Electronic device comprising rack gear guide structure

Abstract

An electronic device, according to various embodiments, comprises: a first housing; a second housing slidably coupled to the first housing; and a driving unit. The driving unit provides a driving force for sliding the second housing, and includes a pinion gear and a driving motor for rotating the pinion gear. The electronic device further comprises: a rack gear; and a guide structure. The rack gear is gear-engaged with the pinion gear to enable reciprocating movement in a predetermined section according to the rotation of the pinion gear. The guide structure includes an accommodation space for accommodating at least a portion of the rack gear, and is configured to guide the moving rack gear.

Description

Electronic device including a rack gear guide structure

[0001] Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to an electronic device including a rack gear guide structure.

[0002] Electronic devices are becoming increasingly slimmer, more rigid, and more design-oriented, while their functional elements are being developed to be more differentiated. Due to improvements in manufacturing processes and technologies, electronic devices are gradually evolving into diverse shapes, moving away from a uniform rectangular shape. For example, electronic devices may have a deformable structure that is both portable and capable of utilizing a large-screen display. Electronic devices may include rollable electronic devices (e.g., slideable electronic devices) that can vary the display area of ​​a flexible display (e.g., rollable display) by supporting housings that slide relative to each other. Rollable electronic devices may require an efficient arrangement structure of a driving unit (e.g., driving module) that can automatically slide one housing relative to the other.

[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-described matters constitute prior art related to the present disclosure.

[0004] An electronic device may include a rollable electronic device (e.g., a slidable electronic device) in which a display area of ​​a flexible display (e.g., a rollable display, an expandable display, or a stretchable display) may be expanded and / or contracted depending on an operating state. The rollable electronic device may include a first housing and a second housing that are movably coupled to each other in a manner that is at least partially fitted together. For example, the first housing and the second housing may be slidably operable relative to each other and may support at least a portion of the flexible display. In this manner, the flexible display may be induced to have a first display area in a slide-in state, and to have a second display area larger than the first display area in a slide-out state.

[0005] A rollable electronic device may include a driving unit (e.g., a driving module) including a driving motor. The driving motor may be disposed in one housing (e.g., a first housing or a second housing) of the electronic device, and may include a pinion gear that automatically slides a second housing by a specified reciprocating distance relative to the first housing held by a user. The electronic device may be disposed in the other housing (e.g., the second housing or the first housing), and may include a rack gear that is gear-engaged with the pinion gear. For example, when a driving motor including a pinion gear is disposed in the first housing or the second housing, a rack gear that has a length along a sliding direction and is gear-engaged with the pinion gear may be disposed in the other housing.

[0006] However, the rack may have a length corresponding to the reciprocating travel distance (e.g., slide stroke) of the rollable electronic device, and may have a cantilever-shaped support structure that is fixed at one end to one housing and extends into the interior space of the other housing. Such a support structure is highly susceptible to damage if the electronic device is subjected to external impacts, such as a drop, and may be weak in rigidity.

[0007] Additionally, the rollable electronic device may be configured to be guided on both sides by guide rails positioned between the two housings. In this case, the guide rails may include a plurality of bearing members, and since the bearing members support the two housings in the thickness direction of the electronic device (e.g., in a direction perpendicular to the sliding direction), a problem of shaking in a planar direction (e.g., up, down, left, and right directions when the flexible display is viewed from above) may occur during operation.

[0008] Various embodiments of the present disclosure can provide an electronic device including a rack gear guide structure with improved impact resistance.

[0009] Various embodiments may provide an electronic device including a rack gear guide structure that may help improve fluidity by having support structures in various directions.

[0010] Various embodiments may provide an electronic device including a rack gear guide structure that can help reduce the driving resistance of a drive motor by reducing frictional force during a sliding operation by providing an improved guide structure of the rack gear.

[0011] However, the problem to be solved in this disclosure is not limited to the problem mentioned above, and may be expanded in various ways without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure.

[0012] According to various embodiments, an electronic device may include a first housing, a second housing slidably coupled to the first housing, a driving unit that provides a driving force for sliding the second housing and includes a pinion gear and a driving motor that rotates the pinion gear, a rack gear that is gear-coupled with the pinion gear and reciprocates in a predetermined section according to rotation of the pinion gear, and an accommodation space that accommodates at least a portion of the rack gear, and a guide structure that guides the moving rack gear.

[0013] Electronic devices according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure may be provided with a guide structure that guides a rack gear according to a sliding motion. This guide structure can improve shock resistance against external impacts, such as dropping, and can help improve operational stability by blocking foreign substances. Furthermore, the additional support structure provided by the guide structure can induce a stable sliding motion, and the reduced frictional force through the bearing member can reduce the driving resistance of the drive motor.

[0014] In addition, various effects may be provided, either directly or indirectly, through this document.

[0015] The effects that can be obtained from the present disclosure are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects that are not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure belongs from the description below.

[0016] In connection with the description of the drawings, the same or similar reference numerals may be used for the same or similar components.

[0017] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIGS. 2A and 2B are diagrams illustrating the front and back of an electronic device in a slide-in state according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIGS. 3A and 3B are diagrams illustrating the front and back of an electronic device in a slide-out state according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 4A is an exploded perspective view of an electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 4b is a perspective view of a support bracket on which a battery is mounted according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 5A is a cross-sectional view of an electronic device taken along line 5A-5A of FIG. 2A according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 5b is a cross-sectional view of an electronic device taken along line 5b-5b of FIG. 3a according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 6a is a drawing showing the arrangement positions of the rack gear and the guide structure in an inlet state according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 6b is a drawing showing the arrangement positions of the rack gear and the guide structure in a withdrawal state according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0026] FIG. 6c is a perspective view of a guide structure according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0027] FIG. 7A is a schematic diagram of the rear of an electronic device in an inlet state according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0028] FIG. 7b is a perspective view showing the rear surface of the second housing in an inlet state according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0029] FIG. 7c is a cutaway perspective view of the second housing taken along line 7c-7c of FIG. 7b according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0030] FIG. 7d is a partial cutaway perspective view of the second housing taken along line 7d-7d of FIG. 7b according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0031] FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram of the rear surface of an electronic device in an extended state according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0032] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of an electronic device taken along line 9-9 of FIG. 7A according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0033] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a portion of a rack gear according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0034] FIG. 11A is a perspective view of a guide structure according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0035] FIG. 11b is a drawing illustrating a state in which the guide structure of FIG. 11a is applied to an electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0036] FIGS. 12A and 12B are perspective views of a portion of a guide structure according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0037] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings so that those skilled in the art can easily implement the present disclosure. However, the present disclosure may be implemented in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. In connection with the description of the drawings, the same or similar reference numerals may be used for identical or similar components. Furthermore, in the drawings and related descriptions, descriptions of well-known functions and configurations may be omitted for clarity and conciseness.

[0038] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment according to various embodiments.

[0039] Referring to FIG. 1, in a network environment (100), an electronic device (101) may communicate with an electronic device (102) via a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network), or may communicate with an electronic device (104) or a server (108) via a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may communicate with the electronic device (104) via the server (108). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a processor (120), a memory (130), an input module (150), an audio output module (155), a display module (160), an audio module (170), a sensor module (176), an interface (177), a connection terminal (178), a haptic module (179), a camera module (180), a power management module (188), a battery (189), a communication module (190), a subscriber identification module (196), or an antenna module (197). In some embodiments, the electronic device (101) may omit at least one of these components (e.g., the connection terminal (178)), or may have one or more other components added. In some embodiments, some of these components (e.g., the sensor module (176), the camera module (180), or the antenna module (197)) may be integrated into one component (e.g., the display module (160)).

[0040] 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.

[0041] 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.

[0042] 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 nonvolatile memory (134). The nonvolatile memory (134) can include internal memory (136) and / or external memory (138).

[0043] 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).

[0044] 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).

[0045] 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.

