Connector and electronic device including same

The miniaturized connector design addresses the challenges of space occupation and waterproofing in electronic devices by incorporating a sealing member system within a compact connector structure, facilitating the miniaturization and waterproofing of electronic devices.

WO2025095534A1PCT designated stage expired Publication Date: 2025-05-08SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD
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Patent Information

Application Number
PCT/KR2024/016668
Authority / Receiving Office
WO · WO
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2023-12-06
Filing Date
2024-10-29
Publication Date
2025-05-08

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing electronic devices face challenges in miniaturization and waterproofing due to the presence of traditional connectors, which occupy space and complicate the integration of waterproof structures.

Method used

The development of a miniaturized connector design that includes a fixing part, a connection part, a first cover member, a second cover member, a first sealing member, and a second sealing member, which together provide a compact and waterproof connection solution.

Benefits of technology

This solution enables the miniaturization of electronic devices while ensuring waterproofing, thereby enhancing the durability and reliability of the devices without increasing their size.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

An embodiment of the present disclosure relates to a connector and / or an electronic device including same. The connector may comprise: a fixing part; a connection part extending from the fixing part in a first direction; a first cover member disposed to surround at least a portion of the fixing part; a second cover member disposed to surround at least a portion of the connection part while being adjacent to the fixing part or the first cover member; and multiple contact terminals which extend from the fixing part, are partially exposed to the outside of the second cover member on one surface of the connection part, and are arranged in a second direction intersecting the first direction. Various other embodiments may also be possible.
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Description

Connectors and electronic devices containing them

[0001] Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to electronic devices, for example, to connectors and / or electronic devices including the same.

[0002] With the advancement of electronics, information, and communication technologies, a single electronic device is incorporating diverse functions. For example, smartphones, in addition to communication functions, include functions such as audio playback, imaging, and electronic notebooks. Furthermore, the installation of additional applications can enable even more diverse functions. Electronic devices can not only execute pre-installed applications or stored files, but also access servers or other electronic devices via wired or wireless means to receive a variety of information in real time.

[0003] As electronic devices become more sophisticated and miniaturized, carrying them around has become a common occurrence, and portable electronic devices are now available in a variety of forms. For example, a single user can carry and use multiple portable electronic devices, such as smartphones, tablet PCs (personal computers), smart watches, wireless earphones, and / or smart glasses. As the use of these portable electronic devices becomes more widespread and the amount of time spent outdoors increases, user demand for greater portability may increase. For example, users may prefer lighter and smaller electronic devices, while also demanding improved performance, such as picture and sound quality.

[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 is applicable as prior art in connection with the present disclosure.

[0005] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a connector may include a fixing portion, a connecting portion extending in a first direction from the fixing portion, a first cover member arranged to surround at least a portion of the fixing portion, a second cover member arranged adjacent to the fixing portion or the first cover member and surrounding at least a portion of the connecting portion, and a plurality of contact terminals arranged along a second direction intersecting the first direction, the contact terminals being partially exposed to the outside of the second cover member at one surface of the connecting portion and extending from the fixing portion.

[0006] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a connector may include a fixing portion, a connecting portion extending in a first direction from the fixing portion, a first cover member arranged to surround at least a portion of the fixing portion, a second cover member arranged adjacent to the fixing portion or the first cover member and surrounding at least a portion of the connecting portion, a plurality of contact terminals extending from the fixing portion and partially exposed to the outside of the second cover member on one surface of the connecting portion, a first sealing member arranged between the connecting portion and an inner circumferential surface of the second cover member, and a second sealing member arranged to surround at least a portion of an outer circumferential surface of the second cover member. In one embodiment, the second cover member may include a base portion arranged to face the fixing portion while contacting the second sealing member at an outer surface, and a support portion arranged to protrude from the base portion in the first direction and surround the connecting portion. In one embodiment, the support portion may contact the second sealing member at an outer surface and contact the first sealing member at an inner surface.

[0007] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device may include a housing including a front face, a rear face facing in an opposite direction to the front face, and a side wall arranged to at least partially surround a space between the front face and the rear face, a connector hole formed to penetrate the side wall, a partition provided inside the housing at a specified distance from the side wall and arranged to face the connector hole, and a connector arranged inside the housing. In one embodiment, the connector may include a fixing portion disposed on one side of the partition wall, a connecting portion disposed to extend in a first direction from the fixing portion and penetrate the partition wall so as to directly face the connector hole, a first cover member disposed to surround at least a portion of the fixing portion, a second cover member disposed adjacent to the fixing portion or the first cover member and to surround at least a portion of the connecting portion, a first sealing member disposed between the connecting portion and an inner surface of the second cover member, and a second sealing member disposed to surround at least a portion of an outer surface of the second cover member and to be in direct contact with the partition wall.

[0008] The above-described aspects or other aspects, configurations and / or advantages of one embodiment of the present disclosure may be further clarified by the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0009] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an electronic device within a network environment according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0010] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the front of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0011] FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing the rear side of the electronic device illustrated in FIG. 2 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0012] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view showing the front side of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view showing the rear side of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing a molded product among connectors according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing a second cover member coupled to a molded article among connectors according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing a connector according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein a first cover member is coupled to a molded product.

[0017] FIG. 9 is a perspective view showing a connector according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, showing a second sealing member arranged on a second cover member.

[0018] FIG. 10 is a plan view showing a connector according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 11 is a bottom view showing a connector according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 12 is a drawing showing a connector according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and is a cross-sectional view showing the connector cut along line A-A' of FIG. 10.

[0021] FIG. 13 is a drawing showing a connector according to one embodiment of the present disclosure arranged in a housing of an electronic device.

[0022] FIG. 14 is a perspective view showing a connector according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 15 is a drawing showing a connector according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and is a cross-sectional view showing the connector cut along line B-B' of FIG. 14.

[0024] FIG. 16 is an exploded perspective view showing a connector according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 17 is a perspective view showing a connector according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, showing a portion of the connector cut away.

[0026] FIG. 18 is a drawing showing a circuit board to which a connector is coupled according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view showing a portion of a connector according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] FIG. 20 is a perspective view showing a connector according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, showing a portion of the connector cut away.

[0029] Throughout the attached drawings, similar reference numbers may be assigned to similar parts, components and / or structures.

[0030] Typically, electronic devices such as smartphones include connectors based on standards such as the Universal Serial Bus (USB) to enable wired connection with other electronic devices or to receive power for operation or charging. As wireless, non-wired connections and power supply to other electronic devices become possible, such as near-field communication and wireless power transmission / reception, efforts are being made to eliminate connectors that implement mechanical connections. However, wired methods can still be faster and more efficient than wireless methods. However, these connectors can hinder the miniaturization or weight reduction of electronic devices. For example, electronic devices without connectors can be more easily miniaturized or lightweight than those that include connectors. When a connector is placed in a waterproof electronic device for external connection, additional space may be required to implement a waterproof structure, making miniaturization of the electronic device including the connector more difficult.

[0031] One embodiment of the present disclosure is intended to at least resolve the above-described problems and / or disadvantages and at least provide the advantages described below, thereby providing a miniaturized connector and / or an electronic device including the same while enabling miniaturization and / or waterproofing.

[0032] The technical problems to be achieved in this document are not limited to the technical problems mentioned above, and other technical problems not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the technical field to which the present disclosure belongs from the description below.

[0033] The following description of the accompanying drawings may provide an understanding of various exemplary implementations of the present disclosure, including the claims and their equivalents. While the exemplary embodiments disclosed in the following description include numerous specific details to aid understanding, they are to be considered as one example of various exemplary embodiments. Accordingly, those skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications and variations of the various implementations described herein may be made without departing from the scope and spirit of the disclosure. Furthermore, descriptions of well-known functions and configurations may be omitted for clarity and conciseness.

[0034] The terms and words used in the following description and claims are not limited to their reference meanings and can be used to clearly and consistently describe one embodiment of the present disclosure. Therefore, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the following description of various implementations of the disclosure is provided for illustrative purposes, not for the purpose of limiting the scope of the disclosure and its equivalents.

[0035] Unless the context clearly dictates otherwise, the singular forms of "a," "an," and "the" should be understood to include plural meanings. Thus, for example, "a component surface" could be understood to include one or more of the surfaces of the component.

[0036] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device (1001) within a network environment (1000) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 1 , in the network environment (1000), the electronic device (1001) may communicate with the electronic device (1002) via a first network (1098) (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network), or may communicate with at least one of the electronic device (1004) or the server (1008) via a second network (1099) (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (1001) may communicate with the electronic device (1004) via the server (1008). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (1001) may include a processor (1020), a memory (1030), an input module (1050), an audio output module (1055), a display module (1060), an audio module (1070), a sensor module (1076), an interface (1077), a connection terminal (1078), a haptic module (1079), a camera module (1080), a power management module (1088), a battery (1089), a communication module (1090), a subscriber identification module (1096), or an antenna module (1097). In one embodiment, the electronic device (1001) may omit at least one of these components (e.g., the connection terminal (1078)), or may have one or more other components added. In one embodiment, some of these components (e.g., sensor module (1076), camera module (1080), or antenna module (1097)) may be integrated into one component (e.g., display module (1060)).

