending on the temperature, the processor (120) may reflect the temperature of the display (230) when calculating the magnitude of the holding torque. For example, the force required to bend at least a portion of the second region (230b) may act as a force that resists an external force. For example, since the force required to bend at least a portion of the second region (230b) increases at a low temperature, the magnitude of the holding torque may be reduced by the amount of the increased force. For example, the magnitude of the holding torque of a motor (e.g., motor (361) of FIG. 5A) required at a temperature of about 0°C or higher may be greater than the magnitude of the holding torque of the motor (361) required at a temperature of about -10°C. The processor (120) can reduce unnecessary power consumption by reflecting the temperature of the display (230) when determining the size of the holding torque.

[0229] In operation 1005, the processor (120) may control the motor (361) so that the motor (361) has a second magnitude of holding torque. For example, the processor (120) may control the motor (361) so that the motor (361) has the second magnitude of holding torque identified in operation 1003 by controlling a current provided to a coil (e.g., coil (622) of FIG. 6A). When the motor (361) has the second magnitude of holding torque, the motor (361) may be fixed without being rotated by the resultant force of the first magnitude of external force and the repulsive force of the display (230). As the motor (361) is fixed, the position of the second housing part (220) may be maintained. Since the position of the second housing part (220) does not change, a user using the electronic device (101) may use the electronic device (101) stably.

[0230] Referring back to FIG. 10A, the second sensor (520) may be adjacent to the display (230). For example, the second sensor (520) may be disposed in the second housing part (220) that supports the display (230). The position of the second sensor (520) within the second housing part (220) may be a position where the display (230) and the second sensor (520) are adjacent. For example, the second sensor (520) may be adjacent to a second area (230b) that is deformed based on the movement of the second housing part (220). When the electronic device (101) is used, various electronic components (e.g., a camera, a flash, a speaker, a microphone, and / or a battery) disposed within the electronic device (101) may operate, thereby causing heat to be emitted from the electronic components. If heat emitted from various electronic components affects the second sensor (520), the temperature of the display (230) obtained through the second sensor (520) may not be accurate. In order to accurately identify the temperature of the display (230), the second sensor (520) may be spaced apart from a plurality of electronic components that emit heat. For example, the second sensor (520) may be placed on a sub-PCB (327) disposed in the second housing part (220), and no other electronic components may be placed within a certain distance from the position of the sub-PCB (327) on which the second sensor (520) is placed. By not placing electronic components that emit heat around the second sensor (520), the accuracy of the temperature of the display (230) obtained through the second sensor (520) may be improved.

[0231] Figures 11a, 11b, 11c, and 11d illustrate the posture of an electronic device according to one embodiment. Figure 12 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation for identifying the magnitude of a holding torque based at least in part on the posture of the electronic device.

[0232] Referring to FIG. 11A, an electronic device (101) of one embodiment may include a third sensor (530) configured to obtain data related to a posture of the electronic device (101). For example, the third sensor (530) may include, but is not limited to, at least one or a combination of a mechanical acceleration sensor, an electrostatic acceleration sensor, a gyro sensor, and / or a geomagnetic sensor. The third sensor (530) may obtain data related to a posture of the electronic device (101) and provide the obtained data to a processor (e.g., the processor (120) of FIG. 5A).

[0233] For example, depending on the posture of the electronic device (101), the size and direction of the weight applied to the motor (361) may be different or changed. Since gravity pulls the electronic device (101) in a direction toward the center of mass of the Earth, the direction (g) of the gravitational acceleration may be toward the surface of the Earth. The angle between the weight applied to the motor (361) and the surface of the Earth may change depending on the posture of the electronic device (101). For example, assume that an external force is applied in a second direction (262) to the electronic device (101) in a second state in which the second housing part (220) is moved in a first direction (261) from the first housing part (210). The first direction (261) and the second direction (262) may be relative directions. For example, the first direction (261) may represent the direction in which the second housing part (220) is withdrawn from the first housing part (210). For example, the second direction (262) may represent the direction in which the second housing part (220) is inserted into the first housing part (210). The direction of the gravitational acceleration (g) may represent an absolute direction. Since the motor (361) can fix the second housing part (220) by having a holding torque that resists external force and weight, the processor (120) may identify the second magnitude of the holding torque based at least in part on the magnitude and direction of the weight applied to the motor (361).

