Electronic device comprising key assembly

Abstract

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device may comprise: a housing comprising a first accommodation space extending in a first direction from the outer surface of a side member toward the inside thereof, and at least one second accommodation space at a position spaced apart from the outer surface of the side member, extending from the inner wall of the first accommodation space in a second direction crossing the first direction; and a key assembly at least partially accommodated in the first accommodation space and the second accommodation space. In the embodiment, the key assembly may comprise: a body part, of which at least a portion is disposed in the first accommodation space, and which comprises at least one first engagement hole extending from the outer surface, and at least one second engagement hole extending from the inner surface; a key cap coupled to the outer surface of the body part by comprising at least one first engagement hook that engages with the at least one first engagement hole; and an interference member, which is coupled to the inner surface of the body part by comprising at least one second engagement hook that engages with the at least one second engagement hole, and of which at least a portion is accommodated in the second accommodation space. Various other embodiments may also be possible.

Description

Electronic device comprising a key assembly

[0001] Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to electronic devices, for example, electronic devices including a key assembly.

[0002] Typically, an electronic device can refer to any device that performs a specific function based on the program installed on it, such as home appliances, electronic notebooks, portable multimedia players, mobile communication terminals, tablet PCs, audio / video devices, desktop / laptop computers, and / or car navigation systems. As electronic devices become more integrated and ultra-high-speed, high-capacity wireless communications become more widespread, a single, miniaturized electronic device, such as a mobile communication terminal, can now be equipped with a variety of functions. For example, in addition to communication functions, entertainment functions such as games, multimedia functions such as music / video playback, communication and security functions for mobile banking, and functions such as schedule management and electronic wallets are being integrated into a single electronic device.

[0003] Recently, wearable electronic devices that can be worn on the body have become commercialized, and mobile communication terminals and wearable electronic devices are used in everyday life. Because wearable electronic devices can remain in contact with the user's body for a considerable period of time, they can be usefully utilized in medical or health management. For example, depending on the sensors installed, the electronic device can detect biometric information such as the user's photoplethysmography (PPG), sleep interval, skin temperature, heart rate, and / or electrocardiogram. The detected biometric information can be stored on the electronic device or transmitted in real time to a medical institution for use in health management. Typically, electronic devices have a bar shape, a box shape, or a flat plate shape. However, wearable electronic devices can be combined with multiple segments to accommodate the user's body curves and ensure comfort. For example, a wrist-worn electronic device may include a housing that serves as a main body by accommodating various circuit devices and at least one wearable member, and a face-worn electronic device may include lens(es) corresponding to both eyes of the user and at least one temple bow(s).

[0004] The above information may be provided as background art to aid in understanding the present disclosure. No claim or determination is made as to whether any of the above is applicable as prior art in connection with the present disclosure.

[0005] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device may include a housing including a first receiving space extending in a first direction from an outer surface of a side member toward an inner side of the side member, at least one second receiving space extending in a second direction intersecting the first direction from an inner wall of the first receiving space at a location spaced apart from the outer surface of the side member, and a key assembly at least partially received in the first receiving space and the second receiving space. In one embodiment, the key assembly may include a body portion at least partially disposed in the first receiving space and including at least one first engaging hole extending from an outer surface and at least one second engaging hole extending from an inner surface, a key cap coupled to an outer surface of the body portion by including a first engaging hook engaged to the at least one first engaging hole, and an interference member coupled to an inner surface of the body portion by including a second engaging hook engaged to the at least one second engaging hole, and at least partially received in the second engaging space.

[0006] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device may include a housing including a receiving space extending from an outer surface of a side member in a direction toward an inner side of the side member, and a key assembly at least partially received in the receiving space. In one embodiment, the key assembly may include a body portion at least partially disposed in the receiving space, a key cap coupled to an outer surface of the body portion, the key cap including an actuation rod extending from an inner surface and protruding from an inner surface of the body portion, and a fixing member supported on an inner surface of the side member while being engaged with the actuation rod. In one embodiment, a distance measured in a longitudinal direction of the key cap from the actuation rod to an edge of the fixing member may be greater than a diameter of the actuation rod or a width of the actuation rod measured in a longitudinal direction of the key cap.

[0007] The above-described aspects or other aspects, configurations and / or advantages of one embodiment of the present disclosure may be further clarified by the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

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

[0009] FIG. 2 is a front perspective view showing an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0010] FIG. 3 is a rear perspective view illustrating the electronic device of FIG. 2 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0011] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view illustrating the electronic device of FIG. 2 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0012] FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 6 is a side view illustrating the electronic device of FIG. 5 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a portion of an electronic device cut along line BB of FIG. 6 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 8 is an enlarged view of a portion E1 of FIG. 6 among the housings of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 9 is a first perspective view showing a body portion of a key assembly of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 10 is a second perspective view showing a body portion of a key assembly of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 11 is a first perspective view showing a key cap among key assemblies of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 12 is a second perspective view showing a key cap among key assemblies of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing a key cap assembled with a body part of a key assembly of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 14 is a perspective view showing an O-ring assembled to a key cap among key assemblies of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 15 is a perspective view showing a key cap assembled with a body part among key assemblies of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 16 is a drawing showing a key assembly of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure in which a key cap is assembled with a body portion.

[0024] FIG. 17 is a drawing showing a key assembly of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, taken along line CC of FIG. 16.

[0025] FIG. 18 is a first perspective view showing an interference member among key assembly of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] FIG. 19 is a second perspective view showing an interference member among key assembly of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] FIG. 20 is a drawing showing an interference member of a key assembly of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure arranged in a housing.

[0028] FIG. 21 and FIG. 22 are drawings for explaining an operation in which an interference member of a key assembly of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is placed in a housing.

[0029] FIGS. 23 and 24 are drawings for explaining an operation in which a body portion and / or a key cap of a key assembly of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is assembled to an interference member.

[0030] FIG. 25 is a drawing for explaining a state in which a body portion and / or a key cap of a key assembly of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is assembled to an interference member.

[0031] FIG. 26 is a drawing for explaining a state in which a body portion and / or a key cap of a key assembly of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is assembled to an interference member, and is a drawing showing the electronic device and / or the key assembly cut along line DD of FIG. 25.

[0032] FIG. 27 is a drawing for explaining a key assembly of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure arranged in a housing.