[0037] The processor (1020) may, for example, execute software (e.g., a program (1040)) to control at least one other component (e.g., a hardware or software component) of the electronic device (1001) connected to the processor (1020) and perform various data processing or operations. According to one embodiment, as at least a part of the data processing or operations, the processor (1020) may store commands or data received from other components (e.g., a sensor module (1076) or a communication module (1090)) in the volatile memory (1032), process the commands or data stored in the volatile memory (1032), and store result data in the non-volatile memory (1034). According to one embodiment, the processor (1020) may include a main processor (1021) (e.g., a central processing unit or an application processor), or an auxiliary processor (1023) (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 (1021). For example, when the electronic device (1001) includes the main processor (1021) and the auxiliary processor (1023), the auxiliary processor (1023) may be configured to use less power than the main processor (1021) or to be specialized for a given function. The auxiliary processor (1023) may be implemented separately from the main processor (1021) or as a part thereof.

[0038] The auxiliary processor (1023) may control at least a portion of functions or states associated with at least one component (e.g., the display module (1060), the sensor module (1076), or the communication module (1090)) of the electronic device (1001), for example, on behalf of the main processor (1021) while the main processor (1021) is in an inactive (e.g., sleep) state, or together with the main processor (1021) while the main processor (1021) is in an active (e.g., application execution) state. In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (1023) (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 (1080) or a communication module (1090)). In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (1023) (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 (1001) itself where the artificial intelligence model is executed, or can be performed through a separate server (e.g., server (1008)). 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.

[0039] The memory (1030) can store various data used by at least one component (e.g., the processor (1020) or the sensor module (1076)) of the electronic device (1001). The data can include, for example, software (e.g., the program (1040)) and input data or output data for commands related thereto. The memory (1030) can include volatile memory (1032) or non-volatile memory (1034).

[0040] The program (1040) may be stored as software in memory (1030) and may include, for example, an operating system (1042), middleware (1044), or an application (1046).

[0041] The input module (1050) can receive commands or data to be used in a component of the electronic device (1001) (e.g., a processor (1020)) from an external source (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (1001). The input module (1050) 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).

[0042] The audio output module (1055) can output audio signals to the outside of the electronic device (1001). The audio output module (1055) 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.

[0043] The display module (1060) can visually provide information to an external party (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (1001). The display module (1060) may include, for example, a display, a holographic device, or a projector and a control circuit for controlling the device. In one embodiment, the display module (1060) 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.

[0044] The audio module (1070) can convert sound into an electrical signal, or vice versa, convert an electrical signal into sound. According to one embodiment, the audio module (1070) can acquire sound through the input module (1050), output sound through the sound output module (1055), or an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (1002)) (e.g., speaker or headphone) directly or wirelessly connected to the electronic device (1001).

[0045] The sensor module (1076) can detect the operating status (e.g., power or temperature) of the electronic device (1001) 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 (1076) 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.

[0046] The interface (1077) may support one or more designated protocols that may be used to directly or wirelessly connect the electronic device (1001) to an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (1002)). In one embodiment, the interface (1077) may include, for example, a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB) interface, an SD card interface, or an audio interface.

[0047] The connection terminal (1078) may include a connector through which the electronic device (1001) may be physically connected to an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (1002)). According to one embodiment, the connection terminal (1078) may include, for example, an HDMI connector, a USB connector, an SD card connector, or an audio connector (e.g., a headphone connector).

[0048] The haptic module (1079) 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. In one embodiment, the haptic module (1079) can include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0049] The camera module (1080) can capture still images and videos. According to one embodiment, the camera module (1080) may include one or more lenses, image sensors, image signal processors, or flashes.

[0050] The power management module (1088) can manage power supplied to the electronic device (1001). According to one embodiment, the power management module (1088) can be implemented, for example, as at least a part of a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

[0051] A battery (1089) may power at least one component of the electronic device (1001). In one embodiment, the battery (1089) may include, for example, a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable secondary battery, or a fuel cell.

[0052] The communication module (1090) may support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between the electronic device (1001) and an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (1002), electronic device (1004), or server (1008)), and the performance of communication through the established communication channel. The communication module (1090) may operate independently from the processor (1020) (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 (1090) may include a wireless communication module (1092) (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 (1094) (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 via a first network (1098) (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, wireless fidelity (WiFi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or a second network (1099) (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 local area network or a wide area network)). 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 (1092) can verify or authenticate the electronic device (1001) within a communication network such as the first network (1098) or the second network (1099) by using subscriber information (e.g., an international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI)) stored in the subscriber identification module (1096).

[0053] The wireless communication module (1092) can support 5G networks and next-generation communication technologies following the 4G network, such as NR access technology (new radio access technology). NR access technology can support high-speed transmission of high-capacity data (eMBB (enhanced mobile broadband)), minimizing terminal power and connecting multiple terminals (mMTC (massive machine type communications)), or high reliability and low latency (URLLC (ultra-reliable and low-latency communications)). The wireless communication module (1092) can support, for example, a high-frequency band (e.g., mmWave band) to achieve a high data transmission rate. The wireless communication module (1092) may 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 (1092) may support various requirements specified in the electronic device (1001), an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (1004)), or a network system (e.g., the second network (1099)). According to one embodiment, the wireless communication module (1092) may support a peak data rate (e.g., 20 Gbps or more) for eMBB realization, a loss coverage (e.g., 164 dB or less) for mMTC realization, or a U-plane latency (e.g., 0.5 ms or less for downlink (DL) and uplink (UL) each, or 1 ms or less for round trip) for URLLC realization.

[0054] The antenna module (1097) 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 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 (1097) 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 (1098) or the second network (1099), may be selected from the plurality of antennas by, for example, the communication module (1090). A signal or power may be transmitted or received between the communication module (1090) and an external electronic device via the selected at least one antenna. In one embodiment, 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 (1097).

[0055] In one embodiment, the antenna module (1097) 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.

[0056] 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)).

[0057] According to one embodiment, commands or data may be transmitted or received between the electronic device (1001) and an external electronic device (1004) via a server (1008) connected to a second network (1099). Each of the external electronic devices (1002 or 1004) may be the same or a different type of device as the electronic device (1001). According to one embodiment, all or part of the operations executed in the electronic device (1001) may be executed in one or more of the external electronic devices (1002, 1004, or 1008). For example, when the electronic device (1001) is to perform a certain function or service automatically or in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device (1001) 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 (1001). The electronic device (1001) 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 (1001) may provide an ultra-low latency service by using distributed computing or mobile edge computing, for example. In one embodiment, the external electronic device (1004) may include an Internet of Things (IoT) device. The server (1008) may be an intelligent server utilizing machine learning and / or a neural network.According to one embodiment, an external electronic device (1004) or server (1008) may be included in the second network (1099). The electronic device (1001) may be applied to intelligent services (e.g., smart homes, smart cities, smart cars, or healthcare) based on 5G communication technology and IoT-related technology.

[0058] Electronic devices according to embodiments of the present disclosure 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 embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to the aforementioned devices.

[0059] The embodiments of this document and the terminology used herein are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, but should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutes of the embodiments. In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components. The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of the items, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this document, each of the phrases "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B, or C", "at least one of A, B, and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" can include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase, or all possible combinations thereof. Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used merely to distinguish one component from another, and do not limit the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order). When a component (e.g., a first component) is referred to as "coupled" or "connected" to another component (e.g., a second component), with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicatively," it means that the component can be connected to the other component directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0060] 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).

[0061] Various embodiments of the present document may be implemented as software (e.g., a program) including one or more instructions stored in a storage medium (e.g., built-in memory or external memory) readable by a machine (e.g., an electronic device). For example, a processor (e.g., a processor) of the machine (e.g., an electronic device) 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 executable 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.

[0062] According to one embodiment, the method according to various embodiments of the present disclosure may be provided as a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded between sellers and buyers as a product. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a device-readable storage medium (e.g., compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM)) or may be provided through an application store (e.g., Play Store). TM ) or directly between two user devices (e.g., smartphones), online distribution (e.g., downloading or uploading). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product may be at least temporarily stored or temporarily created in a machine-readable storage medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or an intermediary server.

[0063] According to 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 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 this case, the integrated component may perform one or more functions of each of the plurality of components identically or similarly to those performed by the corresponding component among the plurality of components prior to the integration. According to embodiments, 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.

[0064] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the front side of an electronic device (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing the rear side of the electronic device (100) illustrated in FIG. 2 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0065] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, an electronic device (100) according to one embodiment (e.g., the electronic device (1001) of FIG. 1) may include a housing (110) that includes a first side (or front side) (110A), a second side (or back side) (110B), and a side surface (110C) that surrounds a space between the first side (110A) and the second side (110B). In one embodiment (not shown), the housing (110) may also refer to a structure that forms a portion of the first side (110A) of FIG. 2, the second side (110B) of FIG. 3, and the side surface (110C). According to one embodiment, the first side (110A) may be formed by a front plate (102) that is at least partially substantially transparent (e.g., a glass plate or a polymer plate including various coating layers). The second side (110B) may be formed by a substantially opaque back plate (111). The back plate (111) may be formed of, for example, coated or colored glass, ceramic, polymer, metal (e.g., aluminum, stainless steel (STS), or magnesium), or a combination of at least two of the foregoing materials. The side surface (110C) may be formed by a side structure (or “side bezel structure”) (118) that is joined to the front plate (102) and the back plate (111) and comprises a metal and / or a polymer. In one embodiment, the back plate (111) and the side structure (118) may be formed integrally and comprise the same material (e.g., a metal material such as aluminum).