[0234] The posture illustrated in FIG. 11A may represent a posture in which the direction of the external force and the direction of the gravitational acceleration (g) are the same, and the weight of the second housing part (220) is applied to the motor (361). Since the direction of the external force and the direction of the gravitational acceleration (g) are the same, a holding torque having a size equal to the sum of the size of the external force and the weight of the second housing part (220) may be required to fix the second housing part (220). For example, since the motor (361) in the above posture must resist the weight of the second housing part (220), the weight applied to the motor (361) may be the weight of the second housing part (220). For example, the second size of the holding torque required for the motor (361) may be calculated based on [Mathematical Formula 2] below.

[0235]

[0236] In the above [Mathematical Formula 2], F represents an external force. m2 represents the mass of the second housing part (220). g represents the acceleration of gravity.

[0237] The posture illustrated in FIG. 11b may represent a posture in which the direction of the external force is opposite to the direction of the gravitational acceleration (g), and the weight of the first housing part (210) is applied to the motor (361). Since the direction of the external force and the direction of the gravitational acceleration (g) are opposite to each other, a holding torque having a size equal to the weight of the first housing part (210) minus the size of the external force may be required to fix the second housing part (220). For example, since the motor (361) in the above posture must resist the weight of the first housing part (210), the weight applied to the motor (361) may be the weight of the first housing part (210). For example, the second size of the holding torque required for the motor (361) may be calculated based on [Mathematical Formula 3] below.

[0238]

[0239] In the above [Mathematical Formula 3], m1 represents the mass of the first housing part (210).

[0240] The posture illustrated in FIG. 11c may represent a posture in which the angle between the direction of the external force and the ground surface is 0 to 90 degrees, and the weight of the second housing part (220) is applied to the motor (361). Since a slope is formed between the direction of the external force and the direction of the gravitational acceleration (g), a holding torque of a size equal to the sum of the weight of the second housing part (220) in the direction in which the external force is applied may be required to fix the second housing part (220). For example, since the motor (361) in the above posture must resist the weight of the second housing part (220), the weight applied to the motor (361) may be the weight of the second housing part (220). For example, the second size of the holding torque required for the motor (361) may be calculated based on [Mathematical Formula 4] below.

[0241]

[0242] In the above [Mathematical Formula 4], θ represents the angle between the direction of the external force and the ground surface.

[0243] The posture illustrated in FIG. 11d may represent a posture in which the angle between the direction of the external force and the ground surface is 0 to 90 degrees, and the weight of the first housing part (210) is applied to the motor (361). Since a slope is formed between the direction of the external force and the direction of the gravitational acceleration (g), a holding torque of a size equal to the sum of the weight of the first housing part (210) in the direction in which the external force is applied may be required to fix the second housing part (220). For example, since the motor (361) must resist the weight of the first housing part (210) in the above posture, the weight applied to the motor (361) may be the weight of the first housing part (210). For example, the second size of the holding torque required for the motor (361) may be calculated based on [Mathematical Formula 5] below.

[0244]

[0245] In addition to the positions of the electronic device (101) illustrated in FIGS. 11A, 11B, 11C, and 11D, various positions may be possible. For example, the processor (120) may calculate a second magnitude of a holding torque for securing the second housing part (220) based at least in part on the position of the electronic device (101).

[0246] Referring to FIG. 12, in operation 1201, a processor (e.g., processor (120) of FIG. 5A) can identify a posture of an electronic device (e.g., electronic device (101) of FIG. 11A) through a third sensor (e.g., third sensor (530) of FIG. 11A).