[0046] The display module (160) can visually provide information to an external party (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (101). The display module (160) may include, for example, a display, a holographic device, or a projector and a control circuit for controlling the device. According to one embodiment, the display module (160) may include a touch sensor configured to detect a touch, or a pressure sensor configured to measure the intensity of a force generated by the touch.

[0047] 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).

[0048] 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.

[0049] The interface (177) may support one or more designated protocols that may be used to directly or wirelessly connect the electronic device (101) with an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (102)). In one embodiment, the interface (177) may include, for example, a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB) interface, an SD card interface, or an audio interface.

[0050] 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).

[0051] 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.

[0052] The camera module (180) can capture still images and videos. According to one embodiment, the camera module (180) may include one or more lenses, image sensors, image signal processors, or flashes.

[0053] The power management module (188) can manage power supplied to the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the power management module (188) can be implemented as, for example, at least a part of a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

[0054] 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.

[0055] 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).

[0056] The wireless communication module (192) can support 5G networks and next-generation communication technologies following the 4G network, such as NR access technology (new radio access technology). The NR access technology can support high-speed transmission of high-capacity data (eMBB (enhanced mobile broadband)), minimization of terminal power and connection of multiple terminals (mMTC (massive machine type communications)), or high reliability and low latency (URLLC (ultra-reliable and low-latency communications)). The wireless communication module (192) can support, for example, a high-frequency band (e.g., mmWave band) to achieve a high data transmission rate. The wireless communication module (192) can support various technologies for securing performance in a high-frequency band, such as beamforming, massive multiple-input and multiple-output (MIMO), full dimensional MIMO (FD-MIMO), array antenna, analog beam-forming, or large scale antenna. The wireless communication module (192) can support various requirements specified in the electronic device (101), an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (104)), or a network system (e.g., the second network (199)). According to one embodiment, the wireless communication module (192) can support a peak data rate (e.g., 20 Gbps or more) for eMBB realization, a loss coverage (e.g., 164 dB or less) for mMTC realization, or a U-plane latency (e.g., 0.5 ms or less for downlink (DL) and uplink (UL), or 1 ms or less for round trip) for URLLC realization.

[0057] The antenna module (197) can transmit or receive signals or power to or from an external device (e.g., an external electronic device). In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include an antenna including a radiator formed of a conductor or a conductive pattern formed on a substrate (e.g., a PCB). In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna). In this case, at least one antenna suitable for a communication method used in a communication network, such as the first network (198) or the second network (199), may be selected from the plurality of antennas, for example, by the communication module (190). A signal or power may be transmitted or received between the communication module (190) and an external electronic device via the at least one selected antenna. In some embodiments, in addition to the radiator, another component (e.g., a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) may be additionally formed as a part of the antenna module (197).

[0058] According to various embodiments, the antenna module (197) may form a mmWave antenna module. In one embodiment, the mmWave antenna module may include a printed circuit board, an RFIC disposed on or adjacent a first side (e.g., a bottom side) of the printed circuit board and capable of supporting a designated high-frequency band (e.g., a mmWave band), and a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna) disposed on or adjacent a second side (e.g., a top side or a side side) of the printed circuit board and capable of transmitting or receiving signals in the designated high-frequency band.

[0059] 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)).

[0060] According to one embodiment, commands or data may be transmitted or received between the electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (104) via a server (108) connected to a second network (199). Each of the external electronic devices (102 or 104) may be the same or a different type of device as the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, all or part of the operations executed in the electronic device (101) may be executed in one or more of the external electronic devices (102, 104, or 108). For example, when the electronic device (101) is to perform a certain function or service automatically or in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device (101) may, instead of or in addition to executing the function or service itself, request one or more external electronic devices to perform the function or at least a part of the service. One or more external electronic devices that receive the request may execute at least a portion of the requested function or service, or an additional function or service related to the request, and transmit the result of the execution to the electronic device (101). The electronic device (101) may process the result as is or additionally and provide it as at least a portion of a response to the request. For this purpose, cloud computing, distributed computing, mobile edge computing (MEC), or client-server computing technology may be used, for example. The electronic device (101) may provide an ultra-low latency service by using distributed computing or mobile edge computing, for example. In another embodiment, the external electronic device (104) may include an Internet of Things (IoT) device. The server (108) may be an intelligent server utilizing machine learning and / or a neural network. According to one embodiment, the external electronic device (104) or the server (108) may be included in the second network (199).The electronic device (101) can be applied to intelligent services (e.g., smart home, smart city, smart car, or healthcare) based on 5G communication technology and IoT-related technology.

[0061] According to various embodiments, the sensor module (176) may include a movement distance detection sensor for detecting a movement distance of a second housing (e.g., the second housing (220) of FIG. 4A) from a first housing (e.g., the first housing (210) of FIG. 4A) of an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (200) of FIG. 4A). In one embodiment, the sensor module (176) may detect a first state, which is an inlet state, a second state, which is an outlet state, or a third state, which is an intermediate state between the inlet state and the outlet state, as the second housing (220) is moved from the first housing (210). In some embodiments, the processor (120) may detect the movement distance in real time while the second housing (220) is moved from the first housing (210), through the sensor module (176), and may detect the movement distance in real time while the second housing (220) is moved from the first housing (210), and may detect the movement distance of a flexible display (e.g., the flexible display of FIG. 4A). Through the display (230), the display module (160) can also be controlled to display an object corresponding to the changing display area. In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a drive motor control module (181) for controlling the operation of a drive motor (e.g., a DC motor or a stepping motor) (e.g., the drive motor (260) of FIG. 4A) disposed inside the electronic device. In some embodiments, the drive motor control module (181) may be replaced with a processor (120).

[0062] FIGS. 2A and 2B are diagrams illustrating the front and back of an electronic device in a slide-in state according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. FIGS. 3A and 3B are diagrams illustrating the front and back of an electronic device in a slide-out state according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0063] The electronic device (200) of FIGS. 2A to 3B may be at least partially similar to the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1, or may further include other embodiments of the electronic device.

[0064] Referring to FIGS. 2A to 3B, the electronic device (200) may include a first housing (210) (e.g., a book cover or a first housing structure), a second housing (220) (e.g., a front cover or a second housing structure) slidably coupled from the first housing (210) in a specified direction (e.g., direction ① or direction ②) (e.g., ± y-axis direction), and a flexible display (230) (e.g., a rollable display, an expandable display, or a stretchable display) arranged to be supported by at least a portion of the first housing (210) and the second housing (220). In one embodiment, the second housing (220) may be slidably coupled to the first housing (210) so as to be slid out in a first direction (direction ①) or slid in in a second direction (direction ②) opposite to the first direction (direction ①) with respect to the first housing (210). In one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may be changed to a slide-in state as a first state by accommodating at least a portion of the second housing (220) in at least a portion of the first space (2101) formed by the first housing (210). In one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may be changed to a slide-out state as a second state by moving at least a portion of the second housing (220) outward (e.g., direction ①) from the first space (2101). In one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a support member (e.g., a bendable member, a multi-joint hinge module, a multi-bar assembly, or a multi-bar) that, in an extended state, forms at least partially the same plane as at least a portion of the second housing (220), and, in an extended state, is received in a bendable manner into the first space (2101) of the first housing (210).In one embodiment, at least a portion of the flexible display (230) may be arranged to be supported by at least a portion of the second housing (220). In one embodiment, at least a portion of the remaining portion of the flexible display (230) may be arranged to be supported by a support member (240) (e.g., the support member (240) of FIG. 4A). In one embodiment, the support member (e.g., the support member (240) of FIG. 4A) may be arranged in a manner that is attached to the back surface of the flexible display (230). In one embodiment, at least a portion of the flexible display (230) may be arranged to be received in a bendable manner into the first space (2101) of the first housing (210) while being supported by the support member (e.g., the support member (240) of FIG. 4A) in a retracted state, so as to be invisible or hidden from the outside. In one embodiment, at least a portion of the flexible display (230) can be moved so as to be visible from the outside while being supported by a support member (e.g., support member (240) of FIG. 4A) that forms at least partially the same plane as the second housing (220) in the extended state.

