Cover and electronic device on which cover is mounted

Abstract

An electronic device on which a cover is mounted, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, comprises an electronic device and a cover, wherein: the cover comprises a first cover, which includes a first connection unit having a connection groove and a connection cover covering the connection groove and which is detachably arranged on the rear surface of the electronic device, and a second cover, which includes a second connection unit detachably coupled to the first connection unit and of which at least a portion is arranged in the first cover; and the second connection unit has a columnar shape protruding from one surface of the second cover and includes a groove of which a portion of the side surface is recessed, and at least a portion of the second connection unit is inserted into the connection groove so that the connection cover can be pressed in the direction toward the rear surface of the electronic device.

Description

Covers and electronic devices with covers

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a cover and an electronic device equipped with the cover.

[0002] A cover may be detachably attached to an electronic device (e.g., a portable electronic device). The cover attached to the electronic device may serve to protect the front and / or back of the electronic device.

[0003] Covers mounted on electronic devices can be classified based on the functions they provide. For example, a cover may include a display to visually provide information to the user of the electronic device. Alternatively, a cover may include an opening through which information displayed on the display of the electronic device can be displayed. Alternatively, a cover may be formed in the form of a strap to enhance the convenience of the user using the electronic device.

[0004] Since the functions provided by covers vary depending on the type of cover, a user of an electronic device may need to detach or attach the cover to use a cover with the desired function. In particular, if a cover mounted on the rear of an electronic device is formed as an integral part of a front cover covering the front of the electronic device, the user may need to detach the cover positioned on the rear of the electronic device to replace the front cover.

[0005] The above information may be provided as background information to aid in understanding the present disclosure. None of the above is claimed to be prior art related to the present disclosure, nor can it be used to determine prior art.

[0006] An electronic device needs to recognize the type of cover mounted on the electronic device so that the cover with the specified function can perform the specified function when mounted on the electronic device.

[0007] An electronic device equipped with a cover according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include an electronic device and a cover.

[0008] In one embodiment, the cover may include a first connection portion including a connection groove and a connection cover covering the connection groove, the first cover being detachably disposed on a rear surface of the electronic device, and a second connection portion detachably coupled to the first connection portion, the second cover having at least a portion disposed on the first cover.

[0009] In one embodiment, the second connecting portion may have a columnar shape including a groove protruding from one surface of the second cover and recessed into a portion of a side surface.

[0010] In one embodiment, the second connector is capable of being inserted at least partially into the connection groove to press the connection cover toward the rear of the electronic device.

[0011] A cover mountable on an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a first connecting portion including a connecting groove and a connecting cover covering the connecting groove, a first cover that can be disposed on the rear surface of the electronic device, and a second connecting portion that is detachably coupled to the first connecting portion, and a second cover at least a portion of which can be disposed on the first cover.

[0012] A cover according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a first cover disposed on a rear surface of an electronic device and a second cover detachably coupled to the first cover, such that the second cover can be replaced without detaching the first cover from the electronic device.

[0013] A cover according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can enable an electronic device to recognize the type of the second cover by using a sensor of the first cover and a conductor of the second cover.

[0014] A cover according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can enable an electronic device to recognize the type of the second cover by using an antenna (e.g., an NFC antenna) of the first cover and an IC chip of the second cover.

[0015] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first cover may include a fixing structure to prevent or reduce movement of the second cover in a specific direction.

[0016] A first cover according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can detachably couple various types of second covers.

[0017] The cover and the electronic device equipped with the cover according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may facilitate customizing the second cover to suit the user's preference.

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

[0019] FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B are diagrams showing an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 3 is a drawing showing a first cover according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIGS. 4A, 4B, and 4C are drawings showing a second cover according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIGS. 5A, 5B and 5C are drawings showing a first cover and a second cover according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 6 is a drawing showing the combination of a first cover and a second cover according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 7A and FIG. 7B are drawings showing a first cover and a second cover according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating an electronic device, a first cover, and a second cover according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a cover recognition method of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] FIG. 10A and FIG. 10B are drawings showing a first connecting portion of a first cover and a second connecting portion of a second cover according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] FIGS. 11A, 11B, and 11C are diagrams illustrating a conductor and a sensor according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] FIG. 12 is a drawing showing a first connecting portion and a second connecting portion according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0030] FIGS. 13a, 13b, 13c and 13d are drawings showing a first connecting portion and a second connecting portion according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] Referring to FIGS. 14a, 14b, 14c and 14d, drawings are provided showing a second connecting portion according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0032] FIG. 15a and FIG. 15b are drawings showing a connection cover according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] FIG. 16 is a drawing showing a second cover according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034] FIG. 17 is a block diagram showing an electronic device, a first cover, and a second cover according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0035] FIG. 18 and FIG. 19 are drawings showing a first cover and a second cover according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0036] FIG. 20 is a flowchart illustrating a cover recognition method of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0037] FIG. 21 is a flowchart illustrating a cover display method of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] FIGS. 22a and 22b are drawings showing a first cover and a first connecting portion according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0039] FIG. 23a, FIG. 23b, and FIG. 23c are drawings showing a state in which a first cover and a second cover are combined according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0040] FIG. 24a, FIG. 24b, and FIG. 24c are drawings showing a state in which a first cover and a second cover are combined according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0041] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device (101) within a network environment (100), according to one embodiment. Referring to FIG. 1 , in the network environment (100), the electronic device (101) may communicate with the electronic device (102) via a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network), or may communicate with at least one of the electronic device (104) or the 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)).

[0042] The processor (120) may, for example, execute software (e.g., a program (140)) to control at least one other component (e.g., a hardware or software component) of the electronic device (101) connected to the processor (120) and perform various data processing or calculations. According to one embodiment, as at least a part of the data processing or calculations, 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 processor) or a secondary 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 therewith. For example, if the electronic device (101) includes a main processor (121) and a secondary processor (123), the secondary processor (123) may be configured to use less power than the main processor (121) or to be specialized for a specified function. The secondary processor (123) may be implemented separately from the main processor (121) or as a part thereof.

[0043] The auxiliary processor (123) may control at least a portion of functions or states associated with at least one component (e.g., a display module (160), a sensor module (176), or a communication module (190)) of the electronic device (101), for example, on behalf of the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an inactive (e.g., sleep) state, or together with the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an active (e.g., application execution) state. In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., an image signal processor or a communication processor) may be implemented as a part of another functionally related component (e.g., a camera module (180) or a communication module (190)). In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., a neural network processing unit) may include a hardware structure specialized for processing artificial intelligence models. The artificial intelligence models may be generated through machine learning. This learning can be performed, for example, 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.

[0044] The memory (130) can store various data used by at least one component (e.g., processor (120) or sensor module (176)) of the electronic device (101). The data can include, for example, software (e.g., program (140)) and input data or output data for commands related thereto. The memory (130) can include volatile memory (132) or non-volatile memory (134).

[0045] The program (140) may be stored as software in the memory (130) and may include, for example, an operating system (142), middleware (144), or an application (146).

[0046] The input module (150) can receive commands or data to be used in a component of the electronic device (101) (e.g., a processor (120)) from an external source (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (101). The input module (150) can include, for example, a microphone, a mouse, a keyboard, a key (e.g., a button), or a digital pen (e.g., a stylus pen).

[0047] The audio output module (155) can output audio signals to the outside of the electronic device (101). The audio output module (155) can include, for example, a speaker or a receiver. The speaker can be used for general purposes, such as multimedia playback or recording playback. The receiver can be used to receive incoming calls. In one embodiment, the receiver can be implemented separately from the speaker or as part of the speaker.

[0048] The display module (160) can visually provide information to an external party (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (101). The display module (160) may include, for example, a display, a holographic device, or a projector and a control circuit for controlling the device. 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.

[0049] The audio module (170) can convert sound into an electrical signal, or vice versa, convert an electrical signal into sound. According to one embodiment, the audio module (170) can acquire sound through the input module (150), output sound through the sound output module (155), or an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102)) (e.g., speaker or headphone) directly or wirelessly connected to the electronic device (101).

[0050] The sensor module (176) can detect the operating status (e.g., power or temperature) of the electronic device (101) or the external environmental status (e.g., user status) and generate an electrical signal or data value corresponding to the detected status. According to one embodiment, the sensor module (176) can include, for example, a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a proximity sensor, a color sensor, an IR (infrared) sensor, a biometric sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or an illuminance sensor.

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

[0052] The connection terminal (178) may include a connector through which the electronic device (101) may be physically connected to an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102)). According to one embodiment, the connection terminal (178) may include, for example, an HDMI connector, a USB connector, an SD card connector, or an audio connector (e.g., a headphone connector).

[0053] The haptic module (179) can convert electrical signals into mechanical stimuli (e.g., vibration or movement) or electrical stimuli that a user can perceive through tactile or kinesthetic sensations. According to one embodiment, the haptic module (179) can include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

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

[0055] The power management module (188) can manage power supplied to the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the power management module (188) can be implemented as, for example, at least a part of a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

[0056] A battery (189) may power at least one component of the electronic device (101). In one embodiment, the battery (189) may include, for example, a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable secondary battery, or a fuel cell.

[0057] The communication module (190) may support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between the electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102), electronic device (104), or server (108)), and the performance of communication through the established communication channel. The communication module (190) may operate independently from the processor (120) (e.g., application processor) and may include one or more communication processors that support direct (e.g., wired) communication or wireless communication. According to one embodiment, the communication module (190) may include a wireless communication module (192) (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module (194) (e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication module, or a power line communication module). Among these communication modules, the corresponding communication module can communicate with an external electronic device (104) via a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, wireless fidelity (WiFi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range communication network such as a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN)). These various types of communication modules can be integrated into a single component (e.g., a single chip) or implemented as multiple separate components (e.g., multiple chips). The wireless communication module (192) can verify or authenticate the electronic device (101) within a communication network such as the first network (198) or the second network (199) by using subscriber information (e.g., an international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI)) stored in the subscriber identification module (196).

[0058] The wireless communication module (192) can support 5G networks and next-generation communication technologies following the 4G network, such as NR access technology (new radio access technology). The NR access technology can support high-speed transmission of high-capacity data (eMBB (enhanced mobile broadband)), minimization of terminal power and connection of multiple terminals (mMTC (massive machine type communications)), or high reliability and low latency (URLLC (ultra-reliable and low-latency communications)). The wireless communication module (192) can support, for example, a high-frequency band (e.g., mmWave band) to achieve a high data transmission rate. The wireless communication module (192) can support various technologies for securing performance in a high-frequency band, such as beamforming, massive multiple-input and multiple-output (MIMO), full dimensional MIMO (FD-MIMO), array antenna, analog beam-forming, or large scale antenna. The wireless communication module (192) can support various requirements specified in the electronic device (101), an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (104)), or a network system (e.g., the second network (199)). According to one embodiment, the wireless communication module (192) 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.

[0059] The antenna module (197) can transmit or receive signals or power to or from an external device (e.g., an external electronic device). In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include an antenna including a radiator formed of a conductor or a conductive pattern formed on a substrate (e.g., a PCB). In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna). In this case, at least one antenna suitable for a communication method used in a communication network, such as the first network (198) or the second network (199), may be selected from the plurality of antennas, 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).

[0060] In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may form a mmWave antenna module. In one embodiment, the mmWave antenna module may include a printed circuit board, an RFIC disposed on or adjacent a first side (e.g., a bottom side) of the printed circuit board and capable of supporting a designated high-frequency band (e.g., a mmWave band), and a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna) disposed on or adjacent a second side (e.g., a top side or a side side) of the printed circuit board and capable of transmitting or receiving signals in the designated high-frequency band.

[0061] At least some of the above components can be interconnected and exchange signals (e.g., commands or data) with each other via a communication method between peripheral devices (e.g., a bus, GPIO (general purpose input and output), SPI (serial peripheral interface), or MIPI (mobile industry processor interface)).

[0062] According to one embodiment, commands or data may be transmitted or received between the electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (104) via a server (108) connected to a second network (199). Each of the external electronic devices (102 or 104) may be the same or a different type of device as the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, all or part of the operations executed in the electronic device (101) may be executed in one or more of the external electronic devices (102, 104, or 108). For example, when the electronic device (101) is to perform a certain function or service automatically or in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device (101) may, instead of or in addition to executing the function or service itself, request one or more external electronic devices to perform the function or at least 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.