[0247] For example, the third sensor (530) can obtain data related to the attitude of the electronic device (101). The third sensor (530) can provide the data to the processor (120). The processor (120) can identify the attitude of the electronic device (101) based on the data provided from the third sensor (530). For example, the attitude of the electronic device (101) can be referenced as an angle of the housing (201) with respect to the direction of gravitational acceleration toward the center of mass of the Earth (e.g., the direction (g) of gravitational acceleration in FIG. 11A).

[0248] At operation 1203, the processor (120) may identify a second magnitude of the holding torque based at least in part on the posture of the electronic device (101).

[0249] For example, the processor (120) can identify the second magnitude of the holding torque based on the weight applied to the motor (e.g., the motor (361) of FIG. 11A) and an external force not intended by the user according to the posture of the identified electronic device (101). For example, if the posture of the electronic device (101) identified through the third sensor (530) is the posture shown in FIG. 11A, the processor (120) can identify the second magnitude of the holding torque by calculating the second magnitude of the holding torque based on the above [Mathematical Formula 2].

[0250] In operation 1205, the processor (120) may control the motor (361) so that the motor (361) has a second magnitude holding torque. For example, the processor (120) may control the motor (361) so that the motor (361) has the second magnitude holding torque identified in operation 1203 by controlling a current provided to a coil (e.g., coil (622) of FIG. 6A). When the motor (361) has the second magnitude holding torque, the motor (361) may be fixed without being rotated by the resultant force of the first magnitude external force and the weight applied to the motor (361). As the motor (361) is fixed, the position of the second housing part (220) may be maintained. Since the position of the second housing part (220) does not change, a user using the electronic device (101) may use the electronic device (101) stably.

[0251] FIG. 13A illustrates an embodiment of an electronic device that displays a visual object through a display. FIG. 13B is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the electronic device when an external force is applied.

[0252] Referring to FIG. 13a, when an external force is applied to the second housing part (220), the processor (e.g., the processor (120) of FIG. 5a) may display a visual object through the display (230) to request user input for operation of the motor (e.g., the motor (361) of FIG. 5a).

[0253] For example, a user input for controlling a motor (361) may include an external force intended by the user being applied for a reference time (e.g., a third reference time). For example, when an external force directed toward the second housing part (220) in the second direction (262) is applied for a third reference time or longer within a second state in which the second housing part (220) is moved in the first direction (261), the processor (120) may identify a user input for changing the electronic device (101) from the second state to the first state. For example, the user input for moving the second housing part (220) may be performed in a semi-automatic manner.

[0254] For example, when an external force intended by the user is applied to the second housing part (220), if the motor (361) has a holding torque greater than the external force, the second housing part (220) may not move. Conversely, when an external force not intended by the user is applied to the second housing part (220), if the motor (361) performs an operation to move the second housing part (220) in the second direction (262), the state of the electronic device (101) may be changed regardless of the user's intention. In order to identify whether the external force applied to the second housing part (220) is a user input intended by the user or an external force not intended by the user, a visual object (e.g., a user interface, a touch point, an icon, and / or a guide message) (1310) related to the operation of the motor (361) may be displayed through the display (230). The processor (120) may be configured to control the operation of the motor (361) based on user input regarding a visual object.

[0255] For example, the visual object (1310) may include content (1320) for confirming the user's intention regarding the operation of the motor (361). For example, the content (1320) may include text such as "Do you want to close the smartphone?" For example, the visual object (1310) may include a first visual object (1311) and a second visual object (1312) for receiving a user input. For example, the first visual object (1311) may be a visual object for receiving a user input indicating a first operation in which the motor (361) provides a driving force to move the second housing part (220) in the second direction (262). For example, the second visual object (1312) may be a visual object for receiving a user input indicating a second operation in which the motor (361) is controlled to have a holding torque. For example, the first visual object (1311) may include text such as "yes", and the second visual object (1312) may include text such as "no". For example, the processor (120) may be configured to identify a user input for the first visual object (1311) or the second visual object (1312) and control the operation of the motor (361) based on the identified user input. The user input may include a touch input for the visual object, but is not limited thereto. For example, the processor (120) may identify an input for the visual object using a designated gesture.

