Electronic device comprising movable cover for connector

Abstract

An electronic device according to one embodiment may comprise: a first housing including a slit in a side surface thereof; and a second housing which is movably coupled to the first housing between a retracted position and an extended position, and which includes a connector. The electronic device may comprise a slide cover slidably coupled to the side surface. The slit can be disposed to be at least partially overlapped with the connector at the retracted position. The slide cover can visibly expose the connector to the outside of the electronic device or hide the connector according to the sliding of the slide cover.

Description

Electronic device including a removable cover for a connector

[0001] The various embodiments described below relate to an electronic device including a movable cover for a connector.

[0002] There is a growing need for electronic devices capable of changing the size of the display for displaying content, allowing users to access a variety of content through the device. For example, an electronic device may include a flexible display whose size, exposed externally, can be changed. The electronic device may include key buttons for executing various functions of the electronic device. The key buttons may selectively trigger designated functions of the electronic device. The electronic device may require a structure in which the key buttons are movable due to the structure of the electronic device in which the size of the display can be changed.

[0003] The above information may be provided as background art to aid in understanding the present disclosure. No claim or determination is made as to whether any of the above-described matters constitute prior art related to the present disclosure.

[0004] In one embodiment, an electronic device may include a first housing having a slit on a side surface, and a second housing movably coupled to the first housing between a retracted position and an extended position, the second housing including a connector. The electronic device may include a slide cover slidably coupled to the side surface (210a). The slit may be arranged such that at least a portion of the slit overlaps the connector in the retracted position. The slide cover may visibly expose the connector to the outside of the electronic device or conceal the connector upon sliding of the slide cover.

[0005] In one embodiment, an electronic device may include a first housing including a key button, and a second housing movably coupled to the first housing in a first direction and a second direction opposite the first direction between a collapsed position and an extended position, the second housing including a connector. The electronic device may include a printed circuit board within the first housing, a battery coupled on the printed circuit board, and a flexible printed circuit board including a first portion coupled to the key button, a second portion coupled on the battery, and a deformable third portion connecting the first portion and the second portion. The key button may be slidable relative to the first housing in the first direction and the second direction opposite the first direction to provide a closed state in which the key button is disposed on the connector so as to cover the connector, and an open state in which the connector is at least partially exposed to the outside of the electronic device for connection of the connector with an external electronic device within the collapsed position.

[0006] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment according to various embodiments.

[0007] FIG. 2A is a top plan view of an exemplary electronic device in a first state.

[0008] FIG. 2b is a bottom view of an exemplary electronic device in a first state.

[0009] Figure 2c is a plan view of an exemplary electronic device within a second state.

[0010] FIG. 2d is a bottom view of an exemplary electronic device within a second state.

[0011] Figures 3a and 3b are exploded perspective views of an exemplary electronic device.

[0012] FIG. 4A is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary electronic device in a first state.

[0013] FIG. 4b is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary electronic device in a second state.

[0014] FIG. 5A is a plan view of an exemplary electronic device in a second state.

[0015] FIG. 5b is a side view of an exemplary electronic device in a second state.

[0016] FIG. 5c is a side view of an exemplary electronic device in a closed state.

[0017] FIG. 5d is a side view of an exemplary electronic device in an open state.

[0018] Figures 6a and 6b illustrate portions of exemplary electronic devices.

[0019] FIG. 6c is a partial cross-sectional view of an exemplary electronic device taken along line A-A' of FIG. 5c.

[0020] FIG. 6d illustrates a portion of an exemplary electronic device within an open state.

[0021] Figures 7a and 7b illustrate portions of exemplary electronic devices.

[0022] Figure 7c illustrates a portion of an exemplary electronic device in a closed state.

[0023] FIG. 7d illustrates a portion of an exemplary electronic device in an open state.

[0024] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment according to various embodiments.

[0025] Referring to FIG. 1, in a network environment (100), an electronic device (101) may communicate with an electronic device (102) via a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network), or may communicate with at least one of an electronic device (104) or a server (108) via a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may communicate with the electronic device (104) via the server (108). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a processor (120), a memory (130), an input module (150), an audio output module (155), a display module (160), an audio module (170), a sensor module (176), an interface (177), a connection terminal (178), a haptic module (179), a camera module (180), a power management module (188), a battery (189), a communication module (190), a subscriber identification module (196), or an antenna module (197). In some embodiments, the electronic device (101) may omit at least one of these components (e.g., the connection terminal (178)), or may have one or more other components added. In some embodiments, some of these components (e.g., the sensor module (176), the camera module (180), or the antenna module (197)) may be integrated into one component (e.g., the display module (160)).

[0026] The processor (120) may, for example, execute software (e.g., a program (140)) to control at least one other component (e.g., a hardware or software component) of the electronic device (101) connected to the processor (120) and perform various data processing or operations. According to one embodiment, as at least a part of the data processing or operations, the processor (120) may store commands or data received from other components (e.g., a sensor module (176) or a communication module (190)) in a volatile memory (132), process the commands or data stored in the volatile memory (132), and store result data in a non-volatile memory (134). According to one embodiment, the processor (120) may include a main processor (121) (e.g., a central processing unit or an application processor) or an auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., a graphics processing unit, a neural processing unit (NPU), an image signal processor, a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor) that can operate independently or together with the main processor (121). For example, when the electronic device (101) includes the main processor (121) and the auxiliary processor (123), the auxiliary processor (123) may be configured to use less power than the main processor (121) or to be specialized for a given function. The auxiliary processor (123) may be implemented separately from the main processor (121) or as a part thereof.

[0027] The auxiliary processor (123) may control at least a portion of functions or states associated with at least one component (e.g., a display module (160), a sensor module (176), or a communication module (190)) of the electronic device (101), for example, on behalf of the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an inactive (e.g., sleep) state, or together with the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an active (e.g., application execution) state. In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., an image signal processor or a communication processor) may be implemented as a part of another functionally related component (e.g., a camera module (180) or a communication module (190)). In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., a neural network processing unit) may include a hardware structure specialized for processing artificial intelligence models. The artificial intelligence models may be generated through machine learning. This learning can be performed, for example, on the electronic device (101) itself where the artificial intelligence model is executed, or can be performed through a separate server (e.g., server (108)). The learning algorithm can include, for example, supervised learning, unsupervised learning, semi-supervised learning, or reinforcement learning, but is not limited to the examples described above. The artificial intelligence model can include multiple artificial neural network layers.The artificial neural network may be one of a deep neural network (DNN), a convolutional neural network (CNN), a recurrent neural network (RNN), a restricted Boltzmann machine (RBM), a deep belief network (DBN), a bidirectional recurrent deep neural network (BRDNN), a deep Q-network, or a combination of two or more of the above, but is not limited to the examples described above. In addition to, or alternatively to, a hardware structure, an artificial intelligence model may include a software structure.

[0028] The memory (130) can store various data used by at least one component (e.g., processor (120) or sensor module (176)) of the electronic device (101). The data can include, for example, software (e.g., program (140)) and input data or output data for commands related thereto. The memory (130) can include volatile memory (132) or non-volatile memory (134).

[0029] The program (140) may be stored as software in the memory (130) and may include, for example, an operating system (142), middleware (144), or an application (146).

[0030] The input module (150) can receive commands or data to be used in a component of the electronic device (101) (e.g., a processor (120)) from an external source (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (101). The input module (150) can include, for example, a microphone, a mouse, a keyboard, a key (e.g., a button), or a digital pen (e.g., a stylus pen).

[0031] The audio output module (155) can output audio signals to the outside of the electronic device (101). The audio output module (155) can include, for example, a speaker or a receiver. The speaker can be used for general purposes, such as multimedia playback or recording playback. The receiver can be used to receive incoming calls. In one embodiment, the receiver can be implemented separately from the speaker or as part of the speaker.

[0032] The display module (160) can visually provide information to an external party (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (101). The display module (160) may include, for example, a display, a holographic device, or a projector and a control circuit for controlling the device. According to one embodiment, the display module (160) may include a touch sensor configured to detect a touch, or a pressure sensor configured to measure the intensity of a force generated by the touch.

[0033] The audio module (170) can convert sound into an electrical signal, or vice versa, convert an electrical signal into sound. According to one embodiment, the audio module (170) can acquire sound through the input module (150), output sound through the sound output module (155), or an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102)) (e.g., speaker or headphone) directly or wirelessly connected to the electronic device (101).

[0034] The sensor module (176) can detect the operating status (e.g., power or temperature) of the electronic device (101) or the external environmental status (e.g., user status) and generate an electrical signal or data value corresponding to the detected status. According to one embodiment, the sensor module (176) can include, for example, a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a proximity sensor, a color sensor, an IR (infrared) sensor, a biometric sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or an illuminance sensor.

[0035] The interface (177) may support one or more designated protocols that may be used to directly or wirelessly connect the electronic device (101) with an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (102)). In one embodiment, the interface (177) may include, for example, a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB) interface, an SD card interface, or an audio interface.

[0036] The connection terminal (178) may include a connector through which the electronic device (101) may be physically or electrically connected to an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (102)). According to one embodiment, the connection terminal (178) may include, for example, an HDMI connector, a USB connector, an SD card connector, or an audio connector (e.g., a headphone connector). According to one embodiment, the connector included in the connection terminal (178) may include a socket type (socket type or female type) connector that can receive a plug type (plug type or male type) connector, and may include a magnet type connector. The shape of the connector is not limited.

[0037] The haptic module (179) can convert electrical signals into mechanical stimuli (e.g., vibration or movement) or electrical stimuli that a user can perceive through tactile or kinesthetic sensations. According to one embodiment, the haptic module (179) can include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0038] The camera module (180) can capture still images and videos. According to one embodiment, the camera module (180) may include one or more lenses, image sensors, image signal processors, or flashes.

[0039] The power management module (188) can manage power supplied to the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the power management module (188) can be implemented as, for example, at least a part of a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

[0040] A battery (189) may power at least one component of the electronic device (101). In one embodiment, the battery (189) may include, for example, a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable secondary battery, or a fuel cell.

[0041] The communication module (190) may support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between the electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102), electronic device (104), or server (108)), and the performance of communication through the established communication channel. The communication module (190) may operate independently from the processor (120) (e.g., application processor) and may include one or more communication processors that support direct (e.g., wired) communication or wireless communication. According to one embodiment, the communication module (190) may include a wireless communication module (192) (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module (194) (e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication module, or a power line communication module). Among these communication modules, the corresponding communication module can communicate with an external electronic device (104) via a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, wireless fidelity (WiFi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range communication network such as a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN)). These various types of communication modules can be integrated into a single component (e.g., a single chip) or implemented as multiple separate components (e.g., multiple chips). The wireless communication module (192) can verify or authenticate the electronic device (101) within a communication network such as the first network (198) or the second network (199) by using subscriber information (e.g., an international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI)) stored in the subscriber identification module (196).