[0033] FIG. 28 is a side view illustrating a key assembly of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034] FIG. 29 is a plan view illustrating a key assembly of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0035] FIG. 30 is a cross-sectional view of a key assembly along line EE of FIG. 29, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0036] FIG. 31 is a plan view showing a body portion of a key assembly of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0037] FIG. 32 is a side view showing a body portion of a key assembly of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] FIG. 33 is a perspective view showing a key cap among the key assembly of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0039] FIG. 34 is a bottom view showing a key cap among the key assembly of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0040] FIG. 35 is a side view showing a key cap among the key assembly of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0041] FIG. 36 is a drawing showing a key cap among key assemblies of an electronic device cut along line FF of FIG. 35 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0042] FIG. 37 is a drawing for explaining an operation of assembling a key cap to a body part of a key assembly of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0043] FIG. 38 is a drawing for explaining an operation of assembling a key cap to a body part of a key assembly of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0044] FIG. 39 is an exploded perspective view showing a key assembly of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0045] FIG. 40 is a side view illustrating a key assembly of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0046] FIG. 41 is a plan view showing a key assembly of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0047] FIG. 42 is a drawing showing a key assembly of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, taken along line GG of FIG. 41.

[0048] FIG. 43 is a plan view showing a body portion of a key assembly of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0049] FIG. 44 is a perspective view showing a body portion of a key assembly of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0050] FIG. 45 is a perspective view showing a key cap among the key assembly of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0051] FIG. 46 is a side view showing a key cap among the key assembly of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0052] FIG. 47 is a plan view showing a key assembly of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure arranged in a housing or side member.

[0053] FIG. 48 is a perspective view showing a key assembly of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure arranged in a housing or side member.

[0054] FIG. 49 is a first perspective view showing a fixing member of a key assembly of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0055] FIG. 50 is a second perspective view showing a fixing member of a key assembly of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0056] FIG. 51 is a drawing for explaining an operation of assembling a fixed member among key assemblies of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0057] FIG. 52 is a drawing for explaining an assembled state of a fixing member among key assemblies of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0058] FIG. 53 is a drawing for explaining an assembled state of a fixing member among key assemblies of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and is a drawing showing the electronic device cut along line HH of FIG. 47.

[0059] FIG. 54 is a drawing for explaining an assembled state of a fixing member among key assemblies of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0060] FIG. 55 is a drawing showing a fixing member of a key assembly of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0061] FIG. 56 is a drawing showing a fixing member of a key assembly of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0062] FIG. 57 is a drawing for explaining an assembled state of a fixing member among key assemblies of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0063] FIG. 58 is a drawing showing a fixing member of a key assembly of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0064] FIG. 59 is a drawing for explaining an assembled state of a fixing member among key assemblies of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0065] FIG. 60 is a drawing for explaining an assembled state of a fixing member among key assemblies of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and is a drawing showing the electronic device cut along line II of FIG. 59.

[0066] FIG. 61 is a drawing for explaining an operation of assembling a fixing member among key assemblies of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0067] FIG. 62 is a drawing for explaining an assembled state of a fixing member among key assemblies of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0068] FIG. 63 is a drawing for explaining a support structure of a fixed member among key assemblies of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0069] Throughout the attached drawings, similar reference numbers may be assigned to similar parts, components and / or structures.

[0070] Wearable electronic devices may have the appearance of a wristwatch or glasses, but can perform complex functions that are different from those of typical wristwatches or glasses. In implementing complex functions that are different from those of traditional wristwatches or glasses, the electronic devices may provide visual or auditory information to the user using output devices (e.g., vibration motors, displays, and / or speakers) and / or receive user input through input devices (e.g., mechanically actuated keys, touchscreens, and / or microphones). Mechanically actuated keys, as input devices mounted on traditional wristwatches, can be useful in electronic devices as electrodes for electrocardiograms or heart rate detection. However, there may be limitations in implementing keys with a stable mounting structure in electronic devices that are miniaturized or lightweight enough to provide a comfortable fit.

[0071] One embodiment of the present disclosure is intended to at least resolve the above-described problems and / or disadvantages and provide at least the advantages described below, thereby providing an electronic device including a stably mounted key assembly having a simplified structure.

[0072] One embodiment of the present disclosure can provide an electronic device including a key assembly having a stable operating structure in which flow on a housing or side member is suppressed.

[0073] The technical problems to be achieved in this document are not limited to the technical problems mentioned above, and other technical problems not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the technical field to which the present disclosure belongs from the description below.

[0074] The following description of the accompanying drawings may provide an understanding of various exemplary implementations of the present disclosure, including the claims and their equivalents. While the exemplary embodiments disclosed in the following description include numerous specific details to aid understanding, they are to be considered as one example of various exemplary embodiments. Accordingly, those skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications and variations of the various implementations described herein may be made without departing from the scope and spirit of the disclosure. Furthermore, descriptions of well-known functions and configurations may be omitted for clarity and conciseness.

[0075] The terms and words used in the following description and claims are not limited to their reference meanings and can be used to clearly and consistently describe one embodiment of the present disclosure. Therefore, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the following description of various implementations of the disclosure is provided for illustrative purposes, not for the purpose of limiting the scope of the disclosure and its equivalents.

[0076] Unless the context clearly dictates otherwise, the singular forms of "a," "an," and "the" should be understood to include plural meanings. Thus, for example, "a component surface" could be understood to include one or more of the surfaces of the component.

[0077] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device (101) within a network environment (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. 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 one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may have at least one of these components (e.g., the connection terminal (178)) omitted, or one or more other components added. In one embodiment, 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)).

[0078] The processor (120) may, for example, execute software (e.g., a program (140)) to control at least one other component (e.g., a hardware or software component) of the electronic device (101) connected to the processor (120) and perform various data processing or operations. According to one embodiment, as at least a part of the data processing or operations, the processor (120) may store commands or data received from other components (e.g., a sensor module (176) or a communication module (190)) in a volatile memory (132), process the commands or data stored in the volatile memory (132), and store result data in a non-volatile memory (134). According to one embodiment, the processor (120) may include a main processor (121) (e.g., a central processing unit or an application processor), or an auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., a graphics processing unit, a neural processing unit (NPU), an image signal processor, a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor) that can operate independently or together with the main processor (121). For example, when the electronic device (101) includes the main processor (121) and the auxiliary processor (123), the auxiliary processor (123) may be configured to use less power than the main processor (121) or to be specialized for a given function. The auxiliary processor (123) may be implemented separately from the main processor (121) or as a part thereof.