[0256] Referring to FIG. 13B, in operation 1301, a processor (e.g., the processor (120) of FIG. 5A) may identify movement of a second housing part (e.g., the second housing part (220) of FIG. 13A) within a state in which the second housing part is stopped for a first reference time or longer. For example, operation 1301 may be referred to as operations 701 and 703 of FIG. 7A.

[0257] In operation 1303, the processor (120) can identify whether the external force is continuously maintained until a third reference time elapses from the start timing of the external force.

[0258] For example, in the case of an external force that is not intended by the user, it may be intermittent and irregular. Since an intermittent and irregular external force does not last for a certain period of time, it can be identified whether the external force is intended by the user based on whether the external force is lasted for a certain period of time. For example, the third reference time may be a time for determining whether the user intentionally provides the external force. In operation 1303, the processor (120) may identify whether the time for which the external force is lasted is longer than or equal to the third reference time. Based on identifying that the external force is continuously maintained until the third reference time elapses from the start timing of the external force at which the external force is first provided, the processor (120) may perform operation 1305. Based on identifying that the external force is not continuously maintained until the third reference time elapses from the start timing of the external force at which the external force is first provided, the processor (120) may perform operation 1307.

[0259] In operation 1305, the processor (120) may control the motor (361) to provide driving force for moving the second housing part (220) (e.g., the motor (361) of FIG. 5A). For example, the motor (361) may perform a first operation for providing driving force for moving the second housing part (220). For example, the electronic device (101) may change from a second state to a first state.

[0260] In operation 1307, the processor (120) may display a visual object (e.g., the visual object (1310) of FIG. 13A) via a display (e.g., the display (230) of FIG. 13A). For example, the processor (120) may be configured to display a visual object (1310) for confirming a user's intention for the operation of the motor (361) via the display (230) based on identifying that the external force is released before a third reference time elapses from the start timing of the external force. For example, the processor (120) may display the visual object (1310) illustrated in FIG. 13A via the display (230). The above visual object (1310) may include a first visual object (e.g., the first visual object (1311) of FIG. 13A) for receiving a user input indicating a first action and a second visual object (e.g., the second visual object (1312) of FIG. 13A) for receiving a user input indicating a second action.

[0261] In operation 1309, the processor (120) may control the motor (361) based on identifying a user input for a visual object (1310). For example, the processor (120) may control the motor (361) to perform a first operation based on identifying a user input for a first visual object (1311). The motor (361) may provide a driving force to move the second housing part (220), and the second housing part (220) may be moved by the operation of the motor (361). For example, the processor (120) may control the motor (361) to perform a second operation based on identifying a user input for a second visual object (1312). The motor (361) may have a holding torque for fixing the second housing part (220), and the second housing part (220) may be fixed by the operation of the motor (361).

[0262] As described above in one embodiment, when an external force is applied to the electronic device (101), the operation of the motor (361) may be performed based on whether the external force is intended by the user. By moving the second housing part (220) by the continuous external force intended by the user, a semi-automatic operation may be possible. When an intermittent external force is applied to the housing (201), the second housing part (220) may perform a moving operation or a fixing operation of the second housing part (220) according to the user's intention, so that the electronic device (101) may provide the user with a stable feeling of use.

[0263] The operations illustrated in FIG. 13b can be performed in various ways based on the application being executed by the electronic device (101).

