Electronic device and method for operating same

Abstract

This electronic device may comprise: a first bracket; a second bracket; a hinge rotatably connecting the first bracket and the second bracket; a first battery disposed on the first bracket; a buck switching charger configured to supply power to the first battery; a second battery disposed on the second bracket; a direct charger configured to supply power to the second battery; a pulse width modulation (PWM) circuit; and a connector configured to be connected to an external device. The buck switching charger may be disposed on the first bracket. The direct charger may be disposed on the second bracket. The direct charger may be configured to receive power supplied from the external device through the connector. The buck switching charger may be configured to receive power supplied from the external device through the connector and a first wiring between the first bracket and the second bracket. The PWM circuit may be configured to control the output of the buck switching charger on the basis of a comparison between the output voltage of the buck switching charger and the voltage of the second battery. Various other embodiments are also possible.

Description

Electronic device and method of operation thereof

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an electronic device and a method of operating the same according to one embodiment.

[0002] A switching regulator (or switching charger or switching converter) is a circuit that converts DC (direct current) voltage into DC voltage. A buck switching charger is used for step-down, a boost switching charger is used for step-up, and a non-inverting buck-boost switching charger is used for both step-up and step-down.

[0003] The direct charger is a high-efficiency circuit based on a charge pump, and can be used for direct charging operation using the PPS (programmable power supply) of the USB (universal serial bus) PD (power delivery).

[0004] 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.

[0005] According to one embodiment, an electronic device may include a first bracket, a second bracket, a hinge rotatably connecting the first bracket and the second bracket, a first battery disposed on the first bracket, a buck switching charger configured to provide power to the first battery, a second battery disposed on the second bracket, a direct charger configured to provide power to the second battery, a pulse width modulation (PWM) circuit, and a connector configured to connect to an external device. The buck switching charger may be disposed on the first bracket. The direct charger may be disposed on the second bracket. The direct charger may be configured to receive power provided from the external device through the connector. The buck switching charger may be configured to receive power provided from the external device through the connector and a first wire between the first bracket and the second bracket. The above PWM circuit may be configured to control the output of the buck switching charger based on a comparison of the output voltage of the buck switching charger and the voltage of the second battery.

[0006] According to one embodiment, a method of operating an electronic device may include providing power to a first battery disposed on a first bracket of the electronic device using a buck switching charger of the electronic device. The method may include providing power to a second battery disposed on a second bracket of the electronic device using a direct charger of the electronic device. The method may include controlling an output of the buck switching charger based on a comparison of an output voltage of the buck switching charger and a voltage of the second battery using a pulse width modulation (PWM) circuit of the electronic device.

[0007] According to one embodiment, a computer readable recording medium having stored thereon instructions configured to cause at least one operation, wherein the at least one operation may include providing power to a first battery disposed on a first bracket of an electronic device using a buck switching charger of the electronic device. The at least one operation may include providing power to a second battery disposed on a second bracket of the electronic device using a direct charger of the electronic device. The at least one operation may include controlling an output of the buck switching charger based on a comparison of an output voltage of the buck switching charger and a voltage of the second battery using a pulse width modulation (PWM) circuit of the electronic device.

[0008] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment, according to one embodiment.

[0009] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an unfolded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0010] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a folded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0011] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0012] FIG. 5 is a drawing illustrating an electronic device and an external device according to one embodiment.

[0013] FIG. 6 is a block diagram of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0014] FIG. 7 is a circuit diagram of a circuit included in an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0015] FIG. 8 is a drawing illustrating the operation of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0016] FIG. 9 is a flowchart of a method of operating an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0017] FIG. 10 is a flowchart of a method of operating an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0018] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment, according to one embodiment.

[0019] Referring to FIG. 1, in a network environment (100), an electronic device (101) may communicate with an electronic device (102) via a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network), or may communicate with at least one of an electronic device (104) or a server (108) via a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may communicate with the electronic device (104) via the server (108). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a processor (120), a memory (130), an input module (150), an audio output module (155), a display module (160), an audio module (170), a sensor module (176), an interface (177), a connection terminal (178), a haptic module (179), a camera module (180), a power management module (188), a battery (189), a communication module (190), a subscriber identification module (196), or an antenna module (197). In some embodiments, the electronic device (101) may omit at least one of these components (e.g., the connection terminal (178)), or may have one or more other components added. In some embodiments, some of these components (e.g., the sensor module (176), the camera module (180), or the antenna module (197)) may be integrated into one component (e.g., the display module (160)).

[0020] 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.

[0021] The auxiliary processor (123) may control at least a portion of functions or states associated with at least one component (e.g., a display module (160), a sensor module (176), or a communication module (190)) of the electronic device (101), for example, on behalf of the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an inactive (e.g., sleep) state, or together with the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an active (e.g., application execution) state. In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., an image signal processor or a communication processor) may be implemented as a part of another functionally related component (e.g., a camera module (180) or a communication module (190)). In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., a neural network processing unit) may include a hardware structure specialized for processing artificial intelligence models. The artificial intelligence models may be generated through machine learning. This learning can be performed, for example, on the electronic device (101) itself where the artificial intelligence model is executed, or can be performed through a separate server (e.g., server (108)). The learning algorithm can include, for example, supervised learning, unsupervised learning, semi-supervised learning, or reinforcement learning, but is not limited to the examples described above. The artificial intelligence model can include multiple artificial neural network layers.The artificial neural network may be one of a deep neural network (DNN), a convolutional neural network (CNN), a recurrent neural network (RNN), a restricted Boltzmann machine (RBM), a deep belief network (DBN), a bidirectional recurrent deep neural network (BRDNN), a deep Q-network, or a combination of two or more of the above, but is not limited to the examples described above. In addition to, or alternatively to, a hardware structure, an artificial intelligence model may include a software structure.

[0022] The memory (130) can store various data used by at least one component (e.g., processor (120) or sensor module (176)) of the electronic device (101). The data can include, for example, software (e.g., program (140)) and input data or output data for commands related thereto. The memory (130) can include volatile memory (132) or non-volatile memory (134).

[0023] 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).

[0024] 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).

[0025] 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.

[0026] 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.

[0027] 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).

[0028] 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.

[0029] 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.

[0030] 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).

[0031] 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.

[0032] 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.

[0033] 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).

[0034] 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.

[0035] 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).

[0036] 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 realizing 1eMBB, a loss coverage (e.g., 164 dB or less) for realizing mMTC, 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 realizing URLLC.

[0037] 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).

[0038] 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.

[0039] 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)).

[0040] 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 one 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.

[0041] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an unfolded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a folded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment. FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0042] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, the electronic device (101) may include a housing (202) for accommodating components of the electronic device (101) (e.g., a battery (250) and / or a circuit board (260) of FIG. 4) and a flexible display or foldable display (230) (hereinafter, referred to as display (230)) connected to the housing (202). According to one embodiment, the housing (202) may be referred to as a foldable housing.

[0043] According to one embodiment, the housing (202) may include a first housing (210) and a second housing (220) configured to rotate relative to the first housing (210).