[0066] Although not shown, the front plate (102) may include a seamlessly extending region(s) that curves toward the rear plate (111) at least along a portion of an edge. In one embodiment, the front plate (102) (or the rear plate (111)) may include only one of the curved and extending regions toward the rear plate (111) (or the front plate (102)) at one edge of the first surface (110A). In some embodiments, the front plate (102) or the rear plate (111) may be substantially flat. For example, the curved and extending region may not be included. When the curved and extending region is included, the thickness of the electronic device (100) in the portion that includes the curved and extending region may be smaller than that of other portions.

[0067] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (100) may include at least one of a display (101), an audio module (e.g., a microphone hole (103), an external speaker hole (107), a call receiver hole (114)), a sensor module (e.g., a first sensor module (104), a second sensor module (not shown), a third sensor module (119)), a camera module (e.g., a first camera device (105), a second camera device (112), a flash (113)), a key input device (117), a light-emitting element (106), and a connector hole (e.g., a first connector hole (108), a second connector hole (109)). In one embodiment, the electronic device (100) may omit at least one of the components (e.g., the key input device (117) or the light-emitting element (106)) or may additionally include another component.

[0068] The display (101) may output a screen or be visually exposed, for example, through a significant portion of the first surface (110A) (e.g., the front plate (102)). In one embodiment, at least a portion of the display (101) may be visually exposed through the front plate (102) forming the first surface (110A) or through a portion of a side surface (110C). In one embodiment, the corners of the display (101) may be formed to be substantially the same as the adjacent outer shape of the front plate (102). In one embodiment (not shown), in order to expand the area where the display (101) is visually exposed, the gap between the outer edge of the display (101) and the outer edge of the front plate (102) may be formed to be substantially the same.

[0069] In one embodiment (not shown), a recess or opening may be formed in a part of a screen display area of ​​the display (101), and at least one or more of an audio module (e.g., a call receiver hole (114)), a sensor module (e.g., a first sensor module (104)), a camera module (e.g., a first camera device (105)), and a light-emitting element (106) may be included aligned with the recess or opening. In one embodiment (not shown), at least one or more of an audio module (e.g., a call receiver hole (114)), a sensor module (e.g., a first sensor module (104)), a camera module (e.g., a first camera device (105)), a fingerprint sensor (not shown), and a light-emitting element (106) may be included on the back surface of the screen display area of ​​the display (101). In one embodiment (not shown), the display (101) may be coupled to or disposed adjacent to a touch sensing circuit, a pressure sensor capable of measuring the intensity (pressure) of a touch, and / or a digitizer capable of detecting a magnetic field-type stylus pen. In one embodiment, when the front plate (102) or the rear plate (111) includes a curved and extended area(s), at least a portion of the sensor module (e.g., the first sensor module (104), the third sensor module (119)) and / or at least a portion of the key input device (117) may be disposed in the curved and extended area(s).

[0070] The audio module (103, 107, 114) may include a microphone hole (103) and a speaker hole (e.g., an external speaker hole (107), a call receiver hole (114)). The microphone hole (103) may have a microphone disposed inside to acquire external sounds, and in one embodiment, multiple microphones may be disposed to detect the direction of sounds. The speaker hole may include an external speaker hole (107) and a call receiver hole (114). In one embodiment, the speaker hole (e.g., an external speaker hole (107), a call receiver hole (114)) and the microphone hole (103) may be implemented as a single hole, or a speaker may be included (e.g., a piezo speaker) without a speaker hole (e.g., an external speaker hole (107), a call receiver hole (114)).

[0071] The sensor module can generate an electrical signal or data value corresponding to an internal operating state of the electronic device (100) or an external environmental state. The sensor module may include, for example, a first sensor module (104) (e.g., a proximity sensor) and / or a second sensor module (not shown) (e.g., a fingerprint sensor) disposed on a first surface (110A) of the housing (110), and / or a third sensor module (119) disposed on a second surface (110B) of the housing (110). The second sensor module (not shown) (e.g., a fingerprint sensor) may be disposed on not only the first surface (110A) (e.g., the display (101)) of the housing (110), but also the second surface (110B) or the side surface (110C). The electronic device (100) may further include, for example, at least one of a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, a pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a color sensor, an IR (infrared) sensor, a biometric sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or an illuminance sensor.

[0072] The camera module may include a first camera device (105) disposed on a first surface (110A) of the electronic device (100), a second camera device (112) disposed on a second surface (110B), and / or a flash (113). The camera devices (e.g., the first camera device (105), the second camera device (112)) may include one or more lenses, an image sensor, and / or an image signal processor. The flash (113) may include, for example, a light-emitting diode or a xenon lamp. In one embodiment, one or more lenses (an infrared camera, a wide-angle lens, and a telephoto lens) and image sensors may be disposed on one surface of the electronic device (100). In one embodiment, the flash (113) may emit infrared light, and infrared light emitted by the flash (113) and reflected by a subject may be received via the third sensor module (119). The electronic device (100) or the processor of the electronic device (100) (e.g., the processor (1020) of FIG. 1) can detect depth information of the subject based on the point in time when infrared rays are received from the third sensor module (119).

[0073] The key input device (117) may be disposed on a side surface (110C) of the housing (110). In one embodiment, the electronic device (100) may not include some or all of the above-mentioned key input devices (117), and the key input devices (117) that are not included may be implemented in other forms, such as soft keys, on the display (101). In one embodiment, the key input device may include a sensor module disposed on a second surface (110B) of the housing (110).

[0074] The light emitting element (106) may be disposed, for example, on the first surface (110A) of the housing (110). The light emitting element (106) may provide, for example, status information of the electronic device (100) in the form of light. In one embodiment, the light emitting element (106) may provide a light source that is linked to the operation of, for example, a camera module (e.g., the first camera device (105)). The light emitting element (106) may include, for example, a light emitting diode (LED), an infrared LED, and a xenon lamp.

[0075] The connector hole (e.g., the first connector hole (108), the second connector hole (109)) may include a first connector hole (108) that can accommodate a connector (e.g., a USB connector) for transmitting and receiving power and / or data with an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (1002) of FIG. 1), and / or a second connector hole (e.g., an earphone jack) (109) that can accommodate a connector for transmitting and receiving audio signals with the external electronic device.

[0076] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view showing a front side of an electronic device (200) (e.g., the electronic device (100) illustrated in FIG. 2) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view showing a rear side of an electronic device (200) (e.g., the electronic device (100) illustrated in FIG. 2) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0077] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, the electronic device (200) (e.g., the electronic device (1001, 1002, 1004, 100) of FIG. 1, FIG. 2 or FIG. 3) may include a side structure (210), a first support member (211) (e.g., a bracket), a front plate (220) (e.g., the front plate (102) of FIG. 2), a display (230) (e.g., the display (101) of FIG. 2), a printed circuit board (or board assembly) (240), a battery (250), a second support member (260) (e.g., a rear case), an antenna (not shown) (e.g., the antenna module (1097) of FIG. 1), a camera assembly (207) and a rear plate (280) (e.g., the rear plate (111) of FIG. 3). In one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may omit at least one of the components (e.g., the first support member (211) or the second support member (260)) or may additionally include another component. At least one of the components of the electronic device (200) may be identical or similar to at least one of the components of the electronic device (100) of FIG. 2 or FIG. 3, and any redundant description will be omitted below.

[0078] According to one embodiment, the first support member (211) may be disposed inside the electronic device (200) and connected to the side structure (210) or may be formed integrally with the side structure (210). The first support member (211) may be formed of, for example, a metallic material and / or a non-metallic (e.g., a polymer) material. When formed at least partially of a metallic material, the side structure (210) or a portion of the first support member (211) may function as an antenna. The first support member (211) may have a display (230) coupled to one surface and a printed circuit board (240) coupled to the other surface. The printed circuit board (240) may be equipped with a processor (e.g., the processor (1020) of FIG. 1), a memory (e.g., the memory (1030) of FIG. 1), and / or an interface (e.g., the interface (1077) of FIG. 1). The processor may include, for example, one or more of a central processing unit, an application processor, a graphics processing unit, an image signal processor, a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor. In one embodiment, the processor and / or memory may refer to one of the circuit devices mounted on an integrated circuit chip.

[0079] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may further include at least one auxiliary circuit board (249) separate from the printed circuit board (240). The auxiliary circuit board (249) may include, for example, a connector (249a) (e.g., a connection terminal (1078) of FIG. 1) for connection with an external electronic device or power supply. In one embodiment, the connector (249a) may be disposed inside the housing (201) and may correspond to the first connector hole (108) of FIG. 2. In one embodiment, an input module (1050) (e.g., a microphone) or an audio output module (1055) (e.g., a speaker) of FIG. 1, and an antenna (not shown) may be disposed around the auxiliary circuit board (249), and these electrical / electronic components may be electrically connected to the printed circuit board (240) via the auxiliary circuit board (249).