[0264] For example, when a game application is running, a situation in which the user touches the electronic device (101) with their hand may occur repeatedly. In order to reduce malfunctions, when the game application is running, the third reference time for determining whether the external force is intended by the user may be relatively long. When the third reference time is relatively long, the duration of the external force for triggering the first operation is long, so that unintended state changes of the electronic device (101) may be reduced. For example, when the game application is running, the situation in which the second housing part (220) moves unintentionally due to an external force may be reduced. For example, when the game application is running, the second size of the holding torque may be set relatively large. By setting the size of the holding torque relatively large, the second housing part (220) may be stably fixed while the game application is running.

[0265] An electronic device (101) of one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a housing (201), a driving mechanism (360), a memory (130), and a processor (120). The housing (201) may include a first housing part (210) and a second housing part (220) movably coupled to the first housing part (210) and movable with respect to the first housing part (210). The driving mechanism (360) may be configured to provide a driving force for movement of the second housing part (220). The memory (130) may include one or more storage media storing instructions. The processor (120) may be configured to identify an external force that causes relative movement of the second housing part (220) with respect to the first housing part (210) when the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) are stationary. The processor (120) may be configured to control the drive mechanism (360) based on the identified external force so as to maintain the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) in a stationary state. The instructions, when executed by the processor (120), may cause the electronic device (101) to identify an external force that causes relative movement of the second housing part (220) with respect to the first housing part (210) when the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) are stationary. The instructions, when executed by the processor (120), may cause the electronic device (101) to control the drive mechanism (360) based on the identified external force so as to maintain the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) in a stationary state.According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the electronic device (101) may have a simple structure because it does not include a separate mechanical structure and / or electronic structure for fixing the second housing part (220). Since the electronic device (101) can fix the second housing part (220) based on an external force, unnecessary power consumption can be reduced.

[0266] For example, the electronic device (101) may further include a first sensor (510) configured to provide a signal based on a relative movement of the second housing part (220) to the processor (120). The processor (120) may be configured to identify a state in which the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) are stopped when a signal provided from the first sensor (510) is less than a reference value for a first reference time or longer, or when power provided to the driving mechanism (360) is less than a reference value for a first reference time or longer.

[0267] For example, the driving mechanism (360) may include a motor (361). The processor (120) may be configured to identify the movement caused by the identified external force. The processor (120) may be configured to fix the second housing part (220) by controlling the motor (361) to have a holding torque having a second magnitude greater than or equal to a first magnitude of the identified external force in relation to or based on the identified movement. The instructions, when executed by the processor (120), may be configured to cause the electronic device (101) to identify the movement caused by the identified external force. The above instructions, when executed by the processor (120), may cause the electronic device (101) to fix the second housing part (220) by controlling the motor (361) to have a holding torque having a second magnitude greater than or equal to the first magnitude of the identified external force in relation to or based on the identified movement.

[0268] For example, the motor (361) may include a rotor (610), a stator (620), and a plurality of Hall sensors (623). The rotor (610) may include a permanent magnet (611). The stator (620) may include a plurality of teeth (621) around which coils (622) are wound. The stator (620) may surround the rotor (610). The plurality of Hall sensors (623) may be disposed on the stator (620). The processor (120) may be configured to control the motor (361) by controlling a current applied to the coils (622). The above instructions, when executed by the processor (120), may cause the electronic device (101) to control the motor (361) by controlling the current applied to the coil (622).

[0269] For example, the processor (120) may be configured to identify a movement distance of the second housing part (220) due to the external force based on a value corresponding to a rotation angle of the rotor (610). The instructions, when executed by the processor (120), may cause the electronic device (101) to identify a movement distance of the second housing part (220) due to the external force based on a value corresponding to a rotation angle of the rotor (610).

[0270] For example, the processor (120) may be configured to control the current provided to the coil (622) such that the motor (361) has a second magnitude of holding torque. The instructions, when executed by the processor (120), may cause the electronic device (101) to control the current provided to the coil (622) such that the motor (361) has a second magnitude of holding torque.