[0044] According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) and / or the second housing (220) may form at least a portion of the exterior of the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the surface on which the display (230) is visually exposed is defined as a front surface (e.g., a first front surface (210a) and a second front surface (220a)) of the electronic device (101) and / or the housing (202). The surface opposite the front surface is defined as a back surface (e.g., a first back surface (210b) and a second back surface (220b)) of the electronic device (101). The surface surrounding at least a portion of the space between the front surface and the back surface is defined as a side surface (e.g., a first side surface (210c) and a second side surface (220c)) of the electronic device (101).

[0045] According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) can be rotatably connected to the second housing (220). For example, the first housing (210) can be rotatably connected to the second housing (220) using a hinge structure (e.g., the hinge structure (280) of FIG. 4). The electronic device (101) can be changed into a folded state (e.g., FIG. 3) or an unfolded state (e.g., FIG. 2). In the folded state, the first front surface (210a) can face the second front surface (220a), and in the unfolded state, the direction in which the first front surface (210a) faces can be the same as the direction in which the second front surface (220a) faces. For example, in the unfolded state, the first front surface (210a) may be positioned substantially on the same plane as the second front surface (220a). In one embodiment, the second housing (220) may provide relative motion with respect to the first housing (210). In one embodiment, the first housing (210) may be provided with a force for rotation with respect to the second housing (220) using an elastic member (not shown).

[0046] According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are arranged on both sides with respect to the folding axis (A) as the center, and may have a shape that is overall symmetrical with respect to the folding axis (A). The angle between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) may be changed depending on whether the state of the electronic device (101) is in an unfolded state, a folded state, or an intermediate state between the unfolded state and the folded state.

[0047] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a hinge cover (240). At least a portion of the hinge cover (240) may be disposed between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220). According to one embodiment, the hinge cover (240) may be covered by a portion of the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) or may be exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101), depending on the state of the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the hinge cover (240) may protect a hinge structure (e.g., the hinge structure (280) of FIG. 4) from an external impact of the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the hinge cover (240) may be referred to as a hinge housing.

[0048] According to one embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 2, when the electronic device (101) is in an unfolded state, the hinge cover (240) may be covered by the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) and may not be exposed. In one embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 3, when the electronic device (101) is in a folded state (e.g., a fully folded state), the hinge cover (240) may be exposed to the outside between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220). In one embodiment, when the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are in an intermediate state where they are folded at a certain angle, the hinge cover (240) may be partially exposed to the outside between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220). However, in this case, the exposed area may be less than that in the fully folded state. In one embodiment, the hinge cover (240) may include a curved surface.

[0049] In one embodiment, the display (230) can visually provide information to an external party (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (101). The display (230) may include, for example, a holographic device or a projector and a control circuit for controlling the device. In one embodiment, the display (230) may include a touch sensor configured to detect a touch, or a pressure sensor configured to measure the strength of a force generated by the touch.

[0050] According to one embodiment, the display (230) may refer to a display in which at least a portion of the display can be transformed into a flat or curved surface. For example, the display (230) may be formed to be variable in response to the relative movement of the second housing (220) with respect to the first housing (210). According to one embodiment, the display (230) may include a folding area (233), a first display area (231) positioned on one side (e.g., above (+Y direction)) with respect to the folding area (233), and a second display area (232) positioned on the other side (e.g., below (-Y direction)). According to one embodiment, the folding area (233) may be positioned on a hinge structure (e.g., the hinge structure (280) of FIG. 4) when the electronic device (101) is in an unfolded state (e.g., FIG. 2). For example, at least a portion of the folding region (233) may face the hinge structure (280). In one embodiment, the folding region (233) may be referred to as a portion of the display (230) that is at least partially bent based on a change in state of the electronic device (101) (e.g., folding or unfolding). In one embodiment, the first display region (231) may be disposed in the first housing (210), and the second display region (232) may be disposed in the second housing (220). In one embodiment, the display (230) may be accommodated in the first housing (210) and the second housing (220).

[0051] However, the division of the areas of the display (230) illustrated in FIG. 2 is exemplary, and the display (230) may be divided into multiple areas (for example, four or more or two) depending on the structure or function.

[0052] Also, in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 2, the display (230) may be divided into regions by a folding region (233) extending parallel to the X-axis or a folding axis (A-axis), but in one embodiment, the display (230) may be divided into regions based on another folding region (e.g., a folding region parallel to the Y-axis) or another folding axis (e.g., a folding axis parallel to the Y-axis). According to one embodiment, the display (230) may be coupled to or disposed adjacent to a touch detection circuit, a pressure sensor capable of measuring the intensity (pressure) of a touch, and / or a digitizer configured to detect a magnetic field-type stylus pen.

[0053] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a rear display (234). The rear display (234) may be arranged to face a different direction than the display (230). For example, the display (230) may be visually exposed through the front side of the electronic device (101) (e.g., the first front side (210a) and / or the second front side (220a)), and the rear display (234) may be visually exposed through the rear side of the electronic device (101) (e.g., the first rear side (210b)).

[0054] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include at least one camera module (204, 206) and a flash (208). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a front camera module (204) exposed through a front side (e.g., a first front side (210a)) and / or a rear camera module (206) exposed through a rear side (e.g., a first rear side (210b)). The camera modules (204, 206) may include one or more lenses, an image sensor, a flash, and / or an image signal processor. The flash (208) may include a light emitting diode or a xenon lamp. In some embodiments, two or more lenses (infrared camera, wide-angle and telephoto lenses) and image sensors may be arranged on one side of the electronic device (101). The front camera module (204) and / or the rear camera module (206) can capture still images and videos. In one embodiment, the camera modules (204, 206) may include one or more lenses, image sensors, image signal processors, or flashes.

[0055] Referring to FIG. 4, the electronic device (101) may include a first housing (210), a second housing (220), a display (230), a hinge cover (240), a battery (250), a printed circuit board (260), a flexible printed circuit board (270), and a hinge structure (280) (e.g., a hinge). The configuration of the first housing (210), the second housing (220), the display (230), and the hinge cover (240) of FIG. 4 may be all or part of the same as the configuration of the first housing (210), the second housing (220), the display (230), and the hinge cover (240) of FIG. 2 and / or FIG. 3. The structure of FIG. 4 may be optionally combined with the structures of FIGS. 2 and 3.

[0056] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a first support member (212) and a second support member (222). The first support member (212) may be referred to as a first bracket (212). The second support member (222) may be referred to as a second bracket (222). For example, the first housing (210) may include the first support member (212), and the second housing (220) may include the second support member (222). According to one embodiment, the first support member (212) may be rotatably connected to the second support member (222). For example, the first support member (212) may be rotatably connected to the second support member (222) using a hinge structure (e.g., the hinge structure (280) of FIG. 4).

[0057] According to one embodiment, the first support member (212) and / or the second support member (222) may support components of the electronic device (101) (e.g., the display (230), the battery (250), and the printed circuit board (260)). For example, components of the electronic device (101) (e.g., the display (230), the battery (250), and the printed circuit board (260)) may be disposed on the first support member (212) and / or the second support member (222).