[0063] FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B are drawings showing an electronic device (200) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0064] FIG. 2a is a perspective view showing the front side of an electronic device (200) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2b is a perspective view showing the rear side of an electronic device (200) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0065] Referring to FIGS. 2A and 2B , an electronic device (200) (e.g., a mobile electronic device) according to one embodiment may include a housing (210) that includes a first side (or front side) (210A), a second side (or back side) (210B), and a side surface (210C) that surrounds a space between the first side (210A) and the second side (210B). In one embodiment (not shown), the housing may refer to a structure that forms a portion of the first side (210A), the second side (210B), and the side surface (210C) of FIG. 2A . According to one embodiment, the first side (210A) may be formed by a front plate (202) that is at least partially substantially transparent (e.g., a glass plate or a polymer plate including various coating layers). The second side (210B) may be formed by a substantially opaque back plate (211). The rear plate (211) may be formed of, for example, coated or colored glass, ceramic, polymer, metal (e.g., aluminum, stainless steel (STS), or magnesium), or a combination of at least two of the foregoing materials. The side surface (210C) may be formed by a side bezel structure (218) (or “side member”) that is coupled to the front plate (202) and the rear plate (211) and comprises a metal and / or polymer. In some embodiments, the rear plate (211) and the side bezel structure (218) may be formed integrally and comprise the same material (e.g., a metal material such as aluminum).

[0066] In the illustrated embodiment, the front plate (202) may include a first region (210D) that extends seamlessly from the first surface (210A) toward the rear plate (211), at both ends of a long edge of the front plate (202). In the illustrated embodiment (see FIG. 2B), the rear plate (211) may include a second region (210E) that extends seamlessly from the second surface (210B) toward the front plate (202), at both ends of a long edge. In some embodiments, the front plate (202) or the rear plate (211) may include only one of the first region (210D) or the second region (210E). In some embodiments, the front plate (202) may not include the first region and the second region, but may only include a flat plane that is arranged parallel to the second side (110B). In the above embodiments, when viewed from the side of the electronic device, the side bezel structure (218) may have a first thickness (or width) on the side that does not include the first region (210D) or the second region (210E), and may have a second thickness that is thinner than the first thickness on the side that includes the first region (210D) or the second region (210E).

[0067] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include at least one of a display (201), an input device (203), an audio output device (207, 214), a sensor module (204, 219), a camera module (205, 212), a key input device (217), an indicator (not shown), and a connector (208). In some embodiments, the electronic device (200) may omit at least one of the components (e.g., the key input device (217) or the indicator) or may additionally include other components.

[0068] The display (201) may be exposed, for example, through a substantial portion of the front plate (202). In some embodiments, at least a portion of the display (201) may be exposed through the front plate (202), which forms the first surface (210A) and the first region (210D) of the side surface (210C). The display (201) may be coupled to or disposed adjacent to a touch sensing circuit, a pressure sensor capable of measuring the intensity (pressure) of a touch, and / or a digitizer for detecting a magnetic field-type stylus pen. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the sensor modules (204, 219), and / or at least a portion of the key input device (217), may be disposed in the first region (210D), and / or the second region (210E).

[0069] The input device (203) may include a microphone (203). In some embodiments, the input device (203) may include a plurality of microphones (203) arranged to detect the direction of sound. The audio output device (207, 214) may include speakers (207, 214). The speakers (207, 214) may include an external speaker (207) and a call receiver (214). In some embodiments, the microphone (203), the speakers (207, 214), and the connector (208) may be arranged at least partially in the internal space of the electronic device (200) and may be exposed to the external environment through at least one hole formed in the housing (210). In some embodiments, the hole formed in the housing (210) may be used jointly for the microphone (203) and the speakers (207, 214). In some embodiments, the audio output device (207, 214) may include a speaker (e.g., a piezo speaker) that operates without the hole formed in the housing (210).

[0070] The sensor module (204, 219) can generate an electrical signal or data value corresponding to an internal operating state of the electronic device (200) or an external environmental state. The sensor module (204, 219) may include, for example, a first sensor module (204) (e.g., a proximity sensor) and / or a second sensor module (not shown) (e.g., a fingerprint sensor) disposed on a first surface (210A) of the housing (210), and / or a third sensor module (219) (e.g., an HRM sensor) disposed on a second surface (210B) of the housing (210). The fingerprint sensor may be disposed on the first surface (210A) of the housing (210) (e.g., a home key button), a portion of the second surface (210B), and / or under the display (201). The electronic device (200) may further include at least one of a sensor module not shown, for example, a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, a pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a color sensor, an IR (infrared) sensor, a biometric sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, a proximity sensor, or an illuminance sensor.

[0071] The camera modules (205, 212) may include a first camera module (205) disposed on a first side (210A) of the electronic device (200), a second camera module (212) disposed on a second side (210B), and / or a flash (213). The camera modules (205, 212) may include one or more lenses, an image sensor, and / or an image signal processor. The flash (213) may include, for example, a light emitting diode or a xenon lamp. In some embodiments, two or more lenses (a wide-angle lens, an ultra-wide-angle lens, or a telephoto lens) and image sensors may be disposed on one side of the electronic device (200).

[0072] The key input device (217) may be positioned on a side surface (210C) of the housing (210). In another embodiment, the electronic device (200) may not include some or all of the above-mentioned key input devices (217), and the key input devices (217) that are not included may be implemented in other forms, such as soft keys, on the display (201). In another embodiment, the key input device (217) may be implemented using a pressure sensor included in the display (201).

[0073] The indicator may be disposed, for example, on the first side (210A) of the housing (210). The indicator may provide, for example, status information of the electronic device (200) in the form of light (e.g., a light-emitting element). In another embodiment, the light-emitting element may provide a light source that is linked to the operation of the camera module (205), for example. The indicator may include, for example, an LED, an IR LED, and / or a xenon lamp.

[0074] The connector hole (208) may include a first connector hole (208) that can accommodate a connector (e.g., a universal serial bus (USB) connector) for transmitting and receiving power and / or data with an external electronic device, and / or a second connector hole (or earphone jack) (not shown) that can accommodate a connector for transmitting and receiving audio signals with an external electronic device.

[0075] Some of the camera modules (205, 212), some of the sensor modules (204, 219), or indicators may be arranged to be exposed through the display (201). For example, the camera module (205), the sensor module (204), or the indicator may be arranged to be in contact with the external environment through a through-hole perforated from the internal space of the electronic device (200) to the front plate (202) of the display (201). In another embodiment, some of the sensor modules (204) may be arranged to perform their functions without being visually exposed through the front plate (202) in the internal space of the electronic device. For example, an area of ​​the display (201) facing the sensor module may not require a through-hole.

[0076] FIG. 3 is a drawing showing a first cover (300) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0077] In describing the first cover (300) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the width direction of the first cover (300) may mean the X-axis direction, and the length direction of the first cover (300) may mean the Y-axis direction. The thickness direction of the first cover (300) may mean the Z-axis direction perpendicular to the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction.

[0078] In one embodiment, the first cover (300) may be disposed on a rear surface (210B, see FIGS. 2A and 2B) of a housing (210, see FIGS. 2A and 2B) of an electronic device (200, see FIGS. 2A and 2B). For example, the first cover (300) may be disposed such that an inner surface (not shown), which is the opposite surface of an outer surface (300A), is in contact with a rear surface (210B, see FIGS. 2A and 2B) of the housing (210, see FIGS. 2A and 2B).

[0079] In one embodiment, the first cover (300) may have an outer surface (300A) extending in the width direction of the first cover (300) (e.g., X-axis direction) and the length direction of the first cover (300) (e.g., Y-axis direction).

[0080] In one embodiment, the first cover (300) may have a thickness in the thickness direction (e.g., the Z-axis direction).

[0081] In one embodiment, the first cover (300) may include a first connecting portion (310). The first cover (300) may be coupled to another cover (e.g., the second cover (400) of FIG. 4A) using the first connecting portion (310).

[0082] In one embodiment, the first connecting portion (310) may be formed on the outer surface (300A) of the cover (300). For example, two first connecting portions (310) may be formed on one side of the outer surface (300A) of the cover (300).

[0083] In one embodiment, the first cover (300) may include a camera opening (320). When the first cover (300) is placed on an electronic device (200, see FIGS. 2A and 2B), the camera opening (320) may be placed at a position that at least partially overlaps a camera module (212, see FIG. 2B).

[0084] FIG. 4a, FIG. 4b and FIG. 4c are drawings showing a second cover (400) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0085] In describing the second cover (400) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the width direction of the second cover (400) may mean the X-axis direction, and the length direction of the second cover (400) may mean the Y-axis direction. The thickness direction of the second cover (400) may mean the Z-axis direction perpendicular to the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction.

[0086] In one embodiment, the second cover (400) may include a first connection portion (410), a first region (420), a second region (430), and / or a connection region (440).

[0087] In one embodiment, the connection region (440) may be a region connecting the first region (420) and the second region (430).

[0088] In one embodiment, the second cover (400) may be coupled to the first cover (300) at least in part. For example, the second cover (400) may be coupled to the first cover (300, see FIG. 3) using a second connecting portion (410). The second connecting portion (410) of the second cover (400) may be detachably coupled to the first connecting portion (310, see FIG. 3) of the first cover (300, see FIG. 3).

[0089] Referring to FIGS. 4A and 4B, in one embodiment, the second connecting portion (410) may be formed in the second region (430). For example, two second connecting portions (410) may be formed in the second region (430).

[0090] Referring to FIG. 4b, in one embodiment, the first region (420) may include an opening (422) and / or a receiving portion (424).

[0091] In one embodiment, the opening (422) of the first region (420) may be an area through which a portion of the display (201, see FIG. 2A) of the electronic device (200, see FIGS. 2A and 2B) may be exposed to the outside. For example, when the first region (420) of the second cover (400) is placed on the electronic device (200, see FIG. 2A), a portion of the display (201, see FIG. 2A) may be exposed to the outside through the opening (422).

[0092] In one embodiment, the storage portion (424) of the first region (420) may form a space in which an external object may be placed. For example, an external object (e.g., a user's card) may be inserted into and placed in the storage portion (424) of the first region (420).

[0093] Referring to FIG. 4c, at least a portion of the connection region (440) may be bent. For example, at least a portion of the connection region (440) may be bent relative to the first region (420) and / or the second region (430).

[0094] In one embodiment, the first region (420) may be a region corresponding to the front surface (210A, see FIG. 2A) of the housing (210, see FIG. 2A) of the electronic device (200, see FIG. 2A). For example, when a first cover (300, see FIG. 3) is coupled to the electronic device (200, see FIG. 2A) and a second cover (400) is coupled to the first cover (300, see FIG. 3), the first region (420) may be arranged to cover the front surface (210A, see FIG. 2A) of the housing (210, see FIG. 2A) of the electronic device (200, see FIG. 2A).

[0095] In one embodiment, the second region (430) may be a region corresponding to the rear surface (210B, see FIG. 2B) of the housing (210, see FIG. 2B) of the electronic device (200, see FIG. 2B). For example, when a first cover (300, see FIG. 3) is coupled to the electronic device (200, see FIG. 2B) and a second cover (400) is coupled to the first cover (300, see FIG. 3), the second region (430) may be arranged to overlap the rear surface (210B, see FIG. 2B) of the housing (210, see FIG. 2B) of the electronic device (200, see FIG. 2B) on one side of the first cover (300, see FIG. 3).

[0096] In FIGS. 4A and 4B , the second cover (400) is illustrated as including an opening (422), but this is exemplary, and the shape of the second cover (400) may not be limited thereto. For example, the second cover (400) may not include an opening (422) and may include other configurations (e.g., the display portion (450) of FIG. 5B ).

[0097] FIG. 5a, FIG. 5b and FIG. 5c are drawings showing a first cover (300) and a second cover (400-1, 400-2, 400-3) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0098] Referring to FIGS. 5a, 5b and 5c, various shapes of second covers (400-1, 400-2, 400-3) can be combined with the first cover (300).

[0099] Referring to FIG. 5A, a second cover (400-1) including an opening (422) according to one embodiment can be coupled to the first cover (300).

[0100] In one embodiment, the second cover (400-1) including the opening (422) may include a magnetic material (not shown) at least in a portion thereof. When the second cover (400-1) is placed on the front surface (210A, see FIG. 2A) of the housing (210, see FIG. 2A) of the electronic device (200, see FIG. 2A), the electronic device (200, see FIG. 2A) may detect the magnetic material of the second cover (400-1) using a sensor (e.g., a Hall sensor) to confirm that the second cover (400-1) is placed on the front surface (210A, see FIG. 2A) of the housing (210, see FIG. 2A) of the electronic device (200, see FIG. 2A), and cause predetermined information to be visually displayed on the opening (422) of the second cover (400-1).