[0042] The wireless communication module (192) can support 5G networks and next-generation communication technologies following the 4G network, such as NR access technology (new radio access technology). The NR access technology can support high-speed transmission of high-capacity data (eMBB (enhanced mobile broadband)), minimization of terminal power and connection of multiple terminals (mMTC (massive machine type communications)), or high reliability and low latency (URLLC (ultra-reliable and low-latency communications)). The wireless communication module (192) can support, for example, a high-frequency band (e.g., mmWave band) to achieve a high data transmission rate. The wireless communication module (192) can support various technologies for securing performance in a high-frequency band, such as beamforming, massive multiple-input and multiple-output (MIMO), full dimensional MIMO (FD-MIMO), array antenna, analog beam-forming, or large scale antenna. The wireless communication module (192) can support various requirements specified in the electronic device (101), an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (104)), or a network system (e.g., the second network (199)). According to one embodiment, the wireless communication module (192) can support a peak data rate (e.g., 20 Gbps or more) for eMBB realization, a loss coverage (e.g., 164 dB or less) for mMTC realization, or a U-plane latency (e.g., 0.5 ms or less for downlink (DL) and uplink (UL), or 1 ms or less for round trip) for URLLC realization.

[0043] The antenna module (197) can transmit or receive signals or power to or from an external device (e.g., an external electronic device). In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include an antenna including a radiator formed of a conductor or a conductive pattern formed on a substrate (e.g., a PCB). In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna). In this case, at least one antenna suitable for a communication method used in a communication network, such as the first network (198) or the second network (199), may be selected from the plurality of antennas, for example, by the communication module (190). A signal or power may be transmitted or received between the communication module (190) and an external electronic device via the at least one selected antenna. In some embodiments, in addition to the radiator, another component (e.g., a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) may be additionally formed as a part of the antenna module (197).

[0044] According to various embodiments, the antenna module (197) may form a mmWave antenna module. In one embodiment, the mmWave antenna module may include a printed circuit board, an RFIC disposed on or adjacent a first side (e.g., a bottom side) of the printed circuit board and capable of supporting a designated high-frequency band (e.g., a mmWave band), and a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna) disposed on or adjacent a second side (e.g., a top side or a side side) of the printed circuit board and capable of transmitting or receiving signals in the designated high-frequency band.

[0045] 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)).

[0046] According to one embodiment, commands or data may be transmitted or received between the electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (104) via a server (108) connected to a second network (199). Each of the external electronic devices (102 or 104) may be the same or a different type of device as the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, all or part of the operations executed in the electronic device (101) may be executed in one or more of the external electronic devices (102, 104, or 108). For example, when the electronic device (101) is to perform a certain function or service automatically or in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device (101) may, instead of or in addition to executing the function or service itself, request one or more external electronic devices to perform the function or at least a part of the service. One or more external electronic devices that receive the request may execute at least a portion of the requested function or service, or an additional function or service related to the request, and transmit the result of the execution to the electronic device (101). The electronic device (101) may process the result as is or additionally and provide it as at least a portion of a response to the request. For this purpose, cloud computing, distributed computing, mobile edge computing (MEC), or client-server computing technology may be used, for example. The electronic device (101) may provide an ultra-low latency service by using distributed computing or mobile edge computing, for example. In another embodiment, the external electronic device (104) may include an Internet of Things (IoT) device. The server (108) may be an intelligent server utilizing machine learning and / or a neural network. According to one embodiment, the external electronic device (104) or the server (108) may be included in the second network (199).The electronic device (101) can be applied to intelligent services (e.g., smart home, smart city, smart car, or healthcare) based on 5G communication technology and IoT-related technology.

[0047] For example, the display of the display module (160) may be flexible. For example, the display may include a display area that is exposed outside the housing of the electronic device (101), which provides at least a portion of the outer surface of the electronic device (101). For example, since the display has flexibility, at least a portion of the display may be rollable into the housing or slidable into the housing. For example, the size of the display area may change depending on the size of the at least a portion of the display that is rolled into the housing or slid into the housing. For example, the electronic device (101) including the display may be in a plurality of states, including a first state providing the display area having a first size and a second state providing the display area having a second size different from the first size. For example, the first state may be exemplified through the description of FIGS. 2A and 2B.

[0048] FIG. 2A is a top plan view of an exemplary electronic device (101) in a first state.

[0049] Referring to FIG. 2A, the electronic device (101) may include a first housing (210), a housing (200) including a second housing (220) movable relative to the first housing (210) in a first direction (261) parallel to the y-axis or a second direction (262) parallel to the y-axis and opposite to the first direction (261), and a display (230) (e.g., the display).

[0050] For example, the electronic device (101) may be in the first state. For example, within the first state, the second housing (220) may be movable relative to the first housing (210) in a first direction (261) among the first direction (261) and the second direction (262). For example, within the first state, the second housing (220) may not be movable relative to the first housing (210) in a second direction (262) opposite to the first direction (261).

[0051] For example, within the first state, the display (230) may provide the display area having the smallest size. For example, within the first state, the display area may correspond to the area (230a). For example, although not shown in FIG. 2A, within the first state, the area (230a), which is the display area, and another area of ​​the display (230) (e.g., area (230b) of FIG. 2C) may be located within the first housing (210). For example, within the first state, the area may be covered by the first housing (210). For example, within the first state, the area may be rolled into the first housing (210). For example, within the first state, the area (230a) may include a planar portion, unlike the area including a curved portion. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the region (230a) may include a curved portion extending from the planar portion and positioned within the edge portion, within the first state.

[0052] For example, the first state may be referred to as a slide-in state or a closed state in that at least a portion of the second housing (220) is positioned within the first housing (210). For example, the first state may be referred to as a reduced state in that it provides the display area having the smallest size, but is not limited thereto.

[0053] For example, the first housing (210) may include a first image sensor (250-1) within the camera module (180) that is visually exposed through a portion of the area (230a) and faces in a third direction (263) parallel to the z-axis. For example, the camera module (180) may also be arranged to perform its function within the internal space of the electronic device without being visually exposed through a portion of the area (230a). For example, although not illustrated in FIG. 2A, the second housing (220) may include one or more second image sensors within the camera module (180) that are exposed through a portion of the second housing (220) and faces in a fourth direction (264) parallel to the z-axis and opposite to the third direction (263). For example, the one or more second image sensors may be exemplified through the description of FIG. 2B.

[0054] FIG. 2b is a bottom view of an exemplary electronic device in a first state.

[0055] Referring to FIG. 2B, within the first state, one or more second image sensors (250-2) disposed within the second housing (220) may be positioned within a structure disposed within the first housing (210) for the one or more second image sensors (250-2). For example, light from outside the electronic device (101) may be received by the one or more second image sensors (250-2) through the structure within the first state. For example, since the one or more second image sensors (250-2) are positioned within the structure within the first state, the one or more second image sensors (250-2) may be exposed through the structure within the first state. For example, the structure may be implemented in various ways. For example, the structure may be an opening or a notch. For example, the structure may be an opening (212a) in a plate (212) of a first housing (210) that surrounds at least a portion of a second housing (220). However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, in the first state, one or more second image sensors (250-2) included in the second housing (220) may be covered by the plate (212) of the first housing (210).

[0056] Referring again to FIG. 2a, the first state can be changed to the second state.

[0057] For example, the first state (or the second state) may be changed to the second state (or the first state) through one or more intermediate states between the first state and the second state.

[0058] For example, the first state (or the second state) may be changed to the second state (or the first state) based on a predefined user input. For example, the first state (or the second state) may be changed to the second state (or the first state) in response to a user input to a physical button exposed through a portion of the first housing (210) or a portion of the second housing (220). For example, the first state (or the second state) may be changed to the second state (or the first state) in response to a touch input to an executable object displayed within the display area. For example, the first state (or the second state) may be changed to the second state (or the first state) in response to a touch input having a contact point on the display area and having a pressing strength greater than or equal to a reference strength. For example, the first state (or the second state) may be changed to the second state (or the first state) in response to a voice input received through a microphone of the electronic device (101). For example, the first state (or the second state) may be changed to the second state (or the first state) in response to an external force applied to the first housing (210) and / or the second housing (220) to move the second housing (220) with respect to the first housing (210). For example, the first state (or the second state) may be changed to the second state (or the first state) in response to a user input identified from an external electronic device (e.g., earbuds or a smart watch) connected to the electronic device (101). However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0059] The second state can be illustrated through the description of FIGS. 2c and 2d.

[0060] Figure 2c is a plan view of an exemplary electronic device within a second state.

[0061] Referring to FIG. 2C, the electronic device (101) may be in the second state. For example, in the second state, the second housing (220) may be movable relative to the first housing (210) in a second direction (262) among the first direction (261) and the second direction (262). For example, in the second state, the second housing (220) may not be movable relative to the first housing (210) in the first direction (261) opposite to the second direction (262).

[0062] For example, within the second state, the display (230) may provide the display area having the largest size. For example, within the second state, the display area may correspond to an area (230c) including an area (230a) and an area (230b). For example, an area (230b) located within the first housing (210) within the first state may be exposed outside the housing (210) within the second state. For example, within the second state, the area (230a) may include a planar portion. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the area (230a) may also include a curved portion extending from the planar portion and positioned within the edge portion. For example, within the second state, the area (230b) may include a planar portion among the planar portion and the curved portion, unlike the area (230a) within the first state. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the region (230b) may include a curved portion extending from the planar portion of the region (230b) and positioned within the edge portion.

[0063] For example, the second state may be referred to as a slide-out state or an open state in that at least a portion of the second housing (220) is positioned outside the first housing (210). For example, the second state may be referred to as an expanded state in that it provides the display area having the largest size. However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0064] For example, the first image sensor (250-1) facing the third direction (263) may move together with the area (230a) according to the movement of the second housing (220) in the second direction (262) when the state of the electronic device (101) changes from the first state to the second state. For example, although not shown in FIG. 2c, one or more second image sensors (250-2) facing the fourth direction (264) may move according to the movement of the second housing (220) in the second direction (262) when the state of the electronic device (101) changes from the first state to the second state. For example, the relative positional relationship between one or more second image sensors (250-2) and the structure within the first housing (210) illustrated through the description of FIG. 2b may change according to the movement of one or more second image sensors (250-2). For example, the change in the above relative position relationship can be illustrated through Fig. 2d.

[0065] FIG. 2d is a bottom view of an exemplary electronic device (101) in a second state.

[0066] Referring to FIG. 2d, within the second state, one or more second image sensors (250-2) may be positioned outside the structure (e.g., an opening or a notch) within the first housing (210) as illustrated in the description of FIG. 2b. For example, within the second state, one or more second image sensors (250-2) may be positioned outside the opening (212a) within the plate (212). For example, one or more second image sensors (250-2) may be exposed through the opening (212a) within the first state. One or more second image sensors (250-2) may be exposed by being positioned outside the opening (212a) within the second state. For example, since one or more second image sensors (250-2) are positioned outside the structure within the second state, the relative positional relationship between one or more second image sensors (250-2) within the second state and the structure within the first housing (210) illustrated through the description of FIG. 2B may be different from the relative positional relationship within the first state.

[0067] For example, if the electronic device (101) does not include the above structure such as the opening (212a), one or more second image sensors (250-2) in the first state may not be exposed outside the housing, but in the second state, one or more second image sensors (250-2) may be exposed outside the housing.