[0079] 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.

[0080] 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).

[0081] 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).

[0082] 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).

[0083] 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.

[0084] 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.

[0085] 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).

[0086] 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.

[0087] The interface (177) may support one or more designated protocols that may be used to directly or wirelessly connect the electronic device (101) to 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.

[0088] 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).

[0089] 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.

[0090] 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.

[0091] 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).

[0092] 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.

[0093] 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 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).

[0094] 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.

[0095] 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 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 one embodiment, in addition to the radiator, another component (e.g., a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) may be additionally formed as a part of the antenna module (197).

[0096] 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) of the printed circuit board and capable of transmitting or receiving signals in the designated high-frequency band.

[0097] 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)).

[0098] According to one embodiment, commands or data may be transmitted or received between the electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (104) via a server (108) connected to a second network (199). Each of the external electronic devices (102 or 104) may be the same or a different type of device as the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, all or part of the operations executed in the electronic device (101) may be executed in one or more of the external electronic devices (102, 104, or 108). For example, when the electronic device (101) is to perform a certain function or service automatically or in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device (101) may, instead of or in addition to executing the function or service itself, request one or more external electronic devices to perform the function or at least a part of the service. One or more external electronic devices that receive the request may execute at least a portion of the requested function or service, or an additional function or service related to the request, and transmit the result of the execution to the electronic device (101). The electronic device (101) may process the result as is or additionally and provide it as at least a portion of a response to the request. For this purpose, cloud computing, distributed computing, mobile edge computing (MEC), or client-server computing technology may be used, for example. The electronic device (101) may provide an ultra-low latency service by using distributed computing or mobile edge computing, for example. In one embodiment, the external electronic device (104) may include an Internet of Things (IoT) device. The server (108) may be an intelligent server utilizing machine learning and / or a neural network. According to one embodiment, the external electronic device (104) or the server (108) may be included in the second network (199).The electronic device (101) can be applied to intelligent services (e.g., smart home, smart city, smart car, or healthcare) based on 5G communication technology and IoT-related technology.

[0099] 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.

[0100] The embodiments of the present disclosure and the terminology used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, but should be understood to encompass 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 dictates otherwise. In this document, phrases such as "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 each include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase, or all possible combinations thereof. Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used simply to distinguish the corresponding component from other corresponding components, and do not limit the corresponding components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order). When a component (e.g., a first component) is referred to as being “coupled” or “connected” to another component (e.g., a second component), with or without the terms “functionally” or “communicatively,” it is understood that the component can be connected to the other component directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or via a third component.

[0101] The term "module" used in the embodiments 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).

[0102] Embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented as software (e.g., a program) including one or more instructions stored in a storage medium (e.g., built-in memory or external memory) readable by a machine (e.g., an electronic device). For example, a processor (e.g., a processor) of the machine (e.g., an electronic device) may call at least one instruction among the one or more instructions stored from the storage medium and execute it. This enables the machine to operate to perform at least one function according to the at least one instruction called. The one or more instructions may include code generated by a compiler or code executable by an interpreter. The machine-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, "non-transitory" only means that the storage medium is a tangible device and does not contain a signal (e.g., electromagnetic waves), and this term does not distinguish between cases where data is stored semi-permanently and cases where it is stored temporarily in the storage medium.

[0103] According to one embodiment, a method according to an embodiment(s) of the present disclosure may be provided as a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded as a commodity between a seller and a buyer. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable storage medium (e.g., compact disc read only memory (CD-ROM)), or may be distributed online (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) via an application store (e.g., Play Store™) or directly between two user devices (e.g., smartphones). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product may be temporarily stored or temporarily generated in a machine-readable storage medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or an intermediary server.

[0104] 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 one embodiment, one or more components or operations of the aforementioned components may be omitted, or one or more other components or operations may be added. Alternatively or additionally, a plurality of components (e.g., a module or a program) may be integrated into a single component. In such a case, the integrated component may perform one or more functions of each of the plurality of components identically or similarly to those performed by the corresponding component among the plurality of components prior to the integration. According to one embodiment, the operations performed by a module, program, or other component may be executed sequentially, in parallel, iteratively, or heuristically, or one or more of the operations may be executed in a different order, omitted, or one or more other operations may be added.

[0105] In the detailed description below, the longitudinal direction, the width direction, and / or the thickness direction of the electronic device may be mentioned, and the longitudinal direction may be defined as the 'Y-axis direction', the width direction as the 'X-axis direction', and / or the thickness direction as the 'Z-axis direction'. In one embodiment, with respect to the direction that a component is oriented, 'negative / positive (- / +)' may be mentioned together with the rectangular coordinate system illustrated in the drawings. For example, the front of the electronic device and / or the housing may be defined as the 'side facing the +Z direction', and the back side may be defined as the 'side facing the -Z direction'. In one embodiment, the side of the electronic device and / or the housing may include a region facing the +X direction, a region facing the +Y direction, a region facing the -X direction, and / or a region facing the -Y direction. In one embodiment, the 'X-axis direction' may mean both the '-X direction' and the '+X direction'. It should be noted that this is based on the rectangular coordinate system illustrated in the drawings for the sake of brevity of description, and that the description of these directions or components does not limit the embodiment(s) of the present disclosure. For example, depending on the design specifications of the electronic device or the user's usage habits, the orthogonal coordinate system may be defined differently from that in the present disclosure.

[0106] FIG. 2 is a front perspective view illustrating an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 is a rear perspective view illustrating the electronic device of FIG. 2 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The embodiments of FIGS. 2 and 3 may be optionally combined with the embodiment of FIG. 1 or the embodiments described below to implement additional embodiments.

[0107] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, the electronic device (101) may include a housing (210) or a wearing member (250, 260). The housing (210) may include a first side (or front side) (210A), a second side (or back side) (210B), or a side surface (210C). The side surface (210C) may surround a space between the first side (210A) and the second side (210B). In one embodiment, the wearing member (250, 260) may be connected to at least a portion of the housing (210) and configured to detachably attach the electronic device (101) to a part of the user's body (e.g., a wrist, an ankle, etc.). For example, the electronic device (101) may be in the form of a wristwatch.