[0101] Referring to FIG. 5B, in one embodiment, the second cover (400-2) may be a cover including a display portion (450). For example, the second cover (400-2) according to one embodiment may include a display portion (450) that serves to visually display information on the outside.

[0102] In one embodiment, the display unit (450) may include a display (e.g., the display module (160) of FIG. 1) that can visually display information externally. For example, the display unit (450) may include a light emitting diode (LED) that generates light.

[0103] In one embodiment, when a first cover (300) is coupled to an electronic device (200, see FIG. 2A), and a second cover (400-2) is coupled to the first cover (300), the second cover (400-2) can visually display information on the outside using a display portion (450).

[0104] Referring to FIG. 5c, in one embodiment, the second cover (400-3) may be a cover that can be folded around the folding axis (F1, F2). For example, the second cover (400-3) may be folded around the first folding axis (F1) and / or the second folding axis (F2).

[0105] In one embodiment, the second cover (400-3) can be arranged so that the electronic device (200, see FIG. 2A) is positioned at a predetermined angle with respect to an external plane. For example, when the first cover (300) is coupled to the electronic device (200, see FIG. 2A) and the second cover (400-3) is coupled to the first cover (300), and the second cover (400-3) is folded around the first folding axis (F1) and / or the second folding axis (F2), the electronic device (200, see FIG. 2A) can be positioned so that the electronic device (200, see FIG. 2A) is positioned at a predetermined angle with respect to the external plane on which the electronic device (200, see FIG. 2A) is positioned.

[0106] FIG. 6 is a drawing showing the combination of a first cover (300) and a second cover (400) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0107] In one embodiment, the first cover (300) and the second cover (400) may be joined at least in part. For example, the second connecting portion (410) of the second cover (400) may be detachably joined to the first connecting portion (310) of the first cover (300).

[0108] In one embodiment, a portion of the second cover (400) may be disposed on the first cover (300). For example, the second region (430) of the second cover (400) may be disposed on the outer surface (300A) of the first cover (300). The second region (430) of the second cover (400) may be disposed on the outer surface (300A) of the first cover (300), and the second connecting portion (410) and the first connecting portion (310) may be coupled.

[0109] In one embodiment, the first connecting portion (310) may include a connecting cover (311).

[0110] In one embodiment, the connection cover (311) may be formed of substantially the same material as the outer surface (300A) of the first cover (300). Since the connection cover (311) is formed of substantially the same material as the outer surface (300A) of the first cover (300), a user of the first cover (300) can receive substantially the same aesthetic feel throughout the entire first cover (300).

[0111] In one embodiment, the second connecting portion (410) may protrude relative to the second area (430) of the second cover (400). When the second area (430) of the second cover (400) is placed on the first cover (300), the second connecting portion (410) protruding relative to the second area (430) may face the first connecting portion (310) of the first cover (300).

[0112] In one embodiment, when the second connecting portion (410) is coupled to the first connecting portion (310), the connecting cover (311) of the first connecting portion (310) may be pressed in one direction. For example, the second connecting portion (410) may press the connecting cover (311) of the first connecting portion (310) in a direction opposite to the direction in which the outer surface (300A) of the first cover (300) is facing.

[0113] FIG. 7a and FIG. 7b are drawings showing a first cover (300) and a second cover (500, 600) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0114] In one embodiment, the second cover (500, 600) may be a strap-shaped cover. For example, the second cover (500, 600) may be a strap-shaped cover formed by extending in one direction.

[0115] Referring to FIG. 7a, the second cover (500) may include a strap body (505), a second connecting portion (510), and / or an adjustment opening (520).

[0116] In one embodiment, the strap body (505) of the second cover (500) may be formed of a bendable material. The strap body (505) of the second cover (500) may be formed to extend in one direction.

[0117] Referring to FIG. 7A, a second cover (500) according to one embodiment may be a strap-shaped cover including two second connecting portions (510). The two second connecting portions (510) may each be coupled to the first connecting portion (310) of the first cover (300).

[0118] In one embodiment, one of the two second connectors (510) may be positioned in the adjustment opening (520).

[0119] In one embodiment, the length of the strap body (505) of the second cover (500) positioned between the two second connecting portions (510) can be adjusted using the adjustment opening (520). For example, when the second cover (500) is coupled to the first cover (300), the adjustment opening (520) is moved relative to the second connecting portion (510) positioned in the adjustment opening (520), and the length of the strap body (505) positioned between the two second connecting portions (510) can be adjusted. The length of the strap body (505) positioned between the two second connecting portions (510) is adjusted, and a part of the body of a user (e.g., the user's wrist) using the first cover (300) and the second cover (500) can be inserted between the first cover (300) and the second cover (500).

[0120] Referring to FIG. 7b, a second cover (600) according to one embodiment may include a strap body (605), a second connecting portion (610), and / or a terminal opening (620).

[0121] In one embodiment, the strap body (605) of the second cover (600) may be formed of a bendable material. The strap body (605) of the second cover (600) may be formed to extend in one direction.

[0122] In one embodiment, the second cover (600) may have a second connecting portion (610) positioned at one end (e.g., a positive Y-axis direction end of the second cover (600)) and a terminal opening (620) positioned at the other end (e.g., a negative Y-axis direction end of the second cover (600).

[0123] In one embodiment, the second cover (600) may have a second connecting portion (610) positioned at one end thereof that may be coupled to at least one first connecting portion (310) of a plurality of first connecting portions (310) formed on the first cover (300).

[0124] In one embodiment, the second cover (500, 600) may be mounted on the first cover (300) to improve the convenience of a user using the electronic device (200, see FIG. 2A). For example, when the first cover (300) is mounted on the electronic device (200, see FIG. 2A), and the second cover (500, 600) is coupled to the first cover (300), the user of the electronic device (200, see FIG. 2A) may find it easier to hold the electronic device (200, see FIG. 2A).

[0125] FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing an electronic device (200), a first cover (300), and a second cover (700, 800) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0126] The arrows illustrated in FIG. 8 may indicate that each component is electrically connected and electrical signals are transmitted between the components. For example, the communication unit (250) and the processor (260) may be electrically connected to each other and electrical signals may be transmitted between the communication unit (250) and the processor (260).

[0127] The arrows illustrated in FIG. 8 may indicate that power and / or data are transferred between each component. For example, power and / or data may be transferred between the communication unit (350) and the sensor (360).

[0128] The dotted lines illustrated in FIG. 8 may indicate that each component is physically in contact or connected. For example, the sensor (360) and the conductor (700, 815) may be physically in contact or connected.

[0129] In one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a communication unit (250) and / or a processor (260).

[0130] In one embodiment, the communication unit (250) of the electronic device (200) may include an NFC antenna and / or an NFC IC (integrated circuit) chip for near field communication (NFC).

[0131] In one embodiment, the processor (260) of the electronic device (200) may serve to control the communication unit (250). In one embodiment, the processor (260) of the electronic device (200) may include an application processor (AP) that serves to control the communication unit (250).

[0132] In one embodiment, the first cover (300) may include a communication unit (350) and / or a sensor (360).

[0133] In one embodiment, the communication unit (350) may include an NFC antenna and / or an NFC IC (integrated circuit) chip for near field communication (NFC).

[0134] In one embodiment, the sensor (360) may include a contact sensor and / or a magneto resistive sensor (MR) sensor.

[0135] In one embodiment, the communication unit (350) and sensor (360) of the first cover (300) can exchange power and / or data. For example, the communication unit (350) can supply power to the sensor (360). The sensor (360) can be driven using the power received from the communication unit (350).

[0136] In one embodiment, the second cover (700, 800) coupled with the first cover (300) may be a 2-1 cover (700) or a 2-2 cover (800).

[0137] In one embodiment, the second-1 cover (700) may refer to the second cover (400-2) illustrated in FIG. 5b, or may include at least a portion of the second cover (400-2).

[0138] In one embodiment, the second-second cover (800) may refer to the second cover (400-1) of FIG. 5A, the second cover (400-3) of FIG. 5C, the second cover (500) of FIG. 7A, or the second cover (600) of FIG. 7B, or may include at least a portion of the second cover (400-1) of FIG. 5A, the second cover (400-3) of FIG. 5C, the second cover (500) of FIG. 7A, or the second cover (600) of FIG. 7B.

[0139] In one embodiment, the second-1 cover (700) may include a conductor (715), a control unit (750), and / or a display unit (760).

[0140] In one embodiment, the conductor (715) may include a conductive material.

[0141] In one embodiment, the display unit (760) may include a display (e.g., the display module (160) of FIG. 1) that can visually display information externally. For example, the display unit (760) may include a light emitting diode (LED) that generates light.

[0142] In one embodiment, the control unit (750) may serve to control the display unit (760). The control unit (750) may include a micro controller unit (MCU) for controlling the display unit (760).

[0143] In one embodiment, the second-second cover (800) may include a conductor (815). In one embodiment, the conductor (815) may include a conductive material.

[0144] In one embodiment, the electronic device (200) and the second cover (700, 800) can exchange power and / or data. For example, the NFC antenna of the communication unit (250) of the electronic device (200) can exchange power and / or data with the NFC antenna of the communication unit (350) of the first cover (300). The communication unit (350) of the first cover (300) can exchange power and / or data with the sensor (360). When the first cover (300) and the second cover (700, 800) are coupled, the sensor (360) can come into contact with the conductor (715, 815) of the second cover (700, 800) to exchange power and / or data.

[0145] In one embodiment, the IC chip of the communication unit (350) of the first cover (300) can determine the type of the second cover (700, 800). For example, the IC chip of the communication unit (350) can periodically check the sensor (360) and determine the type of the second cover (700, 800) based on a change in a specific value (e.g., resistance value) of the sensor (360).

[0146] In one embodiment, when a change occurs in a specific value (e.g., resistance value) of a sensor (360), the IC chip of the communication unit (350) can transmit information on the type of the second cover (700, 800) to the communication unit (250) of the electronic device (200) using the NFC antenna of the communication unit (350) based on the change in the specific value (e.g., resistance value) of the sensor (360).

[0147] In one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may store in advance the type information of the second cover (700, 800) corresponding to a change in a specific value (e.g., resistance value) of the sensor (360).

[0148] In one embodiment, the communication unit (250) of the electronic device (200) can transmit information on the type of the second cover (700, 800) to the processor (260).

[0149] In one embodiment, the processor (260) of the electronic device (200) may transmit determined data to the second cover (700, 800) based on the type information of the second cover (700, 800). For example, if the processor (260) determines that the second cover (700, 800) is the 2-1 cover (700) including the display unit (760), the processor may transmit display information to the 2-1 cover (700). The control unit (750) of the 2-1 cover (700) may control the display information to be visually displayed on the display unit (760) of the 2-1 cover (700).

[0150] In one embodiment, the type information of the second cover (700, 800) may include information related to the shape of the second cover (700, 800). For example, the second cover (700, 800) may be classified into the second cover (400-1) of FIG. 5A, the second cover (400-2) of FIG. 5B, the second cover (400-3) of FIG. 5C, the second cover (500) of FIG. 7A, or the second cover (600) of FIG. 7B, depending on the shape of the second cover (700, 800). The type information of the second cover (700, 800) may be information indicating what type of cover the second cover (700, 800) is among the second cover (400-1) of FIG. 5a, the second cover (400-2) of FIG. 5b, the second cover (400-3) of FIG. 5c, the second cover (500) of FIG. 7a, and the second cover (600) of FIG. 7b.

[0151] FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a cover recognition method (900) of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0152] In one embodiment, the cover recognition method (900) of an electronic device may be performed according to, for example, the flowchart illustrated in FIG. 9. The flowchart illustrated in FIG. 9 is merely a flowchart according to one embodiment of the cover recognition method (900) of an electronic device, and therefore, the order of each operation may be changed, or each operation may be performed simultaneously.

[0153] In one embodiment, each operation of the cover recognition method (900) of an electronic device may be performed under the control of a processor of the electronic device (200) (e.g., processor (120) of FIG. 1, processor (260) of FIG. 8).

[0154] In one embodiment, a cover recognition method (900) of an electronic device may include a cover mounting confirmation operation (910), an NFC communication operation (920), a cover type determination operation based on a resistance value of a sensor (930), and / or a cover function performance operation (940).

[0155] In one embodiment, the electronic device (200) can confirm that the first cover (300) and the second cover (700, 800) are mounted on the electronic device (200) in the cover mounting confirmation operation (910). For example, the electronic device (200) can confirm that the first cover (300) is coupled to the second surface (210B) of the housing (210) of the electronic device (200) and that the second cover (700, 800) is coupled to the first cover (300).