[0065] According to various embodiments, the first housing (210) may include a first side member (211), and the second housing (220) may include a second side member (221). In one embodiment, the first side member (211) may be disposed on a lower side of the electronic device (200) and may include a first side (2111) having a first length, a second side (2112) extending in a vertical direction (e.g., in the y-axis direction) from one end of the first side (2111) and having a second length, and a third side (2113) extending parallel to the second side (2112) from the other end of the first side (2111) and having a second length. In one embodiment, the first side member (211) may be formed at least partially of a conductive material (e.g., metal). In some embodiments, the first side member (211) may be formed by combining a conductive member and a non-conductive member (e.g., a polymer). In one embodiment, the first housing (210) may include a first extension member (212) extending from at least a portion of the first side member (211) to at least a portion of the first space (2101). In one embodiment, the first extension member (212) may be formed integrally with the first side member (211). In some embodiments, the first extension member (212) may be formed separately from the first side member (211) and structurally coupled to the first side member (211).

[0066] According to various embodiments, the second side member (221) may be disposed on an upper side of the electronic device (200) and may include a fourth side (2211) having a third length, a fifth side (2212) extending from one end of the fourth side (2211) in a direction perpendicular to the second side (2112) (e.g., in the - y-axis direction) and having a fourth length, and a sixth side (2213) extending from the other end of the fourth side (2211) in a direction parallel to the fifth side (2212) and having a fourth length, and corresponding to the third side (2113). In one embodiment, the second side member (221) may be formed at least partially of a conductive member (e.g., a metal). In some embodiments, the second side member (221) may be formed by combining a conductive member and a non-conductive member (e.g., a polymer). In one embodiment, at least a portion of the second side member (221) may include a second extension member (222) that extends to at least a portion of the second space (2201) of the second housing (220). In one embodiment, the second extension member (222) may be formed integrally with the second side member (221). In some embodiments, the second extension member (222) may be formed separately from the second side member (221) and structurally coupled to the second side member (221).

[0067] According to various embodiments, the second side (2112) and the fifth side (2212) may be slidably coupled to each other. In one embodiment, the third side (2113) and the sixth side (2213) may be slidably coupled to each other. In one embodiment, in the retracted state, a portion of the fifth side (2212) may be arranged to overlap the second side (2112) so as to be substantially invisible or hidden from the outside. In one embodiment, in the retracted state, the remaining portion of the fifth side (2212) may be arranged to be visible from the outside. In some embodiments, in the retracted state, the fifth side (2212) may be arranged to overlap the second side (2112) so as to be substantially invisible or hidden from the outside. In one embodiment, in the retracted state, a portion of the sixth side (2213) may be arranged to overlap with the third side (2113) so as to be substantially invisible or substantially hidden from the outside. In one embodiment, in the retracted state, a remaining portion of the sixth side (2213) may be arranged to be visible from the outside. In some embodiments, in the retracted state, the sixth side (2213) may be arranged to overlap with the third side (2113) so as to be substantially invisible or hidden from the outside. In one embodiment, a portion of the second extension member (222) may be arranged to be visible from the outside in the retracted state. In some embodiments, in the retracted state, the second extension member (222) may be arranged to overlap with the first extension member (212) so as to be substantially invisible or hidden from the outside.

[0068] According to various embodiments, the first housing (210) may include a first rear cover (213) coupled with at least a portion of the first side member (211). In one embodiment, the first rear cover (213) may be arranged in such a way that it couples with at least a portion of the first extension member (212). In some embodiments, the first rear cover (213) may be formed integrally with the first side member (211). In one embodiment, the first rear cover (213) may be formed of a polymer, a coated or colored glass, a ceramic, a metal (e.g., aluminum, stainless steel (STS), or magnesium), or a combination of at least two of these materials. In some embodiments, the first rear cover (213) may extend to at least a portion of the first side member (211). In some embodiments, the first rear cover (213) may be omitted, and at least a portion of the first extension member (212) may be replaced with the first rear cover (213).

[0069] According to various embodiments, the second housing (220) may include a second rear cover (223) coupled with at least a portion of the second side member (221). In one embodiment, the second rear cover (223) may be arranged in such a way that it couples with at least a portion of the second extension member (222). In one embodiment, the second rear cover (223) may be formed integrally with the second side member (221). In one embodiment, the second rear cover (223) may be formed of a polymer, a coated or colored glass, a ceramic, a metal (e.g., aluminum, stainless steel (STS), or magnesium), or a combination of at least two of these materials. In some embodiments, the second rear cover (223) may extend to at least a portion of the second side member (221). In some embodiments, the second rear cover (223) may be omitted, and at least a portion of the second extension member (222) may be replaced with the second rear cover (223). In some embodiments, the second extension member (222) may be omitted, and the second rear cover (223) may be replaced with the second extension member (222). In one embodiment, the second housing (220) may include a window cover (224) disposed on at least a portion of the second rear cover. In one embodiment, the window cover (224) may be disposed in an area exposed to the outside of the second housing (220) when in the retracted state, and may be formed of a material that facilitates detection of the external environment through at least one camera module (216) and / or sensor module (217) disposed in the internal space (2201) of the second housing (220). For example, the window cover (224) may be formed of glass and / or polymer material in which at least an area corresponding to the camera module (216) and / or the sensor module (217) is formed transparently. In some embodiments, the electronic device (200) may further include a cover member (2111a) arranged to cover at least a portion of the first side (2111) of the first housing (210).

[0070] According to various embodiments, the flexible display (230) may include a first portion (230a) (e.g., a flat portion) that is always visible from the outside, and a second portion (230b) (e.g., a bendable portion or a bending portion) that extends from the first portion (230a) and is accommodated in a manner that is at least partially bent into the first space (2101) of the first housing (210) so as to be invisible or hidden from the outside when in a retracted state. In one embodiment, at least a portion of the first portion (230a) may be arranged to be supported by the second housing (220), and the remaining portion of the first portion (230a) and the second portion (230b) may be arranged to be at least partially supported by a support member (e.g., a support member (240) of FIG. 4A). In one embodiment, the second part (230b) of the flexible display (230) may be arranged to form substantially the same plane as the first part (230a) and be visible from the outside while being supported by a support member (e.g., a support member (240) of FIG. 4A) while the second housing (220) is pulled out along the first direction (direction ①). In one embodiment, the second part (230b) of the flexible display (230) may be accommodated in a manner of bending into the first space (2101) of the first housing (210) while the second housing (220) is pulled in along the second direction (direction ②), and may be arranged to be invisible or hidden from the outside. Accordingly, the flexible display (230) can have a variable display area as the second housing (220) slides along a specified direction (e.g., ±y-axis direction) from the first housing (210).

[0071] According to various embodiments, the flexible display (230) may have a variable length in a sliding direction (e.g., direction ① or direction ②) according to the sliding movement of the second housing (220) relative to the first housing (210). For example, the flexible display (230), in a retracted state, may have a first display area (e.g., an area corresponding to the first portion (230a)) corresponding to a first length (L1). In one embodiment, the flexible display (230), in a retracted state, may be expanded to have a second display area (e.g., an area including the first portion (230a) and the second portion (230b)) corresponding to a third length (L3) longer than the first length (L1) and larger than the first display area, according to the movement distance of the second housing (220) moved by the second length (L2) relative to the first housing (210).

[0072] According to various embodiments, the electronic device (200) may include at least one of an input device (e.g., a microphone (203-1)), an audio output device (e.g., a call receiver (206) and / or a speaker (207)), a sensor module (204, 217), a camera module (e.g., a first camera module (205) or a second camera module (216)), a connector port (208), a key input device (219), or an indicator (not shown) disposed in the second space (2201) of the second housing (220). In one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include another input device (e.g., a microphone (203)) disposed in the first housing (210). In some embodiments, the electronic device (200) may be configured such that at least one of the above-described components is omitted, or other components are additionally included. In some embodiments, at least one of the above-described components may be arranged in the first space (2101) of the first housing (210).