[0058] In one embodiment, the first support member (212) and / or the second support member (222) may be formed of a metallic material and / or a non-metallic (e.g., polymer) material. In one embodiment, the first support member (212) and / or the second support member (222) may be disposed between the display (230) and the battery (250). For example, the display (230) may be coupled (or disposed) to one surface of the first support member (212) and / or one surface of the second support member (222), and the battery (250) and the printed circuit board (260) may be coupled (or disposed) to the other surface of the first support member (212) and / or the other surface of the second support member (222).

[0059] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a first protective member (214) and a second protective member (224). For example, the first housing (210) may include the first protective member (214), and the second housing (220) may include the second protective member (224). According to one embodiment, the protective members (214, 224) may protect the display (230) from external impact. For example, the first protective member (214) may surround at least a portion of a part of the display (230) (e.g., the first display area (231) of FIG. 2), and the second protective member (224) may surround at least a portion of another part of the display (230) (e.g., the second display area (232) of FIG. 2). In one embodiment, the first protective member (214) may be referred to as a first decorative member, and the second protective member (224) may be referred to as a second decorative member.

[0060] In one embodiment, the housing (210, 220) may include a first back plate (216) and a second back plate (226). For example, the first housing (210) may include a first back plate (216) connected to a first support member (212), and the second housing (220) may include a second back plate (226) connected to a second support member (222). In one embodiment, the back plates (216, 226) may form a portion of the exterior of the electronic device (101). For example, the first back plate (216) may form a first back surface (e.g., the first back surface (210b) of FIG. 1), and the second back plate (226) may form a second back surface (e.g., the second back surface (220b) of FIG. 1). In one embodiment, the first battery (252) and the first printed circuit board (262) may be disposed on the first support member (212), and the second battery (254) and the second printed circuit board (264) may be disposed on the second support member (222). For example, the first battery (252) and the first printed circuit board (262) may be disposed between the first support member (212) and the first back plate (216), and the second battery (254) and the second printed circuit board (264) may be disposed between the second support member (222) and the second back plate (226).

[0061] According to one embodiment, the hinge cover (240) can accommodate at least a portion of the hinge structure (280). For example, the hinge cover (240) can include a receiving groove (242) for accommodating the hinge structure (280). According to one embodiment, the hinge cover (240) can be coupled with the hinge structure (280). According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (101) is unfolded, at least a portion of the hinge cover (240) can be positioned between the hinge structure (280) and the housing (210, 220). According to one embodiment, the hinge cover (240) can guide the movement of the housing (210, 220). For example, the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) can rotate with respect to the hinge cover (240) while being connected to the hinge cover (240).

[0062] According to one embodiment, the battery (250) is a device for supplying power to at least one component of the electronic device (101), and may include a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable secondary battery, or a fuel cell. The battery (250) may be integrally disposed within the electronic device (101), or may be detachably disposed with the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the battery (250) may include a first battery (252) disposed within a first housing (210) and a second battery (254) disposed within a second housing (220). For example, the first battery (252) may be disposed in the first support member (212), and the second battery (254) may be disposed in the second support member (222).

[0063] In one embodiment, the printed circuit board (260) may be equipped with a processor, memory, and / or an interface. In one embodiment, the printed circuit board (260) may include a first printed circuit board (262) disposed within a first housing (210) and a second printed circuit board (264) disposed within a second housing (220).

[0064] In one embodiment, the flexible printed circuit board (270) can electrically connect a component (e.g., a first printed circuit board (262)) located in the first housing (210) and a component (e.g., a second printed circuit board (264)) located in the second housing (220). In one embodiment, at least a portion of the flexible printed circuit board (270) can traverse the hinge cover (240) and / or the hinge structure (280). For example, a portion of the flexible printed circuit board (270) can be disposed in the first housing (210) and another portion can be disposed in the second housing (220).

[0065] According to one embodiment, the hinge structure (280) may include a plurality of hinge structures (280-1, 280-2) arranged in parallel. For example, the hinge structure (280) may include a first hinge structure (280-1) and a second hinge structure (280-2) spaced apart from the first hinge structure (280-1). According to one embodiment, the first hinge structure (280-1) may be symmetrical with respect to the second hinge structure (280-2) with respect to the longitudinal direction (e.g., Y-axis direction) of the electronic device (101).

[0066] According to one embodiment, the electronic device disclosed in FIGS. 2 to 4 discloses a foldable electronic device of a flip type capable of infolding, but is not limited thereto. For example, it may include various electronic devices including a flexible display in which a portion of a region (e.g., a folding region) is capable of bending or rolling, such as a foldable electronic device capable of outfolding, a multi-foldable electronic device capable of in-out folding multiple times, or an electronic device including a display that is expandable through sliding movement between housings.

[0067] FIG. 5 is a drawing illustrating an electronic device and an external device according to one embodiment.

[0068] Referring to FIG. 5, according to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a connector (520) (e.g., a connection terminal (178)). The connector (520) (e.g., a USB port) may be configured to connect with an external device (500) (e.g., a connector of the external device (500) disclosed in FIG. 5). The electronic device (101) may be connected to the external device (500) through the connector (520). The electronic device (101) may receive power from the external device (500) through the connector (520). The electronic device (101) may transmit signals to the external device (500) and receive signals from the external device (500) through the connector (520). According to one embodiment, referring to FIG. 5, the connector (520) may be disposed in the second bracket (222) (e.g., the second housing (220)). According to one embodiment, the connector (e.g., 520) may also be disposed in the first bracket (212) (e.g., the first housing (210)). There is no limitation on the location where the connector (520) is disposed.

[0069] FIG. 6 is a block diagram of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0070] Referring to FIG. 6, according to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a first battery (610), a buck switching charger (630), a second battery (620), and a direct charger (640). The first battery (610) may be the first battery (252) of FIG. 4. The second battery (620) may be the second battery (254) of FIG. 4. The capacity of the first battery (610) may be smaller than the capacity of the second battery (620). When the electronic device (101) is unfolded, the first battery (610) and the buck switching charger (630) may be arranged on one side with respect to the hinge (280) (e.g., the hinge structure (280)). In the unfolded state of the electronic device (101), the second battery (620) and the direct charger (640) may be arranged on the other side with respect to the hinge (280) (e.g., hinge structure (280)). The first battery (610) may be arranged in the first bracket (212) (e.g., first housing (210)). The buck switching charger (630) may be arranged in the first bracket (212) (e.g., first housing (210)). The buck switching charger (630) may be configured to provide power to the first battery (610). The second battery (620) may be arranged in the second bracket (222) (e.g., second housing (220)). The direct charger (640) may be placed in the second bracket (222) (e.g., the second housing (220)). The direct charger (640) may be configured to provide power to the second battery (620).