[0068] Although not shown in FIGS. 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D, the electronic device (101) may be in an intermediate state between the first state and the second state. For example, the size of the display area in the intermediate state may be larger than the size of the display area in the first state and smaller than the size of the display area in the second state. For example, the display area in the intermediate state may correspond to an area including a portion of area (230a) and area (230b). For example, in the intermediate state, a portion of area (230b) may be exposed, and another portion (or a remaining portion) of area (230b) may be covered by the first housing (210) or rolled into the first housing (210). However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0069] Referring back to FIG. 1, the electronic device (101) may include structures for moving a second housing (e.g., the second housing (220) of FIG. 2A) of the electronic device (101) relative to a first housing (e.g., the first housing (210) of FIG. 2A) of the electronic device (101). For example, the structures may be exemplified through the descriptions of FIGS. 3A and 3B.

[0070] Figures 3a and 3b are exploded perspective views of an exemplary electronic device.

[0071] Referring to FIGS. 3A and 3B, the electronic device (101) may include a housing (200) including a first housing (210) and a second housing (220), a display (230), and a driving unit (360).

[0072] For example, the first housing (210) may include a first housing cover (311), a plate (212), and a frame cover (313).

[0073] For example, the first housing cover (311) may at least partially form a side portion of an outer surface of the electronic device (101). For example, the first housing cover (311) may at least partially form a rear portion of the outer surface. For example, the first housing cover (311) may include an opening (311a) for one or more second image sensors (250-2). For example, the first housing cover (311) may include a surface that supports a plate (212). For example, the first housing cover (311) may be coupled with the plate (212). For example, the first housing cover (311) may include a frame cover (313). For example, the first housing cover (311) may be coupled with the frame cover (313).

[0074] For example, the plate (212) may at least partially form a rear portion of the outer surface. For example, the plate (212) may include an opening (212a) for one or more second image sensors (250-2). For example, the plate (212) may be disposed on the surface of the first housing cover (311). For example, the opening (212a) may be aligned with the opening (311a).

[0075] For example, the frame cover (313) may be at least partially surrounded by the first housing cover (311).

[0076] For example, the frame cover (313) may be at least partially wrapped by the display (230). For example, although the frame cover (313) is at least partially wrapped by the display (230), the position of the frame cover (313) may be maintained independently of the movement of the display (230). For example, the frame cover (313) may be arranged in relation to at least some of the components of the display (230). For example, the frame cover (313) may include rails (313a) that provide (or guide) a path for movement of at least one component of the display (230).

[0077] For example, the frame cover (313) may be coupled with at least one component of the electronic device (101). For example, the frame cover (313) may support a rechargeable battery (189). For example, the battery (189) may be supported through a recess or hole in a surface (313b) of the frame cover (313). For example, the frame cover (313) may be coupled with one end of a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB) (325) on a surface of the frame cover (313). For example, although not explicitly shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B , the other end of the FPCB (325) may be connected to the PCB (324) through at least one connector. For example, the PCB (324) may be electrically connected to another PCB (not shown in FIGS. 3a and 3b) that supplies power to the motor (361) via the FPCB (325).

[0078] For example, the frame cover (313) can be combined with at least one structure of the electronic device (101) for a plurality of states including the first state and the second state. For example, the frame cover (313) can fasten the motor (361) of the driving unit (360).

[0079] For example, the second housing (220) may include a front cover (321) and a slide cover (322).

[0080] For example, the front cover (321) may be at least partially wrapped by the display (230). For example, the front cover (321) may be coupled with at least a portion of an area (230a) of the display (230) that wraps the front cover (321), unlike the frame cover (313), such that the display (230) moves relative to the second housing (220) that moves relative to the first housing (210).

[0081] For example, the front cover (321) may be coupled with at least one component of the electronic device (101). For example, the front cover (321) may be coupled with a printed circuit board (PCB) (324) that includes components of the electronic device (101). For example, the PCB (324) may include a processor (120) (not shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B). For example, the front cover (321) may include one or more second image sensors (250-2).

[0082] For example, the front cover (321) can be combined with at least one structure of the electronic device (101) for a plurality of states including the first state and the second state. For example, the front cover (321) can fix the rack gear (363) of the driving unit (360).

[0083] For example, the front cover (321) can be combined with a slide cover (322).

[0084] For example, the slide cover (322) may be coupled with the front cover (321) to protect at least one component of the electronic device (101) coupled within the front cover (321) and / or at least one structure of the electronic device (101) coupled within the front cover (321). For example, the slide cover (322) may include a structure for the at least one component. For example, the slide cover (322) may include one or more openings (326) for one or more second image sensors (250-2). For example, the one or more openings (326) may be aligned with one or more second image sensors (250-2) disposed on the front cover (321). For example, the size of each of the one or more openings (326) may correspond to the size of each of the one or more second image sensors (250-2).

[0085] For example, the display (230) may include a support member (331). For example, the support member (331) may include a plurality of bars. For example, the plurality of bars may be coupled to each other.

[0086] For example, the driving unit (360) may include a motor (361), a pinion gear (362), and a rack gear (363).

[0087] For example, the motor (361) may operate based on power from the battery (189). For example, the power may be provided to the motor (361) in response to the predefined user input.

[0088] For example, the pinion gear (362) can be coupled to the motor (361) via a shaft. For example, the pinion gear (362) can be rotated based on the motion of the motor (361) transmitted via the shaft.

[0089] For example, the rack gear (363) can be arranged in relation to the pinion gear (362). For example, teeth of the rack gear (363) can mesh with teeth of the pinion gear (362). For example, the rack gear (363) can be moved in the first direction (261) or the second direction (262) according to the rotation of the pinion gear (362). For example, the second housing (220) can be moved in the first direction (261) and the second direction (262) by the rack gear (363) that is moved according to the rotation of the pinion gear (362) due to the operation of the motor (361). For example, the first state of the electronic device (101) can be changed to a state different from the first state (e.g., one or more intermediate states or the second state) through the movement of the second housing (220) in the second direction (262). For example, the second state of the electronic device (101) can be changed to a state different from the second state (e.g., one or more intermediate states or the first state) through the movement of the second housing (220) in the first direction (261). For example, the change of the first state to the second state by the driving unit (360) and the change of the second state to the first state by the driving unit (360) can be exemplified through FIGS. 4A and 4B.

[0090] Fig. 4a is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary electronic device in a first state. Fig. 4b is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary electronic device in a second state.

[0091] Referring to FIGS. 4A and 4B, the motor (361) can be operated based at least in part on the predefined user input received within the first state (490). For example, the pinion gear (362) can be rotated in the first rotational direction (411) based at least in part on the operation of the motor (361). For example, the rack gear (363) can be moved in the first direction (261) based at least in part on the rotation of the pinion gear (362) in the first rotational direction (411). For example, since the front cover (321) within the second housing (220) fixes the rack gear (363), the second housing (220) can be moved in the first direction (261) based at least in part on the movement of the rack gear (363) in the first direction (261). For example, since the front cover (321) within the second housing (220) is coupled with at least a portion of the area (230a) of the display (230) and fixes the rack gear (363), the display (230) can be moved at least in part based on the movement of the rack gear (363) in the first direction (261). For example, the display (230) can be moved along the rails (313a). For example, the shape of at least a portion of the plurality of bars of the support member (331) of the display (230) can be changed when the state (490) is changed to the state (495) which is the second state.

[0092] For example, the area (230b) of the display (230) may be moved according to the movement of the display (230). For example, the area (230b) may be moved through the space between the first housing cover (311) and the frame cover (313) when the state (490) is changed to the state (495) according to the predefined user input. For example, the area (230b) in the state (495) may be exposed, unlike the area (230b) that is rolled into the space in the state (490).

[0093] For example, the front cover (321) within the second housing (220) is coupled with the PCB (324) connected to the other end of the FPCB (325) and fixes the rack gear (363), so that the shape of the FPCB (325) can be changed when the state (490) is changed to the state (495).

[0094] The motor (361) can be operated based at least in part on the predefined user input received within the state (495). For example, the pinion gear (362) can be rotated in the second rotational direction (412) based at least in part on the operation of the motor (361). For example, the rack gear (363) can be moved in the second direction (262) based at least in part on the rotation of the pinion gear (362) in the second rotational direction (412). For example, since the front cover (321) within the second housing (220) secures the rack gear (363), the second housing (220) can be moved in the second direction (262) based at least in part on the movement of the rack gear (363) in the second direction (262). For example, since the front cover (321) within the second housing (220) is coupled with at least a portion of the area (230a) of the display (230) and fixes the rack gear (363), the display (230) can be moved at least in part based on the movement of the rack gear (363) in the second direction (262). For example, the display (230) can be moved along the rails (313a). For example, the shape of at least a portion of the plurality of bars of the support member (331) of the display (230) can be changed when the state (495) is changed to the state (490).

[0095] For example, the area (230b) of the display (230) can be moved according to the movement of the display (230). For example, the area (230b) can be moved through the space between the first housing cover (311) and the frame cover (313) when the state (495) is changed to the state (490) according to the predefined user input. For example, the area (230b) in the state (490) can be rolled into the space, unlike the area (230b) that is exposed in the state (495).

[0096] For example, the front cover (321) within the second housing (220) is coupled with the PCB (324) connected to the other end of the FPCB (325) and fixes the rack gear (363), so that the shape of the FPCB (325) can be changed when the state (495) is changed to the state (490).

[0097] FIGS. 2A to 4B illustrate an electronic device (101) in which the height of the display area is changed and the width of the display area is maintained when the first state (or the second state) is changed to the second state (or the first state) in the portrait mode, but this is for convenience of explanation. For example, the electronic device (101) may be implemented such that the height of the display area is maintained and the width of the display area is changed when the first state (or the second state) is changed to the second state (or the first state) in the portrait mode.

[0098] Figure 5a is a plan view of an exemplary electronic device in a second state. Figure 5b is a side view of an exemplary electronic device in a second state. Figure 5c is a side view of an exemplary electronic device in a closed state. Figure 5d is a side view of an exemplary electronic device in an open state.

[0099] Referring to FIGS. 5a, 5b, 5c, and 5d, the electronic device (101) may include a first housing (210) and a second housing (220).

[0100] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a display (530) (e.g., display (230) of FIG. 2A). The display (530) may include a first region (531) (e.g., region (230a) of FIG. 2A) disposed on a second housing, and a second region (532) (e.g., region (230b) of FIG. 2C) extending from the first region (531) and being at least partially rolled into the first housing (210) or exposed to the exterior of the electronic device (101) as the second housing (220) moves. It should be understood that when an element is referred to as being “on” another element, it may be directly on the other element or there may be intervening elements between them. For example, within this document, "B disposed on A" may represent "B disposed over A." For example, within this document, "B disposed on A" may represent "B faced away from A." For example, "a first region (531) disposed on a second housing (220)" may represent "a first region (531) in contact with the second housing (220)." For example, "a first region (531) disposed on a second housing (220)" may represent "a first region (531) facing the second housing (220) and spaced apart from the second housing (220)."