[0073] According to various embodiments, the input device may include a microphone (203-1). In some embodiments, the input device (e.g., microphone (203-1)) may include multiple microphones arranged to detect the direction of sound. The audio output device may include, for example, a call receiver (206) and a speaker (207). In one embodiment, the speaker (207) may be connected to the outside through at least one speaker hole formed in the second housing (220) at a location that is always exposed to the outside (e.g., the fourth side (2211)), regardless of the inlet / outlet state. In one embodiment, the connector port (208) may be connected to the outside through a connector port hole formed in the second housing (220) in the extended state. In one embodiment, the connector port (208) may be covered so as not to be visible from the outside in the inlet state. In some embodiments, the connector port (208) may be formed in the first housing (210) in an inlet state and may be externally connected through an opening formed to correspond with the connector port hole. In some embodiments, the call receiver (206) may include an operative speaker (e.g., a piezo speaker) without a separate speaker hole.

[0074] According to various embodiments, the sensor modules (204, 217) may generate electrical signals or data values ​​corresponding to the internal operating state of the electronic device (200) or the external environmental state. In one embodiment, the sensor modules (204, 217) may include, for example, a first sensor module (204) (e.g., a proximity sensor or a light sensor) disposed on the front of the electronic device (200) and / or a second sensor module (217) (e.g., a heart rate monitoring (HRM) sensor) disposed on the rear of the electronic device (200). In one embodiment, the first sensor module (204) may be disposed on the front of the electronic device (200), below the flexible display (230). In one embodiment, the first sensor module (204) and / or the second sensor module (217) may include at least one of a proximity sensor, an ambient light sensor, a time of flight (TOF) sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, a fingerprint recognition sensor, a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a color sensor, an infrared (IR) sensor, a biometric sensor, a temperature sensor, or a humidity sensor.

[0075] According to various embodiments, the camera module may include a first camera module (205) disposed on the front of the electronic device (200) and a second camera module (216) disposed on the rear of the electronic device (200). In one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may also include a flash (not shown) positioned near the second camera module (216). In one embodiment, the camera modules (205, 216) may include one or more lenses, an image sensor, and / or an image signal processor. In one embodiment, the first camera module (205) may be disposed under the flexible display (230) and configured to capture a subject through a portion of an active area (e.g., a display area) of the flexible display (230).

[0076] According to various embodiments, among the camera modules, the first camera module (205) and among the sensor modules (204, 217), the first sensor module (204) may be arranged to detect the external environment through the flexible display (230). For example, the first camera module (205) or the first sensor module (204) may be arranged in the second space (2201) of the second housing (220) so as to be in contact with the external environment through a transparent area or a perforated opening formed in the flexible display (230). In one embodiment, an area of ​​the flexible display (230) facing the first camera module (205) may be formed as a transparent area having a designated transmittance as part of an active area for displaying content. In one embodiment, the transparent area may be formed to have a transmittance in a range of about 5% to about 20%. This transparent area may include an area overlapping with the effective area (e.g., field of view area) of the first camera module (205) through which light passes to be imaged by the image sensor to create an image. For example, the transparent area of ​​the flexible display (230) may include an area with a lower pixel arrangement density and / or wiring density than the surrounding area. For example, the transparent area may be replaced with the opening described above. For example, some camera modules (205) may include an under-display camera (UDC). In some embodiments, some sensor modules (204) may be arranged to perform their functions without being visually exposed through the flexible display (230) in the second space (2201) of the second housing (220).

[0077] According to various embodiments, the retraction operation and / or the withdrawal operation of the electronic device (200) may be performed automatically. For example, the retraction operation and / or the withdrawal operation of the electronic device (200) may be performed through gear engagement of a drive motor (e.g., the drive motor (260) of FIG. 4A) including a pinion gear (e.g., the pinion gear (261) of FIG. 5A) disposed in a second space (2201) of the second housing (220), and a rack gear (e.g., the rack gear (227) of FIG. 5A) disposed in the first space (2101) of the first housing (210), extending to at least a portion of the second space (2201), and coupled with the pinion gear (e.g., the pinion gear (261) of FIG. 5A). For example, when a processor of the electronic device (200) (e.g., processor (120) of FIG. 1) detects a triggering signal for transitioning from an incoming state to an outgoing state or from an outgoing state to an incoming state, the processor may drive a drive motor (e.g., drive motor (260) of FIG. 4A) disposed inside the electronic device (200). In one embodiment, the triggering signal may include a signal according to selection (e.g., touch) of an object displayed on the flexible display (230) or a signal according to operation (e.g., pressing) of a physical button (e.g., key button) included in the electronic device (200).

[0078] According to various embodiments, the electronic device (200) has a structure in which the second housing (220) is introduced and / or withdrawn relative to the first housing (210) along the longitudinal direction (e.g., vertical direction) (e.g., ± y-axis direction) of the electronic device (200), but is not limited thereto. For example, the electronic device (200) may have a structure in which the second housing (220) is introduced and / or withdrawn relative to the first housing (210) along the width direction (e.g., horizontal direction) (e.g., ± x-axis direction) perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the electronic device (200). In some embodiments, the electronic device (200) may be formed such that the length of the first side (2111) of the first housing (210) is longer than the length of the second side (2112). In this case, the length of the fourth side (2211) of the second housing (220) can also be formed to be longer than the length of the fifth side (2212).

[0079] According to various embodiments, the electronic device (200) may include an antenna (A) (e.g., a first antenna) disposed through at least a portion of a second side member (221) of the second housing (220). In one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include at least one unit conductive portion (310, 311) formed through at least one segment (321, 322, 323). In one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a first conductive portion (310) disposed through a first segment (321) disposed on a fifth side (2212) of the second side member (221) and a second segment (322) disposed on a fourth side (2211). In one embodiment, the first conductive portion (310) is electrically connected to a wireless communication circuit of the electronic device (200) (e.g., the wireless communication module (192) of FIG. 1) so as to be used as at least one antenna (A) operating in at least one designated frequency band (e.g., a legacy band or an NR band). For example, the at least one designated frequency band may include a frequency band in a range of about 600 MHz to 1000 MHz. In some embodiments, the third segment (323) disposed on the sixth side and the second conductive portion (311) disposed through the second segment (322) may also be used as an antenna. In one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may also include another antenna (A1) (e.g., a second antenna) that operates via a third conductive portion (312) disposed through a fourth segment (324) and a fifth segment (325) spaced apart from a first side (2111) of the first housing (210).

[0080] FIG. 4A is an exploded perspective view of an electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 4B is a perspective view of a support bracket on which a battery is mounted according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0081] In describing the electronic device (200) of FIG. 4a, the same reference numerals are given to components that are substantially the same as those of the electronic devices (200) of FIGS. 2a to 3b, and a detailed description thereof may be omitted.

[0082] Referring to FIGS. 4A and 4B, the electronic device (200) may include a first housing (210) including a first space (2101), a second housing (220) slidably coupled from the first housing (210) and including a second space (2201), a support member (240) (e.g., a bendable member or a multi-bar assembly) fixed to at least a portion of the second housing (220) and at least partially bendably received into the first space (2101) according to an inward motion, a flexible display (230) arranged to be supported by at least a portion of the support member (240) and the second housing (220), and a drive unit (e.g., a drive module or a drive mechanism) that drives the second housing (220) from the first housing (210) in an inward direction (e.g., a -y-axis direction) and / or an outward direction (e.g., a y-axis direction). In one embodiment, the first housing (210) may include a first side member (211) and a first rear cover (213) (e.g., a first rear bracket) coupled with at least a portion of the first side member (211) (e.g., at least a portion of the first extension member (212)). In one embodiment, the first space (2101) may be formed through the coupling of the first side member (211) and the first rear cover (213).