[0071] According to one embodiment, the processor (120) of FIG. 1 of the electronic device (101) may be referred to as a controller (120). The operation of the electronic device (101) according to one embodiment may be controlled by the controller (120) of the electronic device (101) (e.g., the processor (120) of FIG. 1). The electronic device (101) performing a specific operation may be that the electronic device (101) or a component included in the electronic device (101) is controlled by the controller (120) of the electronic device (101). The electronic device (101) may include one or more controllers (120), and for the convenience of explanation, in the following, even when a plurality of controllers (120) are implemented, the term “operation of the electronic device (101)” or “operation of the controller (120)” will be described. According to one embodiment, the controller (120) (e.g., the processor (120) of FIG. 1) may be circuitry that performs processing. For example, the controller (120) (e.g., the processor (120) of FIG. 1) may include a control circuit of a power management module (188). For example, the controller (120) (e.g., the processor (120) of FIG. 1) may include a PWM circuit (e.g., 750) of FIG. 7, which will be described later.

[0072] For example, the electronic device (101) (e.g., the controller (120)) can provide power to the first battery (610) using the buck switching charger (630) (e.g., through the buck switching charger (630) or by controlling the buck switching charger (630)). For example, the electronic device (101) (e.g., the controller (120)) can provide power to the second battery (620) using the direct charger (640) (e.g., through the direct charger (640) or by controlling the direct charger (640)).

[0073] Referring to the circuit diagram of Fig. 7, the components of the buck switching charger (630), the direct charger (640), and the electronic device (101) can be described.

[0074] FIG. 7 is a circuit diagram of a circuit included in an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0075] FIG. 7 is a circuit diagram of an electronic device (101) connected to an external device (500) via a connector (520), according to one embodiment. A connector (e.g., a USB plug) of the external device (500) and a connector (520) (e.g., a USB port) of the electronic device (101) may be connected (or coupled). The external device (500) may include a component (e.g., an outlet (700)) for receiving power (e.g., a wall power source) from the outside. For example, the external device (500) may convert power supplied from the outside via the outlet (700) using a power conversion circuit (701), and provide the converted power to the electronic device (101) via a power line (703). The electronic device (101) (e.g., the controller (120)) may receive power provided from the external device (500) via the connector (520) (e.g., a USB port). An external device (500) can provide a signal to an electronic device (101) through a signal line (702). The external device (500) can receive a signal from the electronic device (101) through the signal line (702). The electronic device (101) (e.g., controller (120)) can provide a signal to the external device (500) through a connector (520). The electronic device (101) (e.g., controller (120)) can receive a signal from the external device (500) through the connector (520). The electronic device (101) (e.g., controller (120)) can include a component (790) for programmable power supply (PPS) control (e.g., power delivery (PD) integrated circuit (IC)). For example, an electronic device (101) (e.g., a controller (120)) may provide a PPS (programmable power supply) control signal to an external device (500) using a configuration (790) (e.g., a PD IC) for PPS control.An external device (500) can provide power to an electronic device (101) based on a signal (e.g., a PPS control signal) provided from the electronic device (101). The external device (500) can provide power corresponding to a signal (e.g., a PPS control signal) provided from the electronic device (101) through a signal line (702) to the electronic device (101) through a power line (703).

[0076] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a first battery (610), a buck switching charger (630), a second battery (620), a direct charger (640), and a pulse width modulation (PWM) circuit (750). The capacity of the first battery (610) may be smaller than the capacity of the second battery (620).

[0077] According to one embodiment, the buck switching charger (630) may provide power to the first battery (610). The output voltage of the buck switching charger (630) (e.g., VOUT in FIG. 7) may be provided to the first battery (610). Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, the first battery (610) and the buck switching charger (630) may be disposed in the first bracket (212) (e.g., the first housing (210)). The buck switching charger (630) may include an inductor (733) and switches (731, 732). The buck switching charger (630) may be configured to receive power provided from an external device (500) via the connector (520) and the first wiring (781). The first wiring (781) may be arranged between the first bracket (212) and the second bracket (222). The first wiring (781) may be arranged to connect a component arranged in the first bracket (212) and a component arranged in the second bracket (222). The flexible printed circuit board (270) may include the first wiring (781). The electronic device (101) may include a switch (734) for controlling power provided to the buck switching charger (630).

[0078] According to one embodiment, the direct charger (640) may provide power to the second battery (620). The output voltage of the direct charger (640) may be provided to the second battery (620). Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7 , the second battery (620) and the direct charger (640) may be disposed in the second bracket (222) (e.g., the second housing (220)). The direct charger (640) may include a capacitor (745) and switches (741, 742, 743, 744). The direct charger (640) may be configured to receive power provided from an external device (500) via a connector (520). The electronic device (101) may include a switch (746) for controlling power provided to the direct charger (640).

[0079] According to one embodiment, the PWM circuit (750) may be configured to control the output of the buck switching charger (630). For example, the controller (120) (e.g., the processor (120) of FIG. 1) may include the PWM circuit (750). For example, the PWM circuit (750) may include a comparator (751) and a PWM signal generation circuit (752). The comparator (751) may compare an output voltage of the buck switching charger (630) (e.g., VOUT of FIG. 7) with a voltage of the second battery (254; 620) (e.g., VBAT_S of FIG. 7). The PWM signal output circuit (752) may output a PWM signal based on the comparison result of the comparator (751). The PWM circuit (750) can provide a PWM signal to switches (e.g., 731, 732) of the buck switching charger (630). The electronic device (101) (e.g., the controller (120)) can control the output of the buck switching charger (630) based on a comparison of the output voltage of the buck switching charger (630) (e.g., VOUT of FIG. 7) and the voltage of the second battery (254; 620) (e.g., VBAT_S of FIG. 7) using the PWM circuit (750). For example, the electronic device (101) (e.g., the controller (120)) can control the output of the buck switching charger (630) using the PWM circuit (750) so that the difference between the output voltage of the buck switching charger (630) and the voltage of the second battery (254; 620) becomes less than or equal to a first reference value. The first reference value may be 0 or a small value close to 0. The electronic device (101) (e.g., controller (120)) may control the output of the buck switching charger (630) so that the difference between the output voltage of the buck switching charger (630) and the voltage of the second battery (254; 620) becomes 0, or the difference becomes a small value close to 0, or the difference is minimized.

[0080] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a second wiring (782). The second wiring (782) may be disposed between the first bracket (212) and the second bracket (222). The second wiring (782) may be disposed to connect a component disposed in the first bracket (212) to a component disposed in the second bracket (222). The second wiring (782) may be a passage for providing power provided from the second battery (620) to a load (799) disposed in the first bracket (212) (e.g., a display (230), a camera (180; 204; 206)). The flexible printed circuit board (270) may include the second wiring (782).

[0081] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) (e.g., the controller (120)) may control the output of the buck switching charger (630) using the PWM circuit (750) so that the current flowing through the second wire (782) becomes less than or equal to a second reference value while power is provided from the external device (500) through the connector (520). The second reference value may be 0 or a small value close to 0. The electronic device (101) (e.g., the controller (120)) may control the output of the buck switching charger (630) so that the current flowing through the second wire (782) becomes 0, or a small value close to 0, or the current becomes a minimum while power is provided from the external device (500) through the connector (520). For example, as the difference between the output voltage of the buck switching charger (630) and the voltage of the second battery (254; 620) becomes 0, or the difference becomes a small value close to 0, or the difference is minimized, the current flowing through the second wiring (782) may become 0, or the current may become a small value close to 0, or the current may be minimized.