[0101] For example, the first region (531) may be exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101). The first region (531) may be a region that is substantially flat. For example, the first region (531) may be a region of the display (530) that does not deform. For example, the first region (531) may be a region of the display (530) that is exposed to the outside and has a fixed size.

[0102] For example, the second region (532) may be connected to the first region (531). The second region (532) may be a region of the display (530) that is deformable by the first housing (210) and / or the second housing (220). For example, the second region (532) may be at least partially bent by being at least partially rolled into the first housing (210). The second region (532) may form a curved surface by being at least partially rolled into the first housing (210). For example, the second region (532) may be configured to change the size of the display (530) exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101) by being at least partially rolled into the first housing (210) or exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101). For example, the electronic device (101) may include at least one gear (e.g., pinion gear (362) of FIG. 3A) configured to move a second region (532) about a rotation axis (R). The second region (532) may be at least partially deformable by being bent about the rotation axis (R) by the at least one gear. The display (530) may provide various user experiences to a user of the electronic device (101) by including the deformable second region (532).

[0103] According to one embodiment, the second housing (220) can be movably coupled to the first housing (210) between a retracted position and an extended position.

[0104] The first state of the electronic device (101) may be defined as a state (e.g., state (490) of FIG. 4a) in which the second region (532) of the display (530) is rolled into the first housing (210) and the display area of ​​the display (530) exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101) has a minimum size. The first state may be referred to as a slide-in state or a closed state. The second state of the electronic device (101) may be defined as a state (e.g., state (495) of FIG. 4b) in which the second region (532) of the display (530) is exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101) and the display area of ​​the display (530) exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101) has a maximum size. The second state may be referred to as a slide-out state or an open state. For example, the first state may be a state in which the second housing (220) is movable in a first direction (261) with respect to the first housing (210). For example, the second state may be a state in which the second housing (220) is movable in a second direction (262) opposite to the first direction (261) with respect to the first housing (210). The first state may be referred to as a state in which the second housing (220) is in a retracted position with respect to the first housing (210), in that it is a state in which the display area of ​​the display (530) of the minimum size exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101) is provided. The second state may be referred to as a state in which the second housing (220) is in an extended position with respect to the first housing (210), in that it is a state in which the display area of ​​the display (530) of the maximum size exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101) is provided.

[0105] For example, although not shown, within an intermediate state between the first state and the second state, a portion of the second region (532) may be exposed to the outside. The remainder of the second region (532) may be disposed within the first housing (210). By allowing the second region (532) to be rolled into the first housing (210) or deformed to be exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101), the second region (532) may be configured to provide a plurality of states to the electronic device (101).

[0106] For example, the second housing (220) may be coupled to the first housing (210) so as to be movable in a first direction (261) parallel to the y-axis with respect to the first housing (210) or in a second direction (262) opposite to the first direction (261). For example, the second housing (220) may be coupled to the first housing (210) so as to be slidable in a first direction (261) with respect to the first housing (210) or in a second direction (262) opposite to the first direction (261). For example, referring to FIGS. 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, 4A, and 4B together, the second housing (220) may be slidable from a first state in a first direction (261) parallel to the y-axis with respect to the first housing (210). The second housing (220) may be configured to change the electronic device (101) from the first state to the second state by moving the second housing (220) in the first direction (261) with respect to the first housing (210). For example, the second housing (220) may slide and move in a second direction (262) that is parallel to the y-axis and opposite to the first direction (261) with respect to the first housing (210) from the second state. The second housing (220) may be configured to change the electronic device (101) from the second state to the first state by moving the second housing (220) in the second direction (262) with respect to the first housing (210).

[0107] For example, referring to FIGS. 2A, 2B, and 4A together, the first region (531) may be disposed on the second housing (220) and exposed to the outside. Within the first state, the second region (532) may be disposed within the first housing (210). During the change from the first state to the second state, since the second housing (220) moves in the first direction (261) with respect to the first housing (210), the first region (531) may move in the first direction (261) along the second housing (220). Since the second region (532) extends from the first region (531), the second region (532) may be exposed to the outside by moving along the first region (531).

[0108] For example, referring to FIGS. 2C, 2D, and 4B together, within the second state, the second region (532) can be exposed to the outside. During the transition from the second state to the first state, since the second housing (220) moves in a second direction (262) opposite to the first direction (261) with respect to the first housing (210), the first region (531) can move along the second housing (220) in the second direction (262). Since the second region (532) extends from the first region (531), the second region (532) can be rolled into the first housing (210) by moving along the first region (531).

[0109] According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) may include a slide cover (510). For example, the slide cover (510) may form at least a portion of the exterior of the first housing (210). For example, a portion of the slide cover (510) may be disposed within the first housing (210). The remaining portion of the slide cover (510) may be exposed to the outside of the first housing (210). For example, the slide cover (510) may be configured such that, when pressed in a pressing direction (e.g., a +x direction), at least a portion thereof moves in the pressing direction. When the pressing is released, the slide cover (510) may be moved in a direction opposite to the pressing direction (e.g., a -x direction), thereby being restored to a position before the pressing was applied. The switching operation may be an operation in which the slide cover (510) moves in the direction of pressing as the pressurization is applied, or moves in the opposite direction of the direction of pressing as the pressurization is released. For example, the slide cover (510) may be partially inserted into the interior of the first housing (210) through a hole formed in the first housing (210). When the slide cover (510) performs the switching operation, a portion of the slide cover (510) may be introduced into the interior of the first housing (210) through the hole. The portion of the slide cover (510) may be exposed to the exterior of the first housing (210) as the pressurization is released.

[0110] According to one embodiment, the second housing (220) may include a connector (520). For example, the connector (520) may be disposed within the second housing (220). The connector (520) may be electrically connected to at least one electronic component within the second housing (220). For example, although not shown, the connector (520) may include conductive pins for connection with an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (102) of FIG. 1). The plurality of conductive pins may include, for example, at least one power pin for supplying power, at least one signal pin for receiving data from the external electronic device (102) or transmitting data to the external electronic device (102), and at least one ground pin connected to a ground of the electronic device (101). For example, the second housing (220) may include a connector hole (521) surrounding a connector (520). The connector (520) may be at least partially exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101) through the connector hole (521). An external electronic device (101) and / or a connector of the external electronic device (101) may be connected to the connector (520) through the connector hole (521) exposing the connector (520). The connector hole (521) may guide the external electronic device (102) to be connected to the electronic device (101) by accommodating the external electronic device (102) and / or the connector of the external electronic device (102) to be connected to the connector (520).

[0111] According to one embodiment, the connector (520) may be configured to charge the electronic device (101) through the external electronic device (102) by being connected to the external electronic device (102). For example, a power pin of the connector (520) may be connected to a power pin of the external electronic device (102) and / or a connector of the external electronic device (102). The connector (520) may charge the electronic device (101) and / or a battery (e.g., battery (720) of FIG. 7A) of the electronic device (101) through power supplied from the external electronic device (102) through the power pin.

[0112] According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) may include a first periphery part (501) that provides an axis of rotation (R) about which the second region (532) is at least partially bent for deformation of the second region (532), and a second periphery part (502) that extends from the first periphery part (501) and to which a slide cover (510) is coupled. For example, the first periphery part (501) may be a portion of the first housing (210) that is configured to pressurize at least a portion of the second region (532) for deformation of the second region (532). For example, the first edge part (501) may partially press the second region (532) located on the first edge part (501) so that a portion of the second region (532) is bent about the rotation axis (R) while the electronic device (101) changes from the first state to the second state or from the second state to the first state. For example, a portion of the second region (532) exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101) may be disposed within the first housing (210) by the first edge part (501) along the second housing (220) moving in the first direction (261) and the second direction (262) opposite to the first direction with respect to the first housing (210). Because a portion of the second region (532) is positioned within the first housing (210) adjacent to the first edge part (501), it may be difficult to position the connector (520) and / or the slide cover (510) on the first edge part (501) that provides the rotational axis (R) to the second region (532).

[0113] For example, the second edge part (502) may be connected to the first edge part (501). The second edge part (502) may be, for example, an edge part extending in the longitudinal direction of the electronic device (101). For example, the second edge part (502) may be an edge part extending along the first direction (261) or the second direction (262) opposite to the first direction (261) with respect to the first housing (210). For example, the second edge part (502) may extend in a direction parallel to the major axis direction of the electronic device (101). The first edge part (501) may extend in a direction parallel to the minor axis direction of the electronic device (101). However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the slide cover (510) may be disposed on the second edge part (502). For example, the slide cover (510) can be arranged along the second edge part (502) in a first direction (261) in which the second housing (220) moves relative to the first housing (210) and in a second direction (262) opposite to the first direction (261). For example, the second edge part (502) can cover at least a portion (e.g., the first surface (220a)) of the second housing (220) that slides relative to the first housing (210), or expose at least a portion of the second housing (220). The second edge part (502) can guide the movement direction of the display (530) that moves along the second housing (220).

[0114] Although the slide cover (510) is described as being disposed on the second edge part (502), it is not limited thereto. The electronic device (101) may include a plurality of slide covers including the slide cover (510). For example, a plurality of slide covers may be disposed on the second edge part (502). For example, the first housing (210) may include a third edge part (503) facing the second edge part (502) and extending from the first edge part (501). At least some of the plurality of slide covers may be disposed on the third edge part (503). For example, the second housing (220) may include a fourth edge part (504) exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101). The fourth edge part (504) may face the first edge part (501) of the first housing (210). The fourth edge part (504) may be in contact with the second edge part (502) and the third edge part (503) of the first housing (210) in the first state. At least some of the plurality of slide covers may be disposed on the fourth edge part (504). However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the electronic device (101) may include a plurality of slide covers disposed along the edges of the first housing (210) and / or the second housing (220).

[0115] According to one embodiment, the second housing (220) may include a first surface (220a) having a connector hole (521) formed therein that surrounds a connector (520). The first housing (210) may include a second surface (210a) configured to expose the connector hole (521) to the outside by having a slide cover (510) disposed on it and covering the first surface (220a) within a retracted position of the electronic device (101) or at least partially exposing the first surface (220a) to the outside of the electronic device (101) within an expanded position of the electronic device (101). For example, the first surface (220a) may be covered by the second edge part (502) of the first housing (210) or may be at least partially exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101) by moving along the second housing (220) in a first direction (261) with respect to the first housing (210) and in a second direction (262) opposite to the first direction (261). The second edge part (502) may define the second surface (210a) of the first housing (210). For example, the second surface (210a) may at least partially overlap the first surface (220a) when the second surface (210a) of the first housing (210) is viewed from above (e.g., when viewed in the +x direction).

[0116] For example, a connector hole (521) may be formed in a portion of the first surface (220a). The portion of the first surface (220a) may be covered by the second surface (210a) in a first state of the electronic device (101). The connector hole (521) and the connector (520) surrounded by the connector hole (521) may be covered by the second surface (210a) in the first state. The portion of the first surface (220a) may be exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101) from the first surface (220a) in a second state of the electronic device (101), thereby exposing the connector hole (521) and the connector (520) surrounded by the connector hole (521).