[0156] In one embodiment, the electronic device (200) can exchange power and / or data using NFC communication with the communication unit (350) of the first cover (300) whose mounting has been confirmed in the NFC communication operation (920).

[0157] In one embodiment, the electronic device (200) can determine the type of the second cover (700, 800) based on a change in the resistance value of the sensor (360) of the first cover (300) in the cover type determination operation (930) based on the resistance value of the sensor. For example, when the sensor (360) of the first cover (300) and the conductor (715, 815) of the second cover (700, 800) come into contact, the resistance value of the sensor (360) (e.g., the resistance value of the resistor included in the sensor (360)) can change. As the resistance value of the sensor (360) changes, a transmission value (e.g., a voltage value) generated is transmitted from the first cover (300) to the electronic device (200), and the electronic device (200) can determine the type of the second cover (700, 800) based on the transmitted transmission value.

[0158] In one embodiment, the change in the resistance value of the sensor (360) and the transmission value (e.g., voltage value) generated as the resistance value changes may vary depending on the type of the second cover (700, 800). For example, the number, position, and / or shape of the conductors (415, see FIG. 10A) may vary depending on the type of the second cover (700, 800). The change in the resistance value of the sensor (360) and the transmission value (e.g., voltage value) generated as the resistance value changes may vary depending on the number, position, and / or shape of the conductors (415, see FIG. 10A) in contact with the sensor (360). Accordingly, the electronic device (200) may determine the type of the second cover (700, 800) based on the resistance value of the sensor (360) and the transmission value corresponding thereto.

[0159] In one embodiment, the electronic device (200) can check the type information of the second cover (700, 800) based on the change in the resistance value of the sensor (360), and determine which type of cover the second cover (700, 800) is among the second cover (400-1) of FIG. 5A, the second cover (400-2) of FIG. 5B, the second cover (400-3) of FIG. 5C, the second cover (500) of FIG. 7A, and the second cover (600) of FIG. 7B.

[0160] In one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may, in the cover function performing operation (940), cause the second cover (700, 800) to perform a predetermined function depending on the type of the second cover (700, 800) determined in operation 930. For example, if the electronic device (200) determines that the second cover (700, 800) is the 2-1 cover (700) including the display unit (760), the electronic device (200) may transmit predetermined display information to the 2-1 cover (700) through the first cover (300) so that the predetermined display information may be visually displayed on the display unit (760) of the 2-1 cover (700). Alternatively, when the electronic device (200) determines that the second cover (700, 800) is the second cover (400-1) of FIG. 5A, the electronic device (200) may recognize that the second cover (400-1) is placed on the display (201) of the electronic device (200), and may cause information displayed on the display (201) of the electronic device (200) to be exposed in a predetermined form through the opening (422) of the second cover (400-1).

[0161] FIG. 10a and FIG. 10b are drawings showing a first connecting portion (310) of a first cover (300) and a second connecting portion (410) of a second cover (400) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0162] Fig. 10a is a drawing showing a second connection portion (410) of a second cover (400) according to one embodiment. Fig. 10a may be a drawing showing only the second connection portion (410) and the second area (430) among the areas of the second cover (400) separately.

[0163] FIG. 10b is a drawing showing the combination of a first connecting portion (310) and a second connecting portion (410) according to one embodiment.

[0164] In one embodiment, the second connecting portion (410) of the second cover (400) may be formed to protrude from one surface of the second cover (400). For example, referring to FIG. 10A, the second connecting portion (410) may protrude in the Z-axis direction from one surface of the second region (430) of the second cover (400).

[0165] In one embodiment, the second connecting portion (410) may have a pillar shape that includes a side groove (413) that protrudes from one side of the second cover (400) and is concavely formed on a portion of the side. In one embodiment, the one side of the second cover (400) may mean a side that faces the first cover (300, see FIG. 3) when the second cover (400) is placed on the first cover (300, see FIG. 3).

[0166] In one embodiment, the second connector (410) may include a side groove (413) and / or a conductor (415).

[0167] Referring to FIG. 10a, the side groove (413) can be formed along the perimeter of the surface of the second connecting portion (410).

[0168] In one embodiment, the second connector (410) may include a conductor (415). The conductor (415) may include a conductive material.

[0169] In one embodiment, the conductor (415) may be formed in the side groove (413). For example, the conductor (415) may be positioned in a portion of the side groove (413) along the direction in which the side groove (413) extends.

[0170] In one embodiment, the size of the conductor (415) and / or the length to which the conductor (415) extends may vary depending on the type of the second cover (400).

[0171] Referring to FIG. 10b, the first connecting portion (310) may include a connecting groove (312) and / or an elastic member (313).

[0172] In one embodiment, the elastic member (313) may include an elastic material. The elastic member (313) may be elastically deformed when a force is transmitted in the Z-axis direction.

[0173] Referring to FIG. 10b, a first cover (300) may be placed on an electronic device (200), and a second cover (400) may be placed on the first cover (300).

[0174] Referring to FIG. 10b, when the first cover (300) and the second cover (400) are coupled, the first connecting portion (310) of the first cover (300) and the second connecting portion (410) of the second cover (400) can be detachably coupled. When the first connecting portion (310) and the second connecting portion (410) are coupled, at least a portion of the second connecting portion (410) can be inserted into the connecting groove (312) of the first connecting portion (310).

[0175] In one embodiment, when the first connecting portion (310) and the second connecting portion (410) are coupled, the second connecting portion (410) can receive a resistance force from the elastic member (313) of the first connecting portion (310). Since the second connecting portion (410) receives the resistance force, excessive impact applied to the first connecting portion (310) can be prevented or reduced.

[0176] In one embodiment, a sensor (360) may be placed on the first connecting portion (310). For example, the sensor (360) may be placed on one side and the other side of the connecting groove (312) of the first connecting portion (310), respectively.

[0177] In one embodiment, when the first connecting portion (310) and the second connecting portion (410) are coupled, the sensor (360) may be positioned in the side groove (413) of the second connecting portion (410). The sensor (360) may be in contact with the conductor (415) positioned in the side groove (413) of the second connecting portion (410).

[0178] FIGS. 11A, 11B, and 11C are drawings showing a conductor (415) and a sensor (360) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0179] FIG. 11A is a diagram illustrating a conductor (415) of a second connection portion (410) according to one embodiment. FIG. 11B is a diagram illustrating a sensor (360) according to one embodiment. FIG. 11C is a diagram illustrating a first sensor (361), a second sensor (362), a third sensor (363), and a fourth sensor (364) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0180] Referring to FIG. 11a, the second connecting portion (410) may be formed to protrude from one surface of the second area (430) of the second cover (400).

[0181] Referring to FIG. 11a, the second connecting portion (410) may include a conductor (415). The conductor (415) may be positioned in a side groove (413) of the second connecting portion (410).

[0182] Referring to FIG. 11b, the sensor (360) may be positioned on at least a portion of the first connecting portion (310). For example, the sensor (360) may be positioned at a location where it may come into contact with at least a portion of the second connecting portion (410) on the first connecting portion (310).

[0183] In one embodiment, the sensor (360) may include a contact sensor and / or a magneto resistive sensor (MR) sensor.

[0184] Referring to FIG. 11b, the second cover (400) can be placed on the outer surface (300A) of the first cover (300). When the second cover (400) is placed on the outer surface (300A) of the first cover (300), the first connecting portion (310) of the first cover (300) and the second connecting portion (420) of the second cover (400) can be coupled.

[0185] Referring to FIG. 11b, when the first connecting portion (310) and the second connecting portion (420) are coupled, the sensor (360) can come into contact with the conductor (415) of the second connecting portion (410). As the sensor (360) and the conductor (415) come into contact, the resistance value of the sensor (360) (e.g., the resistance value of the resistor of the sensor (360)) can change.

[0186] In one embodiment, the sensor (360) may include multiple sensors. For example, referring to FIG. 11C, the sensor (360) may include a first sensor (361), a second sensor (362), a third sensor (363), and / or a fourth sensor (364).

[0187] In one embodiment, the two second connectors (410) may each include a conductor (415).

[0188] Fig. 11c may be a drawing showing a case where two second connecting portions (410) each include two conductors (415). Fig. 11c may be a drawing showing a case where the first sensor (361), the second sensor (362), the third sensor (363), and the fourth sensor (354) are each in contact with the conductor (415).

[0189] Although Fig. 11c illustrates that the two second connectors (410) each include two conductors (415), the number of conductors (415) included in the second connectors (410) may not be limited thereto. For example, the two second connectors (410) may include only one conductor (415) on one side or the other side, or may not include any conductors (415).

[0190] In one embodiment, the number and positions of the conductors (415) included in the second connecting portion (410) may vary depending on the type of the second cover (400). The number and positions of the conductors (415) included in the second connecting portion (410) may be detected by the sensor (360) to distinguish the type of the second cover (400).

[0191] In one embodiment, the type of the second cover (400) can be distinguished depending on whether the first sensor (361), the second sensor (362), the third sensor (363), and the fourth sensor (360) are in contact with the conductor (415). For example, each sensor (360) can be distinguished into two cases (e.g., in case of contact with the conductor (415) and in case of not being in contact with the conductor (415)) depending on whether it is in contact with the conductor (415). Referring to FIG. 11c, since there are a total of four sensors (361, 362, 363, 364), a total of 15 cases ( -1) Cases may be possible. Cases where all sensors (360) are in contact with the conductor (415) and cases where all sensors (360) are not in contact with the conductor (415) may be classified as the same case.

[0192] In one embodiment, the type of the second cover (400) can be distinguished based on 15 cases according to the contact between the sensor (360) and the conductor (415). For example, the electronic device (200, see FIG. 2A) and / or the first cover (300) can recognize that a specific type of cover (e.g., the second cover (400-1) of FIG. 5A) is coupled to the first cover (300) when only the first sensor (361) of the first cover (300) is in contact with the conductor (415). Alternatively, the electronic device (200, see FIG. 2A) and / or the first cover (300) can recognize that a specific type of cover (e.g., the second cover (400-2) of FIG. 5B) is coupled to the first cover (300) when only the first sensor (361) and the second sensor (362) are in contact with the conductor (415).

[0193] FIG. 12 is a drawing showing a first connecting portion (310) and a second connecting portion (410) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0194] Referring to FIG. 12, a first connecting portion (310) according to one embodiment may include a connecting cover (311), a connecting groove (312), and / or an elastic member (313).

[0195] In one embodiment, the connection cover (311) may be connected to an elastic member (313). The connection cover (311) may be positioned to cover the connection groove (312).

[0196] In one embodiment, the elastic member (313) may be positioned inside the connecting groove (312).

[0197] Referring to FIG. 12, the second connecting portion (410) according to one embodiment may include a side groove (413). When the first connecting portion (310) and the second connecting portion (410) are coupled, the first connecting portion (310) may be fixed to the second connecting portion (410) by the side groove (413) being caught by the fixing structure (2214, see FIG. 22a).

[0198] In one embodiment, when the first connecting portion (310) and the second connecting portion (410) are coupled, the end face (410A) of the second connecting portion (410) may come into contact with the connecting cover (311) of the first connecting portion (310).

[0199] In one embodiment, when the first connecting portion (310) and the second connecting portion (410) are coupled, the second connecting portion (410) can press the connecting cover (311) toward the elastic member (313).

[0200] In one embodiment, when the first connecting portion (310) and the second connecting portion (410) are released from connection, the elastic member (313) can use elastic force to move the connecting cover (311) to its original position (e.g., the position of the connecting cover (311) before the first connecting portion (310) and the second connecting portion (410) are connected).

[0201] FIG. 13a, FIG. 13b, FIG. 13c and FIG. 13d are drawings showing a first connecting portion (310) and a second connecting portion (1310-1, 1310-2, 1310-3, 1310-4) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0202] Fig. 13a is a drawing showing a second connecting portion (1310-1) that does not include a conductor (1315). Fig. 13b is a drawing showing a second connecting portion (1310-2) that includes three conductors (1315). Fig. 13c is a drawing showing a second connecting portion (1310-3) that includes one conductor (1315). Fig. 13d is a drawing showing a second connecting portion (1310-4) that includes two bodies (1311, 1312).

[0203] The second connecting portions (1310-1, 1310-2, 1310-3, 1310-4) illustrated in FIGS. 13a, 13b, 13c, and 13d may each refer to the second connecting portion (410) of FIG. 6, the second connecting portion (510) of FIG. 7a, or the second connecting portion (610) of FIG. 7b, or may include at least a portion of the second connecting portion (410) of FIG. 6, the second connecting portion (510) of FIG. 7a, and the second connecting portion (610) of FIG. 7b.