[0108] According to one embodiment, the housing (210) may refer to a structure forming a first surface (210A) of FIG. 2, a second surface (210B) of FIG. 3, and a portion of the side surfaces (210C). In one embodiment, the first surface (210A) may be formed by a front plate (201) that is at least partially transparent (e.g., a glass plate or a polymer plate including various coating layers). The second surface (210B) may be formed by a back plate (207) that is substantially opaque. In one embodiment, when the electronic device (101) includes a sensor module (211) disposed on the second surface (210B), the back plate (207) may include an at least partially transparent area. The back plate (207) may be formed by, 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 (210C) is coupled to the front plate (201) and the rear plate (207) and may be formed by a side bezel structure (or “side member”) (206) comprising metal and / or polymer. In one embodiment, the rear plate (207) and the side bezel structure (206) may be formed integrally and may comprise the same material (e.g., a metal material such as aluminum). The wearing members (250, 260) may be formed of various materials and shapes. The integral and multiple unit links may be formed to be movable with each other by a woven material, leather, rubber, urethane, metal, ceramic, or a combination of at least two of the above materials.

[0109] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include at least one of a display (e.g., the display (320) of FIG. 4), an audio module (205, 208) (e.g., the audio module (170) of FIG. 1), a sensor module (211) (e.g., the sensor module (176) of FIG. 1), a key input device (202, 203, 204) (e.g., the input module (150) of FIG. 1), or a connector hole (209) (e.g., the connection terminal (178) of FIG. 1). In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may omit at least one of the components (e.g., the key input device (202, 203, 204), the connector hole (209), or the sensor module (211)) or may additionally include other components.

[0110] In one embodiment, a display (e.g., display (320) of FIG. 4) may be visually exposed, for example, through a substantial portion of the front plate (201). The shape of the display may correspond to the shape of the front plate (201), and may have various shapes, such as a circle, an oval, or a polygon. The display 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 fingerprint sensor.

[0111] The audio module (205, 208) may include a microphone hole (205) and a speaker hole (208). The microphone hole (205) may have a microphone positioned therein for acquiring external sounds, and in one embodiment, multiple microphones may be positioned therein to detect the direction of sounds. The speaker hole (208) may be used as an external speaker and a receiver for calls. In one embodiment, a speaker may be included without a speaker hole (e.g., a piezo speaker).

[0112] The sensor module (211) can generate an electric signal or data value corresponding to the internal operating state of the electronic device (101) or the external environmental state. The sensor module (211) can include, for example, a biometric sensor module (211) (e.g., HRM sensor) arranged on the second surface (210B) of the housing (210). The electronic device (101) can further include at least one of a sensor module not shown, for example, a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a color sensor, an IR (infrared) sensor, a biometric sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or an illuminance sensor.

[0113] The key input devices (202, 203, 204) may include a wheel key (202) disposed on a first side (210A) of the housing (210) and rotatable in at least one direction, and / or a side key button (203, 204) disposed on a side surface (210C) of the housing (210). The wheel key (202) may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the front plate (201). In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may not include some or all of the above-mentioned key input devices (202, 203, 204), and the key input devices (202, 203, 204) that are not included may be implemented in another form, such as a soft key, on the display. The connector hole (209) can accommodate a connector (e.g., a USB connector) for transmitting and receiving power and / or data with an external electronic device, and may include another connector hole (not shown) for receiving a connector for transmitting and receiving audio signals with the external electronic device. The electronic device (101) may further include, for example, a connector cover (not shown) that covers at least a portion of the connector hole (209) and blocks the inflow of external foreign substances into the connector hole.

[0114] The wearing member (250, 260) can be detachably fastened to at least a portion of the housing (210) using a locking member (251, 261). The locking member (251, 261) can include a fastening component such as a pogo pin, and can be replaced with a protrusion(s) or recess(es) formed in the wearing member (250, 260) according to an embodiment. For example, the wearing member (250, 260) can be coupled in a manner of engaging with a groove or a protrusion formed in the housing (210). The wearing member (250, 260) can include one or more of a fixing member (252), a fixing member fastening hole (253), a band guide member (254), and a band fixing ring (255).

[0115] The fixing member (252) may be configured to fix the housing (210) and the wearing member (250, 260) to a part of the user's body (e.g., wrist, ankle, etc.). The fixing member fastening hole (253) may correspond to the fixing member (252) to fix the housing (210) and the wearing member (250, 260) to a part of the user's body. The band guide member (254) may be configured to limit the range of movement of the fixing member (252) when the fixing member (252) is fastened to the fixing member fastening hole (253), thereby allowing the wearing member (250, 260) to be fastened in close contact with a part of the user's body. The band fixing ring (255) may limit the range of movement of the wearing member (250, 260) when the fixing member (252) and the fixing member fastening hole (253) are fastened.

[0116] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view illustrating the electronic device of FIG. 2, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The embodiment of FIG. 4 may be optionally combined with the embodiment(s) of FIGS. 1 to 3, or the embodiment(s) described below, to implement additional embodiments.

[0117] Referring to FIG. 4, the electronic device (101) (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1, or the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 2 to 3) may include a side bezel structure (310) (e.g., the side bezel structure (206) of FIGS. 2 to 3), a wheel key (330) (e.g., the wheel key (202) of FIGS. 2 to 3), a front plate (301) (e.g., the front plate (201) of FIG. 2), a display (320), a first antenna (350), a second antenna (e.g., an antenna included in a second circuit board (355)), a support member (360) (e.g., a bracket), a battery (370), a printed circuit board (380), a sealing member (390), a rear plate (392), and a wearing member (395, 397) (e.g., the wearing member (250, 260) of FIG. 2 or 3). At least one of the components of the electronic device (101) may be identical or similar to at least one of the components of the electronic device (101) of FIG. 2 or FIG. 3, and any overlapping description will be omitted below.

[0118] According to one embodiment, the support member (360) may be disposed inside the electronic device (101) and connected to a side bezel structure (e.g., a side member) (310) or may be formed integrally with the side bezel structure (310). The support member (360) may be formed of, for example, a metallic material and / or a non-metallic (e.g., a polymer) material. The support member (360) may have a display (320) (e.g., a display module (160) of FIG. 1) coupled to one surface and a printed circuit board (380) coupled to the other surface. A processor, a memory, and / or an interface may be mounted on the printed circuit board (380).