[0083] According to various embodiments, the second housing (220) may include a second side member (221), a second rear cover (223) (e.g., a second rear bracket) coupled with at least a portion of the second side member (221) (e.g., at least a portion of the second extension member (222)), and a window cover (224) coupled with the second rear cover (223). In one embodiment, the second space (2201) may be formed through the coupling of the second side member (221) and the second rear cover (223).

[0084] According to various embodiments, the driving unit (e.g., the driving module) may be disposed in the second space (2201) and may include a driving motor (260) including a pinion gear (e.g., the pinion gear (261) of FIG. 5A) and a rack gear (227) fixed to the support bracket (225), extending from the first space (2101) to the second space (2201), and arranged to be gear-engaged with the pinion gear (261). In one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may further include a reduction module (e.g., a reduction gear assembly) structurally coupled to the driving motor (260) to reduce the rotational speed and increase the driving force. In one embodiment, the driving motor (260) may be disposed in the second space (2201) of the second housing (220) to be supported by a second extension member (222). In one embodiment, the drive motor (260) may be arranged to be supported by a motor bracket (260a) fixed to the second extension member (222). In some embodiments, the rack gear (227) may be guided in a sliding direction by the motor bracket (260a). Therefore, when the electronic device (200) is assembled, the pinion gear (e.g., the pinion gear (261) of FIG. 5A) may maintain a state of gear engagement with the rack gear (227), and the pinion gear (261) provided with the driving force of the drive motor (260) may move along the rack gear (227), thereby allowing the second housing (220) to move in an inward or outward direction with respect to the first housing (210).

[0085] According to various embodiments, the electronic device (200) may include a support bracket (225) fixed to a first space (2101) of a first housing (210). In one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a pair of guide rails (226) (e.g., LM guides (linear motion guides)) fixed to both sides of the support bracket (225) to guide both ends of the support member (240) in a sliding direction and simultaneously guide the second housing (220) in a sliding direction. In one embodiment, the support bracket (225) and the pair of guide rails (226) may be fixed to the first housing (210) through fastening members such as screws, bolts and nuts, and clips, for example. In one embodiment, the support bracket may include a battery mounting portion (2251) for accommodating a battery (B) and a support portion (2252) formed on the lower side of the battery mounting portion (2251) and for supporting the back surface of a support member (240) that is bent during the sliding operation of the second housing (220). In one embodiment, the support portion (2252) may have a curved outer surface for smooth guidance of the support member (240). In one embodiment, the support bracket (225) and the guide rail (226) may be fixed in the internal space (2101) of the first housing (210) through fastening members such as screws, bolts and nuts, and clips, for example. In some embodiments, the electronic device (200) may further include a battery cover (2253) coupled to the support bracket (225) to cover the mounted battery (B). In one embodiment, the rack gear (227) may be secured to the outer surface of the support bracket (225) by a fastening member (e.g., a screw, a bolt and nut, a clip, etc.) so as to extend in the direction of the second space (2201). In one embodiment, the rack gear (227) may be positioned at the center (e.g., a left-right symmetrical center) of the support bracket (225) so as to cross the center of the electronic device (200) along the sliding direction of the second housing (220).This central arrangement can reduce current consumption by reducing the increase in driving resistance due to eccentricity during sliding motion.

[0086] According to various embodiments, the electronic device (200) may include at least one electrical component disposed in a second space (2201). In one embodiment, the at least one electrical component may include a first substrate (251) (e.g., a substrate assembly or a main substrate) (e.g., laminated substrates) and a second camera module (216) disposed around the first substrate (251). In some embodiments, the at least one electrical component may be disposed in the first space (2101) of the first housing (210).

[0087] According to various embodiments, the electronic device (200) may include a second substrate (252) (e.g., a sub-substrate) and an antenna member (253) disposed between a first extension member (212) and a first rear cover (213) in a first housing (210). In one embodiment, the second substrate (252) and the antenna member (253) may be disposed on at least a portion of the first extension member (212). In one embodiment, the second substrate (252) and the antenna member (253) may be electrically connected to the first substrate (251) via at least one electrical connection member (e.g., FPCB, flexible printed circuit board or FRC, flexible RF cable). In one embodiment, the antenna member (253) may include a multi-function coil (MFC) or multi-function core (MFC) antenna for performing a wireless charging function, a neat field communication (NFC) function, and / or an electronic payment function. In some embodiments, the second substrate (252) and / or the antenna member (253) may extend from the first space to the second space and be electrically connected to the first substrate (251) via an elastically deformable flexible substrate (e.g., the flexible substrate (F1) of FIG. 7A) (e.g., FPCB, flexible printed circuit board).

[0088] According to various embodiments, the electronic device (200) may include a guide structure (270) (e.g., a guide structure, a guide member, or a guide bracket) disposed in a second space (2201) and having an accommodation space (e.g., an accommodation space (2701) of FIG. 6A) for accommodating at least a portion of a rack gear (227) that is moved to the second space (2201) in a retracted state. In one embodiment, the guide structure (270) may have a length corresponding to at least a moving distance according to a sliding operation of the second housing (220) and may be disposed in the accommodation space (2701) for accommodating the rack gear (227). This accommodation space (2701) may improve operational stability by reducing the phenomenon of external foreign substances being introduced into the rack gear (227). In one embodiment, the rack gear (227) may be installed to be supported by at least one bearing member (e.g., the bearing member (275) of FIG. 6A) disposed between the rack gear (227) and the guide structure (270) within the receiving space (2701). In one embodiment, the guide and / or support structure of the rack gear through the at least one bearing member (275) may provide an additional support structure according to the sliding motion of the electronic device (200). The at least one bearing member (275) may be configured to provide a stable sliding motion even under external impact such as dropping, and to provide a support force that may help reduce the driving resistance of the drive motor due to reduced friction.

[0089] FIG. 5A is a cross-sectional view of an electronic device taken along line 5A-5A of FIG. 2A according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 5B is a cross-sectional view of an electronic device taken along line 5B-5B of FIG. 3A according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0090] In describing the electronic device (200) of FIGS. 5A and 5B, the same reference numerals are given to components that are substantially the same as those of the electronic device (200) of FIG. 4A, and a detailed description thereof may be omitted.

[0091] Referring to FIGS. 5A and 5B, the electronic device (200) may include a first housing (210) having a first space (2101), a second housing (220) having a second space (2201), a support member (240) connected to the second housing (220) and at least partially accommodated in the first space (2101) in a retracted state, a flexible display (230) arranged to receive support from at least a portion of the support member (240) and at least a portion of the second housing (220), a rack gear (227) fixed to the first space (2101) and extending into the second space (2201), and a drive motor (260) including a pinion gear (261) arranged in the second space (2201) and gear-coupled with the rack gear (227). In one embodiment, the drive motor (260) can automatically move the second housing (220) in the withdrawal direction (① direction) or the inlet direction (② direction) with respect to the first housing (210) through the gear engagement of the pinion gear (261) and the rack gear (227). In one embodiment, the electronic device (200) can include a first rear cover (213) coupled with a first extension member (212) extended from a first side member (211) of the first housing (210). In one embodiment, the electronic device (200) can include a second rear cover (223) coupled with a second extension member (222) extended from a second side member (221).

[0092] According to various embodiments, a portion of the second housing (220) may be accommodated in the first space (2101) of the first housing (210) in the retracted state of the electronic device (200) (state of FIG. 5a). In one embodiment, at least a portion of the flexible display (230) may be accommodated in a manner of being bent into the first space (2101) together with the support member (240), thereby being arranged to be invisible or hidden from the outside. In this case, the flexible display (230) may have a first display area (e.g., a display area corresponding to the first portion (230a) of FIG. 3a) exposed to the outside.