[0204] In one embodiment, the sensor (360) of the first connection portion (310) may be positioned corresponding to the conductor (1315) of the second connection portion (e.g., 1310-2). For example, when the first connection portion (310) and the second connection portion (e.g., 1310-2) are coupled, the sensor (360) of the first connection portion (310) may be positioned to face the end face (1310A) of the second connection portion (e.g., 1310-2).

[0205] In one embodiment, the number of conductors (1315) included in the second connecting portion (1310-1, 1310-2, 1310-3, 1310-4) may vary depending on the type of the second cover (400). For example, a second connecting portion (1310-1) that does not include a conductor (1315) in the end face (1310A), a second connecting portion (1310-2) that includes three conductors (1315) in the end face (1310A), a second connecting portion (1310-3) that includes one conductor (1315) in the end face (1310A), and a second connecting portion (1310-4) that includes two bodies (1311, 1312) and includes one conductor (1315) in each of the end faces (1311A, 1312A) are connecting portions included in different types of second covers (e.g., 400-1 in FIG. 5a, 400-2 in FIG. 5b, 400-3 in 5c, 500 in FIG. 7a, 600 in FIG. 7b). Can be.

[0206] In one embodiment, the number of conductors (1315) can be detected by a sensor (360) disposed in the first connection portion (310) to distinguish the type of the second cover (400). For example, the electronic device (200, see FIG. 2A) and / or the first cover (300, see FIG. 3) can detect the number of conductors (1315) by the sensor (360) to recognize the type of the second cover (400).

[0207] Referring to FIG. 13A, in one embodiment, the electronic device (200, see FIG. 2A) and / or the first cover (300, see FIG. 3) can recognize that a given type of cover (e.g., the second cover (400-1) of FIG. 5A) is coupled to the first cover (300) when a second connection portion (1310-1) that does not include a conductor (1315) at an end face (1310A) is coupled to the first connection portion (310).

[0208] Referring to FIG. 13b, in one embodiment, the electronic device (200, see FIG. 2a) and / or the first cover (300, see FIG. 3) can recognize that a given type of cover (e.g., the second cover (400-2) of FIG. 5b) is coupled to the first cover (300) when a second connecting portion (1310-1) including three conductors (1315) at an end face (1310A) is coupled to the first connecting portion (310).

[0209] Referring to FIG. 13c, in one embodiment, the electronic device (200, see FIG. 2a) and / or the first cover (300, see FIG. 3) can recognize that a given type of cover (e.g., the second cover (400-3) of FIG. 5c) is coupled to the first cover (300) when a second connecting portion (1310-1) including one conductor (1315) at an end face (1310A) is coupled to the first connecting portion (310).

[0210] Referring to FIG. 13d, in one embodiment, the electronic device (200, see FIG. 2a) and / or the first cover (300, see FIG. 3) may recognize that a given type of cover (e.g., the second cover (600) of FIG. 7b) is coupled to the first cover (300) when a second connecting portion (1310-4) including two bodies (1311, 1312) and each including one conductor (1315) at each end face (1311A, 1312A) is coupled to the first connecting portion (310).

[0211] Referring to FIGS. 14a, 14b, 14c and 14d, drawings are provided showing second connecting portions (1410-1, 1410-2, 1410-3, 1410-4) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0212] Fig. 14a is a drawing showing a second connecting portion (1410-1) including four grooves (1417). Figs. 14b and 14c are drawings showing second connecting portions (1410-2, 1410-3) including two grooves (1417). Fig. 14d is a drawing showing a second connecting portion (1410-4) not including a groove (1417).

[0213] The second connecting portions (1410-1, 1410-2, 1410-3, 1410-4) illustrated in FIGS. 14a, 14b, 14c, and 14d may each refer to the second connecting portion (410) of FIG. 6, the second connecting portion (510) of FIG. 7a, or the second connecting portion (610) of FIG. 7b, or may include at least a portion of the second connecting portion (410), the second connecting portion (510) of FIG. 7a, and the second connecting portion (610) of FIG. 7b.

[0214] In one embodiment, the home (1417) may be formed by recessing a portion of the side surface of the second connecting portion (1410-1, 1410-2, 1410-3).

[0215] In one embodiment, the groove (1417) may refer to the side groove (413) illustrated in FIG. 10A, or may include at least a portion of the side groove (413) illustrated in FIG. 10A.

[0216] In one embodiment, the sensor (360) of the first connector (310) may be positioned corresponding to the groove (1417) of the second connector (e.g., 1410-1). For example, when the second connector (e.g., 1410-1) is coupled to the first connector (310), the sensor (360) may face the groove (1417).

[0217] In one embodiment, the number and position of the grooves (1417) included in the second connecting portions (1410-1, 1410-2, 1410-3, 1410-4) may vary depending on the type of the second cover (e.g., the second cover (400) of FIG. 6).

[0218] In one embodiment, the sensor (360) may serve to recognize that a home (1417) has been formed.

[0219] In one embodiment, the number and position of the grooves (1417) may be detected by a sensor (360) disposed in the first connecting portion (310) to distinguish the type of the second cover (400). For example, the electronic device (200, see FIG. 2A) and / or the first cover (300, see FIG. 3) may detect the number and position of the grooves (1417) by the sensor (360) to recognize the type of the second cover (400).

[0220] Referring to FIG. 14A, in one embodiment, the electronic device (200, see FIG. 2A) and / or the first cover (300, see FIG. 3) can recognize that a given type of cover (e.g., the second cover (400-1) of FIG. 5A) is coupled to the first cover (300) when a second connecting portion (1410-1) including four grooves (1417) is coupled to the first connecting portion (310).

[0221] Referring to FIG. 14b, in one embodiment, the electronic device (200, see FIG. 2a) and / or the first cover (300, see FIG. 3) can recognize that a given type of cover (e.g., the second cover (400-2) of FIG. 5b) is coupled to the first cover (300) when a second connecting portion (1410-2) including two grooves (1417) is coupled to the first connecting portion (310).

[0222] Referring to FIG. 14c, in one embodiment, the electronic device (200, see FIG. 2a) and / or the first cover (300, see FIG. 3) can recognize that a given type of cover (e.g., the second cover (400-3) of FIG. 5c) is coupled to the first cover (300) when a second connecting portion (1410-3) including two grooves (1417) formed at different locations from the grooves (1417) of FIG. 14b is coupled to the first connecting portion (310).

[0223] Referring to FIG. 14d, in one embodiment, the electronic device (200, see FIG. 2a) and / or the first cover (300, see FIG. 3) can recognize that a given type of cover (e.g., the second cover (600) of FIG. 7b) is coupled to the first cover (300) when a second connection portion (1410-4) that does not include a home (1417) is coupled to the first connection portion (310).

[0224] Although the groove (1417) is shown as being formed at a position corresponding to the sensor (360) in FIGS. 14a, 14b, 14c, and 14d, this may be an example. For example, a conductor (415, see FIG. 11a), rather than a groove (1417), may be formed at a position corresponding to the sensor (360) in the second connecting portion (e.g., 1410-1). In this case, the electronic device (200, see FIG. 2a) and / or the first cover (300, see FIG. 3) can detect the number and position of the conductors (415, see FIG. 11a) through the sensor (360) to recognize the type of the second cover (400).

[0225] FIG. 15a and FIG. 15b are drawings showing a connection cover (1520) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0226] The first cover (1500) illustrated in FIGS. 15a and 15b may refer to the first cover (300) of FIG. 3 or may include at least a portion of the first cover (300) of FIG. 3.

[0227] In one embodiment, the first connecting portion (1510) of the first cover (1500) may include a connecting cover (1520) that includes a plurality of segmented regions (1521, 1522, 1523).

[0228] In one embodiment, the connection cover (1520) of the first cover (1500) may include a first segment region (1521), a second segment region (1522), and / or a third segment region (1523).

[0229] The second cover (1600-1) illustrated in FIG. 15a and the second cover (1600-2) illustrated in FIG. 15b may be different types of covers. For example, the second cover (1600-1) illustrated in FIG. 15a may be the second cover (400-1) illustrated in FIG. 5a, and the second cover (1600-2) illustrated in FIG. 15b may be the second cover (600) illustrated in FIG. 7b.

[0230] Referring to FIG. 15A, the second connecting portion (1610) of the second cover (1600-1) according to one embodiment may have a terminal surface (1610A) formed parallel to each other.

[0231] Referring to FIG. 15b, in one embodiment, the second connecting portion (1610) of the second cover (1600-2) may include the first body (1611) and / or the second body (1611).

[0232] In one embodiment, when the first cover (1500) and the second cover (1600-1, 1600-2) are coupled, the point of the connection cover (1520) that comes into contact with the second connection portion (1610) may vary depending on the type of the second cover (1600-1, 1600-2). For example, when the second cover (1600-1) of FIG. 15A is coupled to the first cover (1500), the first segment area (1521), the second segment area (1522), and the third segment area (1523) of the connection cover (1520) may all come into contact with the second connection portion (1610). When the second cover (1600-2) of FIG. 15b is coupled to the first cover (1500), the end surface (1611A) of the first body (1611) and the end surface (1612A) of the second body (1612) come into contact with the connection cover (1520), so that only the first segment area (1521) and the third segment area (1523), excluding the second segment area (1522), can come into contact with the second connection portion (1610).

[0233] In one embodiment, the electronic device (200, see FIG. 2A) and / or the first cover (300, see FIG. 3) can distinguish which type of second cover (1600-1, 1600-2) is coupled to the first cover (1500) based on the point of contact of the connection cover (1520) with the second connection portion (1610).

[0234] FIG. 16 is a drawing showing a second cover (1600-2) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0235] In one embodiment, the second cover (1600-2) may be the second cover (600) of FIG. 7B or may include at least a portion of the second cover (600) of FIG. 7B.

[0236] In one embodiment, the second cover (1600-2) may include a strap body (1605), a second connecting portion (1611, 1612), and / or a terminal opening (1620).

[0237] In one embodiment, the second connecting portion (1611, 1612) may include a first body (1611) and / or a second body (1612).

[0238] In one embodiment, the strap body (1605) of the second cover (1600-2) may be formed of a bendable material.

[0239] Referring to FIG. 16, in one embodiment, the second cover (1600-2) may have a portion of the strap body (1605) bent so that the second body (1612) can be inserted into the terminal opening (1620).

[0240] In one embodiment, the first connecting portion (1611, 1612) of the second cover (1600-2) can be coupled to the first connecting portion (310) of the first cover (300) with the second body (1612) inserted into the terminal opening (1620).

[0241] FIG. 17 is a block diagram showing an electronic device (200), a first cover (1700), and a second cover (1800, 1900) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0242] The arrows illustrated in Figure 17 may indicate that each component is electrically connected, and electrical signals are transmitted between the components. For example, the communication unit (250) and the processor (260) may be electrically connected to each other, and electrical signals may be transmitted between the communication unit (250) and the processor (260).

[0243] The arrows illustrated in FIG. 17 may indicate that power and / or data are transferred between each component. For example, power and / or data may be transferred between the communication unit (250) and the antenna (1750).

[0244] In one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a communication unit (250) and / or a processor (260).

[0245] In one embodiment, the communication unit (250) of the electronic device (200) may include an NFC antenna and / or an NFC IC (integrated circuit) chip for near field communication (NFC).

[0246] In one embodiment, the processor (260) of the electronic device (200) may serve to control the communication unit (250). In one embodiment, the processor (260) of the electronic device (200) may be an application processor (AP) that serves to control the communication unit (250).

[0247] In one embodiment, the first cover (1700) may include an antenna (1750).

[0248] In one embodiment, the antenna (1750) may be an NFC antenna for near field communication (NFC).

[0249] In one embodiment, the second cover (1800, 1900) may be a 2-1 cover (1800) or a 2-2 cover (1900).

[0250] In one embodiment, the second-1 cover (1800) may refer to the second cover (400-2) illustrated in FIG. 5b, or may include at least a portion of the second cover (400-2).

[0251] In one embodiment, the second-second cover (1920) may refer to the second cover (400-1) of FIG. 5A, the second cover (400-3) of FIG. 5C, the second cover (500) of FIG. 7A, or the second cover (600) of FIG. 7B, or may include at least a portion of the second cover (400-1) of FIG. 5A, the second cover (400-3) of FIG. 5C, the second cover (500) of FIG. 7A, or the second cover (600) of FIG. 7B.

[0252] In one embodiment, the second-1 cover (1800) may include an IC chip (1820), a control unit (1830), and / or a display unit (1840).