[0117] For example, since the slide cover (510) is disposed on the second surface (210a), the slide cover (510) can be disposed on the connector hole (521) and the connector (520) surrounded by the connector hole (521) within the first state. For example, within the first state, the slide cover (510) can overlap the connector (520) when the slide cover (510) is viewed from above (e.g., when viewed in the +x direction). For example, within the second state, the slide cover (510) can be spaced apart from the connector (520) when the slide cover (510) is viewed from above (e.g., when viewed in the +x direction), thereby exposing at least a portion of the connector (520) to the outside of the electronic device (101).

[0118] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may require a structure for covering the connector (520) in order to reduce foreign substances from entering the connector (520) from the outside of the electronic device (101) in a first state, or for exposing the connector (520) to the outside of the electronic device (101) for connection with an external electronic device (102). The electronic device (101) may include a structure in which the slide cover (510) positioned on the connector (520) in the first state is movable, thereby providing a structure for covering the connector (520) in the first state, or for exposing the connector (520) to the outside of the electronic device (101) for connection with the external electronic device (102). The structure for exposing the connector (520) to the outside in the first state will be described below.

[0119] According to one embodiment, the slide cover (510) may be movable relative to the first housing (210) to provide a closed state in which the slide cover (510) is positioned on the connector (520) to cover the connector (520) within the reduced position of the electronic device (101), and an opened state in which the connector (520) is at least partially exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101) for connection between the connector (520) and an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (102) of FIG. 1).

[0120] The closed state of the electronic device (101) may be a state in which the connector (520) is covered by the slide cover (510) within the first state of the electronic device (101). For example, the closed state may be a state in which the slide cover (510) is placed on the connector (520). The closed state may be a state in which the slide cover (510) is positioned over the connector (520), such that the connector (520) cannot be connected to an external electronic device (102). For example, the closed state may be a state in which the connector (520) is disconnected from the outside of the electronic device (101) by the slide cover (510). For example, the closed state may be a state in which the connector (520) cannot be seen from the outside of the electronic device (101) by the slide cover (510). For example, the closed state may be a state in which the connector (520) overlaps the slide cover (510) when the slide cover (510) is viewed from above (e.g., when viewed in the +x direction).

[0121] The open state of the electronic device (101) may be a state in which the connector (520) is exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101) within the first state of the electronic device (101). The open state may be a state in which the connector (520) is connectable to an external electronic device (102). For example, the open state may be a state in which the slide cover (510) is detached from a position on the connector (520). For example, the open state may be a state in which the connector hole (521) surrounding the connector (520) is exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101). For example, the open state may be a state in which the connector (520) is visible from the outside of the electronic device (101). For example, the open state may be a state in which the connector (520) does not overlap the slide cover (510) when the slide cover (510) is viewed from above (e.g., when viewed in the +x direction).

[0122] For example, the slide cover (510) may be configured to be movable relative to the first housing (210) within a first state of the electronic device (101) so as to be positioned on the connector (520) of the second housing (220) to cover the connector (520), or to be moved away from the position on the connector (520) to expose the connector (520) to the outside of the electronic device (101). For example, the slide cover (510) may be configured to be slidable on a second surface (210a) covering a first surface (220a) on which the connector (520) is disposed, so as to cover the connector (520) or expose the connector (520) to the outside of the electronic device (101), within the first state. For example, the slide cover (510) can be movably coupled to a second edge part (502) disposed on the first surface (220a) on which the connector (520) is disposed within a first state, thereby covering the connector (520) or exposing the connector (520) to the outside of the electronic device (101). The slide cover (510) can provide a closed state covering the connector (520) within the first state, and an open state exposing the connector (520) to the outside of the electronic device (101), thereby reducing the inflow of foreign substances into the connector (520) from the outside and exposing the connector (520) to the outside so that the connector (520) can be connected to an external electronic device (102).

[0123] According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) may include a guide groove (540) for at least partially accommodating the slide cover (510) and guiding movement of the slide cover (510) relative to the first housing (210), and a slit (550) positioned on the connector (520) within a collapsed position of the electronic device (101). The slide cover (510) may be slidably coupled to the second surface (210a) of the first housing (210) so as to open and close the slit (550) positioned on the connector (520) within the first state. The slit according to various embodiments disclosed herein may also be referred to as a slot, a hole, an elongated hole, or a groove (or recess). According to various embodiments disclosed in this document, the expression "opening and closing" a slit (550) means that at least a portion of the slit is exposed or not exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101). That is, it means that it is covered or not covered by the slide cover (510). Alternatively, it may mean that the slide cover (510) is closed or opened.

[0124] For example, the guide groove (540) can be movably coupled to at least a portion of the slide cover (510). The guide groove (540) can provide a space for movement of the slide cover (510). For example, the guide groove (540) can guide movement of the slide cover (510) with respect to the first housing (210) by having a length in a direction parallel to the movement direction of the slide cover (510) (e.g., the first direction (261), the second direction (262)). For example, the guide groove (540) can be formed on the second surface (210a) covering the first surface (220a) in the first state. The guide groove (540) can be recessed from the second surface (220a) toward the second housing (220) to accommodate the slide cover (510). For example, the guide groove (540) may be formed along the second edge part (502) where the slide cover (510) is placed. The first housing (210) may include the guide groove (540) that at least partially accommodates the slide cover (510), thereby guiding the movement of the slide cover (510) relative to the first housing (210) and reducing the slide cover (510) from being detached from the first housing (210).

[0125] For example, the slit (550) may be connected to the guide groove (540). For example, the slit (550) may be formed in at least a portion of the guide groove (540). For example, the slit (550) may penetrate the first housing (210). The slit (550) may be formed in a second surface (210a) disposed on the first surface (220a). The slit (550) may be configured to expose at least a portion of the first surface (220a) on which the connector (520) and the connector hole (521) surrounding the connector (520) are formed, to the outside of the electronic device (101), by being positioned on the first surface (220a). For example, the slit (550) may be positioned on the connector (520) in the first state. The slit (550) may overlap with the connector (520) when the second surface (210a) is viewed from above (e.g., when viewed in the +x direction) in the first state. For example, the slit (550) may be covered by the slide cover (510) in the closed state. The slit (550) may be positioned between the second housing (220) and the slide cover (510) in the closed state. Since the slit (550) is covered by the slide cover (510) in the closed state, the connector (520) may be covered by the slide cover (510). For example, the slit (550) may be exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101) in the open state. By means of the slit (550), the connector (520) positioned below the slit (550) in the first state can be exposed to the outside through the slit (550). The connector (520) can be configured to be connectable to an external electronic device (102) by being exposed to the outside through the slit (550) in the open state.

[0126] According to one embodiment, the second housing (220) may be movable in a first direction (261) with respect to the first housing (210) and in a second direction (262) opposite to the first direction (261). The slide cover (510) may be configured to provide a closed state and an open state of the electronic device (101) by being slidable in the first direction (261) and in a second direction (262) opposite to the first direction (261) with respect to the first housing (210) within a collapsed position of the electronic device (101).

[0127] For example, referring to FIGS. 5A, 5B, and 5C, the second housing (220) can move in a second direction (262) with respect to the first housing (210) while changing from a second state to a first state. The first region (531) of the display (530) can slide along the second housing (220) in the second direction (262). The deformable second region (532) extending from the first region (531) can be rolled into the first housing (210) by the first edge part (501) of the first housing (210) while changing from the second state to the first state. For example, the second housing (220) can move in a first direction (261) with respect to the first housing (210) while changing from the first state to the second state. The first region (531) of the display (530) can slide in the first direction (261) along the second housing (220). The deformable second region (532) extending from the first region (531) can move from the inside of the first housing (210) to the outside of the electronic device (101) while changing from the first state to the second state.

[0128] For example, within the second state, a portion of the first surface (220a) in which the connector (520) and / or the connector hole (521) surrounding the connector (520) is formed may be exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101). As the second housing (220) moves, the second edge part (502) of the first housing (210) configured to cover the first surface (220a) may be spaced apart from the fourth edge part (504) of the second housing (220). For example, while the electronic device (101) changes from the second state to the first state, a part of the first surface (220a) on which the connector (520) and / or the connector hole (521) is formed may be covered by the second edge part (502) (or the second surface (210a)) of the first housing (210) along the second housing (220) moving in the second direction (262) with respect to the first housing (210). In the first state, the connector (520) may be covered by the slide cover (510) disposed on the second edge part (502). In the first state, the second edge part (502) may be in contact with the fourth edge part (504) of the second housing (220). For example, while the electronic device (101) changes from a first state to a second state, a portion of the first surface (220a) on which the connector (520) and / or the connector hole (521) is formed may be exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101) by moving in the first direction (261) along the second housing (220) moving in the first direction (261) with respect to the first housing (210).

[0129] For example, referring to FIGS. 5c and 5d, the slide cover (510) can be configured to slide in a first direction (261) and a second direction (262) opposite to the first direction (261) with respect to the first housing (210) within a first state of the electronic device (101), thereby providing a closed state in which the slide cover (510) covers the connector (520), and an open state in which the connector (520) is exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101). For example, a guide groove (540) slidably coupled to the slide cover (510) can be formed to have a length in the first direction (261) and a second direction (262) opposite to the first direction (261), thereby guiding the movement of the slide cover (510) in the first direction (261) and the second direction (262).

[0130] For example, while changing from a closed state to an open state, the slide cover (510) can move in a second direction (262) with respect to the first housing (210). By moving in the second direction (262), the slide cover (510) can expose the connector (520) and / or the slit (550) located on the connector (520) to the outside. While changing from the closed state to the open state, the slide cover (510) can move from a position on the connector (520) in the second direction (262), thereby exposing the connector (520) to the outside of the electronic device (101) so that the connector (520) can be connected to the external electronic device (102). For example, while changing from an open state to a closed state, the slide cover (510) can move in a first direction (261) with respect to the first housing (210). The slide cover (510) can cover the connector (520) and / or the slit (550) located on the connector (520) by moving in the first direction (261). The slide cover (510) can separate the connector (520) from the outside of the electronic device (101) by moving to a position on the connector (520) while changing from the open state to the closed state, in order to reduce the inflow of foreign substances from the outside of the electronic device (101) to the connector (520).

[0131] Although the connector (520) is configured to be at least partially exposed to the outside through the first surface (220a) of the second housing (220), and the slide cover (510) is described as being disposed on the second edge part (502) covering at least a portion of the first surface (220a) and / or the second surface (210a), the arrangement of the connector (520) within the second housing (220) and the arrangement of the slide cover (510) within the first housing (210) are not limited thereto. For example, the connector (520) may be configured to be exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101) through the third surface (220b) of the second housing (220) facing the first surface (220a). The slide cover (510) may be disposed on a third edge part (503) that covers at least a portion of the third surface (220b) and / or a fourth surface (210b) defined by the third edge part (503). The slide cover (510) may provide a closed state that covers the connector (520) by moving on the third edge part (503) within a first state of the electronic device (101), and an open state that exposes the connector (520) to the outside of the electronic device (101). However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0132] According to the above-described embodiment, the electronic device (101) includes a second housing (220) that is movable with respect to the first housing (210), and a display (530) whose size is changeable and exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101) according to the movement of the second housing (220), thereby providing a variety of user experiences to the user. The first housing (210) includes a slide cover (510) that is movable with respect to the first housing (210) so as to expose the connector (520) of the second housing (220) to the outside or cover the connector (520), thereby reducing the inflow of foreign substances into the connector (520) from the outside or exposing the connector (520) to the outside so as to connect the connector (520) with an external electronic device (102).