[0080] In one embodiment, the first support member (211) and the side structure (210) may be combined to form a front case or housing (201). In one embodiment, the housing (201) may be generally understood as a structure for accommodating, protecting, or arranging a printed circuit board (240) or a battery (250). In one embodiment, the housing (201) may be understood as including structures that can be visually or tactilely perceived by a user in the appearance of the electronic device (200), for example, a side structure (210), a front plate (220), and / or a rear plate (280). In one embodiment, the 'front or rear surface of the housing (201)' may refer to the first surface (110A) of FIG. 2 or the second surface (110B) of FIG. 3. In one embodiment, the first support member (211) is positioned between the front plate (220) (e.g., the first side (110A) of FIG. 2) and the back plate (280) (e.g., the second side (110B) of FIG. 3) and may function as a structure for positioning electrical / electronic components such as a printed circuit board (240) or a camera assembly (207).

[0081] The display (230) may include a display panel (231) and a flexible printed circuit board (233) extending from the display panel (231). The flexible printed circuit board (233) may be understood to be electrically connected to the display panel (231) while being disposed, for example, at least partially on the rear surface of the display panel (231). In one embodiment, reference numeral '231' may be understood to be a protective sheet disposed on the rear surface of the display panel. For example, unless otherwise specified in the following detailed description, the protective sheet may be understood to be a part of the display panel (231). In one embodiment, the protective sheet may function as a buffer structure (e.g., a low-density elastomer such as a sponge) that absorbs external force or an electromagnetic shielding structure (e.g., a copper sheet (CU sheet)). According to one embodiment, the display (230) may be disposed on the inner surface of the front plate (220) and may output a screen through at least a portion of the first surface (110A) or the front plate (220) of FIG. 2 by including a light-emitting layer. As mentioned above, the display (230) may output a screen through substantially the entire area of ​​the first surface (110A) or the front plate (220) of FIG. 2.

[0082] The memory may include, for example, volatile memory or non-volatile memory.

[0083] The interface may include, for example, a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB) interface, an SD card interface, and / or an audio interface. The interface may electrically or physically connect the electronic device (200) to an external electronic device, for example, and may include a USB connector, an SD card / MMC connector, or an audio connector.

[0084] The second support member (260) may include, for example, an upper support member (260a) and a lower support member (260b). In one embodiment, the upper support member (260a) may be arranged to surround the printed circuit board (240) together with a portion of the first support member (211). For example, the printed circuit board (240) may be substantially disposed between the first support member (211) and the second support member (260) (e.g., the upper support member (260a). A circuit device implemented in the form of an integrated circuit chip (e.g., a processor, a communication module, or a memory) or various electric / electronic components may be disposed on the printed circuit board (240), and according to an embodiment, the printed circuit board (240) may be provided with an electromagnetic shielding environment from the upper support member (260a). In one embodiment, at least one shield can may be disposed on the printed circuit board (240). For example, the shield can provide an electromagnetic shielding environment to a portion or space on the printed circuit board (240). In one embodiment, the shield can may be disposed to surround at least a portion of an integrated circuit chip on which a processor, a memory, and / or a communication module are mounted.

[0085] In one embodiment, the lower support member (260b) can be utilized as a structure for arranging electrical / electronic components such as an auxiliary circuit board (249), a speaker module, an interface (e.g., a USB connector, an SD card / MMC connector, or an audio connector). In one embodiment, electrical / electronic components such as a speaker module, an interface (e.g., a USB connector, an SD card / MMC connector, or an audio connector) can be arranged on an additional printed circuit board, for example, the auxiliary circuit board (249). For example, the lower support member (260b) can be arranged to surround the additional printed circuit board together with another portion of the first support member (211). The speaker module or interface arranged on the auxiliary circuit board (249) or the lower support member (260b) may be arranged corresponding to the audio module (e.g., microphone hole (103) or speaker hole (e.g., external speaker hole (107), call receiver hole (114))) or connector hole (e.g., first connector hole (108), second connector hole (109)) of FIG. 2.

[0086] The battery (250) is a device for supplying power to at least one component of the electronic device (200), and may include, for example, a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable secondary battery, or a fuel cell. At least a portion of the battery (250) may be disposed substantially on the same plane as, for example, the printed circuit board (240). The battery (250) may be disposed integrally within the electronic device (200), or may be disposed detachably from the electronic device (200).

[0087] Although not shown, the antenna may include a conductive pattern implemented on the surface of the first support member (211) and / or the surface of the second support member (260), for example, through a laser direct structuring (LDS) process. In one embodiment, the antenna may include a printed circuit pattern formed on the surface of a thin film, and the thin film-type antenna may be disposed between the back plate (280) and the battery (250). The antenna may include, for example, a near field communication (NFC) antenna, a wireless charging antenna, and / or a magnetic secure transmission (MST) antenna. The antenna may, for example, perform short-range communication with an external device or wirelessly transmit and receive power required for charging. In one embodiment, another antenna structure may be formed by the side structure (210) and / or a portion of the first support member (211), or a combination thereof.

[0088] The camera assembly (207) may include at least one camera module. Within the electronic device (200), the camera assembly (207) may detect at least a portion of light incident through optical holes or camera windows (212a, 212b, 212c, 213, 219). In one embodiment, the camera assembly (207) may be disposed on the first support member (211) at a location adjacent to the printed circuit board (240). In one embodiment, the camera module(s) of the camera assembly (207) may be generally aligned with any one of the camera windows (212a, 212b, 212c, 213, 219) and may be at least partially wrapped around the second support member (260) (e.g., the upper support member (260a)).

[0089] In examining the embodiments described below, the configuration of the electronic devices (1001, 1002, 1004, 100, 200) described above may be referred to. Even if not directly mentioned, the configuration of the embodiments described above may be similarly applied to the embodiments described below. It should be noted that the orthogonal coordinate system referred to in the embodiments described above and / or below is an example for the sake of brevity of explanation, and the embodiment(s) of the present disclosure are not limited thereto. For example, the orthogonal coordinate system mentioned in the present disclosure may be defined differently depending on the shape of the electronic device to be actually manufactured (e.g., bar type, foldable type, rollable type, and / or slide type), the user's usage habits, and / or the orientation direction of the electronic device.

[0090] In the detailed description below, the longitudinal direction, the width direction, and / or the thickness direction of the electronic device may be mentioned, and the longitudinal direction may be defined as the 'Y-axis direction', the width direction as the 'X-axis direction', and / or the thickness direction as the 'Z-axis direction'. In one embodiment, with respect to the direction that a component is oriented, 'negative / positive (- / +)' may be mentioned together with the rectangular coordinate system illustrated in the drawings. For example, the front of the electronic device and / or the housing may be defined as the 'side facing the +Z direction', and the back side may be defined as the 'side facing the -Z direction'. In one embodiment, the side of the electronic device and / or the housing may include a region facing the +X direction, a region facing the +Y direction, a region facing the -X direction, and / or a region facing the -Y direction. In one embodiment, the 'X-axis direction' may mean both the '-X direction' and the '+X direction'. It should be noted that this is based on the rectangular coordinate system illustrated in the drawings for the sake of brevity of description, and that the description of these directions or components does not limit the embodiment(s) of the present disclosure. For example, depending on the design specifications of the electronic device or the user's usage habits, the orthogonal coordinate system may be defined differently from that in the present disclosure.

[0091] FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing a molded product (301) among connectors (300) (e.g., connector (249a) of FIG. 4 or FIG. 5) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing a state in which a second cover member (302b) is coupled to a molded product (301) among connectors (300) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing a state in which a first cover member (302a) is coupled to a molded product (301) among connectors (300) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 9 is a perspective view showing a connector (300) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and is a drawing showing a state in which a second sealing member (333) is arranged on a second cover member (302b).

[0092] Referring to FIGS. 6 to 9, the connector (300) may include a USB connector (e.g., C-type) and may be placed in an electronic device (e.g., the electronic devices 1001, 1002, 1004, 100, and 200 of FIGS. 1 to 5) to provide connection with an external electronic device or to supply power. In one embodiment, the connector (300) may include a molded body (301), a first cover member (302a), a second cover member (302b), and / or a plurality of contact terminals (315). In one embodiment, the plurality of contact terminals (315) may be understood as a part of the molded body (301).

[0093] According to one embodiment, the molded article (301) may be understood as including a fixing portion (311) and a connecting portion (313), for example, as a structure for arranging or fixing contact terminals (315). In one embodiment, the connector (300) may include a first sealing member (331) that seals at least a portion between the molded article (301) and the second cover member (302b) inside the second cover member (302b), and a second sealing member (333) that is arranged to surround at least a portion of the outer circumferential surface of the second cover member (302b). For example, the first sealing member (331) may be arranged between the molded article (301) (e.g., the connecting portion (313)) and the inner circumferential surface of the second cover member (302b) to implement a waterproof or dustproof structure. In one embodiment, when the connector (300) is placed inside the electronic device (200) (e.g., the housing (201) of FIG. 5), a second sealing member (333) may implement a waterproof or dustproof structure between the connector (300) (e.g., the second cover member (302b)) and the housing (201). Depending on the specifications of the electronic device (200), at least one of the first sealing member (331) or the second sealing member (333) may be omitted.