[0271] The exemplary electronic device (101) may further include a second sensor (520). The second sensor (520) may be configured to obtain data related to a temperature of at least a portion of the electronic device (101). The processor (120) may be configured to identify a second magnitude of a holding torque of the motor (361) for fixing the second housing part (220) based on the data related to a temperature of at least a portion of the electronic device (101) obtained through the second sensor (520). The instructions, when executed by the processor (120), may cause the electronic device (101) to identify a second magnitude of a holding torque of the motor (361) for fixing the second housing part (220) based on the data related to a temperature of at least a portion of the electronic device (101) obtained through the second sensor (520).

[0272] The electronic device (101) of one embodiment may further include a third sensor (530) configured to obtain data related to a posture of the electronic device (101). The processor (120) may be configured to identify a second magnitude of a holding torque of the motor (361) for fixing the second housing part (220) based at least in part on the posture of the electronic device (101) identified through the third sensor (530). The instructions, when executed by the processor (120), may cause the electronic device (101) to identify a second magnitude of a holding torque of the motor (361) for fixing the second housing part (220) based at least in part on the posture of the electronic device (101) identified through the third sensor (530).

[0273] For example, the processor (120) may be configured to control the driving mechanism (360) based on at least one of an application running during the identification of the external force or a user input received, based on the identification of the external force. The instructions, when executed by the processor (120), may cause the electronic device (101) to control the driving mechanism (360) based on at least one of an application running during the identification of the external force or a user input received, based on the identification of the external force.

[0274] For example, the electronic device (101) may further include a display (230). The processor (120) may be configured to control the display (230) so that a first visual object (1311) and a second visual object (1312) for the user input are displayed. The processor (120) may be configured to control the driving mechanism (360) to cause relative movement of the second housing part (220) with respect to the first housing part (210) based on identifying a user input for the first visual object (1311). The processor (120) may be configured to control the driving mechanism (360) so that the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) remain stationary based on identifying a user input for the second visual object (1312). The instructions, when executed by the processor (120), may cause the electronic device (101) to control the display (230) to display a first visual object (1311) and a second visual object (1312) for the user input. The instructions, when executed by the processor (120), may cause the electronic device (101) to control the drive mechanism (360) to cause relative movement of the second housing part (220) with respect to the first housing part (210) based on identifying a user input for the first visual object (1311). The above instructions, when executed by the processor (120), may cause the electronic device (101) to control the drive mechanism (360) to maintain the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) in a stationary state based on identifying a user input for the second visual object (1312).

[0275] A method of operating an electronic device (101) of one embodiment may include an operation of identifying an external force that causes relative movement of a second housing part (220) with respect to the first housing part (210) when the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) of the electronic device (101) are stationary, and an operation of controlling a driving mechanism (360) of the electronic device (101) so that the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) are maintained in the stationary state based on the identified external force.

[0276] For example, the method may further include an operation of identifying a state in which the first housing part and the second housing part are stopped when a signal provided from the first sensor (510) of the electronic device (101) is less than a reference value for a first reference time or longer, or when power provided to the driving mechanism (360) is less than a reference value for a first reference time or longer.

[0277] For example, the method may further include an operation of identifying the movement by the identified external force and an operation of fixing the second housing part (220) by controlling the motor (361) of the driving mechanism (360) so that the motor (361) has a holding torque having a second magnitude greater than or equal to the first magnitude of the identified external force in relation to the identified movement.

[0278] For example, the method may further include an operation of controlling the motor (361) by controlling a current applied to a coil (622) of the motor (361).

[0279] For example, the method may further include an operation of identifying the first magnitude of the external force based on a value corresponding to a rotation angle of the rotor (610).

[0280] For example, the method may further include an operation of controlling a current provided to the coil (622) so that the motor (361) has a holding torque of the second size.

[0281] For example, the method may further include an operation of identifying a second magnitude of a holding torque of the motor (361) for securing the second housing part (220) based on at least a portion of data related to a temperature of at least a portion of the electronic device (101) identified through the second sensor (520) of the electronic device (101).