[0253] In one embodiment, the IC chip (1820) may include an NFC integrated circuit (IC) chip.

[0254] In one embodiment, the IC chip (1820) may be a chip in which type information of the 2-1 cover (1800) is stored.

[0255] In one embodiment, the display unit (1840) may include a display (e.g., the display module (160) of FIG. 1) that can visually display information externally. For example, the display unit (1840) may include a light emitting diode (LED) that generates light.

[0256] In one embodiment, the control unit (1830) may serve to control the display unit (1840). The control unit (1830) may include a microcontroller unit (MCU) for controlling the display unit (1840).

[0257] In one embodiment, the second-second cover (1900) may include an IC chip (1920).

[0258] In one embodiment, the IC chip (1920) may include an NFC integrated circuit (IC) chip.

[0259] In one embodiment, the IC chip (1920) may be a chip in which type information of the second-second cover (1900) is stored.

[0260] In one embodiment, the electronic device (200) and the first cover (1700) can exchange power and / or data. For example, the NFC antenna of the communication unit (250) of the electronic device (200) can exchange power and / or data with the antenna (1750) of the first cover (1700).

[0261] In one embodiment, the first cover (1700) can exchange power and / or data with the second cover (1800, 1900). For example, when the first cover (1700) and the second cover (1800, 1900) are coupled, the antenna (1750) of the first cover (1700) and the IC chip (1820, 1920) of the second cover (1800, 1900) can be electrically connected.

[0262] In one embodiment, the processor (260) of the electronic device (200) can determine what type of cover the second cover (1800, 1900) is based on the type information of the second cover (1800, 1900) stored in the IC chip (1820, 1920) of the second cover (1800, 1900).

[0263] In one embodiment, the processor (260) of the electronic device (200) may transmit determined data to the second cover (1800, 1900) based on the type information of the second cover (1800, 1900). For example, if the processor (260) determines that the second cover (1800, 1900) is the 2-1 cover (1800) including the display unit (1840), the processor may transmit display information to the 2-1 cover (1800). The control unit (1830) of the 2-1 cover (1800) may control the display information to be visually displayed on the display unit (1840) of the 2-1 cover (1800).

[0264] In one embodiment, the type information of the second cover (1800, 1900) may include information related to the shape of the second cover (1800, 1900). For example, the second cover (1800, 1900) may be classified into the second cover (400-1) of FIG. 5A, the second cover (400-2) of FIG. 5B, the second cover (400-3) of FIG. 5C, the second cover (500) of FIG. 7A, or the second cover (600) of FIG. 7B, depending on the shape of the second cover (1800, 1900). The type information of the second cover (1800, 1900) may be information indicating what type of cover the second cover (1800, 1900) is among the second cover (400-1) of FIG. 5a, the second cover (400-2) of FIG. 5b, the second cover (400-3) of FIG. 5c, the second cover (500) of FIG. 7a, and the second cover (600) of FIG. 7b.

[0265] FIG. 18 and FIG. 19 are drawings showing a first cover (1700) and a second cover (1900-1, 1900-2) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0266] Fig. 18 is a drawing showing a first cover (1700) and a second cover (1900-1) according to one embodiment. Fig. 19 is a drawing showing a first cover (1700) and a second cover (1900-2) according to one embodiment.

[0267] The second cover (1900-1) illustrated in FIG. 18 may be the second cover (400-1) illustrated in FIG. 5a, or may include at least a portion of the second cover (400-1) illustrated in FIG. 5a.

[0268] The second cover (1900-2) illustrated in FIG. 19 may be the strap-shaped second cover (500, 600) illustrated in FIGS. 7A and 7B, or may include at least a portion of the second cover (500, 600) illustrated in FIGS. 7A and 7B. For example, the second cover (1900-2) may be a strap-shaped cover including a second connecting portion (1910) and an end opening (1930).

[0269] Referring to FIGS. 18 and 19, a first cover (1700) according to one embodiment may include a first connecting portion (1710), an antenna (1750), and / or a connecting line (1752).

[0270] In one embodiment, the first connector (1710) and the antenna (1750) may be electrically connected via a connection line (1752).

[0271] Referring to FIGS. 18 and 19, a second cover (1900-1, 1900-2) according to one embodiment may include a second connecting portion (1910) and / or an IC chip (1920).

[0272] In one embodiment, an IC chip (1920) may be placed in the second connector (1910).

[0273] In one embodiment, the second connection portion (1910) of the second cover (1900-1, 1900-2) may be coupled to the first connection portion (1710) of the first cover (1700). When the first connection portion (1710) and the second connection portion (1910) are coupled, the antenna (1750) of the first cover (1700) and the IC chip (1920) of the second cover (1900-1, 1900-2) may be electrically connected via a connection line (1752).

[0274] In one embodiment, the antenna (1750) and the IC chip (1920) are electrically connected, and power and / or data can be transmitted between the antenna (1750) and the IC chip (1920). For example, information stored in the IC chip (1920) of the second cover (1900-1, 1900-2) (e.g., information on the type of the second cover (1900-1, 1900-2)) can be transmitted to the antenna (1750) of the first cover (1700).

[0275] Although the second covers (1900-1, 1900-2) in FIGS. 18 and 19 are depicted as not including a display portion (1840, see FIG. 17), the second covers (1900-1, 1900-2) may not be limited thereto. For example, the second covers (1900-1, 1900-2) include a control portion (1830, see FIG. 17) and a display portion (1840, see FIG. 17), and may visually display information externally.

[0276] FIG. 20 is a flowchart illustrating a cover recognition method (2000) of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0277] In one embodiment, the cover recognition method (2000) of an electronic device may be performed according to, for example, the flowchart illustrated in FIG. 20. The flowchart illustrated in FIG. 20 is merely a flowchart according to one embodiment of the cover recognition and operation method (2000) of an electronic device, and therefore, the order of each operation may be changed, or each operation may be performed simultaneously.

[0278] In one embodiment, each operation of the cover recognition method (2000) of an electronic device may be performed under the control of a processor of the electronic device (200) (e.g., processor (120) of FIG. 1, processor (260) of FIG. 17).

[0279] A cover recognition method (2000) of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a cover mounting confirmation operation (2010), an NFC communication operation (2020), a cover type determination operation (2030) based on information of an IC chip, and / or a cover function performance operation (2040).

[0280] In one embodiment, the electronic device (200) can confirm that the first cover (1700) and the second covers (1800, 1900) are mounted on the electronic device (200) in the cover mounting confirmation operation (2010). For example, the electronic device (200) can confirm that the first cover (1700) is coupled to the rear surface (e.g., the second surface (210B)) of the housing (210) of the electronic device (200) and that the second covers (1800, 1900) are coupled to the first cover (1700).

[0281] In one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may exchange power and / or data using NFC communication with the antenna (1750) of the first cover (1700) whose mounting has been confirmed in an NFC communication operation (2020).

[0282] In one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may determine the type of the second cover (1800, 1900) based on the type information of the second cover (1800, 1900) stored in the IC chip (1820, 1920) of the second cover (1800, 1900), in the cover type determination operation (2030) based on the information of the IC chip. For example, the type information of the second cover (1800, 1900) stored in the IC chip (1820, 1920) may be transmitted to the electronic device (200) via the first cover (1700). The electronic device (200) may determine what type of cover the second cover (1800, 1900) is based on the type information of the second cover (1800, 1900).

[0283] In one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may, in a cover function performing operation (2040), cause the second cover (1800, 1900) to perform a predetermined function depending on the type of the second cover (1800, 1900) determined in operation 2030. For example, if the electronic device (200) determines that the second cover (1800, 1900) is the 2-1 cover (1800) including the display unit (1840), the electronic device (200) may transmit predetermined display information to the 2-1 cover (1800) through the first cover (1700) so that the predetermined display information may be visually displayed on the display unit (1840) of the 2-1 cover (1800). Alternatively, when the electronic device (200) determines that the second cover (700, 800) is the second cover (400-1) of FIG. 5A, the electronic device (200) may recognize that the second cover (400-1) is placed on the display (201) of the electronic device (200), and may cause information displayed on the display (201) of the electronic device (200) to be exposed in a predetermined form through the opening (422) of the second cover (400-1).

[0284] FIG. 21 is a flowchart illustrating a cover display method (2100) of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0285] In one embodiment, the cover display method (2100) of an electronic device may be performed according to, for example, the flowchart illustrated in FIG. 20. The flowchart illustrated in FIG. 20 is merely a flowchart according to one embodiment of the cover display method (2100) of an electronic device, and therefore, the order of each operation may be changed, or each operation may be performed simultaneously.

[0286] In one embodiment, each operation of the cover display method (2100) of the electronic device may be performed under the control of a processor of the electronic device (200) (e.g., processor (120) of FIG. 1, processor (260) of FIG. 8, processor (260) of FIG. 17).

[0287] A cover display method (2100) of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a cover mounting confirmation operation (2105), a second cover mounting determination operation (2110), an operation of determining whether a second cover is mounted (2115), an operation of operating the display unit of the second cover (2120), a second cover function performing operation (2125), an operation of determining whether a first cover is equipped with a display unit (2130), and / or an operation of operating the display unit of the first cover (2135).

[0288] In one embodiment, the electronic device (200) can confirm that the first cover (300, 1700) is mounted on the electronic device (200) in the cover mounting confirmation operation (2105). For example, the electronic device (200) can confirm that the first cover (300, 1700) is coupled to the rear surface (e.g., the second surface (210B)) of the housing (210) of the electronic device (200).

[0289] In one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may determine whether a second cover (700, 800, 1800, 1900) is coupled to a first cover (300, 1700) mounted on the rear surface (e.g., second surface (210B)) of the housing (210) of the electronic device (200) in a second cover mounting determination operation (2110).

[0290] In one embodiment, the electronic device (200) can determine whether the first cover (300) and the second cover (700, 800) are coupled based on whether the conductor (715, 815) of the second cover (700, 800) and the sensor (360) of the first cover (300) are in contact in the second cover mounting determination operation (2110).

[0291] In one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may determine whether the first cover (1700) and the second cover (1800, 1900) are coupled based on whether the IC chip (1820, 1920) of the second cover (1800, 1900) and the antenna (1750) of the first cover (1700) are electrically connected in the second cover mounting determination operation (2110). For example, the electronic device (200) may determine that the second cover (1800, 1900) is not coupled to the first cover (1700) if the IC chip (1820, 1920) of the second cover (1800, 1900) is not electrically connected to the antenna (1750) of the first cover (1700).

[0292] In one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may perform an operation (2115) of determining whether the second cover includes a display portion if it is determined in the operation (2110) of determining whether the second cover (700, 800, 1800, 1900) is coupled to the first cover (300, 1700).

[0293] In one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may determine whether the second cover (700, 800, 1800, 1900) includes a display portion (760, 1840) in the operation (2115) of determining whether the second cover includes a display portion.

[0294] In one embodiment, in the operation (2115) of determining whether the second cover includes a display portion, the electronic device (200) can determine whether the second cover (700, 800) is a cover including a display portion (760) based on a change in the resistance value of the sensor (360) due to contact between the conductor (715, 815) of the second cover (700, 800) and the sensor (360) of the first cover (300).

[0295] In one embodiment, in the operation (2115) of determining whether the second cover includes a display unit, the electronic device (200) may determine whether the second cover (1800, 1900) is a cover including a display unit (1840) based on the type information of the second cover (1800, 1900) stored in the IC chip (1820, 1920) of the second cover (1800, 1900).

[0296] In one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may perform an operation (2120) of operating the display unit of the second cover when it is determined in the operation (2115) of determining whether the second cover includes a display unit that the second cover (700, 800, 1800, 1900) includes a display unit (760, 1840).

[0297] In one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may display information using the display unit (760, 1840) of the second cover (700, 1800) in the operation (2120) of operating the display unit of the second cover. For example, the electronic device (200) may transmit predetermined display information to the second cover (700, 1800), so that the second cover (700, 1800) may visually display the predetermined display information through the display unit (760, 1840).

[0298] In one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may perform a second cover function performing operation (2125) when it is determined in operation (2115) that the second cover (700, 800, 1800, 1900) does not include a display portion (760, 1840).

[0299] In one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may cause the second cover (800, 1900) to perform a predetermined function in the second cover function performing operation (2125). The predetermined function of the second cover (800, 1900) may refer to a function other than a function using the display unit (760, 1840) of the second cover (800, 1900). For example, the electronic device (200) may recognize that the second cover (800, 1900) is placed on the display (201) of the electronic device (200), and cause information displayed on the display (201) of the electronic device (200) to be exposed in a predetermined form through an opening (e.g., 422 of FIG. 5A) of the second cover (e.g., 400-1 of FIG. 5A).