[0119] A processor (e.g., processor (120) of FIG. 1) may include, for example, one or more of a central processing unit, an application processor, a GPU (graphic processing unit), an application processor sensor processor, or a communication processor.

[0120] The memory (e.g., memory (130) of FIG. 1) may include, for example, volatile memory or non-volatile memory.

[0121] An interface (e.g., interface (177) of FIG. 1) may include, for example, a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB) interface, an SD card interface, and / or an audio interface. The interface may electrically or physically connect the electronic device (101) to an external electronic device, for example, and may include a USB connector, an SD card / MMC connector, or an audio connector.

[0122] According to one embodiment, a battery (370) (e.g., battery (189) of FIG. 1) is a device for supplying power to at least one component of an electronic device (101), and may include, for example, a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable secondary battery, or a fuel cell. At least a portion of the battery (370) may be disposed substantially on the same plane as, for example, a printed circuit board (380). The battery (370) may be disposed integrally within the electronic device (101), or may be disposed detachably from the electronic device (101).

[0123] According to one embodiment, a first antenna (350) (e.g., antenna module (197) of FIG. 1) may be disposed between the display (320) and the support member (360). The first antenna (350) may include, for example, a near field communication (NFC) antenna, a wireless charging antenna, and / or a magnetic secure transmission (MST) antenna. The first antenna (350) may, for example, perform short-range communication with an external device, wirelessly transmit and receive power required for charging, and transmit a magnetic-based signal including a short-range communication signal or payment data. In one embodiment, the antenna structure may be formed by a portion or a combination of the side bezel structure (310) and / or the support member (360).

[0124] In one embodiment, a second circuit board (355) may be disposed between the circuit board (380) and the back plate (392). The second circuit board (355) may include an antenna (e.g., the antenna module (197) of FIG. 1), for example, a near field communication (NFC) antenna, a wireless charging antenna, and / or a magnetic secure transmission (MST) antenna. The second circuit board (355) may, for example, perform short-range communication with an external device, wirelessly transmit and receive power required for charging, and transmit a magnetic-based signal including a short-range communication signal or payment data. In one embodiment, the antenna structure may be formed by a portion or a combination of the side bezel structure (310) and / or the back plate (392). In various embodiments, when the electronic device (101) (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 2 and 3) includes a sensor module (e.g., the sensor module (211) of FIG. 3), a sensor circuit disposed on the second circuit board (355) or a sensor element (e.g., a photoelectric conversion element or an electrode pad) separate from the second circuit board (355) may be disposed. For example, an electronic component provided as a sensor module may be disposed between the circuit board (380) and the rear plate (392).

[0125] According to one embodiment, a sealing member (390) may be positioned between the side bezel structure (310) and the front plate (301). The sealing member (390) may be configured to block or reduce moisture and foreign matter from entering the space surrounded by the side bezel structure (310) and the front plate (301) from the outside.

[0126] FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of an electronic device (400) (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 4) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 6 is a side view illustrating the electronic device (400) of FIG. 5 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0127] Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, the electronic device (400) may be identical to or similar to at least one of the components of the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1, or the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 2 to 4, for example, and a description of a configuration identical to or similar to the preceding embodiment may be omitted below. In one embodiment, the electronic device (400) may be a wearable electronic device that can be worn on a user's body. However, it should be noted that the embodiment(s) of the present disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0128] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (400) may include a housing (401), a display (409), and a battery (407), and may be used while worn on a user's body by including a wearable member (250, 260) of FIG. 2 and / or FIG. 3. In one embodiment, the electronic device (400) may be configured to output visual information through at least a portion of a front surface (e.g., a first surface (210A) of FIG. 2) of the housing (401) using the display (409). In one embodiment, the display (409) (e.g., a front plate (201) of FIG. 2) may be understood as a part of the housing (401).

[0129] In one embodiment, the housing (401) may provide a space for accommodating electronic components such as a display (409) or a battery (407), and may include side members (411) and / or a back plate (492) (e.g., back plate (392) of FIG. 4). In one embodiment, the housing (401) may at least partially comprise an electrically conductive material, and a portion of the housing made of the electrically conductive material may function as an antenna or an electrode. In one embodiment, the term “electrode” may refer to a portion that can be contacted by a user, for example, a portion used when detecting user biometric information.

[0130] According to one embodiment, the side member (411) may be a structure that at least partially surrounds a space between a front surface (e.g., the first surface (210A) of FIG. 2) and a rear surface (e.g., the rear surface (210B) of FIG. 3) of the housing (401). In one embodiment, the side member (401) may be implemented in a circular or polygonal frame shape, thereby being a structure that substantially surrounds the space between the front surface and the rear surface of the housing (401). When the electronic device (400) includes wearable member(s) (e.g., wearable members (250, 260) of FIG. 2 and / or FIG. 3), the wearable member(s) may be understood to be substantially coupled or connected to the side member (411).

[0131] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (400) may include a wheel key (413a) arranged on the front of the housing (401). The wheel key (413a) may be arranged, for example, around an area where the display (409) outputs a screen. In one embodiment, the wheel key (413a) may be arranged in a rotatable manner around the perimeter of the display (409). In this case, the side member (411) may be implemented as a substantially circular frame. In one embodiment, the electronic device (400) may receive a user input by detecting a rotational direction of the wheel key (413a) or a rotational angle of the wheel key (413a). For example, the electronic device (400) may detect a rotational direction or rotational amount (e.g., rotational angle) of the wheel key (413a) by including an optical encoder or a Hall sensor (475) combined with an optical sensor. Although not shown, when configured to detect the rotation of the wheel key (413a) using a Hall sensor (475), the electronic device (400) may further include magnet(s) arranged on the wheel key (413a). The magnets may be arranged at equiangular intervals along the circumference of the wheel key (413a). When the wheel key (413a) rotates, the Hall sensor (475) may detect the rotation direction or rotation angle of the wheel key (413a) by detecting the magnet(s) passing through an area adjacent thereto.

[0132] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (400) may further include a guide ring (413b) provided between the housing (401) (e.g., the side member (411)) and the wheel key (413a). When the housing (401) and the wheel key (413a) are made of a metal material, the guide ring (413b) may suppress or alleviate friction between the housing (401) and the wheel key (413a), and provide an environment in which the wheel key (413a) can rotate more smoothly. For example, the guide ring (413b) may be made of a polymer synthetic resin such as acetal, and may provide lubrication in the rotation of the wheel key (413a).