[0094] Referring to FIG. 6, the connection portion (313) may extend from the fixing portion (311) in a first direction (e.g., -Y direction). In one embodiment, the contact terminals (315) may be understood to extend from the fixing portion (311) in the first direction and be partially exposed to the external space on the connection portion (313). For example, the contact terminals (315) may be understood to extend in the first direction and be arranged along a second direction (e.g., X-axis direction) intersecting the first direction. As will be described with reference to FIG. 11, the contact terminals (315) may be partially embedded in the fixing portion (311) and may provide contact pads (317)(s) exposed to one surface (e.g., a surface facing the -Z direction) of the fixing portion (311). Depending on the specifications of the electronic device (200) or the arrangement inside the housing (201), the contact pads (317) may be understood as being exposed on a surface of the fixing portion (311) facing the -Z direction. For example, the contact pads (317) may refer to a portion that is substantially a part of the contact terminals (315) and is exposed to one surface of the fixing portion (311). In one embodiment, the direction in which the contact pads (317) are exposed is exemplarily referred to as the '-Z direction', but it should be noted that the embodiment(s) of the present disclosure are not limited thereto. For example, depending on the manufacturing specifications of the electronic device or the usage habits of the user, the arrangement direction of the components may be described differently from that mentioned in one embodiment.

[0095] According to one embodiment, the contact terminals (315) may be arranged or fixed on the molded product (301) simultaneously with the molding of the molded product (301) (e.g., the fixing portion (311) and / or the connecting portion (313)) through an insert injection process. For example, when the contact terminals (315) are arranged in the mold, molten resin is injected into the mold and hardened, so that the contact terminals (315) may be substantially arranged on the molded product (301) while the molding is being molded. The number and arrangement of the contact terminals (315) may be implemented differently depending on the purpose or specification of the connector (300).

[0096] According to one embodiment, a first sealing member (331) may be disposed on the molded product (301) before the first cover member (302a) and / or the second cover member (302b) are disposed. The first sealing member (331) may be disposed, for example, to surround at least a portion of the periphery of the connecting portion (313). In one embodiment, a structure may be implemented in which the contact terminals (315) are exposed in a portion of the area between the connecting portion (313) and the fixing portion (311), in which case the first sealing member (331) may be understood to be disposed between the connecting portion (313) and the fixing portion (315). For example, the first sealing member (331) may conceal or protect a portion of the contact terminal(s) between the connecting portion (313) and the fixing portion (315).

[0097] According to one embodiment, the first sealing member (331) may be made of an elastic material such as silicone or urethane, for example. In one embodiment, the first sealing member (331) may have a closed curve shape. For example, when viewed along the Y-axis direction, the first sealing member (331) may be understood as being arranged to substantially surround the connection portion (313). In one embodiment, when viewed along the Y-axis direction, the first sealing member (331) may be understood as partially overlapping the connection portion (313) (or the fixing portion (311). In one embodiment, the first sealing member (331) may be made in a ring shape and assembled to the connection portion (313), or may be implemented in a specified shape by applying a liquid resin around the connection portion (313) and cooling or curing it.

[0098] Referring to FIGS. 7 and 8, the first cover member (302a) is arranged to surround at least a portion of the fixing member (311), and the second cover member (302b) can be coupled to surround at least a portion of the circumference of the connecting portion (313). In one embodiment, the first cover member (302a) may have a bent plate shape. For example, the first cover member (302a) may be a part molded from a synthetic resin or a part manufactured by processing a metal plate. In one embodiment, the second cover member (302b) may have a closed curve shape. For example, when viewed in the Y-axis direction, the second cover member (302b) can be understood as being arranged to surround the connecting portion (313). The second cover member (302b) may be, for example, a part molded from a synthetic resin or a part manufactured by processing a metal plate.

[0099] According to one embodiment, the first cover member (302a) may include a cover portion (321a) that surrounds a portion of the fixing portion (311), and at least one fixing piece (323a) extending from the cover portion (321a). In one embodiment, when a portion of the contact terminals (315) (e.g., the contact pads (317)(s)) is exposed on a surface of the surface of the fixing portion (311) facing the -Z direction, the cover portion (321a) may substantially expose the surface on which the contact pads (317)(s) are arranged. In one embodiment, the cover portion (321a) may have a closed curve shape that surrounds the fixing portion (311), and in this case, the contact pads (317)(s) may be arranged on a surface facing the +Y direction on the fixing portion (311). The fixed member (323a) may be, for example, a portion extending in a second direction (e.g., X-axis direction) from both ends of the cover member (321a), and may provide a means for arranging or fixing the connector (300) to a circuit board (e.g., auxiliary circuit board (249) of FIG. 5 or FIG. 18). Although not given a reference number, the fixed member (323a) may provide a hole penetrating both sides, and a fastening member such as a screw may be used to arranging or fixing the first cover member (302a) and / or the connector (300) to another structure (e.g., auxiliary circuit board (249) of FIG. 5 or first support member (211)).

[0100] According to one embodiment, the second cover member (302b) may include a base portion (321b) and a support portion (323b) protruding from the base portion (321b) in the Y-axis direction (e.g., -Y direction). In one embodiment, the base portion (321b) may be understood as a plate (or frame shape) that is arranged substantially parallel to the XZ plane. In one embodiment, when the second cover member (302b) is arranged on the molded article (301), the base portion (321b) may be arranged to face the fixing portion (311). For example, the base portion (321b) may be arranged to substantially contact the fixing portion (311). In one embodiment, the second cover member (302b), e.g., the base portion (321b), may be partially in substantial contact with the first cover member (302a) (e.g., the cover portion (321a)). In one embodiment, the base portion (321b) may be integrally formed with the first cover member (302a) (e.g., the cover portion (321a)). In one embodiment, the support portion (323b) may have a tube shape extending in the -Y direction (and / or the +Y direction) from the base portion (321b). For example, when the base portion (321b) is positioned to face the fixing portion (311), the support portion (323b) may be positioned to surround the connection portion (313). In one embodiment, the support portion (323b) may be understood to be positioned to surround at least a portion of an area in the connection portion (313) where the first sealing member (331) is positioned. For example, the first sealing member (331) can be brought into contact with the inner surface of the support member (323b) to implement a waterproof or dustproof structure between the connecting member (315) and the second cover member (302b).

[0101] Referring to FIG. 9, the second sealing member (333) may be arranged to surround at least a portion of the outer surface of the second cover member (302b). For example, the second sealing member (302b) may contact one surface (e.g., the outer surface) of the base portion (321b) and may contact the outer surface of the support portion (323b). In one embodiment, the second sealing member (333) may be arranged to substantially overlap the first sealing member (331) with a portion of the support portion (323b) interposed therebetween in the Z-axis direction. For example, the first sealing member (331) and the second sealing member (333) may be arranged in a structure in which they are stacked in the thickness direction of the electronic device (200) or the thickness direction of the connector (300), or in a structure in which the second sealing member (333) surrounds an area in which the first sealing member (331) is arranged. In one embodiment, the second sealing member (333) is disposed to surround the area where the first sealing member (331) is disposed, so that the first sealing member (331) and the second sealing member (333) can be understood as being disposed in a single plane that is substantially parallel to the XZ plane.

[0102] According to one embodiment, the second sealing member (333) may be made of an elastic material, such as silicone or urethane. In one embodiment, the second sealing member (333) may have a closed curve shape. For example, when viewed along the Y-axis direction, the second sealing member (333) may be understood as being arranged to substantially surround the second cover member (302b) (e.g., the support member (323b)). In one embodiment, when viewed along the Y-axis direction, the second sealing member (333) may be understood as partially overlapping the second cover member (302b) (e.g., the base member (321b)). In one embodiment, the second sealing member (333) may be made in a ring shape and assembled to the second cover member (302b), or may be implemented in a specified shape by applying a liquid resin around the second cover member (302b) and cooling or curing it.

[0103] FIG. 10 is a plan view illustrating a connector (300) (e.g., the connector (300) of FIG. 9) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 11 is a bottom view illustrating a connector (300) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0104] Referring further to FIGS. 10 and 11, the first cover member (302a) is arranged to substantially conceal the +Z direction-facing side of the fixing member (311), and the second cover member (302b) (e.g., the base member (321b) and / or the support member (323b)) can be substantially concealed by the second sealing member (333). In one embodiment, in the state illustrated in FIG. 10 or FIG. 11, the first sealing member (331) can be understood as being arranged to substantially overlap the area where the second sealing member (333) is arranged. In one embodiment, the contact terminals (315) are exposed to the outside of the second cover member (302b) on at least one side (e.g., the side facing the +Z direction) of the connection portion (313), thereby being able to make electrical contact with an external connector. For example, when the connector (300) is connected to an external connector, it can be understood that at least a portion of the connection portion (313) is accommodated in the external connector.