[0282] For example, the method may further include an operation of identifying a second magnitude of a holding torque of the motor (361) for fixing the second housing part (220) based at least in part on the posture of the electronic device (101) identified through the third sensor (530) of the electronic device (101).

[0283] For example, the method may further include an operation of controlling the driving mechanism based on at least one of a running application or a user input while identifying the external force, based on identifying the external force.

[0284] For example, the method may further include an operation of controlling the display (230) so that a first visual object (1311) and a second visual object (1312) for the user input are displayed, an operation of controlling the driving mechanism (360) so as to cause relative movement of the second housing part (220) with respect to the first housing part (210) based on identifying the user input for the first visual object (1311), and an operation of controlling the driving mechanism (360) so as to maintain the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) in a stationary state based on identifying the user input for the second visual object (1312).

[0285] Electronic devices according to the various embodiments disclosed in this document may take various forms. Electronic devices may include, for example, portable communication devices (e.g., smartphones), computer devices, portable multimedia devices, portable medical devices, cameras, electronic devices, or home appliances. Electronic devices according to the embodiments of this document are not limited to the aforementioned devices.

[0286] The various embodiments of this document and the terminology used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, but should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutes of the embodiments. In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components. The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of the items, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this document, each of the phrases "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B, or C", "at least one of A, B, and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" can include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase among those phrases, or all possible combinations thereof. Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used merely to distinguish one component from another, and do not limit the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order). When a component (e.g., a first component) is referred to as "coupled" or "connected" to another component (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.

[0287] The term "module" used in various embodiments of this document may include a unit implemented in hardware, software, or firmware, and may be used interchangeably with terms such as logic, logic block, component, or circuit. A module may be an integral component, or a minimum unit or part of such a component that performs one or more functions. For example, according to one embodiment, a module may be implemented in the form of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0288] Various embodiments of the present document may be implemented as software (e.g., a program (140)) including one or more instructions stored in a storage medium (e.g., an internal memory (136) or an external memory (138)) readable by a machine (e.g., an electronic device (101)). For example, a processor (120) (e.g., the processor (120)) of a 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.

[0289] According to one embodiment, the method according to various embodiments disclosed in the present 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 a memory (130) of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or a relay server.

[0290] According to various embodiments, each component (e.g., a module or a program) of the above-described components may include one or more entities, and some of the entities may be separated and placed in other components. According to various embodiments, one or more components or operations of the aforementioned components may be omitted, or one or more other components or operations may be added. Alternatively or additionally, a plurality of components (e.g., a module or a program) may be integrated into a single component. In such a case, the integrated component may perform one or more functions of each of the plurality of components identically or similarly to those performed by the corresponding component among the plurality of components prior to the integration. According to various embodiments, the operations performed by a module, program, or other component may be executed sequentially, in parallel, iteratively, or heuristically, or one or more of the operations may be executed in a different order, omitted, or one or more other operations may be added.

[0291] The present invention should not be construed as limited to the embodiments described herein. Rather, the embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the spirit of the invention to those skilled in the art.

[0292] While the present invention has been illustrated and described with reference to specific embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and detail may be made therein without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention as defined by the following claims.

Claims

1. In electronic devices, A housing comprising a first housing part and a second housing part movably coupled to the first housing part and movable relative to the first housing part; A driving mechanism configured to provide a driving force for movement of the second housing part; A memory including one or more storage media storing instructions; and A processor comprising a processing circuit, The above instructions, when executed by the processor, cause the electronic device to: While the first housing part and the second housing part are stationary, an external force that causes relative movement of the second housing part with respect to the first housing part is identified, Based on the identified external force, causing the driving mechanism to be controlled so that the first housing part and the second housing part remain stationary. Electronic devices.