[0082] In one embodiment, when a current consumption occurs in the system (e.g., load (799)) while power is provided from an external device (500) via connector (520), the buck switching charger (630) may provide current up to a level that the buck switching charger (630) can supply. When a current consumption occurs in the system (e.g., load (799)) exceeding the maximum current that the buck switching charger (630) can supply while power is provided from an external device (500) via connector (520), current may be provided to the system (e.g., load (799)) by discharging the first battery (610) and / or the second battery (620).

[0083] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a limiter (760) (e.g., a transistor). The limiter (760) may be electrically connected to the first battery (610). The limiter (760) may be configured to control the current (or voltage) of the first battery (610). For example, the limiter (760) (e.g., a linear charger) may be configured to control the charging current of the first battery (610) to be less than or equal to a reference current and the charging voltage of the first battery (610) to be less than or equal to a reference voltage. The electronic device (101) (e.g., the controller (120)) may control the limiter (760) to cause the charging current of the first battery (610) to be less than or equal to the reference current and the charging voltage of the first battery (610) to be less than or equal to the reference voltage. According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a first comparator (761), a second comparator (762), and a minimum selector (763). The limiter (760) may be controlled based on a voltage output from the minimum selector (763). The minimum selector (763) may be configured to output a smaller voltage between the voltage output from the first comparator (761) and the voltage output from the second comparator (762). The first comparator (761) may be configured to compare a charging current of the first battery (610) (e.g., a voltage corresponding to the charging current (e.g., V_IB of FIG. 7)) with a reference current (e.g., a voltage corresponding to the reference current (e.g., V_IB_REF)). The electronic device (101) (e.g., controller (120)) can control the limiter (760) using the first comparator (761) so that the charging current of the first battery (610) becomes less than or equal to the reference current. The second comparator (762) can be configured to compare the charging voltage of the first battery (610) with a reference voltage (e.g., Vf of FIG. 7). The electronic device (101) (e.g., controller (120)) can control the limiter (760) using the second comparator (762) so that the charging voltage of the first battery (610) becomes less than or equal to the reference voltage.

[0084] In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) (e.g., the controller (120)) can control the limiter (760) to be turned off based on the full charge of the first battery (610). The electronic device (101) (e.g., the controller (120)) can control the limiter (760) to be turned off based on the full charge of the first battery (610) so that power is not supplied to the first battery (610) through the limiter (760).

[0085] In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) (e.g., the controller (120)) may control the switch (770) connected to the second battery (620) to be turned off based on the full charge of the second battery (620). The electronic device (101) (e.g., the controller (120)) may control the switch (770) connected to the second battery (620) to be turned off to disconnect the second battery (620) from the system based on the full charge of the second battery (620). In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) (e.g., the controller (120)) may also control the switch (746) to be turned off to prevent power from being provided to the direct charger (640) based on the full charge of the second battery (620).

[0086] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a third wire (783). The third wire (782) may be disposed between the first bracket (212) and the second bracket (222). The third wire (783) may be disposed to connect a component disposed in the first bracket (212) and a component disposed in the second bracket (222). The third wire (783) may be disposed to connect the first battery (610) and the second battery (620). The flexible printed circuit board (270) may include the third wire (783).

[0087] According to one embodiment, the first wiring (781), the second wiring (782), and the third wiring (783) may be arranged on one flexible printed circuit board (FPCB), or at least one of the first wiring (781), the second wiring (782), or the third wiring (783) may be arranged on different FPCBs. According to one embodiment, the flexible printed circuit board (270) may include the first wiring (781), the second wiring (782), and the third wiring (783). The first wiring (781), the second wiring (782), and / or the third wiring (783) may be configured to electrically connect the components arranged on the first bracket (212) and the components arranged on the second bracket (222), and may be wiring of the flexible printed circuit board (270) arranged on at least a portion of the hinge structure (280). The flexible printed circuit board (270) may be composed of multiple pieces.

[0088] FIG. 8 is a drawing illustrating the operation of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0089] Referring to FIG. 8, the PPS control, the charging current (e.g., I_B1) of the first battery (610), the charging current (e.g., I_B2) of the second battery (620), the charging voltage (e.g., V_B1) of the first battery (610), the charging voltage (e.g., V_B2) of the second battery (620), the output voltage (e.g., TA_OUT) of the external device (500), and the maximum set voltage (e.g., TA_MAX) of the external device (500) can be understood. According to the operation of the electronic device (101) described above, it can be confirmed in FIG. 8 that the charging voltage (e.g., V_B1) of the first battery (610) (e.g., VOUT in FIG. 7) and the charging voltage (e.g., V_B2) of the second battery (620) (e.g., VBAT_S in FIG. 7) constantly increase. Direct charge control through PPS can be performed based on the voltage of the second battery (620). When a charger (e.g., an external device (500)) supporting PPS is connected to a connector (520) (e.g., a USB port), the initial constant current setting of the charger (e.g., the external device (500)) can be set to supply more than half of the sum of the charging current of the second battery (620) and the charging current of the first battery (610), and the initial constant voltage setting of the charger (e.g., the external device (500)) can be set to twice the full charge voltage of the battery (e.g., the second battery (620) or the first battery (610)) with a headroom of a certain voltage (e.g., 500 mV to 800 mV) in consideration of the voltage drop due to the wiring impedance. The charging current of the first battery (610) can be controlled by the setting value of the limiter (760). The charging current (e.g., 3 [A]) of the second battery (620) can be determined by subtracting the charging current (e.g., 1 [A]) of the first battery (610) from twice the current setting value (e.g., 2 [A]) of the charger (e.g., external device (500)).The output voltage of the charger (e.g., external device (500)) is, during the constant current charging period of the battery (e.g., second battery (620) and / or first battery (610)), twice the voltage of the battery (e.g., second battery (620) and / or first battery (610)) plus the voltage drop due to the wiring impedance, which is lower than the constant voltage setting value of the charger (e.g., external device (500)), so the charger (e.g., external device (500)) can operate as a constant current source. When the second battery (620) reaches the full charge voltage (or the voltage value set at the full charge voltage), the electronic device (101) (e.g., the controller (120)) transmits a PPS control signal to lower the constant voltage set value of the charger (e.g., the external device (500)), and accordingly, the output voltage of the charger (e.g., the external device (500)) may decrease so that the charging voltage of the second battery (620) may be maintained at a constant voltage. While the charging voltage of the second battery (620) is maintained at a constant voltage, the electronic device (101) may control the buck switching charger (630) so that the voltage across the second wire (782) becomes 0, thereby preventing current from flowing through the second wire (782). Since the current is controlled not to flow through the second wire (782), the electronic device (101) may not include a limiter corresponding to the second battery (620). Losses in wiring impedance can be minimized by separately charging the first battery (620) and the second battery (620). Heat generation can be reduced by dispersing the heat source through the separate arrangement of the buck switching charger (630) and the direct charger (640).