[0133] Figures 6a and 6b illustrate portions of exemplary electronic devices. Figure 6c is a partial cross-sectional view of the exemplary electronic device taken along line A-A' of Figure 5c. Figure 6d illustrates a portion of the exemplary electronic device in an open state.

[0134] Referring to FIGS. 6A, 6B, 6C, and 6D, an electronic device (101) may include a first housing (210) including a slide cover (510), and a second housing (220) movably coupled to the first housing between a collapsed position and an extended position and including a connector (520). The slide cover (510) may be movable relative to the first housing (210) to provide a closed state in which the slide cover (510) is disposed on the connector (520) to cover the connector (520) within the collapsed position, and an open state in which the connector (520) is at least partially exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101) for connection between the connector and an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (102) of FIG. 1). According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) may include a guide groove (540) for at least partially accommodating the slide cover (510) and guiding movement of the slide cover (510) relative to the first housing (210), and a slit (550) positioned on the connector (520) within the reduced position of the electronic device (101).

[0135] Hereinafter, redundant descriptions of configurations having the same reference numerals as those described above in FIGS. 5a to 5d are omitted.

[0136] According to one embodiment, the slide cover (510) may be connected to a flexible printed circuit board (650), and thus may be referred to as a key button (605). For example, the device (101) may include a processor (e.g., the processor (120) of FIG. 1). The processor (120) may be configured to perform a designated function corresponding to an input signal received through the key button (605) in response to the input signal. For example, the processor (120) may perform a designated function based on a user input identified through pressing the key button (605). For example, the processor (120) may provide, but is not limited to, a volume up / down function, a wake up / sleep function, and an on / off function of an artificial intelligence function of the electronic device (101) through pressing the key button (605). The processor (120) can provide various user experiences to the user by performing a designated function corresponding to the user input entered through the key button (605).

[0137] According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) may include a guide rail (610) arranged along an edge of the guide groove (540) and to which a key button (605) is slidably coupled. The electronic device (101) may include a guide member (620) fastened to the guide rail (610) and configured to come into contact with the key button (605) in a closed state of the electronic device (101).

[0138] For example, the guide rail (610) may be formed along the edge of the guide groove (540) and the edge of the slit (550). For example, the guide rail (610) may be recessed from the edge of the guide groove (540) to accommodate a portion of the key button (605) (e.g., at least one engaging portion (513)). The portion of the key button (605) may be disposed within the guide rail (610), thereby movably engaging the key button (605) with the guide groove (540). For example, the guide rail (610) may be formed along the edge of the guide groove (540) in a direction parallel to the first direction (261) and the second direction (262) so that the key button (605) can move in the first direction (261) and the second direction (262) opposite to the first direction (261) within the guide groove (540) along the guide rail (610).

[0139] For example, the guide member (620) can be at least partially inserted into the guide rail (610). The guide member (620) can be fastened to the guide rail (610) to form a slit (550) together with the guide groove (540). For example, the guide member (620) can be coupled to one end of the guide rail (610). For example, the guide rail (610) can include a first guide rail (611) and a second guide rail (612) facing the first guide rail (611). The guide member (620) can include a first fastening portion (621) inserted into the first guide rail (611), and a second fastening portion (622) facing the first fastening portion (621) and inserted into the second guide rail (612).

[0140] For example, the guide member (620) forms at least a portion of the slit (550), and thus can come into contact with the key button (605) positioned on the slit (550) in the closed state. The guide member (620) can be spaced apart from the key button (605) while moving to expose the slit (550) and the connector (520) to the outside of the electronic device (101) while changing from the closed state to the open state. The guide member (620) can come into contact with the key button (605) while moving to cover the slit (550) and the connector (520) while changing from the open state to the closed state. The guide member (620) is configured to come into contact with the key button (605) while changing from the open state to the closed state, thereby reducing the detachment of the key button (605) from the guide groove (540). The electronic device (101) includes the guide rail (610) and the guide member (620) that guide the movement of the key button (605) relative to the first housing (210) and are slidably coupled with the key button (605), thereby reducing the key button (605) from being dislodged from the guide groove (540) as it moves relative to the first housing (210).

[0141] According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) may include a coupling groove (540a) formed at one end of the slit (550). The key button (605) may include a first protrusion (511) configured to be coupled to the coupling groove (540a) by protruding from the one end (510a) of the key button (605) toward the first housing (210). For example, the coupling groove (540a) may be formed on an inner surface of a guide groove (540) forming one end of the slit (550). The coupling groove (540a) may be recessed from the inner surface of the guide groove (540) toward the second housing (220). For example, the one end (510a) of the key button (605) may face the coupling groove (540a) in a closed state. The first protrusion (511) is formed on the end (510a) of the key button (605) so that it can be at least partially accommodated within the engaging groove (540a) in the closed state. The first protrusion (511) is at least partially positioned within the engaging groove (540a) in the closed state so that the key button (605) can be fastened to the first housing (210) so that the key button (605) is positioned on the slit (550).

[0142] The fastening state of the key button (605) may be a state in which the key button (605) is fixed to the guide groove (540) by the first protrusion (511) being at least partially positioned within the coupling groove (540a). The releasing state of the key button (605) may be a state in which the key button (605) is movable to the guide groove (540) by the first protrusion (511) being positioned outside the coupling groove (540a).

[0143] For example, from the engaged state of the key button (605), when at least a part of the key button (605) (e.g., the other end (510b) of the key button (605)) is pressed, one end (510a) of the key button (605) can be moved toward the outside of the electronic device (101) (e.g., toward the +x direction). As the one end (510a) is moved toward the outside, the first protrusion (511) can be detached from the engaging groove (540a). As the first protrusion (511) is positioned outside the engaging groove (540a), the key button (605) can be changed from the engaged state to the disengaged state. For example, when the pressure applied to the key button (605) is released, one end (510a) of the key button (605) can be moved toward the second housing (220) (e.g., toward the -x direction). As the one end (510a) is moved toward the second housing (220), at least a part of the first protrusion (511) can be positioned within the engaging groove (540a). As the first protrusion (511) is positioned within the engaging groove (540a), the key button (605) can be changed from an engaged state to an engaged state. The electronic device (101) may be configured to reduce movement of the key button (605) by a second housing (220) moving relative to the first housing (210) by including a fastening groove (540a) and a first protrusion (511) of a key button (605) configured to be fastened with the fastening groove (540a), and to provide a closed state and an open state of the key button (605) by a user within a first state.

[0144] According to one embodiment, the key button (605) may include a second protrusion (512) that protrudes toward the first housing (210) from an opposite end (510b) of the key button (605). The second housing (220) may include a third protrusion (630) that is configured to engage with the second protrusion (512) within an extended position of the electronic device (101) by protruding toward the key button (605).

[0145] For example, the other end (510b) of the key button (605) can contact the guide member (620) in the closed state. The other end (510b) can face the engaging groove (540a) in the open state. The second protrusion (512) can be formed on the other end (510b) of the key button (605) so as to be positioned within the slit (550) in the closed state. The second protrusion (511) can be configured to be at least partially positioned within the engaging groove (540a) in the open state so as to expose the connector (520) to the outside through the slit (550). For example, the third protrusion (630) can be covered by the key button (605). The third protrusion (630) can support the key button (605) by coming into contact with the second protrusion (512) of the key button (605) in the second state. The third protrusion (630) can reduce the key button (605) from being dislodged from the guide groove (540) in the second state by engaging with the second protrusion (512) in the second state.

[0146] According to one embodiment, the key button (605) may include at least one engaging portion (513) arranged along an edge of the key button (605) to be slidably engaged with the first housing (210). For example, the at least one engaging portion (513) may be a portion of the key button (605) that is slidably engaged within a guide groove (540). For example, the at least one engaging portion (513) may extend along an edge of the key button (605) in a first direction (261), which is a movement direction of the key button (605), and in a second direction (262) opposite to the first direction (261). For example, at least one coupling portion (513) may include a first coupling portion (513a) coupled to a first guide rail (611), and a second coupling portion (513b) facing the first coupling portion (513a) and coupled to a second guide rail (612). The key button (605) may include at least one coupling portion (613) slidably coupled to the guide rail (610), thereby reducing the key button (605) from being disengaged from the guide groove (540) and guiding the movement of the key button (605) relative to the first housing (210).

[0147] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a flexible printed circuit board (650) coupled with a key button (605). The flexible printed circuit board (650) may include a first portion (651) coupled with the key button (605), a second portion (652) coupled with at least one electronic component (e.g., the printed circuit board (710) of FIG. 7A) within the electronic device (101), and a third portion (653) coupled between the first portion (651) and the second portion (652). The flexible printed circuit board (650) may include at least one dome key (655) disposed on the first portion (651).

[0148] For example, the first part (651) can move in a first direction (261) and a second direction (262) opposite to the first direction (261) according to the movement of the key button (605). For example, the first part (651) can be a part that receives a user input according to the pressing of the key button (605). The first part (651) can be configured to receive an electrical signal through at least one dome key (655) on the first part (651) pressed through the key button (605). The processor (120) of the electronic device (101) can perform a function of the electronic device (101) corresponding to the signal based on the signal received through the at least one dome key (655). For example, at least one dome key (655) may include a first dome key (655a) and a second dome key (655b) spaced apart from the first dome key (655a). The dome keys (655a, 655b) may be configured to transmit a signal corresponding to the dome keys (655a, 655b) to the flexible printed circuit board (650) based on the pressing of a portion of the key button (605) corresponding to the dome keys (655a, 655b). For example, the second portion (652) may be a portion that is fastened to at least one electronic component within the electronic device (101). The second portion (652) may be connected to, for example, the printed circuit board (710) to transmit a signal input through the key button (605) to the processor (120) on the printed circuit board (710). For example, the third portion (653) may be a movable or deformable portion depending on movement of the second housing (220) relative to the first housing (210) and / or movement of the key button (605) relative to the first housing (210). The third portion (653) may extend from the first portion (651) to the second portion (652).

[0149] According to the above-described embodiment, the electronic device (101) includes a slide cover (510) that is slidable with respect to the first housing (210) to make the connector (520) visible or invisible from the outside of the electronic device (101) in a first state, thereby covering the connector (520) according to the user's selection, thereby reducing the inflow of foreign substances into the connector (520) from the outside, or exposing the connector (520) to the outside so that the connector (520) is connected to an external electronic device (102). The slide cover (510) is connected to a flexible printed circuit board (650) and functions as a key button (605), thereby providing the user with various user experiences. The electronic device (101) can reduce the movement of the key button (605) according to the movement of the second housing (220) by including a guide rail (610), a guide member (620), and a third protrusion (630).

[0150] Figures 7a and 7b illustrate portions of an exemplary electronic device. Figure 7c illustrates portions of an exemplary electronic device in a closed state. Figure 7d illustrates portions of an exemplary electronic device in an open state.