2. In paragraph 1, Further comprising a first sensor configured to provide a signal to the processor based on the relative movement of the second housing part; The above instructions, when executed by the processor, cause the electronic device to: When the signal provided from the first sensor is less than the reference value for a first reference time or longer, or when the power provided to the driving mechanism is less than the reference value for a first reference time or longer, causing the first housing part and the second housing part to be identified as being in a stopped state. Electronic devices.

3. In paragraph 1 or 2, The above driving mechanism includes a motor, The above instructions, when executed by the processor, cause the electronic device to: Identify the relative movement caused by the external force identified above. causing the second housing part to be fixed by controlling the motor so that the motor has a holding torque having a second magnitude greater than or equal to the first magnitude of the identified external force based on the identified relative movement; Electronic devices.

4. In paragraph 3, The above motor, A rotor comprising permanent magnets; a stator comprising a plurality of teeth having coils wound thereon and surrounding the rotor; and comprising a plurality of Hall sensors arranged on the above stator, The above instructions, when executed by the processor, cause the electronic device to: By controlling the current applied to the coil, the motor is controlled, causing Electronic devices.

5. In paragraph 4, The above instructions, when executed by the processor, cause the electronic device to: causing said first magnitude of said external force to be identified based on a value corresponding to the rotation angle of said rotor; Electronic devices.

6. In paragraph 4, The above instructions, when executed by the processor, cause the electronic device to: Controlling the current provided to the coil so that the motor has a holding torque of a second size, Electronic devices.

7. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 6, Further comprising a second sensor configured to obtain data related to temperature of at least a portion of said electronic device; The above driving mechanism is, Including a motor, The above instructions, when executed by the processor, cause the electronic device to: causing a second magnitude of the holding torque of the motor to be identified for securing the second housing part, based at least in part on the data relating to the temperature; Electronic devices.

8. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 7, Further comprising a third sensor configured to obtain data related to the posture of the electronic device; The above driving mechanism is, Including a motor, The above instructions, when executed by the processor, cause the electronic device to: causing a second magnitude of a holding torque of the motor to be identified for securing the second housing part, based at least in part on the data relating to the attitude of the electronic device; Electronic devices.

9. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 8, The above instructions, when executed by the processor, cause the electronic device to: Based on identifying said external force, causing said driving mechanism to be controlled based on at least one of an application running or a user input while identifying said external force. Electronic devices.

10. In paragraph 9, Including more displays, The above instructions, when executed by the processor, cause the electronic device to: Controlling the display so that the first visual object and the second visual object for the above user input are displayed, Based on identifying a user input for the first visual object, controlling the driving mechanism to cause relative movement of the second housing part with respect to the first housing part; Based on identifying a user input for the second visual object, causing the driving mechanism to be controlled so that the first housing part and the second housing part remain stationary. Electronic devices.

11. In the method of operating an electronic device, An operation of identifying an external force causing relative movement of the second housing part with respect to the first housing part, while the first housing part and the second housing part of the electronic device are stationary; and An operation of controlling a driving mechanism of the electronic device to maintain the first housing part and the second housing part in a stationary state based on the identified external force. method.

12. In paragraph 11, Further comprising an operation of identifying a state in which the first housing part and the second housing part are stopped based on at least one of: when a signal provided from a first sensor of the electronic device is less than a reference value for a first reference time or longer, or when power provided by the driving mechanism is less than a reference value for the first reference time or longer. method.

13. In paragraph 11 or 12, An action for identifying said relative movement based on said identified external force; and Further comprising an operation of fixing the second housing part by controlling the motor of the driving mechanism to have a holding torque having a second magnitude greater than the first magnitude of the identified external force based on the identified relative movement. method.

14. In paragraph 13, Further comprising an operation of controlling the motor by controlling the current applied to the coil of the motor. method.

15. In paragraph 14, Further comprising an operation of identifying the first magnitude of the external force based on a value corresponding to the rotation angle of the rotor of the motor. method.

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