[0093] According to various embodiments, at least a portion of the second housing (220) may be transitioned to a pull-out state in which it is moved outwardly from the first housing (210) at least partially along the first direction (direction ①) by driving the drive motor (260). In one embodiment, the flexible display (230) may be supported by the support bracket (225) in the pull-out state of the electronic device (200) (state of FIG. 5b) and may be moved together with the support member (240), such that a portion inserted into the first space (2101) may be exposed so as to be at least partially visible from the outside. In this case, the flexible display (230) may have a second display area (e.g., a display area including the first portion (230a) and the second portion (230b) of FIG. 3a) that is expanded beyond the first display area exposed to the outside.

[0094] According to various embodiments, the electronic device (200) may include a guide structure (270) having a receiving space (e.g., receiving space (2701) of FIG. 6A) for receiving at least a portion of a rack gear (227) that is disposed in a second space (2201) and moves to the second space (2201) in a retracted state. In one embodiment, the guide structure (270) may be disposed in the second space (2201) in a manner that it is adjacent to or in contact with an inner surface (221a) of a second side member (221) (e.g., an inner surface of the fourth side member (2211) of FIG. 1A). In one embodiment, the guide structure (270) may be formed of a metal material and may be fixed to the second extension member (222) at least partially in the second space (2201) through a fastening member such as a screw, a bolt and a nut, and a clip. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the guide structure (222) may be arranged to support at least a portion of an electrical structure (e.g., a first substrate (e.g., the first substrate (251) of FIG. 4A)) disposed in the second space (2201). In some embodiments, at least a portion of the rack gear (227) may be positioned within the receiving space (e.g., the receiving space (2701) of FIG. 6A) of the guide structure (270), even in the extended state. In some embodiments, the rack gear (227) may be completely disengaged from the receiving space (2701) of the guide structure (270), even in the extended state.

[0095] According to various embodiments, the rack gear (227) may gradually enter the receiving space (e.g., the receiving space (2701) of FIG. 6A) of the guide structure (270) while the electronic device (200) transitions from the withdrawing state to the withdrawing state, and when fully retracted, the end of the rack gear (227) may be positioned near the inner surface (221a) of the second side member (221). In this case, the rack gear (227) formed of a metal material may be positioned as a part of the second side member (221) and near a conductive portion (e.g., the first conductive portion (310) of FIG. 1A) used as an antenna (e.g., the antenna (A) of FIG. 1A), thereby deteriorating the radiation performance of the antenna (A). Therefore, the guide structure (270) according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is formed of a metal material and is electrically connected to the ground of the electronic device (200) (e.g., the ground of the first substrate). Can be connected. In addition, the rack gear (227) is electrically connected to the guide structure (270) through a bearing member (e.g., the bearing member (275) of FIG. 6A), so that the rack gear (227) can also be electrically connected to the ground. This ground connection structure of the rack gear (227) through the guide structure (270) can help reduce the deterioration of the radiation performance of the antenna (A).

[0096] In some embodiments, the rack gear (227) may be disposed in the second housing (220), and a guide structure (270) configured to accommodate at least a portion of the rack gear (227) and a drive motor (260) including a pinion gear (261) may be disposed in the first housing (210).

[0097] FIG. 6a is a drawing illustrating the arrangement positions of the rack gear and the guide structure in the retracted state according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 6b is a drawing illustrating the arrangement positions of the rack gear and the guide structure in the retracted state according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0098] Referring to FIGS. 6A and 6B, an electronic device (e.g., an electronic device (200) of FIG. 4A) may include a rack gear (227) that is fixed to at least a portion (e.g., a support bracket (225) of FIG. 4A) of a first housing (e.g., a first housing (210) of FIG. 4A) and extends to a second housing (e.g., a second housing (220) of FIG. 4A), and a drive motor (260) that is disposed in the second housing (220) and includes a pinion gear (e.g., a pinion gear (261) of FIG. 5A) gear-coupled with the rack gear (227).

[0099] According to various embodiments, the electronic device (200) may include a guide structure (270) disposed in a second housing (220) and having a receiving space (2701) for receiving at least a portion of a rack gear (227) in a retracted state. In one embodiment, the rack gear (227) may include a gear surface (2271) on which a rack gear portion (2271a) is formed, a first side surface (2272) and a second side surface (2273) extending in opposite directions from the gear surface (2271), respectively.

[0100] According to various embodiments, the electronic device (200) may include at least one bearing member (275) (e.g., a first bearing member) (e.g., a first support member) disposed between the first side (2272) and the guide structure (270) and / or between the second side (2273) and the guide structure (270) in the receiving space (2701). In one embodiment, the at least one bearing member (275) may include a bearing member (275a) disposed between a first guide groove (2272a) formed on the first side (2272) and a second guide groove (2711) formed on a corresponding inner surface of the guide structure (270). In one embodiment, at least one bearing member (275) may include a bearing member (275b) disposed between a third guide groove (2273a) formed on the second side (2273) and a fourth guide groove (2712) formed on a corresponding inner side of the guide structure (270). In one embodiment, the rack gear (227), the bearing member (275), and the guide structure (270) may be formed of a metal material. In one embodiment, the rack gear (227) may be electrically connected to the guide structure (270) through the bearing member (275).

[0101] According to various embodiments, the drive motor (260) may be supported by a motor bracket (260a) fixed to the second housing (220). In one embodiment, the rack gear (227) may be slidably coupled to the motor bracket (260a) and may be gear-coupled with a pinion gear (e.g., the pinion gear (261) of FIG. 5a). In one embodiment, the guide structure (270) may be arranged in a manner that contacts the motor bracket (260a). Therefore, the phenomenon of foreign substances being introduced between the guide structure (270) and the motor bracket (260a) may be reduced, and the phenomenon of a lubricant, such as grease, applied to the gear coupling portion of the rack gear (227) and the pinion gear (261) leaking out to the outside and affecting the surrounding electrical structures may be reduced.

[0102] FIG. 6c is a perspective view of a guide structure according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0103] Referring to FIG. 6C, the guide structure (270) can be fixed to the second housing (220) through at least one fixing member (2713) extending at least partially outwardly. In one embodiment, the guide structure (270) can be fixed in a manner that a fastening member, such as a screw, a bolt and a nut, and a clip, is fastened to the internal structure (e.g., the second extension member (222) and / or the first substrate (251)) through a through hole formed in the fixing member (2713). In one embodiment, the electronic device (200) can further include an alignment member (280) to facilitate assembly of the guide structure (270) disposed in the second housing (220) and for easy alignment with the rack gear (227). In one embodiment, the alignment member (280) may be disposed in the interior space (2201) of the second housing (220) and may include at least one alignment guide groove (281) to accommodate a portion of the guide structure (270). In some embodiments, the alignment member (280) may be omitted. In some embodiments, the guide structure (270) may be fixed to the appropriate location in the second space (2201) of the second housing (220) by bonding, taping, or fusing, without the fixing piece (2713).

[0104] FIG. 7A is a schematic diagram of a rear view of an electronic device in a retracted state according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 7B is a perspective view of a rear view of a second housing in a retracted state according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 7C is a cut-away perspective view of the second housing taken along line 7c-7c of FIG. 7B according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 7D is a partially cut-away perspective view of the second housing taken along line 7d-7d of FIG. 7B according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram of a rear view of an electronic device in an extended state according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0105] In describing the electronic device (200) of FIGS. 7a to 8, the same reference numerals are given to components that are substantially the same as those of the electronic device (200) of FIGS. 4a to 6c, and a detailed description thereof may be omitted.