[0090] As described above, the electronic device (101) (e.g., controller (120)) can control the output of the buck switching charger (630) so that the difference between the output voltage of the buck switching charger (630) and the voltage of the second battery (254; 620) becomes 0, or becomes a small value close to 0, or becomes minimized. As the difference between the output voltage of the buck switching charger (630) and the voltage of the second battery (254; 620) becomes 0, or becomes a small value close to 0, or becomes minimized, the current flowing through the second wiring (782) can become 0, or becomes a small value close to 0, or becomes a minimum. Accordingly, the electronic device (101) can eliminate the limiter connected to the second battery (620), minimize loss in wiring impedance through individual charging of the first battery (610) and the second battery (620), and obtain the effect of reducing heat generation by dispersing the heat source by separately arranging the buck switching charger (630) and the direct charger (640).

[0091] FIG. 9 is a flowchart of a method of operating an electronic device according to one embodiment. FIG. 9 can be described with reference to the previously described embodiments and the embodiments described below.

[0092] At least some of the operations of FIG. 9 may be omitted. The order of the operations of FIG. 9 may be changed. Operations other than those of FIG. 9 may be performed before, during, or after the operations of FIG. 9.

[0093] Referring to FIG. 9, in operation 901, according to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) (e.g., the controller (120)) may provide power to the first battery (610) using the buck switching charger (630). The first battery (610) and the buck switching charger (630) may be disposed in the first bracket (212) (e.g., the first housing (210)). The buck switching charger (630) may receive power provided from the external device (500) through the connector (520) and the first wiring (781) between the first bracket (212) and the second bracket (222). The output voltage of the buck switching charger (630) may be provided to the first battery (610) through the limiter (760). The electronic device (101) (e.g., controller (120)) can control the limiter (760) so that the charging current of the first battery (252; 610) becomes lower than the reference current and the charging voltage of the first battery (252; 610) becomes lower than the reference voltage.

[0094] In operation 903, according to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) (e.g., the controller (120)) can provide power to the second battery (620) using a direct charger (640). The second battery (620) and the direct charger (640) can be placed in the second bracket (222) (e.g., the second housing (220)). The direct charger (640) can receive power provided from an external device (500) through a connector (520). The output voltage of the direct charger (640) can be provided to the second battery (620). The capacity of the second battery (620) can be greater than the capacity of the first battery (610).

[0095] In operation 905, according to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) (e.g., controller (120)) can control the output of the buck switching charger (630) based on a comparison of the output voltage of the buck switching charger (630) and the voltage of the second battery (620). The output of the buck switching charger (630) can be controlled by controlling the switches (731, 732) based on a signal provided from the PWM circuit (750). The electronic device (101) (e.g., controller (120)) can control the output of the buck switching charger (630) based on a comparison of the output voltage of the buck switching charger (630) and the voltage of the second battery (254; 620) using the PWM circuit (750). The electronic device (101) (e.g., controller (120)) can control the output of the buck switching charger (630) using the PWM circuit (750) so that the difference between the output voltage of the buck switching charger (630) and the voltage of the second battery (254; 620) becomes less than or equal to a first reference value (e.g., 0 or a small value close to 0). The electronic device (101) (e.g., controller (120)) can control the output of the buck switching charger (630) using the PWM circuit (750) so that the current flowing through the second wiring (782) for providing power provided from the second battery (254; 620) to the load (799) placed on the first bracket (212) becomes less than or equal to the second reference value while power is provided from the external device (500) through the connector (520).

[0096] FIG. 10 is a flowchart of a method of operating an electronic device according to one embodiment. FIG. 10 can be explained with reference to the previously described embodiments and the embodiments described below.

[0097] At least some of the operations of FIG. 10 may be omitted. The order of the operations of FIG. 10 may be changed. Operations other than those of FIG. 10 may be performed before, during, or after the operations of FIG. 10.

[0098] Referring to FIG. 10, in operation 1001, according to one embodiment, an electronic device (101) (e.g., controller (120)) can check whether the first battery (610) is fully charged.

[0099] In operation 1003, according to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) (e.g., the controller (120)) may control the limiter (760) so that the charging current of the first battery (610) becomes less than or equal to a reference current and the charging voltage of the first battery (610) becomes less than or equal to a reference voltage based on the first battery (610) not being fully charged. The electronic device (101) (e.g., the controller (120)) may compare the charging current of the first battery (610) with the reference current using the first comparator (761). The electronic device (101) (e.g., the controller (120)) may compare the charging voltage of the first battery (610) with the reference voltage using the second comparator (762). The minimum selector (763) can output a smaller voltage between the voltage output from the first comparator (761) and the voltage output from the second comparator (762). The limiter (760) can be controlled based on the voltage output from the minimum selector (763). As the limiter (760) is controlled based on the voltage output from the minimum selector (763), the charging current of the first battery (610) can be maintained below a reference current, and the charging voltage of the first battery (610) can be maintained below a reference voltage.

[0100] In operation 1005, according to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) (e.g., the controller (120)) may control the limiter (760) configured to control the current of the first battery (610) to be turned off based on the full charge of the first battery (610).

[0101] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the embodiments described herein may be applied interchangeably, within the scope of their applicability. For example, those skilled in the art will appreciate that at least some operations of one embodiment described herein may be omitted and applied, or at least some operations of one embodiment may be applied in conjunction.

[0102] The technical tasks to be achieved in this document are not limited to the technical tasks mentioned above, and other technical tasks not mentioned will be clearly understood by those with ordinary skill in the technical field to which this document pertains from the description below.

[0103] 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.

[0104] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a first bracket (212), a second bracket (222), a hinge (280) rotatably connecting the first bracket (212) and the second bracket (222), a first battery (252; 610) disposed on the first bracket (212), a buck switching charger (630) configured to provide power to the first battery (252; 610), a second battery (254; 620) disposed on the second bracket (222), a direct charger (640) configured to provide power to the second battery (254; 620), a pulse width modulation (PWM) circuit (750), and a connector (520) configured to connect to an external device (500). The buck switching charger (630) may be disposed on the first bracket (212). The direct charger (640) may be disposed on the second bracket (222). The direct charger (640) may be configured to receive power provided from the external device (500) through the connector (520). The buck switching charger (630) may be configured to receive power provided from the external device (500) through the connector (520) and the first wiring (781) between the first bracket (212) and the second bracket (222). The above PWM circuit (750) may be configured to control the output of the buck switching charger (630) based on a comparison of the output voltage of the buck switching charger (630) and the voltage of the second battery (254; 620).

[0105] According to one embodiment, the PWM circuit (750) may be configured to control the output of the buck switching charger (630) such that the difference between the output voltage of the buck switching charger (630) and the voltage of the second battery (254; 620) becomes less than or equal to a first reference value.

[0106] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a second wiring (782) for providing power provided from the second battery (254; 620) to a load (799) disposed on the first bracket (212). The PWM circuit (750) may be configured to control the output of the buck switching charger (630) such that a current flowing through the second wiring (782) becomes less than or equal to a second reference value while power is provided from the external device (500) through the connector (520).

[0107] According to one embodiment, the capacity of the first battery (252; 610) configured to receive charging power from the buck switching charger (630) may be smaller than the capacity of the second battery (254; 620) configured to receive charging power from the direct charger (640).