[0105] According to one embodiment, a portion of the contact terminals (315) may be substantially embedded in the fixing portion (311), with ends of the contact terminals (315) being exposed on a surface (e.g., a surface facing the -Z direction) of the fixing portion (311) to implement contact pads (317)(s). In one embodiment, the fixing pieces (323a) may be provided, for example, as a pair, and may extend away from each other at opposite ends of the cover portion (321a) and may be arranged substantially parallel to the XY plane. For example, the fixing pieces (323a) may be arranged to substantially face each other on one surface of a circuit board (e.g., the auxiliary circuit board (249) of FIG. 5 or FIG. 18).

[0106] FIG. 12 is a drawing showing a connector (300) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure (e.g., the connector (300) of FIGS. 9 to 11), which is a cross-sectional view showing the connector (300) cut along the line A-A' of FIG. 10. FIG. 13 is a drawing showing a connector (300) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure arranged in a housing (401) of an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (100, 200) of FIGS. 2 to 5) (e.g., the housing (201) of FIG. 4 or 5).

[0107] Referring further to FIGS. 12 and 13, a fixing portion (311) of a molded article (e.g., a molded article (301) of FIG. 6) is disposed on a circuit board (449) (e.g., an auxiliary circuit board (249) of FIG. 5 or FIG. 18), and a connecting portion (313) may protrude from an edge of the circuit board (449) to one side, for example, in the -Y direction. The fixing portion (311) may be disposed such that, for example, a surface on which contact pads (317)(s) are disposed directly faces the circuit board (449), so that the contact terminals (317) may be electrically connected to the circuit board (449). An electronic device (200), for example, a housing (401), may include a connector hole (408) (e.g., the first connector hole (108) of FIG. 2) formed to penetrate a side wall (410) (e.g., the side structure (210) of FIG. 5), and a partition (419) positioned facing the connector hole (408) within the housing (401). For example, the partition (419) may be understood to be positioned at a specified distance from the side wall (410). In one embodiment, the specified distance between the partition (419) and the side wall (410) may refer to a design value regarding a length at which an external connector is inserted or accommodated within the interior of the housing (401).

[0108] According to one embodiment, inside the housing (401), the connector hole (408) and / or the partition wall (419) penetrating the side wall (410) can substantially function as a receptacle for receiving an external connector. For example, even if the connector (300) does not include a separate receptacle for mating with the external connector, it can be stably mated with the external connector when placed on the housing (401). In one embodiment, the structure that functions as the receptacle can be omitted from the connector (300), so that the connector (300) can be miniaturized, and it can be easy to secure space for arranging the connector (300) inside the housing (401). In one embodiment, since the structure that functions as the receptacle can be omitted from the connector (300), the electronic device (200) and / or the housing (401) can be miniaturized.

[0109] In one embodiment, within the housing (401), the fixing member (311) may be disposed on one side of the partition wall (419), and the connecting member (313) may be disposed at least partially within the connector hole (408) by penetrating the partition wall (419). For example, the fixing member (311) and / or the circuit board (449) may be understood to be disposed adjacent to the partition wall (419) within the housing (401). In an embodiment, the connecting member (313) may be understood to be disposed to directly face the connector hole (408) when viewed from the outside of the electronic device (200) or the housing (401). In one embodiment, the second sealing member (333) may be disposed around the perimeter of the second cover member (302b) (e.g., the support member (323b)) and may be disposed to contact the partition wall (419). For example, when the connection portion (313) is positioned inside the connector hole (408) by penetrating the partition wall (419) from one side of the partition wall (419), the second sealing member (333) can be in close contact with the partition wall (419) to implement a waterproof or dustproof structure. In implementing a waterproof or dustproof structure, the second sealing member (333) can have a substantially closed curve shape.

[0110] In examining the following embodiment(s), reference may be made to the connector (300) of the preceding embodiment. In the following embodiment(s), components that can be easily understood through the preceding embodiment may be assigned the same reference numbers in the drawings or may be omitted, and their detailed descriptions may also be omitted. In the following embodiment(s), components that are assigned the same reference numbers in the drawings but for which detailed descriptions are omitted may be easily understood by referring to the components of the preceding embodiment.

[0111] FIG. 14 is a perspective view showing a connector (500) (e.g., connector (249a) of FIG. 4 or connector (300) of FIGS. 9 to 13) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view showing a connector (500) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, taken along line B-B' of FIG. 14.

[0112] Referring to FIGS. 14 and 15, the connector (500) may further include a support piece (525a) extending or protruding from one side of the first cover member (502a) (e.g., the first cover member (302a) of FIGS. 8 to 10) and a second support portion (525b) protruding from the second cover member (502b) (e.g., the base portion (321b)). In one embodiment, when the cover portion (321a) is arranged to surround a portion of the fixing portion (311), the support portion (525a) may be understood to protrude from the cover portion (321a) in a direction toward the connection portion (313). In one embodiment, the second support portion (525b) may be positioned on the inside of the support piece (525a) in a state where the second cover member (502b) is coupled to surround a portion of the connection portion (313). For example, the support piece (525a) may be understood to be arranged to surround at least a portion of the second support portion (525b). In one embodiment, the support piece (525a) may be fused, bonded, or welded to the second support portion (525b). For example, the inner surface of the support piece (525a) may be arranged to face the outer surface of the second support portion (525b), and the first cover member (502a) and the second cover member (502b) may be substantially coupled or fixed to each other by fusion, bonding, or welding depending on the material.

[0113] In one embodiment, the connector (300, 500) of the above-described embodiment may include a cover member in which a first cover member (302a, 502a) and a second cover member (302b, 502b) are implemented as an integral body. The cover member in which the first cover member (302a, 502a) and the second cover member (302b, 502b) are implemented as a single body (1-piece or single body) will be described with reference to FIGS. 16 and 17.

[0114] FIG. 16 is an exploded perspective view showing a connector (600) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure (e.g., connector (249a) of FIG. 4, connector (300) of FIGS. 9 to 13, or connector (500) of FIGS. 14 and 15). FIG. 17 is a perspective view showing a connector (600) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, showing a portion of the connector (600) cut away.

[0115] Referring to FIGS. 16 and 17, a second cover member (623b) (e.g., the second cover member (302b) of FIG. 7 or 8) may be integrally provided on one edge of a first cover member (621a) (e.g., the first cover member (302a) of FIG. 8 or 9) to implement the cover member (602). In one embodiment, it may be understood that the second cover member (623b) is joined by welding on the inner surface of the first cover member (621a), as in the embodiment of FIG. 14 or 15. The first sealing member (331) may be provided to at least partially surround the periphery of the molded article (301) (e.g., the connecting portion (313) of FIG. 6), thereby being able to be in close contact with the inner surface of the second cover member (623b) when the cover member (602) and the molded article (301) are coupled. Similar to the preceding embodiment, the second cover member (623b) and the first sealing member (331) have a substantially closed curve shape, so that a waterproof or dustproof structure can be implemented between the molded product (301) and the cover member (602) (e.g., the second cover member (623b)).

[0116] In one embodiment, the cover member (602) may further include a dummy cover (629) coupled to the rear of the first cover member (621a) to conceal a portion of the molded article (301). In one embodiment, when the cover member (602) is made of an electrically conductive material, it may provide an electromagnetic shielding structure to a portion of the molded article (301). In this case, the dummy cover (629) may implement an electromagnetic shielding structure together with the first cover member (621a). In one embodiment, when the cover member (602) is configured to provide an electromagnetic shielding structure, the fixed pieces (621b)(s) extending from the first cover member (621a) may be understood to be electrically connected to an auxiliary circuit board (e.g., the auxiliary circuit board (249) of FIG. 5 or FIG. 18).

[0117] In one embodiment, the connector (600) may include a second sealing member (333) positioned to contact an outer surface of a cover member (602), for example, a second cover member (623b). When the connector (600) is coupled to a housing (e.g., housing (401) of FIG. 13), the second sealing member (333) may be brought into close contact with an internal structure of the housing (401) (e.g., bulkhead (419) of FIG. 13), thereby forming a waterproof or dustproof structure between the connector (600) and the housing (401). In one embodiment, the connector (600) and / or the cover member (602) may include a fixing piece (621b)(s). The fixed pieces (621b)(s) may extend from, for example, a cover member (602) (e.g., the first cover member (621a)) and may be positioned facing one side of a circuit board (e.g., the auxiliary circuit board (249) of FIG. 5 or FIG. 18). For example, a fastening member, such as a screw, may penetrate the fixed pieces (621b)(s) and be fastened to the circuit board or the housing (401), thereby fixing the connector (600) to the interior of the housing (401).

[0118] FIG. 18 is a drawing showing a circuit board (e.g., an auxiliary circuit board (249) of FIG. 4 or 5) to which a connector (e.g., a connector (300, 500, 600) of FIG. 9, FIG. 14, and / or FIG. 16) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is coupled.