[0106] Referring to FIGS. 7A to 8, the electronic device (200) may include a first housing (210) and a second housing (220) slidably coupled from the first housing. In one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include at least one electrical component disposed in a second space (2201) of the second housing (220). In one embodiment, the at least one electrical component may include a first substrate (251) disposed in the second space (2201). In one embodiment, the first substrate (251) may include a substrate assembly in which a plurality of substrates are disposed in a stacked manner through an interposer. In one embodiment, the at least one electrical component may include at least one of a camera module (216), a speaker (207), or an array antenna (AR) disposed around the first substrate (251). In one embodiment, the array antenna (AR) may be arranged to form a beam pattern of a designated frequency band (e.g., a frequency band ranging from about 3 GHz to 100 GHz) in a designated direction (e.g., a direction in which the fourth side (2211) faces). In one embodiment, the first substrate (251) of the first housing (210) and the second substrate (e.g., the second substrate (252) of FIG. 4) of the second housing (220) may be electrically connected via an elastically deformable flexible substrate (F1).

[0107] According to various embodiments, the electronic device (200) may include a guide structure (270) disposed in the second space (2201) of the second housing (220) and having an accommodation space (2701) for accommodating at least a portion of a rack gear (227) that moves into the second space (2201) when in a retracted state. In one embodiment, the guide structure (270) may be formed of a metal material and may be fixed to the second extension member (222) at least partially in the second space (2201) through fastening members such as screws, bolts and nuts, and clips, for example. In one embodiment, the guide structure (270) may be formed in a partially open form and, when installed in the second space (2201), may form an accommodation space (2701) for the rack gear (227) together with an internal structure (e.g., the second extension member (222) and / or the first substrate (251)).

[0108] According to various embodiments, the guide structure (270) may be disposed between the second extension member (222) and the second rear cover (223) in the second space (2201) of the second housing (220). In one embodiment, the guide structure (270) may be fixed to the second extension member (222) via a fixing piece (2713). In one embodiment, the guide structure (270) may be disposed in a manner aligned with the rack gear (227) via an alignment member (280). In one embodiment, the guide structure (270) may be disposed in a manner in contact with the rear cover (223). In one embodiment, the guide structure (270) may be supported in a manner in which it is seated in a recess (2231) formed lower than an outer surface of the rear cover (223). In one embodiment, the recessed mounting structure of the guide structure (270) can reduce the flow of the guide structure (270) during the sliding operation and help reduce the thickness of the electronic device (200).

[0109] Referring to FIG. 7d, the guide structure (270) formed of a metal material can be electrically connected to the rack gear (227) through the bearing member (275). For example, in the retracted state, the antenna (A) that operates through the conductive portion (310) arranged around the rack gear (227) may have its radiation performance deteriorated due to the proximity of the rack gear (227), so the guide structure (270) needs to be electrically connected to the ground of the electronic device (200). In one embodiment, the guide structure (270) may be spaced apart from the second extension member (222) that is electrically connected to the ground for efficient arrangement of the surrounding structure. In this case, the guide structure (270) may be electrically connected to the ground through a conductive bracket (222a) that is arranged in such a way that the guide structure (270) and the second extension member (222) are in contact with each other. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the guide structure (270) may be positioned in direct physical contact with the ground of the first substrate (251).

[0110] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of an electronic device taken along line 9-9 of FIG. 7A according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0111] Referring to FIG. 9, the electronic device (200) may include a first housing (210) having a first space (2101), a second housing (220) having a second space (2201), a flexible display (230) connected to the second housing (220) and at least partially accommodated in the first space (2101) in a retracted state, a rack gear (227) fixed to the first housing (210) (e.g., a support bracket (225)) and extending into the second space (2201), and a guide structure (270) disposed in the second space (2201) and including an accommodation space (2701) for accommodating the rack gear (227).

[0112] According to various embodiments, the electronic device (200) may include a pair of guide rails (226) disposed between a first housing (210) and a second housing (220). In one embodiment, the pair of guide rails (226) are disposed on the left and right sides of the electronic device (200) and may guide the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) to slide relative to each other through at least one bearing member (2261) (e.g., a second bearing member) (e.g., a second support member). In one embodiment, at least one bearing member (2261) may be coupled to the guide rail (226) to support the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) in a third direction (e.g., direction ③) perpendicular to the flexible display (230) (e.g., in the ±z-axis direction), and may be coupled to provide a supporting force (e.g., a second supporting force) in a second direction (e.g., a direction opposite to the first direction provided by the bearing member (275). In one embodiment, at least one bearing member (275) (e.g., the first bearing member) disposed between the rack gear (227) and the guide structure (270) may be arranged to support the rack gear (227) and the guide structure (270) in a direction (e.g., direction ④) parallel to the flexible display (230) (e.g., in the ±x-axis direction). For example, the electronic device (200) may have an additional support structure that provides a support force (e.g., a first support force) in a direction (e.g., a first direction) different from the second direction of the second support force provided by at least one bearing member (2261) disposed on the guide rail (226) through at least one bearing member (275) disposed between the rack gear (227) and the guide structure (270). Accordingly, the rack gear (227) and at least one bearing member (2261) may help implement a stable sliding operation of the electronic device (200).

[0113] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a portion of a rack gear according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0114] Referring to FIG. 10, the rack gear (227) may include a gear surface (2271) including a rack gear portion (2271a) that is gear-engaged with a pinion gear (e.g., pinion gear (261) of FIG. 5a), a first side surface (2272) extending to one side of the gear surface (2271), and a second side surface (2273) extending to the other side of the gear surface (2271). In one embodiment, the rack gear (271) may include at least one bearing member (275) that is disposed on the first side surface (2272) and / or the second side surface (2273) and is in rotatably contact with a guide structure (e.g., guide structure (270) of FIG. 5a). In one embodiment, at least one bearing member (275) may be detached from the guide structure (270) by being arbitrarily moved together with the relative movement of the rack gear (227) and the guide structure (270). In addition, at the end of the guide structure (270), it may be difficult to use it as a means of conducting electricity with the rack gear (227). Therefore, the rack gear (227) according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure can limit the position of the at least one bearing member (275) so that it does not arbitrarily move through a bearing fixing member (274) disposed at the end. Through the bearing fixing member (274), the at least one bearing member (275) can stably and rotatably support the rack gear (227) and the guide structure (270) at a designated position of the rack gear (227) (e.g., an end of the rack gear).

[0115] FIG. 11A is a perspective view of a guide structure according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 11B is a diagram illustrating a state in which the guide structure of FIG. 11A according to various embodiments of the present disclosure is applied to an electronic device.

[0116] Referring to FIGS. 11A and 11B, the shape of the guide structure (270-1) (e.g., the guide structure (270) of FIG. 7A) may be determined by considering the arrangement of structures (e.g., a first substrate, electrical components, a bracket, or an extension member) arranged in the second space (2201) of the second housing (e.g., the second housing (220) of FIG. 7A). For example, the guide structure (270-1) may include at least one step portion (2714). In one embodiment, when a guide structure (270-1) including at least one step portion (2714) is arranged in a second space (2201) of a second housing (220), the guide structure (270) can provide an accommodation space (2701) for a rack gear (e.g., a rack gear (227) of FIG. 7A) by appropriately corresponding to the step areas of the first structure (S1) (e.g., the first substrate (251)) and the second structure (S2) (e.g., the second extension member or electrical elements). In one embodiment, it is obvious that the guide structure (270) can be formed in various shapes that can correspond to the arrangement of various structures arranged in the second space (2201) in addition to the configuration of the at least one step portion illustrated in order to provide a space for the rack gear (227).

[0117] FIGS. 12A and 12B are perspective views of a portion of a guide structure according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0118] Referring to FIG. 12A, the guide structure (270-2) (e.g., the guide structure (270) of FIG. 7A may be formed to have a blind end (2716). In one embodiment, the blind end (2716) of the guide structure (270) can prevent, in advance, the deterioration of the radiation performance of the antenna (e.g., the antenna (A) of FIG. 7A) due to the rack gear (227) protruding from the guide structure (270) in the retracted state.

[0119] Referring to FIG. 12b, the guide structure (270-3) (e.g., the guide structure (270) of FIG. 7a) may be formed to have an accommodation space (2701) that is partially open and entirely closed. The entire accommodation space of the guide structure (270-3) can help provide a stable support structure for the rack gear (227).