[0108] According to one embodiment, the buck switching charger (630) may include an inductor (733) and first switches (731; 732). The direct charger (640) may include a capacitor (745) and second switches (741; 742; 743; 744).

[0109] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a limiter (760) electrically connected to the first battery (252; 610). The limiter (760) may be configured to control the charging current of the first battery (252; 610) to be less than or equal to a reference current and the charging voltage of the first battery (252; 610) to be less than or equal to a reference voltage.

[0110] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a first comparator (761) configured to compare the charging current of the first battery (252; 610) with the reference current. The electronic device (101) may include a second comparator (762) configured to compare the charging voltage of the first battery (252; 610) with the reference voltage. The electronic device (101) may include a minimum selector (763) configured to output a smaller voltage between a voltage output from the first comparator (761) and a voltage output from the second comparator (762). The limiter (760) may be configured to be controlled based on the voltage output from the minimum selector (763).

[0111] In one embodiment, based on a full charge of the first battery (252; 610), the limiter (760) may be controlled to turn off.

[0112] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a third switch (770) electrically connected to the second battery (254; 620). Based on a full charge of the second battery (254; 620), the third switch (770) may be controlled to be turned off.

[0113] According to one embodiment, the connector (520) may be placed on the second bracket (222).

[0114] According to one embodiment, the load (799) may include a camera (180; 204; 206).

[0115] According to one embodiment, a method of operating an electronic device (101) may include providing power to a first battery (252; 610) disposed on a first bracket (212) of the electronic device (101) using a buck switching charger (630) of the electronic device (101). The method may include providing power to a second battery (254; 620) disposed on a second bracket (222) of the electronic device (101) using a direct charger (640) of the electronic device (101). The method may include controlling an output of the buck switching charger (630) based on a comparison of an output voltage of the buck switching charger (630) and a voltage of the second battery (254; 620) using a PWM (pulse width modulation) circuit (750) of the electronic device (101).

[0116] According to one embodiment, the buck switching charger (630) may be disposed on the first bracket (212). The direct charger (640) may be disposed on the second bracket (222). The direct charger (640) may be configured to receive power provided from the external device (500) through the connector (520). The buck switching charger (630) may be configured to receive power provided from the external device (500) through the connector (520) and the first wiring (781) between the first bracket (212) and the second bracket (222).

[0117] According to one embodiment, the operation of controlling the output of the buck switching charger (630) may include an operation of controlling the output of the buck switching charger (630) using the PWM circuit (750) so that a difference between the output voltage of the buck switching charger (630) and the voltage of the second battery (254; 620) becomes less than or equal to a first reference value.

[0118] According to one embodiment, the operation of controlling the output of the buck switching charger (630) may include an operation of controlling the output of the buck switching charger (630) so that a current flowing through the second wiring (782) for providing power provided from the second battery (254; 620) to a load (799) disposed on the first bracket (212) becomes less than or equal to a second reference value while power is provided from the external device (500) through the connector (520).

[0119] According to one embodiment, the capacity of the first battery (252; 610) configured to receive charging power from the buck switching charger (630) may be smaller than the capacity of the second battery (254; 620) configured to receive charging power from the direct charger (640).

[0120] According to one embodiment, the method may include controlling a limiter (760) electrically connected to the first battery (252; 610) such that a charging current of the first battery (252; 610) becomes less than or equal to a reference current and a charging voltage of the first battery (252; 610) becomes less than or equal to a reference voltage. The controlling of the limiter (760) may include controlling the limiter (760) based on a voltage output from a minimum selector (763).

[0121] According to one embodiment, the method may include controlling the limiter (760) to turn off based on a full charge of the first battery (252; 610).

[0122] According to one embodiment, the method may include controlling a third switch (770) electrically connected to the second battery (254; 620) to be turned off based on a full charge of the second battery (254; 620).

[0123] According to one embodiment, a computer readable recording medium having stored thereon instructions configured to cause at least one operation, wherein the at least one operation may include an operation of providing power to a first battery (252; 610) disposed on a first bracket (212) of the electronic device (101) using a buck switching charger (630) of the electronic device (101). The at least one operation may include an operation of providing power to a second battery (254; 620) disposed on a second bracket (222) of the electronic device (101) using a direct charger (640) of the electronic device (101). The at least one operation may include controlling the output of the buck switching charger (630) based on a comparison of the output voltage of the buck switching charger (630) and the voltage of the second battery (254; 620) using a PWM (pulse width modulation) circuit (750) of the electronic device (101).

[0124] According to one embodiment, the buck switching charger (630) may be disposed on the first bracket (212). The direct charger (640) may be disposed on the second bracket (222). The direct charger (640) may be configured to receive power provided from the external device (500) through the connector (520). The buck switching charger (630) may be configured to receive power provided from the external device (500) through the connector (520) and the first wiring (781) between the first bracket (212) and the second bracket (222).

[0125] According to one embodiment, the operation of controlling the output of the buck switching charger (630) may include an operation of controlling the output of the buck switching charger (630) using the PWM circuit (750) so that a difference between the output voltage of the buck switching charger (630) and the voltage of the second battery (254; 620) becomes less than or equal to a first reference value.

[0126] According to one embodiment, the operation of controlling the output of the buck switching charger (630) may include an operation of controlling the output of the buck switching charger (630) so that a current flowing through the second wiring (782) for providing power provided from the second battery (254; 620) to a load (799) disposed on the first bracket (212) becomes less than or equal to a second reference value while power is provided from the external device (500) through the connector (520).

[0127] According to one embodiment, the capacity of the first battery (252; 610) configured to receive charging power from the buck switching charger (630) may be smaller than the capacity of the second battery (254; 620) configured to receive charging power from the direct charger (640).

[0128] According to one embodiment, the at least one operation may include controlling a limiter (760) electrically connected to the first battery (252; 610) such that a charging current of the first battery (252; 610) becomes less than or equal to a reference current and a charging voltage of the first battery (252; 610) becomes less than or equal to a reference voltage. The operation of controlling the limiter (760) may include controlling the limiter (760) based on a voltage output from a minimum selector (763).

[0129] In one embodiment, the at least one operation may include controlling the limiter (760) to turn off based on a full charge of the first battery (252; 610).

[0130] In one embodiment, the at least one operation may include controlling a third switch (770) electrically connected to the second battery (254; 620) to turn off based on a full charge of the second battery (254; 620).

[0131] Electronic devices according to the various embodiments disclosed in this document may take various forms. Electronic devices may include, for example, portable communication devices (e.g., smartphones), computer devices, portable multimedia devices, portable medical devices, cameras, wearable devices, or home appliances. Electronic devices according to the embodiments of this document are not limited to the aforementioned devices.