[0151] Referring to FIGS. 7A, 7B, 7C, and 7D, an electronic device (101) may include a first housing (210) including a slide cover (510), and a second housing (220) movably coupled to the first housing between a collapsed position and an extended position and including a connector (520). The slide cover (510) may be movable relative to the first housing (210) to provide a closed state in which the slide cover (510) is disposed on the connector (520) to cover the connector (520) within the collapsed position, and an open state in which the connector (520) is at least partially exposed to the exterior of the electronic device (101) for connection between the connector and an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (102) of FIG. 1). In one embodiment, the slide cover (510), which is connected to a flexible printed circuit board (650), may be referred to as a key button (605).

[0152] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a printed circuit board (710), a battery (720), and a flexible printed circuit board (650). The battery (720) may be arranged to overlap at least partially with the printed circuit board (710). The flexible printed circuit board (650) may include a first portion (651) connected to a key button (605), a second portion (652) connected to the printed circuit board (710), and a third portion (653) connecting the first portion (651) and the second portion (652). The third portion (653) may be deformable according to movement of the second housing (220) relative to the first housing (210). The electronic device (101) may include a first connection portion (721) that directly connects a second portion (652) of a flexible printed circuit board (650) and a printed circuit board (710), or indirectly connects the second portion (652) of the flexible printed circuit board (650) and a printed circuit board (710) through a power flexible printed circuit board (Power FPCB) (not shown) connected to the printed circuit board (710). The flexible printed circuit board (650) may be electrically connected to the printed circuit board (710) through the first connection portion (721). The first connection portion (721) may be configured to electrically connect the flexible printed circuit board (650) connected to the key button (605) to the printed circuit board (710). The electronic device (101) may include a second connection portion (722) that directly connects the battery (720) and the printed circuit board (710), or indirectly connects the battery (720) and the printed circuit board (710) through a power flexible printed circuit board (Power FPCB) (not shown) connected to the printed circuit board (710). The first connection portion (721) and the second connection portion (722) may be formed integrally, such that the first connection portion (721) may electrically connect the battery (720) and / or the second connection portion (722) to the printed circuit board (710).The first connecting portion (721) and the second connecting portion (722) can be configured to make an electrical connection by at least one of a connector, a connecting terminal, or soldering, and the form thereof is not limited.

[0153] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a cover (740) that fastens a second portion (652) of a flexible printed circuit board (650) to the battery (720) by at least partially covering the battery (720), and at least one buffer member (750) that is at least partially interposed between the cover (740) and the second portion (652). The second housing (220) may include an opening (225) that passes through the third portion (653) for connecting the first portion (651) and the third portion (653) of the flexible printed circuit board (650). For example, the cover (740) may be disposed on the battery (720) and the second portion (652) of the flexible printed circuit board (650). The cover (740) may be fastened to the battery (720) to couple the second portion (652) onto the battery (720). For example, at least one buffer member (750) may be disposed between the flexible printed circuit board (650) and the cover (740). The at least one buffer member (750) may at least partially cover the second portion (652) of the flexible printed circuit board (650). The at least one buffer member (750) may include an elastic or deformable material. For example, the at least one buffer member (750) may include, but is not limited to, at least one of rubber and sponge. For example, the opening (225) may be formed on a portion of a first surface of the second housing (220) (e.g., the first surface (220a) of FIG. 5A). The above opening (225) can be covered by the key button (605). The third portion (653) of the flexible printed circuit board (650) can extend from the first portion (651) to the second portion (652) through the above opening (225).

[0154] According to one embodiment, the second housing (220) may include a support member (730) configured to support a third portion (653) of a flexible printed circuit board (650) according to movement of the second housing (220) with respect to the first housing (210), thereby guiding movement of the third portion (653). For example, the support member (730) may come into contact with the third portion (653) according to movement of the second housing (220). The support member (730) may rotate in a first rotational direction (701) and a second rotational direction (702) opposite to the first rotational direction (701) with respect to the second housing (220) according to movement of the third portion (653), for example, to guide movement of the third portion (653). For example, the electronic device (101) may include a guide pin (731) coupled to a support member (730) and configured to guide movement of a third portion (653) of a flexible printed circuit board (650) by passing the third portion (653) through the support member (730). The guide pin (731) may be configured to guide movement of the third portion (653) according to movement of the second housing (220) relative to the first housing (210) and / or movement of the key button (605) relative to the first housing (210) by bringing the third portion (653) into close contact with the support member (730).

[0155] According to the above-described embodiment, the electronic device (101) includes a cover (740) that secures a flexible printed circuit board (650) on a battery (720), and at least one buffer member (750) disposed between the cover (740) and the flexible printed circuit board (650), thereby reducing detachment of the flexible printed circuit board (650) from the battery (720) and reducing damage to the flexible printed circuit board (650) due to movement of the second housing (220) relative to the first housing (210) and / or movement of the key button (605) relative to the first housing (210). The electronic device (101) includes a support member (730) that supports the flexible printed circuit board (650), thereby guiding movement of the flexible printed circuit board (650) according to movement of the second housing (220) with respect to the first housing (210) and / or movement of the key button (605) with respect to the first housing (210).

[0156] According to the above-described embodiment, an electronic device (e.g., electronic device (101) of FIG. 1) may include a first housing (e.g., first housing (210) of FIG. 2a) including a slit (e.g., slit (550) of FIG. 5d) on a side surface (e.g., second surface (210a) of FIG. 5a), and a second housing (e.g., second housing (220) of FIG. 2a) movably coupled to the first housing between a retracted position and an extended position, the second housing including a connector (e.g., connector (520) of FIG. 5b). The electronic device may include a slide cover (e.g., slide cover (510) of FIG. 5a) slidably coupled to the side surface (210a). The slit may be arranged such that at least a portion of the slit overlaps the connector in the retracted position. The above slide cover can expose the connector to the outside of the electronic device or hide the connector by sliding the slide cover.

[0157] According to one embodiment, the first housing may further include a guide groove (e.g., a guide groove (540) of FIG. 6A) for at least partially accommodating the slide cover and guiding movement of the slide cover relative to the first housing, and a guide rail (e.g., a guide rail (610) of FIG. 6A) disposed along an edge of the guide groove and to which the slide cover is slidably coupled.

[0158] According to one embodiment, the electronic device may further include a guide member (e.g., guide member (620) of FIG. 6A) that is fastened to the guide rail and configured to contact the slide cover within the reduced position.

[0159] According to one embodiment, the slide cover may include a key button (e.g., key button (605) of FIG. 6B). The electronic device may include a printed circuit board (e.g., printed circuit board (710) of FIG. 7A), a battery coupled to the printed circuit board (e.g., battery (720) of FIG. 7A), and a flexible printed circuit board (e.g., flexible printed circuit board (650) of FIG. 6B) connected to the key button and coupled to the battery. The second housing may further include an opening (e.g., opening (225) of FIG. 7A) through which the flexible printed circuit board passes for connection between the key button and the flexible printed circuit board.

[0160] The electronic device according to one embodiment may further include a cover (e.g., cover (740) of FIG. 7a) that secures the flexible printed circuit board to the battery by at least partially covering the battery, and at least one buffer member (e.g., at least one buffer member (750) of FIG. 7b) that is at least partially interposed between the cover and the flexible printed circuit board.

[0161] According to one embodiment, the slide cover may be movable relative to the first housing to provide a closed state, in which the slide cover is positioned over the connector to cover the connector within the reduced position, and an opened state, in which the connector is at least partially exposed to the outside of the electronic device for connection with the connector and an external electronic device.

[0162] In one embodiment, the second housing may be movable relative to the first housing in a first direction (e.g., the first direction (261) of FIG. 2A) and a second direction opposite to the first direction (e.g., the second direction (262) of FIG. 2A). The slide cover may be configured to provide the closed state and the open state by being slidable relative to the first housing in the first direction and in a second direction opposite to the first direction within the collapsed position.

[0163] According to one embodiment, the first housing may further include a coupling groove (e.g., coupling groove (540a) of FIG. 6A) formed at one end of the slit. The slide cover may include a first protrusion (e.g., first protrusion (511) of FIG. 6B) configured to be coupled to the coupling groove by protruding from one end of the slide cover (e.g., one end (510a) of FIG. 6B) toward the first housing.

[0164] In one embodiment, the slide cover may further include a second protrusion (e.g., the second protrusion (512) of FIG. 6b) that protrudes toward the first housing from an opposite end of the slide cover (e.g., the other end (510b) of FIG. 6b). The second housing may further include a third protrusion (e.g., the third protrusion (630) of FIG. 6d) that is configured to engage with the second protrusion within the extended position by protruding from the second housing toward the slide cover.

[0165] According to one embodiment, the second housing may further include a first side (e.g., the first side (220a) of FIG. 5A) having a connector hole formed therein surrounding the connector. The side may be configured to expose the connector hole to the outside by covering the first side within the retracted position or at least partially exposing the first side to the outside of the electronic device within the expanded position.

[0166] According to one embodiment, the connector may be configured to connect to an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102) of FIG. 1) to charge the electronic device through the external electronic device.

[0167] According to one embodiment, the electronic device may further include a display (e.g., display (230) of FIG. 2A, display (530) of FIG. 5A) including a first region (e.g., region (230a) of FIG. 2A, first region (531) of FIG. 5A) disposed on the second housing, and a second region (e.g., region (230b) of FIG. 2C, second region (532) of FIG. 5A) extending from the first region and being at least partially rolled into or exposed to the outside within the first housing as the second housing moves.

[0168] According to one embodiment, the first housing may further include a first periphery part (e.g., the first periphery part (501) of FIG. 5A) that provides a rotational axis (e.g., the rotational axis (R) of FIG. 5A) about which the second region is at least partially bent for deformation of the second region, and a second periphery part (e.g., the second periphery part (502) of FIG. 5A) that extends from the first periphery part and to which the slide cover is coupled.

[0169] According to one embodiment, the slide cover may include at least one coupling portion (e.g., at least one coupling portion (513) of FIG. 5b) disposed along an edge of the slide cover so as to be slidably coupled to the first housing.

[0170] According to one embodiment, the electronic device may further include a processor (e.g., processor (120) of FIG. 1). The slide cover may include a key button. The processor may be configured to perform a designated function corresponding to an input signal received through the key button.

[0171] In one embodiment, an electronic device may include a first housing including a key button, and a second housing movably coupled to the first housing between a collapsed position and an extended position, the second housing including a connector. The key button may be movable relative to the first housing to provide a closed state, within the collapsed position, in which the key button is disposed on the connector so as to cover the connector, and an open state in which the connector is at least partially exposed to the exterior of the electronic device for connection between the connector and an external electronic device.

[0172] In one embodiment, the electronic device may include a printed circuit board, a battery coupled to the printed circuit board. The electronic device may include a flexible printed circuit board including a first portion coupled to the key button, a second portion coupled to the battery, and a third portion connecting the first portion and the second portion. The third portion may be deformable according to movement of the second housing relative to the first housing.