[0120] According to various embodiments, the electronic device may include a first housing (e.g., the first housing (210) of FIG. 7a), a second housing (e.g., the second housing (220) of FIG. 7a) slidably coupled with the first housing, a driving unit that provides a driving force for sliding the second housing and includes a pinion gear (e.g., the pinion gear (261) of FIG. 5a) and a driving motor (e.g., the driving motor (260) of FIG. 7a) that rotates the pinion gear, a rack gear (e.g., the rack gear (227) of FIG. 7a) that is gear-coupled with the pinion gear and reciprocates in a predetermined section according to the rotation of the pinion gear, and an accommodation space (e.g., the accommodation space (2701) of FIG. 7c) that accommodates at least a portion of the rack gear, and a guide structure (e.g., the guide structure (270) of FIG. 7a) that guides the moving rack gear.

[0121] According to various embodiments, the accommodation space may surround at least a portion of the rack gear.

[0122] According to various embodiments, the guide structure may be fixed to the second housing via at least one fixing structure (e.g., the fixing piece (2713) of FIG. 6c).

[0123] According to various embodiments, the receiving space may include a first bearing member (e.g., bearing member (275) of FIG. 6A) disposed between the rack gear and the guide structure.

[0124] According to various embodiments, the rack gear includes a gear surface (e.g., gear surface (2271) of FIG. 6A) including a rack gear portion, and a first side surface (e.g., first side surface (2272) of FIG. 6A) and a second side surface (e.g., second side surface (2273) of FIG. 6A) extending in opposite directions from the gear surface, respectively, and the first bearing member may be disposed between the first side surface and the guide structure and / or between the second side surface and the guide structure.

[0125] According to various embodiments, between the first side and / or the second side and the guide structure, the guide structure includes a guide groove formed along the sliding direction of the rack gear (e.g., the second guide groove (2711) and the fourth guide groove (2712) of FIG. 6A), and the first bearing member can be arranged in such a way that at least a portion of it is received in the guide groove.

[0126] According to various embodiments, the first bearing member may be rotatably supported on the rack gear via a bearing fixing member (e.g., a bearing fixing member (274) of FIG. 10).

[0127] According to various embodiments, the guide structure is formed of a metal material and can be electrically connected to the ground of the electronic device.

[0128] According to various embodiments, the rack gear may be formed of a metal material and may be electrically connected to the guide structure through the first bearing member.

[0129] According to various embodiments, a pair of guide rails (e.g., guide rails (226) of FIG. 9) are arranged to be guided relative to each other through a second bearing member (e.g., second bearing member (2261) of FIG. 9) between the first housing and the second housing, and the pair of guide rails can be arranged such that the second bearing member supports the first housing and the second housing in a first direction (e.g., direction ③ of FIG. 9).

[0130] According to various embodiments, the first bearing member may be arranged to support the rack gear and the guide structure in a second direction (e.g., direction ④ of FIG. 9) perpendicular to the first direction.

[0131] According to various embodiments, the second housing includes a motor bracket (e.g., motor bracket (260a) of FIG. 7a) that is disposed thereon and supports at least a portion of the drive motor and the pinion gear, and the rack gear can be slidably coupled to the motor bracket.

[0132] According to various embodiments, one end of the guide structure may be positioned to contact the motor bracket.

[0133] According to various embodiments, the second housing includes a side member (e.g., a second side member (221) of FIG. 7A) forming at least a portion of an exterior of the electronic device, an extension member (e.g., a second extension member (222) of FIG. 7A) extending from the side member into an interior space, and a rear cover (e.g., a second rear cover (223) of FIG. 7A) coupled to the side member, and the guide structure may be disposed between the extension member and the rear cover.

[0134] According to various embodiments, the guide structure may be secured to at least a portion of the extension member.

[0135] According to various embodiments, the guide structure may be supported in a manner that contacts the rear cover.

[0136] According to various embodiments, the rear cover may at least partially include a recess (e.g., recess (2231) of FIG. 7c) that accommodates at least a portion of the guide structure.

[0137] According to various embodiments, the guide structure can provide the accommodation space through coupling with a structure disposed in the second housing.

[0138] According to various embodiments, the rack gear and the guide structure may be arranged to cross the center of the electronic device along the sliding direction.

[0139] According to various embodiments, the flexible display may include a flexible display (e.g., a flexible display (230) of FIG. 7c) that is positioned to be at least partially supported by the second housing and has a display area that varies depending on the slide-in or slide-out of the second housing.

[0140] In addition, the embodiments of the present disclosure disclosed in this specification and drawings are merely specific examples presented to easily explain the technical contents according to the embodiments of the present disclosure and to help understand the embodiments of the present disclosure, and are not intended to limit the scope of the embodiments of the present disclosure. Therefore, the scope of the various embodiments of the present disclosure should be interpreted as including all changes or modified forms derived based on the technical ideas of the various embodiments of the present disclosure in addition to the embodiments disclosed herein.

Claims

1. In electronic devices, 1st housing (210); A second housing (220) slidably connected to the first housing; A driving unit that provides driving force for sliding the second housing and includes a pinion gear (261) and a driving motor (260) that rotates the pinion gear; A rack gear (227) that is gear-coupled with the pinion gear and moves back and forth in a certain section according to the rotation of the pinion gear; and An electronic device comprising a receiving space (2701) for receiving at least a portion of the rack gear and a guide structure (270) for guiding the moving rack gear.

2. In paragraph 1, An electronic device wherein said accommodation space surrounds at least a portion of said rack gear.

3. In paragraph 1 or 2, The above guide structure is an electronic device fixed to the second housing through at least one fixing structure (2713).

4. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 3, An electronic device including a first bearing member (275) disposed between the rack gear and the guide structure in the above-described receiving space.

5. In paragraph 4, The above rack gear, A gear surface (2271) including a rack gear portion; and It includes a first side surface (2272) and a second side surface (2273) which extend in opposite directions from the gear surface, respectively. An electronic device wherein the first bearing member is disposed between the first side and the guide structure and / or between the second side and the guide structure.

6. In paragraph 5, Between the first side and / or the second side and the guide structure, the guide structure includes a guide groove (2711, 2712) formed along the sliding direction of the rack gear, An electronic device wherein the first bearing member is arranged in such a way that at least a portion of the first bearing member is received in the guide groove.

7. In paragraph 4 or 5, An electronic device in which the first bearing member is rotatably supported on the rack gear through a bearing fixing member (274).

8. In any one of paragraphs 4 to 7, An electronic device in which the above guide structure is formed of a metal material and is electrically connected to the ground of the electronic device.

9. In paragraph 8, An electronic device in which the above rack gear is formed of a metal material and is electrically connected to the guide structure through the first bearing member.

10. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 9, A pair of guide rails (226) are included between the first housing and the second housing, and are arranged to be guided relative to each other through a second bearing member (2261). An electronic device in which the above pair of guide rails are arranged so that the second bearing member supports the first housing and the second housing in the first direction (③ direction).

11. In paragraph 10, An electronic device in which the first bearing member is arranged to support the rack gear and the guide structure in a second direction (direction ④) perpendicular to the first direction.

12. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 11, A motor bracket (260a) is disposed in the second housing and supports at least a part of the driving motor and the pinion gear. The above rack gear is an electronic device slidably connected to the above motor bracket.

13. In paragraph 12, An electronic device in which one end of the above guide structure is arranged to contact the above motor bracket.

14. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 13, The above second housing, A side member (221) forming at least a part of the exterior of the electronic device; An extension member (222) extending from the side member to the inner space; and Including a rear cover (223) coupled with the above side member, An electronic device wherein the above guide structure is disposed between the extension member and the rear cover.

15. In paragraph 14, An electronic device wherein the above guide structure is fixed to at least a portion of the extension member.

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