[0132] The various embodiments of this document and the terminology used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, but should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutes of the embodiments. In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components. The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of the items, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this document, each of the phrases "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B, or C", "at least one of A, B, and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" can include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase among those phrases, or all possible combinations thereof. Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used merely to distinguish one component from another, and do not limit the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order). When a component (e.g., a first component) is referred to as "coupled" or "connected" to another (e.g., a second component), with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicatively," it means that the component can be connected to the other component directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0133] The term "module" used in various embodiments of this document may include a unit implemented in hardware, software, or firmware, and may be used interchangeably with terms such as logic, logic block, component, or circuit. A module may be an integral component, or a minimum unit or part of such a component that performs one or more functions. For example, according to one embodiment, a module may be implemented in the form of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0134] Various embodiments of the present document may be implemented as software (e.g., a program) including one or more instructions stored on a storage medium that can be read by a machine (e.g., an electronic device). For example, a processor (e.g., a controller) of the machine may call at least one instruction among the one or more instructions stored from the storage medium and execute it. This enables the machine to operate to perform at least one function according to the at least one instruction called. The one or more instructions may include code generated by a compiler or code that can be executed by an interpreter. The machine-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, 'non-transitory' only means that the storage medium is a tangible device and does not contain a signal (e.g., electromagnetic waves), and this term does not distinguish between cases where data is stored semi-permanently and cases where it is stored temporarily in the storage medium.

[0135] According to one embodiment, the method according to various embodiments disclosed in this document may be provided as included in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded as a product between a seller and a buyer. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable storage medium (e.g., compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM)), or may be distributed online (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) through an application store (e.g., Play Store™) or directly between two user devices (e.g., smart phones). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product may be temporarily stored or temporarily generated in a machine-readable storage medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or an intermediary server.

[0136] According to various embodiments, each component (e.g., a module or a program) of the above-described components may include one or more entities, and some of the entities may be separated and placed in other components. According to various embodiments, one or more components or operations of the aforementioned components may be omitted, or one or more other components or operations may be added. Alternatively or additionally, a plurality of components (e.g., a module or a program) may be integrated into a single component. In such a case, the integrated component may perform one or more functions of each of the plurality of components identically or similarly to those performed by the corresponding component among the plurality of components prior to the integration. According to various embodiments, the operations performed by a module, program, or other component may be executed sequentially, in parallel, iteratively, or heuristically, or one or more of the operations may be executed in a different order, omitted, or one or more other operations may be added.

Claims

1. In an electronic device (101), First bracket (212); Second bracket (222); A hinge (280) that rotatably connects the first bracket (212) and the second bracket (222); A first battery (252; 610) arranged on the first bracket (212); A buck switching charger (630) configured to provide power to the first battery (252; 610); A second battery (254; 620) placed on the second bracket (222); A direct charger (640) configured to provide power to the second battery (254; 620); PWM (pulse width modulation) circuit (750); and Includes a connector (520) configured to connect to an external device (500); The above buck switching charger (630) is placed on the first bracket (212), The above direct charger (640) is placed on the second bracket (222), The above direct charger (640) is configured to receive power provided from the external device (500) through the connector (520), The above buck switching charger (630) is configured to receive power provided from the external device (500) through the connector (520) and the first wiring (781) between the first bracket (212) and the second bracket (222). The above PWM circuit (750) is configured to control the output of the buck switching charger (630) based on a comparison between the output voltage of the buck switching charger (630) and the voltage of the second battery (254; 620). Electronic device (101).

2. In paragraph 1, The above PWM circuit (750) is configured to control the output of the buck switching charger (630) so that the difference between the output voltage of the buck switching charger (630) and the voltage of the second battery (254; 620) becomes less than or equal to a first reference value. Electronic devices (101).

3. In paragraph 1 or 2, It further includes a second wiring (782) for providing power provided from the second battery (254; 620) to a load (799) placed on the first bracket (212). The above PWM circuit (750) It is configured to control the output of the buck switching charger (630) so that the current flowing through the second wiring (782) becomes less than the second reference value while power is supplied from the external device (500) through the connector (520). Electronic devices (101).

4. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 3, The capacity of the first battery (252; 610) configured to receive charging power from the buck switching charger (630) is smaller than the capacity of the second battery (254; 620) configured to receive charging power from the direct charger (640). Electronic devices (101).

5. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 4, The above buck switching charger (630) includes an inductor (733) and first switches (731; 732), The above direct charger (640) includes a capacitor (745) and second switches (741; 742; 743; 744). Electronic devices (101).

6. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 5, Further comprising a limiter (760) electrically connected to the first battery (252; 610), The above limiter (760) is, It is configured to be controlled so that the charging current of the first battery (252; 610) becomes lower than the reference current and the charging voltage of the first battery (252; 610) becomes lower than the reference voltage. Electronic devices (101).

7. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 6, A first comparator (761) configured to compare the charging current of the first battery (252; 610) with the reference current; A second comparator (762) configured to compare the charging voltage of the first battery (252; 610) with the reference voltage; and It further includes a minimum selector (763) configured to output a smaller voltage among the voltage output from the first comparator (761) and the voltage output from the second comparator (762). The above limiter (760) is configured to be controlled based on the voltage output from the minimum selector (763). Electronic devices (101).

8. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 7, Based on the full charge of the first battery (252; 610), the limiter (760) is controlled to be off. Electronic devices (101).

9. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 8, Further comprising a third switch (770) electrically connected to the second battery (254; 620), Based on the full charge of the second battery (254; 620), the third switch (770) is controlled to be turned off. Electronic devices (101).

10. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 9, The above connector (520) is placed on the second bracket (222). Electronic devices (101).

11. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 10, The above load (799) includes a camera (180; 204; 206). Electronic devices (101).

12. In the operating method of an electronic device (101), An operation of providing power using a buck switching charger (630) of the electronic device (101) by using a first battery (252; 610) placed on the first bracket (212) of the electronic device (101), An operation of providing power using a direct charger (640) of the electronic device (101) by a second battery (254; 620) placed in the second bracket (222) of the electronic device (101), An operation of controlling the output of the buck switching charger (630) based on a comparison of the output voltage of the buck switching charger (630) and the voltage of the second battery (254; 620) using the PWM (pulse width modulation) circuit (750) of the electronic device (101). method.

13. In paragraph 12, The above buck switching charger (630) is placed on the first bracket (212), The above direct charger (640) is placed on the second bracket (222), The above direct charger (640) is configured to receive power provided from the external device (500) through the connector (520), The above buck switching charger (630) is configured to receive power provided from the external device (500) through the connector (520) and the first wiring (781) between the first bracket (212) and the second bracket (222). method.

14. A computer readable recording medium having stored therein instructions set to cause at least one action, wherein said at least one action comprises: An operation of providing power using a buck switching charger (630) of the electronic device (101) by using a first battery (252; 610) placed on a first bracket (212) of the electronic device (101), An operation of providing power using a direct charger (640) of the electronic device (101) by a second battery (254; 620) placed in the second bracket (222) of the electronic device (101), An operation of controlling the output of the buck switching charger (630) using a PWM (pulse width modulation) circuit (750) of the electronic device (101) based on a comparison of the output voltage of the buck switching charger (630) and the voltage of the second battery (254; 620), Recording medium.

15. In paragraph 14, The operation of controlling the output of the above buck switching charger (630) is as follows: An operation of controlling the output of the buck switching charger (630) using the PWM circuit (750) so that the difference between the output voltage of the buck switching charger (630) and the voltage of the second battery (254; 620) becomes less than or equal to a first reference value. Recording medium.

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