[0133] Although not shown, a serration structure may be provided between the wheel key (413a) and the housing (401) (e.g., the side member (411)), so that the rotation of the wheel key (413a) can be perceived tactilely or audibly by the user. The serration structure may be implemented, for example, by spring(s) provided in the housing (401) and ball(s) supported by the spring(s) coming into contact with the wheel key (413a). In one embodiment, the wheel key (413a) may include grooves (or protrusions) provided in an area or trajectory that comes into contact with the ball(s), so as to be able to contact, rub against, or collide with the ball(s) during the rotational motion.

[0134] According to one embodiment, the display (409) may include a front plate made of glass or polymer (e.g., the front plate (201) of FIG. 1), and a display panel provided on the inside of the front plate, which may be coupled to a side member (411). The electronic device (400) may include a sealing member (491) (e.g., the sealing member (390) of FIG. 4) provided between the display (409) and the housing (401) (e.g., the side member (411)), thereby suppressing (or substantially blocking) moisture or foreign substances from entering the interior of the housing (401) from the outside.

[0135] In one embodiment, the back plate (492) may be coupled to the side member (411) in an opposite direction from the display (409) to provide the back surface of the housing (401) (e.g., the second side (210B) of FIG. 3). Although not shown, another sealing member may be provided at the edge of the back plate (492) to inhibit (or substantially block) moisture or foreign substances from entering the interior of the housing (401) between the back plate (492) and the side member (411).

[0136] According to one embodiment, the space between the display (409) and the back plate (492) may accommodate electronic components such as a battery (407) and a circuit board (408). In one embodiment, the electronic device (400) may further include a support member (406) (e.g., support member (360) of FIG. 4) to inhibit or prevent other electronic components from contacting or interfering with the display (409). The support member (406) may function as a structure capable of placing or fixing electronic components(s), such as, for example, a battery (407), a circuit board (408), a hall sensor (475), a switch member (473a), a vibration motor (471), and / or a speaker (481) (or microphone). In one embodiment, the support member (406) may be a frame-shaped structure surrounding the battery (407) and may include a protective plate (461) disposed between the battery (407) and the display (409), thereby substantially blocking the battery (407) from making direct contact with the display (409).

[0137] In one embodiment, the circuit board (408) may include an integrated circuit chip having a processor (e.g., processor (120) of FIG. 1) or a communication module (e.g., communication module (190) of FIG. 1). In one embodiment, the display (409) may be electrically connected to the circuit board (408) by including a first connecting substrate (499) (e.g., a flexible printed circuit board) that bypasses the support member (406). In one embodiment, the circuit board (408) may be understood to be disposed facing the display (409) with the support member (406) and / or the battery (407) interposed therebetween.

[0138] According to one embodiment, the Hall sensor (475), the switch member (473a), and / or the speaker (481) may be disposed around the periphery of the support member (406), for example, in the gap (or space) between the support member (406) and the side member (411). The locations of the Hall sensor (475), the switch member (473a), and / or the speaker (481) may be selected in consideration of the function and operating environment of the corresponding components. For example, the Hall sensor (475) may be disposed adjacent to the wheel key (413a) or adjacent to the movement (or rotation) trajectory of the magnet(s) built into the wheel key (413a), and the switch member (473a) may be disposed at a location that is easily accessible or operable by a user. In one embodiment, the switch member (473a) may be electrically connected to the circuit board (408) via a second connecting board (473b) (e.g., a flexible printed circuit board).

[0139] In one embodiment, the vibration motor (471) may be disposed on one side of the battery (407). The vibration motor (471) may generate vibration when, for example, an event designated by a user (e.g., receiving a message) occurs. In one embodiment, the vibration motor (471) may be disposed facing the display (409) with a portion of the support member (406) therebetween. For example, the vibration motor (471) may be understood as being disposed between the support member (406) and the circuit board (408).

[0140] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (400) may include various sensors disposed on the back plate (492). For example, the electronic device (400) may include a first sensor assembly (455a) disposed between the back plate (492) and the circuit board (408), and / or a second sensor assembly (455b) disposed on the back plate (492) and at least partially exposed to the external space. In one embodiment, the first sensor assembly (455a) and / or the second sensor assembly (455b) may be substantially the same as the sensor module (176) of FIG. 1. In one embodiment, the first sensor assembly (455a) may sense the operating environment (or operating state) of the electronic device (400) by detecting the temperature or humidity inside the housing (401). In one embodiment, the second sensor assembly (455b) may include a proximity sensor, an infrared sensor, and / or a biometric sensor to detect whether the electronic device (400) is worn on the user's body and / or user biometric information when the electronic device (400) is worn on the user's body. In one embodiment, the first sensor assembly (455a) and / or the second sensor assembly (455b) may be electrically connected to the circuit board (408) via a flexible printed circuit board or contact terminals (e.g., pogo pins or C-clips).

[0141] In one embodiment, the electronic device (400) may include at least one button (e.g., a key assembly (402)) as an input device. The key assembly (402) is, for example, a component that a user directly touches or manipulates, and a switch member (473a) may be operated when the user manipulates the key assembly (402). For example, the switch member (473a) may include a dome switch or a tact switch, and may generate an electrical signal when the key assembly (402) is operated. In one embodiment, the key assembly (402) may at least partially include an electrically conductive material. When including an electrically conductive material, the key assembly (402) may be utilized as an electrode for measuring a biosignal. For example, when a user wears the electronic device (400) on his / her left wrist and touches the key assembly (402) with his / her right hand, the electronic device (400) may measure user biometric information, such as an electrocardiogram.

[0142] The key assembly (402) of the electronic device (400) will be examined in more detail with reference to FIGS. 7 to 27.