[0173] In one embodiment, the electronic device may further include a cover that secures the second portion to the battery by at least partially covering the battery, and at least one buffer member that is at least partially interposed between the second portion and the second portion. The second housing may further include an opening through which the third portion passes for connection between the first portion and the third portion.

[0174] In one embodiment, the second housing may further include a support member configured to guide movement of the third portion by supporting the third portion according to the movement of the second housing relative to the first housing. The flexible printed circuit board may further include at least one dome key disposed between the first portion and the key button.

[0175] In one embodiment, the second housing may be movable in a first direction relative to the first housing and in a second direction opposite to the first direction. The key button may be configured to provide the closed state and the open state by being slidable in the first direction and in a second direction opposite to the first direction relative to the first housing within the collapsed position.

[0176] In one embodiment, the first housing may further include a guide groove for at least partially accommodating the key button and guiding movement of the key button relative to the first housing, and a slit positioned on the connector within the reduced position.

[0177] According to one embodiment, the first housing may further include a guide rail disposed along an edge of the guide groove and to which the key button is slidably engaged. The electronic device may further include a guide member fastened to the guide rail and configured to contact the key button in the closed state.

[0178] In one embodiment, the first housing may further include a slit positioned on the connector within the reduced position, and a coupling groove formed at one end of the slit. The key button may include a first protrusion configured to be coupled to the coupling groove by protruding from one end of the key button toward the first housing.

[0179] In one embodiment, the key button may include a second protrusion protruding toward the first housing from an opposite end of the key button. The second housing may further include a third protrusion configured to engage the second protrusion within the extended position by protruding toward the key button.

[0180] In one embodiment, the second housing may further include a first surface having a connector hole formed therein that surrounds the connector. The first housing may further include a second surface on which the key button is disposed, the second surface being configured to expose the connector hole to the outside by covering the first surface within the retracted position or at least partially exposing the first surface to the outside within the expanded position.

[0181] According to one embodiment, the connector may be configured to charge the electronic device via the external electronic device by being connected to the external electronic device.

[0182] In one embodiment, the electronic device may further include a display including a first region disposed on the second housing, and a second region extending from the first region and being at least partially rolled into the first housing or exposed to the outside as the second housing moves.

[0183] According to one embodiment, the first housing may further include a first edge part providing a rotational axis (R) about which the second region is at least partially bent for deformation of the second region, and a second edge part extending from the first edge part and to which the key button is coupled.

[0184] According to one embodiment, the key button may include at least one engagement portion disposed along an edge of the key button so as to be slidably engaged with the first housing.

[0185] According to one embodiment, the electronic device may further include a processor. The processor may be configured to perform a designated function corresponding to an input signal received through the key button.

[0186] In one embodiment, an electronic device may include a first housing including a key button, and a second housing movably coupled to the first housing in a first direction and a second direction opposite the first direction between a collapsed position and an extended position, the second housing including a connector. The electronic device may include a printed circuit board within the first housing, a battery coupled on the printed circuit board, and a flexible printed circuit board including a first portion coupled to the key button, a second portion coupled on the battery, and a deformable third portion connecting the first portion and the second portion. The key button may be slidable relative to the first housing in the first direction and the second direction opposite the first direction to provide a closed state in which the key button is disposed on the connector so as to cover the connector, and an open state in which the connector is at least partially exposed to the outside of the electronic device for connection of the connector with an external electronic device within the collapsed position.

[0187] In one embodiment, the electronic device may further include a cover that secures the second portion to the battery by at least partially covering the battery, and at least one buffer member that is at least partially interposed between the second portion and the second portion.

[0188] According to one embodiment, the second housing may further include a rotatable support member configured to support the third portion in accordance with the movement of the second housing relative to the first housing, and a guide pin coupled to the support member and guiding the movement of the third portion by passing the third portion therethrough.

[0189] According to one embodiment, the first housing may further include a slit positioned on the connector within the reduced position, and a coupling groove formed at one end of the slit. The key button may include a first protrusion configured to be coupled to the coupling groove by protruding from one end of the key button toward the first housing.

[0190] In one embodiment, the key button may include a second protrusion protruding toward the first housing from an opposite end of the key button. The second housing may further include a third protrusion configured to engage the second protrusion within the extended position by protruding toward the key button.

[0191] Electronic devices according to the various embodiments disclosed in this document may take various forms. Electronic devices may include, for example, portable communication devices (e.g., smartphones), computer devices, portable multimedia devices, portable medical devices, cameras, electronic devices, or home appliances. Electronic devices according to the embodiments of this document are not limited to the aforementioned devices.

[0192] The various embodiments of this document and the terminology used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, but should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutes of the embodiments. In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components. The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of the items, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this document, each of the phrases "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B, or C", "at least one of A, B, and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" can include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase among those phrases, or all possible combinations thereof. Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used merely to distinguish one component from another, and do not limit the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order). When a component (e.g., a first component) is referred to as "coupled" or "connected" to another component (e.g., a second component), with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicatively," it means that the component can be connected to the other component directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0193] 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).

[0194] Various embodiments of the present document may be implemented as software (e.g., a program (140)) including one or more instructions stored in a storage medium (e.g., an internal memory (136) or an external memory (138)) readable by a machine (e.g., an electronic device (101)). For example, a processor (e.g., a processor (120)) of the machine (e.g., an electronic device (101)) may call at least one instruction among the one or more instructions stored from the storage medium and execute it. This enables the machine to operate to perform at least one function according to the at least one called instruction. The one or more instructions may include code generated by a compiler or code executable by an interpreter. The machine-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, 'non-transitory' simply means that the storage medium is a tangible device and does not contain signals (e.g., electromagnetic waves), and the term does not distinguish between cases where data is stored semi-permanently or temporarily on the storage medium.

[0195] According to one embodiment, the method according to various embodiments disclosed in this document may be provided as included in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded as a commodity between a seller and a buyer. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable storage medium (e.g., compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM)), or may be distributed online (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) via an application store (e.g., Play Store™) or directly between two user devices (e.g., smart phones). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product may be temporarily stored or temporarily generated in a machine-readable storage medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or an intermediary server.

[0196] According to various embodiments, each component (e.g., a module or a program) of the above-described components may include one or more entities, and some of the entities may be separated and placed in other components. According to various embodiments, one or more components or operations of the aforementioned components may be omitted, or one or more other components or operations may be added. Alternatively or additionally, a plurality of components (e.g., a module or a program) may be integrated into a single component. In such a case, the integrated component may perform one or more functions of each of the plurality of components identically or similarly to those performed by the corresponding component among the plurality of components prior to the integration. According to various embodiments, the operations performed by a module, program, or other component may be executed sequentially, in parallel, iteratively, or heuristically, or one or more of the operations may be executed in a different order, omitted, or one or more other operations may be added.

Claims

1. In an electronic device (101), A first housing (210) including a slit (550) on a side (210a); A second housing (220) movably coupled to the first housing (210) between a retracted position and an extended position and including a connector (520); and It includes a slide cover (510) that is slidably coupled to the above side (210a); The above slit (550) is positioned so that at least a portion overlaps the connector (520) at the reduced position, The above slide cover (510) is configured to expose the connector (520) to the outside of the electronic device (101) or hide the connector (520) by sliding the slide cover (510). Electronic device (101).

2. In paragraph 1, The above first housing (210) is, A guide groove (540) for at least partially accommodating the slide cover (510) and guiding the movement of the slide cover (510) relative to the first housing (210); and Further comprising a guide rail (610) arranged along the edge of the above guide home (540) and to which the slide cover (510) is slidably coupled; Electronic device (101).

3. In paragraph 2, Further comprising a guide member (620) that is fastened to the above guide rail (610) and configured to contact the slide cover (510) within the reduced position; Electronic device (101).

4. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 3, The above slide cover (510) is including a key button (605); The above electronic device (101) Printed circuit board (710); A battery (720) coupled on the printed circuit board (710); and It includes a flexible printed circuit board (650) connected to the above key button (605) and coupled with the battery (720); The above second housing (220) is, Further comprising an opening (225) for passing the flexible printed circuit board (650) through the flexible printed circuit board (650) for connection between the key button (605) and the flexible printed circuit board (650); Electronic device (101).

5. In paragraph 4, A cover (740) that fastens the flexible printed circuit board (650) to the battery (720) by at least partially covering the battery (720); and Further comprising at least one buffer member (750) at least partially interposed between the cover (740) and the flexible printed circuit board (650); Electronic devices.

6. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 5, The above slide cover (510) is Within the reduced position, the first housing (210) is movable so as to provide a closed state in which the connector (520) is disposed on the connector (520) to cover the connector (520), and an open state in which the connector (520) is at least partially exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101) for connection between the connector (520) and the external electronic device (102). Electronic device (101).

7. In paragraph 6, The above second housing (220) is, With respect to the first housing (210), it is movable in a first direction (261) and a second direction (262) opposite to the first direction (261), The above slide cover (510) is Within the above reduced position, the first housing (210) is configured to provide the closed state and the open state by being able to slide in the first direction (261) and in the second direction (262) opposite to the first direction (261). Electronic device (101).

8. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 7, The above first housing (210) is, It further includes a coupling groove (540a) formed at one end of the above slit (550); The above slide cover (510) is A first protrusion (511) configured to be coupled to the coupling groove (540a) by protruding from one end (510a) of the slide cover (510) toward the first housing (210); Electronic device (101).

9. In paragraph 8, The above slide cover (510) is It further includes a second protrusion (512) protruding from the other end (510b) opposite to the one end (510a) of the above slide cover (510) toward the first housing (210); The above second housing (220) is, Further comprising a third protrusion (630) configured to engage with the second protrusion (512) within the extended position by protruding from the second housing (220) toward the slide cover (510); Electronic device (101).

10. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 9, The above second housing (220) is, Further comprising a first surface (220a) in which a connector hole (521) surrounding the connector (520) is formed; The above side (210a) is configured to expose the connector hole (521) to the outside by covering the first side (220a) within the reduced position or at least partially exposing the first side (220a) to the outside of the electronic device (101) within the expanded position. Electronic device (101).

11. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 10, The above connector (520) is, By being connected to an external electronic device (102), configured to charge the electronic device (101) through the external electronic device (102), Electronic device (101).

12. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 11, A display (230; 530) further comprising a first region (230a; 531) disposed on the second housing (220), and a second region (230b; 532) extending from the first region (230a; 531) and being at least partially rolled into the first housing (210) or exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101) according to movement of the second housing (220); Electronic device (101).

13. In paragraph 12, The above first housing (210) is, For deformation of the second region (230b; 532), a first periphery part (501) providing a rotation axis (R) along which the second region (230b; 532) is at least partially bent; and Further comprising a second edge part (502) extending from the first edge part (501) and coupled on the slide cover (510); Electronic device (101).

14. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 13, The above slide cover (510) is At least one coupling portion (513) arranged along the edge of the slide cover (510) to be slidably coupled to the first housing (210); Electronic device (101).

15. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 14, further comprising a processor (120); The above slide cover (510) is Includes a key button (605), The above processor (120) In response to receiving an input signal through the above key button (605), configured to perform a designated function corresponding to the input signal, Electronic device (101).

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