[0119] Referring further to FIG. 18 along with FIG. 13, a circuit board, for example, an auxiliary circuit board (249) of FIG. 5, may be disposed adjacent to a partition wall (419) within the housing (401) such that a portion (e.g., a connection portion (313)) of a connector (300, 500, 600) may be disposed on a connector hole (408). In one embodiment, when the connector (300, 500, 600) is disposed in the housing (401), the connection portion (313) may be understood to face the connector hole (408). In one embodiment, the auxiliary circuit board (249) may provide a receiving hole (249b) extending inwardly from an edge. The receiving hole (249b) may be provided in a shape (or size) corresponding to, for example, the fixing portion (311) of the molded article (e.g., the molded article (301) of FIG. 6) or the cover portion (321a) of the first cover member (302a). For example, when the connector (300, 500, 600) is arranged on the auxiliary circuit board (249), the receiving hole (249b) may receive a part of the connector (300, 500, 600) (e.g., the fixing portion (311) of the molded article or the cover portion (321a) of the first cover member (302a)).

[0120] According to one embodiment, in FIG. 18, the areas indicated as 'FA' on both sides of the receiving hole (249b) may exemplify areas where, for example, fixing pieces (e.g., fixing pieces (323a) of FIG. 9 or fixing pieces (621b) of FIG. 16) are arranged. For example, the fixing pieces (323a) may be provided on each side of the fixing portion (311) of the molded product or the cover portion (321a) of the first cover member (302a). When the auxiliary circuit board (249) includes the receiving hole (249b), the space required for arranging the connectors (300, 500, 600) can be reduced. For example, by arranging a part of the connectors (300, 500, 600) within the receiving hole (249b), miniaturization of the housing (401) or the electronic device (200) can be facilitated.

[0121] FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view showing a portion of a connector (700) (e.g., connector (300, 500, 600) of FIG. 9, FIG. 14, and / or FIG. 16) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0122] Referring to FIG. 19, the connector (700) may include a second cover member (702b) disposed at least partially inside the cover portion (321a) (e.g., the first cover member (302a) of FIGS. 8 to 10). For example, the second cover member (702b) may include a second support member (725b) protruding from the base portion (321b). In one embodiment, the base portion (321b) may be disposed to contact one edge of the cover portion (321a), and / or may be formed integrally with the cover portion (321a). When the base portion (321b) is disposed to contact the cover portion (321a), the second support member (725b) may be disposed inside the cover portion (321a). For example, in a state where the second cover member (702b) is coupled to surround a portion of the connection portion (313), the second support member (725b) may be wrapped by the cover member (321a). In one embodiment, the second support member (725b) may be fused, bonded, or welded to the cover member (321a). For example, the second support member (725b) may be positioned to face the inner surface of the cover member (321a), and the cover member (321a) and the second cover member (702b) may be substantially bonded or fixed to each other by fusion, bonding, or welding depending on the material.

[0123] FIG. 20 is a perspective view showing a connector (800) (e.g., connectors (300, 500, 600, 700) of FIG. 9, FIG. 14, FIG. 16 and / or FIG. 19) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and is a view showing a portion of the connector cut away.

[0124] Referring to FIG. 20, a second cover member (623b) (e.g., the second cover member (302b) of FIG. 7 or 8) may be integrally provided on one edge of a first cover member (621a) (e.g., the first cover member (302a) of FIG. 8 or 9) to implement the cover member (602). In one embodiment, it may be understood that the second cover member (623b) is joined by welding on the inner surface of the first cover member (621a), as in the embodiment of FIG. 14, FIG. 15 or FIG. 19. The first sealing member (331) may be provided to at least partially surround the periphery of the molded article (301) (e.g., the connecting portion (313) of FIG. 6), thereby being able to be in close contact with the inner surface of the second cover member (623b) when the cover member (602) and the molded article (301) are coupled. Similar to the preceding embodiment, the second cover member (623b) and the first sealing member (331) have a substantially closed curve shape, so that a waterproof or dustproof structure can be implemented between the molded product (301) and the cover member (602) (e.g., the second cover member (623b)).

[0125] In one embodiment, the cover member (602) may further include a dummy cover (629) coupled to the rear of the first cover member (621a) to conceal a portion of the molded article (301). In one embodiment, when the cover member (602) is made of an electrically conductive material, it may provide an electromagnetic shielding structure to a portion of the molded article (301). In this case, the dummy cover (629) may implement an electromagnetic shielding structure together with the first cover member (621a). In one embodiment, when the cover member (602) is configured to provide an electromagnetic shielding structure, the fixed pieces (621b)(s) extending from the first cover member (621a) may be understood to be electrically connected to an auxiliary circuit board (e.g., the auxiliary circuit board (249) of FIG. 5 or FIG. 18).

[0126] According to one embodiment, the connector (800) may include a second sealing member (333) arranged to contact an outer surface of a cover member (602), for example, a second cover member (623b). In one embodiment, the second sealing member (333) may be implemented with an O-ring or a liquid silicone material. When the connector (800) is coupled to a housing (e.g., the housing (401) of FIG. 13), the second sealing member (333) may be in close contact with an internal structure of the housing (401) (e.g., the partition wall (419) of FIG. 13), thereby forming a waterproof or dustproof structure between the connector (800) and the housing (401). In one embodiment, although not given a reference number, a fastening groove may be provided on the outer surface of the second cover member (623b). For example, when implemented with an O-ring or liquid silicone material, the second sealing member (333) can be substantially fixed at a designated position on the outer surface of the second cover member (623b).

[0127] In one embodiment, the connector (800) and / or the cover member (602) may include fixing pieces (621b)(s). The fixing pieces (621b)(s) may, for example, extend from the cover member (602) (e.g., the first cover member (621a)) and may be positioned facing one side of a circuit board (e.g., the auxiliary circuit board (249) of FIG. 5 or FIG. 18). For example, a fastening member, such as a screw, may penetrate the fixing pieces (621b)(s) and be fastened to the circuit board or the housing (401), thereby fixing the connector (800) to the interior of the housing (401).

[0128] As described above, a connector according to an embodiment of the present disclosure (e.g., the connector (300, 500, 600) of FIGS. 9, 14, and / or 16) may omit a receptacle structure for coupling or connecting with an external connector. For example, the electronic device may be miniaturized by the amount of space that must be secured inside the electronic device (e.g., the electronic devices (1001, 1002, 1004, 100, 200) of FIGS. 1 to 5) due to the receptacle. In one embodiment, a waterproof or dustproof structure is implemented substantially within the thickness range of the connector or the thickness range of the cover member (e.g., the first cover member (302a) of FIG. 8 or 9), thereby suppressing an increase in the size (e.g., thickness) of the electronic device while improving the durability or reliability of the electronic device.

[0129] 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 pertains from the description of the above-described embodiment(s).

[0130] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a connector (e.g., a connector (249a) of FIG. 4 or a connector (300) of FIGS. 9 to 13) comprises: a fixing portion (e.g., a fixing portion (311) of FIG. 6 or 7), a connecting portion extending in a first direction from the fixing portion (e.g., a connecting portion (313) of FIGS. 6 to 9), a first cover member (e.g., a first cover member (302a) of FIG. 8 or 9) arranged to surround at least a portion of the fixing portion, a second cover member (e.g., a second cover member (302b) of FIG. 7 or 8) arranged adjacent to the fixing portion or the first cover member and surrounding at least a portion of the connecting portion, and a plurality of contact terminals (e.g., contacts of FIGS. 6 to 9) arranged along a second direction intersecting the first direction, the second cover member being partially exposed to the outside of the second cover member on one surface of the connecting portion and extending from the fixing portion. It may include terminals (315)(s).

[0131] According to one embodiment, the connector as described above may further include a first sealing member (e.g., the first sealing member (331) of FIG. 6 or FIG. 16) disposed between the connecting portion and the inner surface of the second cover member.

[0132] According to one embodiment, the connector as described above may further include a second sealing member (e.g., the second sealing member (333) of FIGS. 9 to 13) arranged to surround at least a portion of the outer circumferential surface of the second cover member.

[0133] According to one embodiment, the connector as described above may further include a first sealing member disposed between the connecting portion and the inner circumference of the second cover member, and a second sealing member disposed to surround at least a portion of the outer circumference of the second cover member. In one embodiment, the second cover member may include a base portion (e.g., the base portion (321b) of FIG. 7 or 8) disposed to face the fixing portion while contacting the second sealing member on an outer surface or formed integrally with the first cover member, and a support portion (e.g., the support portion (323b) of FIG. 7 or 8) protruding from the base portion in the first direction and disposed to surround the connecting portion. In one embodiment, the second sealing member may contact an outer surface of the support portion, and the first sealing member may contact an inner surface of the support portion.

[0134] According to one embodiment, at least one of the first sealing member and the second sealing member may have a closed curve shape.

[0135] According to one embodiment, the second cover member may have a closed curve shape.

[0136] According to one embodiment, the first cover member may include a cover portion (e.g., cover portion (321a) of FIG. 8 or 9) that surrounds a portion of the fixing portion, and at least one fixing piece (e.g., fixing piece (323a) of FIG. 8 or 9) that extends from the cover portion in the second direction.