[0143] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a portion of an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (400) of FIG. 5 or FIG. 6) taken along line BB of FIG. 6 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 8 is an enlarged view illustrating a portion E1 of FIG. 6 among a housing (401) of an electronic device (400) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0144] Referring to FIGS. 7 and 8, the key assembly (402) may include a body portion (521), a key cap (523), and / or interference members (525)(s). The key assembly (402) may be, for example, at least partially disposed in a receiving space (511a, 511b) provided in the housing (401). In one embodiment, the key assembly (402) may be movably received within the receiving space (511a, 511b), for example, reciprocally movably along a first direction (D1). In one embodiment, the interference members (525)(s) may interfere with some structure of the receiving space (511a, 511b) as the key assembly (402) flows. For example, the interference member (525)(s) may inhibit or prevent the key assembly (402) from disengaging from the housing (401) and may allow the key assembly (402) to move relative to the housing (401) within a specified range.

[0145] In one embodiment, when the key assembly (402) is utilized as an electrode for measuring a biosignal, the key assembly (402) may be electrically insulated from the housing (401) (e.g., the side member (411)) by including an insulating structure (e.g., a guide tube (527a)). In one embodiment, the guide tube (527a) may function as a structure that couples the key assembly (402) to the side member (411). In one embodiment, when the key assembly (402) is utilized for generating an input signal according to a user operation, the housing (401) (e.g., the side member (411)) may include a switch member (473a) positioned inside the key assembly (402) (e.g., the operating rod (523c)) to face the key assembly (402). For example, when a user operates the key assembly (402), the switch member (473a) may be activated to generate an input signal.

[0146] In one embodiment, the housing (401) and / or the side member (411) may include a first receiving space (511a) provided as a part of the receiving spaces (511a, 511b) and a second receiving space (511b) provided as another part of the receiving spaces (511a, 511b). The shape or area of ​​the first receiving space (511a) and the second receiving space (511b) may be more clearly understood with reference to FIG. 21. In one embodiment, the first receiving space (511a) may extend from an outer surface of the side member (411) along a first direction (D1) toward an inner side of the side member (411). For example, the first receiving space (511a) may be in the shape of a groove provided on the outer surface of the side member (411). In one embodiment, the second receiving space (511b) may be shaped to extend from the inner wall of the first receiving space (511a) at a position spaced apart from the outer surface of the side member (411). For example, the second receiving space (511b) may extend along a second direction (D2) intersecting the first direction (D1) from the inner wall of the first receiving space (511a). In one embodiment, when viewed from the outside of the side member (411) along the first direction (D1), the second receiving space (511b) may be understood to be concealed. However, it should be noted that this is for convenience of explanation and that the space in which the key assembly (402) is received is divided into the first receiving space (511a) and the second receiving space (511b). For example, the second receiving space (511b), when viewed in the state illustrated in FIG. 7, can be described as including an area in which the interference member (525)(s) is arranged among the receiving spaces (511a, 511b) and / or a lower area of ​​the interference member (525)(s).

[0147] In one embodiment, the guide tube (527a) may be positioned on the receiving space (511a, 511b) while being fixed to the side member (411). For example, a portion of the bottom surface of the receiving space (511a, 511b) may be implemented by the guide tube (527a). In one embodiment, when the key assembly (402) is aligned with the switch member (473a), the guide tube (527a) allows the actuation rod (523c) to pass therethrough, such that an end of the actuation rod (523c) may be positioned substantially inside the side member (411) (e.g., the inner space of the housing (401)). When the key assembly (402) (e.g., the actuation rod (523c)) is coupled to the guide tube (527a) in a movable state on the housing (401), the guide tube (527a) may be made of a polymeric material having lubricity, such as acetal. For example, the guide tube (527a) can facilitate the flow of the key assembly (402) and suppress friction or wear due to the flow of the key assembly (402).

[0148] According to one embodiment, the body portion (521) is at least partially disposed in the receiving spaces (511a, 511b) (e.g., the first receiving space (511a)) and can move back and forth in the first direction (D1) while being guided by the receiving spaces (511a, 511b). In one embodiment, the interference member (525)(s) can reciprocate along the first direction (D1) on the second receiving space (511b) together with the body portion (521). In one embodiment, in the state illustrated in FIG. 7, the right interference member (525) is supported on the upper end of the second receiving space (511b) so that the key assembly (402) or the left side of the body portion (521) can move downward in the first direction (D1). For example, a force applied by a user can be converted in a direction inclined to the first direction (D1). In one embodiment, even if a user pressing force acts on the key assembly (402) at an angle in the first direction (D1), the key assembly (402) can substantially move in the first direction (D1) due to the structure of the guide tube (527a) and / or the actuation rod (523c). In one embodiment, even if a user pressing force acts on the key assembly (402) at an angle in the first direction (D1), the actuation rod (523c) can at least partially move along the first direction (D1) by supporting the interference member (525) on the side member (411) (e.g., the upper end of the second receiving space (511b)).

[0149] As for the more specific shape or structure of the body part (521), let us examine it further with reference to FIGS. 9 and 10.

[0150] FIG. 9 is a first perspective view illustrating a body portion (521) of a key assembly (402) of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 10 is a second perspective view illustrating a body portion (521) of a key assembly (402) of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0151] Referring further to FIGS. 9 and 10, the body portion (521) may include first fastening holes (521a)(s), second fastening holes (521b)(s), and / or actuation holes (521c). In one embodiment, the first fastening holes (521a)(s) may extend from an outer surface (OS1) of the body portion (521), and the second fastening holes (521b)(s) may extend from an inner surface (IS1) of the body portion (521). The outer surface (OS1) of the body part (521) may refer to a surface facing the outer space of the side member (411), for example, when the body part (521) is placed in the first receiving space (511a), and the inner surface (IS1) of the body part (521) may refer to a surface facing the inner side of the side member (411), for example, when the body part (521) is placed in the first receiving space (511a).

[0152] In the illustrated embodiment, the first fastening hole (521a)(s) and / or the second fastening hole (521b)(s) are illustrated as having a shape penetrating the body portion (521), but it should be noted that the embodiment(s) of the present disclosure are not limited thereto. For example, the first fastening hole (521a)(s) may have one end closed and not be exposed on the inner surface (IS1) of the body portion (521). In one embodiment, the second fastening hole (521b)(s) may have one end closed and not be exposed on the outer surface (OS1) of the body portion (521). As will be described below, the fastening hooks of the key cap (523) and / or the interference member (525)(s) may be fastened to the first fastening hole (521a)(s) and / or the second fastening hole (521b)(s). In one embodiment, when the first binding hole (521a)(s) and / or the second binding hole (521b)(s) are of a through-hole structure, the internal pressure (e.g., air) of the first binding hole (521a)(s) and / or the second binding hole (521b)(s) can be smoothly discharged during the operation of assembling the key cap (523) and / or the interference member (525)(s) with the body portion (521).