[0300] In one embodiment, if it is determined in the second cover mounting determination operation (2110) that the second cover (700, 800, 1800, 1900) is not coupled to the first cover (300, 1700), the electronic device (200) may perform an operation (2130) of determining whether the first cover includes a display unit.

[0301] In one embodiment, the first cover (300, 1700) may include a display portion (e.g., a display module (160) of FIG. 1) for visually providing information to the outside of the first cover (300, 1700).

[0302] In one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may determine whether the first cover (300, 1700) includes a display unit (e.g., a display module (160) of FIG. 1) in operation (2130) of determining whether the first cover includes a display unit.

[0303] In one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may perform an operation (2130) of determining whether the first cover includes a display unit, and if it is determined that the first cover (300, 1700) includes a display unit, an operation (2135) of operating the display unit of the first cover.

[0304] In one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may display information using the display unit of the first cover (300, 1700) in an operation (2135) of operating the display unit of the first cover. For example, the electronic device (200) may transmit predetermined display information to the first cover (300, 1700), thereby causing the first cover (300, 1700) to visually display the predetermined display information through the display unit.

[0305] FIG. 22a and FIG. 22b are drawings showing a first cover (2200) and a first connecting portion (2210) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0306] FIG. 22a is a drawing showing a first connecting portion (2210) formed on a first cover (2200) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0307] The first cover (2200) of FIG. 22a may refer to the first cover (300) of FIG. 3, or may include at least some of the components of the first cover (300) of FIG. 3.

[0308] The first cover (2200) of FIG. 22a may refer to the first cover (1700) of FIG. 18, or may include at least some of the components of the first cover (1700) of FIG. 18.

[0309] In one embodiment, the width direction of the first cover (2200) may refer to the X-axis direction, and the length direction of the first cover (2200) may refer to the Y-axis direction. The thickness direction of the first cover (2200) may refer to the Z-axis direction perpendicular to the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction.

[0310] In one embodiment, the first cover (2200) may include a first connecting portion (2210). The first connecting portion (2210) may refer to the first connecting portion (310) of FIG. 3 or the first connecting portion (1710) of FIG. 18.

[0311] In one embodiment, the first connecting portion (2210) may include a connecting groove (2212), an elastic member (2213), a fixing structure (2214), and / or a connecting portion frame (2215).

[0312] In one embodiment, the connection groove (2212) may be formed such that a portion of the first connection portion (2210) is recessed into one surface of the first cover (2200).

[0313] In one embodiment, the connecting frame (2215) may be a structure formed to surround the connecting groove (2212).

[0314] In one embodiment, the fixed structure (2214) surrounds at least a portion of the connection groove (2212) and may be positioned in the connection frame (2215).

[0315] In one embodiment, an elastic member (2213) may be positioned inside the connecting groove (2212).

[0316] In one embodiment, the first connecting portion (2210) may include a connecting cover (e.g., connecting cover (311) of FIG. 6) connected to an elastic member (2213).

[0317] In one embodiment, the fixing structure (2214) may include an elastic material. For example, the fixing structure (2214) may include an elastic polyoxymethylene (POM) material.

[0318] Referring to FIG. 22b, the fixed structure (2214) may include a first fixed region (2214a) and / or a second fixed region (2214b).

[0319] In one embodiment, the first fixed region (2214a) may extend in the longitudinal direction (e.g., the Y-axis direction) of the first cover (2200).

[0320] In one embodiment, the second fixed region (2214b) may extend in the width direction (e.g., in the X-axis direction) of the first cover (2200).

[0321] FIG. 23a, FIG. 23b, and FIG. 23c are drawings showing a state in which a first cover (2200) and a second cover (2300) are combined according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0322] FIG. 23A is a drawing showing a state in which a first cover (2200) and a second cover (2300) are combined according to one embodiment. FIG. 23B is a cross-sectional view of the first cover (2200) and the second cover (2300) taken along line AA of FIG. 23A. FIG. 23C is a cross-sectional view of the first cover (2200) and the second cover (2300) taken along line BB of FIG. 23A.

[0323] In one embodiment, the first cover (2200) may refer to the first cover (300) of FIG. 3 or the first cover (1700) of FIG. 18, or may include at least a portion of the first cover (300) of FIG. 3 and the first cover (1700) of FIG. 18.

[0324] In one embodiment, the second cover (2300) may refer to the second covers (400-1, 400-2, 400-3) of FIGS. 5A, 5B, and 5C, or may include at least a portion of the second covers (400-1, 400-2, 400-3) of FIGS. 5A, 5B, and 5C.

[0325] Referring to FIGS. 23b and 23c, the second connecting portion (2310) of the second cover (2300) may include a side groove (2313).

[0326] In one embodiment, the side groove (2313) may refer to the side groove (413) illustrated in FIG. 10A, or may include at least a portion of the side groove (413) illustrated in FIG. 10A.

[0327] In one embodiment, the fixed structure (2214) includes an elastic material, so that the fixed structure (2214) can be easily fitted into the side groove (2313) of the second connecting portion (2310).

[0328] Referring to FIG. 23b, when the first cover (2200) and the second cover (2300) are coupled, at least a portion of the first fixing region (2214a) of the fixing structure (2214) can be inserted into the side groove (2313) of the second connecting portion (2310). For example, the first fixing region (2214a) can be inserted into the side groove (2313) by a first length (L1) in the width direction (e.g., X-axis direction) of the first cover (2200). In one embodiment, the first length (L1) can be approximately 0.1 to 0.2 mm.

[0329] In one embodiment, when the first cover (2200) and the second cover (2300) are in a state, a part of the first fixed area (2214a) is inserted into the side groove (2313) of the second connecting portion (2310) in the width direction (e.g., X-axis direction) of the first cover (2200), so that movement of the second cover (2300) in the width direction (e.g., X-axis direction) of the first cover (2200) can be prevented or reduced.

[0330] Referring to FIG. 23c, when the first cover (2200) and the second cover (2300) are coupled, the second fixing region (2214b) of the fixing structure (2214) may be spaced apart from the side groove (2313) of the second connecting portion (2310). For example, the second fixing region (2214b) may be spaced apart from the side groove (2313) by a second length (L2) in the longitudinal direction (e.g., Y-axis direction) of the first cover (2200).

[0331] In one embodiment, when the first cover (2200) and the second cover (2300) are in a state where the second fixed area (2214b) is spaced apart from the side groove (2313) of the second connecting portion (2310) in the longitudinal direction (e.g., Y-axis direction) of the first cover (2200), the second cover (2300) can move in the longitudinal direction (e.g., Y-axis direction) of the first cover (2200).

[0332] FIG. 24a, FIG. 24b, and FIG. 24c are drawings showing a state in which a first cover (2200) and a second cover (2400) are combined according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0333] FIG. 24a is a drawing showing a state in which a first cover (2200) and a second cover (2400) are combined according to one embodiment. FIG. 24b is a cross-sectional view of the first cover (2200) and the second cover (2400) taken along line CC of FIG. 24a. FIG. 24c is a cross-sectional view of the first cover (2200) and the second cover (2400) taken along line DD of FIG. 24a.

[0334] In one embodiment, the first cover (2200) may refer to the first cover (300) of FIG. 3 or the first cover (1700) of FIG. 18, or may include at least a portion of the first cover (300) of FIG. 3 and the first cover (1700) of FIG. 18.

[0335] In one embodiment, the second cover (2400) may refer to the second cover (500) of FIG. 7A or the second cover (600) of FIG. 7B, or may include at least a portion of the second cover (500) of FIG. 7A and the second cover (600) of FIG. 7B.

[0336] Referring to FIGS. 24b and 24c, the second connecting portion (2410) of the second cover (2400) may include a side groove (2413).

[0337] In one embodiment, the fixed structure (2214) includes an elastic material, so that the fixed structure (2214) can be easily fitted into the side groove (2413) of the second connecting portion (2410).

[0338] Referring to FIG. 24b, when the first cover (2200) and the second cover (2400) are coupled, the first fixing region (2214a) of the fixing structure (2214) may be spaced apart from the side groove (2413) of the second connecting portion (2410). For example, the first fixing region (2214a) may be spaced apart from the side groove (2413) by a third length (L3) in the width direction (e.g., X-axis direction) of the first cover (2200).

[0339] In one embodiment, when the first cover (2200) and the second cover (2400) are in a state where the first fixed area (2214a) is spaced apart from the side groove (2413) of the second connecting portion (2410) in the width direction (e.g., X-axis direction) of the first cover (2200), the second cover (2400) can move in the width direction (e.g., X-axis direction) of the first cover (2200).

[0340] Referring to FIG. 24c, when the first cover (2200) and the second cover (2400) are coupled, at least a portion of the second fixing region (2214b) of the fixing structure (2214) may be inserted into the side groove (2413) of the second connecting portion (2410). For example, the second fixing region (2214b) may be inserted into the side groove (2413) by a fourth length (L4) in the longitudinal direction (e.g., Y-axis direction) of the first cover (2200). In one embodiment, the fourth length (L4) may be approximately 0.1 to 0.2 mm.

[0341] In one embodiment, when the first cover (2200) and the second cover (2400) are in a state, a part of the second fixed area (2214b) is inserted into the side groove (2413) of the second connecting portion (2410) in the longitudinal direction (e.g., Y-axis direction) of the first cover (2200), so that movement of the second cover (2400) in the longitudinal direction (e.g., Y-axis direction) of the first cover (2200) can be prevented or reduced.

[0342] In one embodiment, the fixing structure (2214) can prevent or reduce movement of the second cover (2300, 2400) coupled to the first cover (2200) in a given direction. The direction in which the fixing structure (2214) prevents movement of the second cover (2300, 2400) can vary depending on the type of the second cover (2300, 2400).

[0343] In one embodiment, the second cover (2300) illustrated in FIG. 23a may be a first type cover. The second cover (2400) illustrated in FIG. 24a may be a second type cover.

[0344] In one embodiment, the frequency of the direction in which force is applied to the second cover (2300, 2400) while the user uses the second cover (2300, 2400) may vary depending on the type of the second cover (2300, 2400). For example, since the first type of cover is relatively often subjected to force in the width direction (e.g., X-axis direction) of the first cover (2200), movement in the width direction (e.g., X-axis direction) needs to be restricted. Since the second type of cover is relatively often subjected to force in the length direction (e.g., Y-axis direction) of the first cover (2200), movement in the length direction (e.g., Y-axis direction) needs to be restricted.

[0345] In one embodiment, the fixing structure (2214) can prevent or reduce movement of the first type of cover (e.g., the second cover (2300) of FIG. 23A) in the width direction (e.g., the X-axis direction) of the first cover (2200) when the first type of cover (e.g., the second cover (2300) of FIG. 23A) is coupled to the first cover (2200). The fixing structure (2214) can prevent or reduce movement of the second type of cover (e.g., the second cover (2400) of FIG. 24A) in the length direction (e.g., the Y-axis direction) of the first cover (2200) when the second type of cover (e.g., the second cover (2400) of FIG. 24A) is coupled to the first cover (2200).

[0346] An electronic device (200) equipped with a cover (300, 400, 500, 600) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include an electronic device (200) and a cover (400, 500, 600).

[0347] In one embodiment, the cover (400, 500, 600) may include a first connection portion (310) including a connection groove (312) and a connection cover (311) covering the connection groove (312), a first cover (300) detachably disposed on the back (210B) of the electronic device (200), and a second connection portion (410, 510, 610) detachably coupled to the first connection portion (310), at least a portion of which may be disposed on the first cover (300).

[0348] In one embodiment, the second connecting portion (410, 510, 610) has a columnar shape that protrudes from one surface of the second cover (400, 500, 600) and includes a groove (e.g., a side groove (413)) that is concavely formed on a portion of the side surface, and at least a portion of the second connecting portion (310) can be inserted into the connecting groove (312) of the first connecting portion (310) to press the connecting cover (311).

[0349] In one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a communication unit (250) and a processor (260).

[0350] In one embodiment, the first cover (300) may include a communication unit (350) and at least one sensor (360).

[0351] In one embodiment, the second cover (700, 800) may include at least one conductor (715, 815).

[0352] In one embodiment, the processor (260) may be configured to recognize type information of the second cover (400, 500, 600) based on data received from the first cover (300).

[0353] In one embodiment, the resistance value of the sensor (360) may change due to contact between the sensor (360) and the conductor (715, 815).