[0137] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a connector (e.g., a connector (249a) of FIG. 4 or a connector (300) of FIGS. 9 to 13) comprises: a fixing portion (e.g., a fixing portion (311) of FIG. 6 or 7), a connecting portion extending in a first direction from the fixing portion (e.g., a connecting portion (313) of FIGS. 6 to 9), a first cover member (e.g., a first cover member (302a) of FIG. 8 or 9) arranged to surround at least a portion of the fixing portion; a second cover member (e.g., a second cover member (302b) of FIG. 7 or 8) arranged adjacent to the fixing portion or the first cover member and surrounding at least a portion of the connecting portion; a plurality of contact terminals (e.g., contact terminals (315)(s) of FIGS. 6 to 9) extending from the fixing portion and partially exposed to the outside of the second cover member on one surface of the connecting portion; and a first seal disposed between the connecting portion and an inner circumferential surface of the second cover member. The second cover member may include a first sealing member (331) of FIG. 6 or FIG. 16), and a second sealing member (333) of FIGS. 9 to 13) arranged to surround at least a portion of an outer circumferential surface of the second cover member. In one embodiment, the second cover member may include a base portion (e.g., base portion (321b) of FIG. 7 or FIG. 8) arranged to face the fixing portion while contacting the second sealing member at an outer surface, and a support portion (e.g., support portion (323b) of FIG. 7 or FIG. 8) protruding from the base portion in the first direction and arranged to surround the connecting portion. In one embodiment, the support portion may contact the second sealing member at an outer surface and contact the first sealing member at an inner surface.

[0138] According to one embodiment, at least one of the first sealing member and the second sealing member may have a closed curve shape.

[0139] According to one embodiment, the second cover member may have a closed curve shape.

[0140] According to one embodiment, the first cover member may include a cover portion (e.g., cover portion (321a) of FIG. 8 or 9) that surrounds a portion of the fixing portion, and at least one fixing piece (e.g., fixing piece (323a) of FIG. 8 or 9) that extends from the cover portion in the second direction.

[0141] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device (e.g., electronic devices (1001, 1002, 1004, 100, 200) of FIGS. 1 to 5) comprises a housing (e.g., housing (201) of FIG. 5 or housing (401) of FIG. 13) including a front face (e.g., first face (110A) of FIG. 2), a rear face (e.g., second face (110B) of FIG. 3) facing in an opposite direction to the front face, and a side wall (e.g., side structure (210) of FIG. 5 or side wall (410) of FIG. 13) arranged to at least partially surround a space between the front face and the rear face, a connector hole (e.g., first connector hole (108) of FIG. 2 or connector hole (408) of FIG. 13) formed to penetrate the side wall, and a connector hole provided inside the housing at a specified distance from the side wall and arranged to face the connector hole. It may include a partition (e.g., partition (419) of FIG. 13), and a connector (e.g., connector (249a) of FIG. 4 or connector (300) of FIGS. 9 to 13) disposed inside the housing.In one embodiment, the connector comprises: a fixing member (e.g., a fixing member (311) of FIG. 6 or 7) disposed on one side of the partition wall; a connecting member (e.g., a connecting member (313) of FIGS. 6 to 9) disposed to extend in a first direction from the fixing member and penetrate the partition wall so as to directly face the connector hole; a first cover member (e.g., a first cover member (302a) of FIG. 8 or 9) disposed to surround at least a portion of the fixing member; a second cover member (e.g., a second cover member (302b) of FIG. 7 or 8) disposed adjacent to the fixing member or the first cover member and surrounding at least a portion of the connecting member; a first sealing member (e.g., a first sealing member (331) of FIG. 6 or 16) disposed between the connecting member and the inner surface of the second cover member; and a second sealing member (e.g., a first sealing member (331) of FIG. 6 or 16) disposed to surround at least a portion of the outer surface of the second cover member and to directly contact the partition wall. It may include a second sealing member (333) of FIG. 13.

[0142] According to one embodiment, the connector may include a plurality of contact terminals (e.g., contact terminals (315)(s) of FIGS. 6 to 9) extending from the fixed portion and partially exposed to the outside of the second cover member on one surface of the connecting portion, the plurality of contact terminals arranged along a second direction intersecting the first direction.

[0143] According to one embodiment, the second cover member may include a base portion (e.g., base portion (321b) of FIG. 7 or 8) arranged to face the fixing portion while contacting the second sealing member on the outer surface, and a support portion (e.g., support portion (323b) of FIG. 7 or 8) arranged to protrude from the base portion in the first direction and surround the connecting portion.

[0144] According to one embodiment, the support member may be in contact with the second sealing member on the outer side and in contact with the first sealing member on the inner side.

[0145] According to one embodiment, at least one of the first sealing member and the second sealing member may have a closed curve shape.

[0146] According to one embodiment, the second cover member may have a closed curve shape.

[0147] According to one embodiment, the first cover member may include a cover portion that surrounds a portion of the fixing portion, and at least one fixing piece extending from the cover portion in the second direction.

[0148] In one embodiment, the electronic device as described above may further include a circuit board (e.g., an auxiliary circuit board (249) of FIG. 5 or FIG. 18) disposed adjacent to the bulkhead within the housing. In one embodiment, the connector may be secured to one surface of the circuit board via the at least one fixing member.

[0149] In one embodiment, the circuit board may provide a receiving hole extending inward from an edge (e.g., receiving hole (249b) of FIG. 18). In one embodiment, the first cover member may be positioned such that the fixing piece faces one surface of the circuit board with the cover portion positioned over the receiving hole.

[0150] While this disclosure has been described by way of example and example, it should be understood that the example is intended to be illustrative and not limiting. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes in form and detail may be made without departing from the overall scope of this disclosure, including the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. In the connector (249a; 300; 500; 600), Fixed part (311); A connecting portion (313) extending in the first direction from the above-mentioned fixed portion; A first cover member (302a) arranged to surround at least a portion of the above fixed part; A second cover member (302b) arranged adjacent to the fixed member or the first cover member and surrounding at least a part of the connecting member; and A connector including a plurality of contact terminals (315) extending from the fixed portion and partially exposed to the outside of the second cover member on one surface of the connecting portion, and arranged along a second direction intersecting the first direction.

2. In paragraph 1, A connector further comprising a first sealing member (331) arranged between the connecting portion and the inner surface of the second cover member.

3. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 2, A connector further comprising a second sealing member (333) arranged to surround at least a portion of an outer circumferential surface of the second cover member.

4. In paragraph 1, A first sealing member arranged between the connecting portion and the inner surface of the second cover member; and Further comprising a second sealing member arranged to surround at least a portion of the outer surface of the second cover member, The second cover member includes a base portion (321b) that is arranged to face the fixing portion while contacting the second sealing member on the outer side or is formed integrally with the first cover member, and a support portion (323b) that protrudes from the base portion in the first direction and is arranged to surround the connecting portion. A connector in which the second sealing member is in contact with the outer surface of the support portion and the first sealing member is in contact with the inner surface of the support portion.

5. In the fourth paragraph, a connector in which at least one of the first sealing member and the second sealing member has a closed curve shape.

6. A connector according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the second cover member has a closed curve shape.

7. A connector according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the first cover member comprises a cover portion (321a) covering a part of the fixing portion, and at least one fixing piece (323a) extending in the second direction from the cover portion.

8. In electronic devices (1001; 1002; 1004; 100; 200), A housing (201; 401) including a front face (110A), a rear face (110B) facing in an opposite direction to the front face, and side walls (210; 410) arranged to at least partially surround a space between the front face and the rear face; A connector hole (108; 408) formed to penetrate the above side wall; A partition (419) provided inside the housing at a specified distance from the side wall and positioned facing the connector hole; and Contains a connector (249a; 300; 500; 600) arranged inside the housing, The above connector, A fixed part (311) arranged on one side of the above bulkhead; A connecting portion (313) is arranged to directly face the connector hole by extending in the first direction from the fixed portion and penetrating the bulkhead; A first cover member (302a) arranged to surround at least a portion of the above fixed part; A second cover member (302b) arranged adjacent to the fixed member or the first cover member and surrounding at least a portion of the connecting member; A first sealing member (331) arranged between the connecting portion and the inner surface of the second cover member; and An electronic device including a second sealing member (333) arranged to surround at least a portion of an outer surface of the second cover member and in direct contact with the bulkhead.

9. In the 8th paragraph, the second cover member is an electronic device including a base portion (321b) arranged to face the fixing portion while contacting the second sealing member on the outer side, and a support portion (323b) arranged to protrude from the base portion in the first direction and surround the connecting portion.

10. In the 9th paragraph, the support member is an electronic device in which the outer surface is in contact with the second sealing member and the inner surface is in contact with the first sealing member.

11. An electronic device according to any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein at least one of the first sealing member and the second sealing member has a closed curve shape.

12. An electronic device according to any one of claims 8 to 11, wherein the second cover member has a closed curve shape.

13. An electronic device according to any one of claims 8 to 12, wherein the first cover member comprises a cover portion (321a) covering a part of the fixing portion, and at least one fixing piece (323a) extending in the second direction from the cover portion.

14. In paragraph 13, Further comprising a circuit board (249; 449) positioned adjacent to the bulkhead within the housing, An electronic device in which the connector is secured to one surface of the circuit board via the at least one fixing member.

15. In the 14th paragraph, the circuit board provides a receiving hole (249b) extending inward from the edge, An electronic device in which the first cover member is positioned so that the cover portion is positioned on the receiving hole and the fixed piece faces one surface of the circuit board.

Citation Information

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