[0354] In one embodiment, the communication unit (350) of the first cover (300) can transmit a transmission value corresponding to the changed resistance value to the communication unit (250) of the electronic device (200).

[0355] In one embodiment, the processor (260) may be set to recognize the type information of the second cover (700, 800) based on the transmission value received by the communication unit (250) of the electronic device (200).

[0356] In one embodiment, the second cover (700, 800) may include a predetermined number of conductors (715, 815, 1315) depending on the type of the second cover (700, 800).

[0357] In one embodiment, the processor (260) may be configured to recognize type information of the second cover (700, 800) based on the number of conductors (1315).

[0358] In one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a communication unit (250) and a processor (260).

[0359] In one embodiment, the first cover (1700) may include an antenna (1750).

[0360] In one embodiment, the second cover (1800, 1900) may include an IC chip (1820, 1920).

[0361] In one embodiment, the antenna (1750) and the IC chips (1820, 1920) may be electrically connected to each other.

[0362] In one embodiment, the antenna (1750) can transmit information stored in the IC chip (1820, 1920) to the communication unit (250) of the electronic device (200).

[0363] In one embodiment, the processor (260) may be configured to recognize the type information of the second cover (1800, 1900) based on information stored in the IC chip (1820, 1920) received by the communication unit (250).

[0364] In one embodiment, the first connecting portion (2210) of the first cover (2200) may include a fixing structure (2214) at least partially inserted into a groove (2313) of the second connecting portion (2310, 2410).

[0365] In one embodiment, the fixed structure (2214) may reduce the widthwise movement of the second connection portion (2310) relative to the first connection portion (2210) of the first cover (2200) when the second cover (2300) is a first type cover.

[0366] In one embodiment, the fixed structure (2214) may reduce the longitudinal movement of the second connection portion (2410) relative to the first connection portion (2210) of the first cover (2200) when the second cover (2400) is a second type of cover.

[0367] In one embodiment, the fixed structure (2214) may include a first fixed region (2214a) extending in the longitudinal direction of the first cover (2200) and a second fixed region (2214b) extending in the width direction of the first cover (2200).

[0368] In one embodiment, the second connecting portion (1410) may be formed with different numbers and positions of grooves (e.g., 1417) depending on the type of the second cover.

[0369] In one embodiment, the processor (260) may be configured to recognize type information of the second cover based on the number and location of the homes (e.g., 1417).

[0370] In one embodiment, the first connecting portion (310) may include an elastic member (313) connected to a connecting cover (311).

[0371] In one embodiment, the connection cover (311) may include a plurality of segmented regions (1521, 1522, 1523).

[0372] In one embodiment, depending on the type of the second cover, the segment area (1521, 1522, 1523) that comes into contact with the second connecting portion among the plurality of segment areas (1521, 1522, 1523) may be different.

[0373] In one embodiment, the second cover (400) may include a first region (420) disposed on the front side (210A) of the electronic device (200), a second region (430) disposed on the first cover (300) detachably disposed on the back side (210B) of the electronic device (200), and a connection region (440) connecting the first region (420) and the second region (430).

[0374] In one embodiment, the second connecting portion (410) may be formed to protrude from the second region (430) in a direction toward the rear surface (210B) of the electronic device (200).

[0375] In one embodiment, the second cover (400) may include a display unit (760) disposed in the first area (420) and a control unit (750) that controls the display unit (760) to display display information determined based on type information of the second cover (400).

[0376] A cover (300, 400, 500, 600) that can be mounted on an electronic device (200) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a first connecting portion (310) that includes a connecting groove (312) and a connecting cover (311) that covers the connecting groove (312), a first cover (300) that can be placed on the rear surface (210B) of the electronic device (200), and a second connecting portion (410, 510, 610) that is detachably coupled to the first connecting portion (310), and a second cover (400, 500, 600) that can be at least partially placed on the first cover (300).

[0377] In one embodiment, the second connecting portion (410, 510, 610) may have a columnar shape that includes a groove (e.g., a side groove (413)) that protrudes from one surface of the second cover (400, 500, 600) and has at least a portion of the side formed concave.

[0378] In one embodiment, when the first cover (300) and the second cover (400, 500, 600) are coupled, the second connecting portion (410, 510, 610) may be inserted, at least in part, into the connecting groove (312) of the first connecting portion (310) to press the connecting cover (311). In one embodiment, the first cover (300) may include a communication portion (350) and at least one sensor (360), and the second cover (700, 800) may include at least one conductor (715, 815).

[0379] In one embodiment, when the first cover (300) is mounted on the electronic device (200) and the first cover (300) and the second cover (400, 500, 600) are combined, the type information of the second cover (400, 500, 600) can be recognized by the electronic device (200) based on data transmitted from the first cover (300).

[0380] In one embodiment, when the first cover (300) is mounted on the electronic device (200) and the first cover (300) and the second cover (700, 800) are coupled, the resistance value of the sensor (360) changes due to contact between the sensor (360) and the conductor (715, 815), the communication unit (350) of the first cover (300) transmits a transmission value corresponding to the changed resistance value to the electronic device (200), and the electronic device (200) can recognize the type information of the second cover (700, 800) based on the transmission value.

[0381] In one embodiment, the second cover (700, 800) may include a predetermined number of conductors (715, 815, 1315) depending on the type of the second cover (700, 800).

[0382] In one embodiment, the electronic device (200) can recognize the type information of the second cover (700, 800) based on the number of conductors (1315).

[0383] In one embodiment, the first cover (1700) may include an antenna (1750), and the second cover (1800, 1900) may include an IC chip (1820, 1920).

[0384] In one embodiment, when the first cover (1700) is mounted on the electronic device (200) and the first cover (1700) and the second cover (1800, 1900) are combined, the antenna (1750) and the IC chip (1820, 1920) are electrically connected to each other, the antenna (1750) transmits information stored in the IC chip (1820, 1920) to the electronic device (200), and the electronic device (200) can recognize the type information of the second cover (1800, 1900) based on the information stored in the IC chip (1820, 1920).

[0385] The technical problems to be achieved in the present disclosure are not limited to the technical problems mentioned above, and other technical problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by a person having ordinary knowledge in the technical field to which the present disclosure pertains.

[0386] The effects that can be obtained from the present disclosure are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects that are not mentioned will be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure pertains.

[0387] Electronic devices according to embodiments of the present disclosure may take various forms. Electronic devices may include, for example, portable communication devices (e.g., smartphones), computer devices, portable multimedia devices, portable medical devices, cameras, wearable devices, or home appliances. Electronic devices according to embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to the aforementioned devices.

[0388] It should be understood that the embodiments of the present disclosure and the terminology used herein are not intended to limit the technical features described in the present disclosure to specific embodiments, but 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 the present disclosure, 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 the phrases, or all possible combinations thereof. Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used merely to distinguish one component from another, and do not limit the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order). When a component (e.g., a first component) is referred to as "coupled" or "connected" to another (e.g., a second component), with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicatively," it means that the component can be connected to the other component directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0389] The term "module" used in one embodiment of the present disclosure 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).

[0390] An embodiment of the present disclosure 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.

[0391] According to one embodiment, the method according to various embodiments of the present disclosure may be provided as included in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded as a product between a seller and a buyer. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable storage medium (e.g., compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM)), or may be distributed online (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) through an application store (e.g., Play Store™) or directly between two user devices (e.g., smart phones). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product may be temporarily stored or temporarily generated in a machine-readable storage medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or a relay server.

[0392] According to one embodiment, 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 above-described components may be omitted, or one or more other components or operations may be added. Alternatively or additionally, a plurality of components (e.g., a module or a program) may be integrated into a single component. In this case, the integrated component may perform one or more functions of each component of the plurality of components in a manner identical to or similar to that performed by the corresponding component among the plurality of components prior to the integration.

[0393] According to one embodiment, the operations performed by a module, program or other component may be performed sequentially, in parallel, iteratively, or heuristically, or one or more of the operations may be performed in a different order, omitted, or one or more other operations may be added.

Claims

1. In an electronic device (200) equipped with a cover (300, 400, 500, 600), The above cover, A first cover (300) including a first connecting portion (310) including a connecting groove (312) and a connecting cover (311) covering the connecting groove, and detachably disposed on the rear surface (210B) of the electronic device; and A second cover (400, 500, 600) comprising a second connecting portion (410, 510, 610) detachably connected to the first connecting portion, and at least a portion of which is disposed on the first cover, The above second connecting part, An electronic device equipped with a cover having a pillar shape including a groove (413) protruding from one surface of the second cover and concavely formed on a part of a side surface, at least a part of which is inserted into the connection groove of the first connection portion to press the connection cover in a direction toward the rear surface of the electronic device.

2. In paragraph 1, The electronic device includes a communication unit (250) and a processor (260), The above first cover further includes a communication unit (350) and at least one sensor (360), The second cover further comprises at least one conductor (715, 815), The above processor, An electronic device equipped with a cover configured to recognize type information of the second cover based on data received from the first cover.

3. In paragraph 2, The resistance value of the sensor changes due to contact between the sensor and the conductor, The communication unit of the first cover transmits a transmission value corresponding to the changed resistance value to the communication unit of the electronic device, An electronic device equipped with a cover, wherein the processor is set to recognize the type information of the second cover based on the transmission value received by the communication unit of the electronic device.

4. In paragraph 3, The above second cover, It includes a predetermined number of conductors (1315) depending on the type of the second cover. The above processor, An electronic device equipped with a cover configured to recognize type information of the second cover based on the number of the above-mentioned conductors.

5. In paragraph 1, The electronic device includes a communication unit (250) and a processor (260), The above first cover further includes an antenna (1750), The second cover is an electronic device equipped with a cover further including an IC chip (1820, 1920).

6. In paragraph 5, The above antenna and the IC chip are electrically connected to each other, The above antenna transmits information stored in the IC chip to the communication unit of the electronic device, An electronic device equipped with a cover, wherein the processor is set to recognize the type information of the second cover based on the information stored in the IC chip received by the communication unit.

7. In paragraph 1, The first connecting part of the first cover is, Including a fixing structure (2214) at least part of which is inserted into the groove of the second connecting portion; The above fixed structure is, If the second cover is a cover of the first type, the movement of the second connecting portion in the width direction of the first cover relative to the first connecting portion is reduced, An electronic device having a cover mounted thereon, wherein the second cover is a second type cover, and movement of the second connecting portion in the longitudinal direction of the first cover is reduced with respect to the first connecting portion.

8. In paragraph 7, The above fixed structure is, A first fixed area (2214a) extending in the longitudinal direction of the first cover; and An electronic device having a cover including a second fixed area (2214b) extending in the width direction of the first cover.

9. In paragraph 1, The electronic device comprises a processor, The above second connecting part, The number and location of the grooves are formed differently depending on the type of the second cover. The above processor, An electronic device equipped with a cover, the electronic device being set to recognize type information of the second cover based on the number and position of the grooves of the second connecting portion.

10. In paragraph 1, The above first connecting part is, An electronic device equipped with a cover further comprising an elastic member (313) connected to the above-mentioned connecting cover.

11. In paragraph 1, The above connection cover comprises a plurality of segmented areas (1521, 1522, 1523), An electronic device equipped with a cover in which the segmented area that comes into contact with the second connecting portion among the plurality of segmented areas is different depending on the type of the second cover.

12. In paragraph 1, The above second cover, A first area (420) arranged on the front side of the electronic device; A second region (430) disposed on the first cover detachably disposed on the rear surface of the electronic device; and It includes a connecting area (440) connecting the first area and the second area, The above second connecting part, An electronic device equipped with a cover formed to protrude in a direction toward the rear surface of the electronic device from the second region.

13. In paragraph 12, The above second cover, A display unit (760, 1840) arranged in the first area; and An electronic device equipped with a cover, the electronic device further including a control unit (750, 1830) that controls the display unit to display display information determined based on the type information of the second cover.

14. In paragraph 1, The above first cover further includes a communication unit (350) and at least one sensor (360), The second cover further includes at least one conductor (715, 815), When the first cover is mounted on the electronic device, and the first cover and the second cover are combined, The type information of the second cover is recognized by the electronic device based on the data transmitted from the first cover, The resistance value of the sensor changes due to contact between the sensor and the conductor, The communication unit of the first cover transmits a transmission value corresponding to the changed resistance value to the electronic device, The electronic device is an electronic device equipped with a cover that recognizes type information of the second cover based on the transmission value.

15. In paragraph 14, The above second cover, It includes a predetermined number of conductors (1315) depending on the type of the second cover. The above electronic device, An electronic device equipped with a cover that recognizes type information of the second cover based on the number of the above-mentioned challenges.

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