[0153] In one embodiment, the actuation hole (521c) may be provided as a hole that receives at least a portion of the key cap (523) and / or the actuation rod (523c). For example, the key cap (523) may be coupled to an outer surface of the body portion (521), and when the key cap (523) is coupled to the body portion (521), the actuation rod (523c) may be disposed inwardly of the body portion (521) and / or into the internal space of the housing (401) through the actuation hole (521c). In one embodiment, first fastening holes (521a) may be disposed on both sides of the actuation hole (521c). For example, a plurality of first fastening holes (521a) and / or a plurality of first fastening hooks (523b) may be provided when fastening the key cap (523) to the body portion (521). In one embodiment, second fastening holes (521b) may be arranged on both sides of the operating hole (521c). For example, a plurality of second fastening holes (521b) and / or a plurality of second fastening hooks (e.g., the second fastening hooks (525b) of FIG. 18) may be provided to fasten the interference member (525) to the body portion (521). In the illustrated embodiment, it may be understood that a pair of second fastening holes (521b) is provided on one side of the operating hole (521c), and another pair of second fastening holes (521b) is provided on the other side of the operating hole (521c).

[0154] According to one embodiment, the key assembly (402) and / or the body portion (521) may further include an inclined surface or curved surface (CS) connecting the inner surface (IS1) of the second engaging hole (521b)(s) and the inner side surface (IS1) of the body portion (521). The inclined surface or curved surface (CS) may, for example, facilitate assembly of the interference member (525). For example, even if the interference member (525) and the body portion (521) are not properly aligned, the entrance of the second engaging hole (521b)(s) may be provided to be sufficiently large so that a portion of the interference member (525) (e.g., the second engaging hook (525b) of FIG. 18) may easily enter the second engaging hole (521b)(s). Although not given a reference number, the key assembly (402) and / or the body portion (521) may further include an inclined surface or curved surface connecting the inner surface of the first fastening hole (521a)(s) and the outer surface of the body portion (521). However, the embodiment(s) of the present disclosure are not limited thereto, and the key cap (523) and the body portion (521) can be easily aligned at the assembly position by a worker or a jig, and thus the inclined surface or curved surface connecting the inner surface of the first fastening hole (521a)(s) and the outer surface of the body portion (521) may be omitted.

[0155] According to one embodiment, the key assembly (402) and / or the body portion (521) may further include an alignment protrusion (521d) provided on an outer surface of the body portion (521). The alignment protrusion (521d) may be provided, for example, on one side of the actuation hole (521c) and may not be provided on the other side. In one embodiment, the alignment protrusions (521d) are provided on each side of the actuation hole (521c), but may be positioned asymmetrically with respect to the actuation hole (521c) or may have different shapes. The key cap (523) is a structure that is coupled to the outer surface of the body portion (521), and when the key cap (523) has an asymmetrical shape, the alignment protrusion (521d) may guide the coupling direction of the key cap (523) and the body portion (521).

[0156] Referring again to FIG. 7, the key cap (523) can be coupled to the body portion (521) in a designated direction under the guidance of the alignment protrusion (521d). For example, the key cap (523) can reciprocate on the side member (411) together with the body portion (521). A more specific shape or structure of the key cap (523) will be further described with reference to FIGS. 11 and 12.

[0157] FIG. 11 is a first perspective view illustrating a key cap (523) among a key assembly (e.g., the key assembly (402) of FIG. 7) of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 12 is a second perspective view illustrating a key cap (523) among a key assembly (402) of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0158] Referring further to FIGS. 11 and 12, the key cap (523) may include a key plate (523a), first engaging hooks (523b)(s), and / or an actuation rod (523c). In one embodiment, the key assembly (402) may at least partially comprise an electrically conductive material. For example, when the key assembly (402) is utilized as an electrode for measuring a biosignal, the key plate (523a) and / or the actuation rod (523c) may be made of an electrically conductive material. In one embodiment, when the key plate (523a) and / or the actuation rod (523c) comprise an electrically conductive material, the guide tube (527a) may electrically insulate the key assembly (402) (e.g., the key plate (523a) and / or the actuation rod (523c)) from the side member (411). In one embodiment, when an electrical insulation structure is unnecessary and sufficient lubrication is secured between the side member (411) and the operating rod (523c), the guide tube (527a) may be omitted, and the operating rod (523c) may be disposed partially inside the housing (401) by directly penetrating the side member (411).

[0159] According to one embodiment, the key plate (523a) may be a portion that is substantially exposed to the outside of the key assembly (402) and / or the housing (401) and may be a portion that a user directly operates or directly contacts. For example, the key plate (523a) may have a shape or color that is in harmony with the appearance of the electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (400) of FIG. 5). In one embodiment, the key plate (523a) as a portion that a user directly operates or directly contacts may provide a shape, color, and / or surface feel that a user can easily recognize visually or tactilely.

[0160] According to one embodiment, the first engagement hook (523b)(s) may protrude or extend from the inner surface of the key plate (523a). In one embodiment, the first engagement hook (523b)(s) may be engaged with the first engagement hole (521a), thereby securing the key plate (523a) and / or the key cap (523) to the body portion (521). In one embodiment, when a plurality of first engagement holes (521a) are provided, the key cap (523) may include a plurality of first engagement hooks (523b). For example, the plurality of first engagement hooks (523b) may be respectively provided on both sides of the actuation hole (521c) or the actuation rod (523c). In one embodiment, the first binding hook (523b)(s) can more firmly fix the key cap (523) to the body portion (521) by providing a first binding groove (523e) formed on the outer surface thereof. As will be described with reference to FIG. 17, when the first binding groove (523e) is provided on the outer surface of the first binding hook (523b)(s), a first binding protrusion (521e) that engages with the first binding groove (523e) may be formed on the inner wall of the first binding hole (521a)(s). In one embodiment, the first binding protrusion (521e) may be formed on the first binding hook (523b)(s), and the first binding groove (523e) may be provided on the inner wall of the first binding hole (521a)(s).

[0161] According to one embodiment, the operating rod (523c) may extend from the inner surface (IS2) of the key cap (523) and pass through the operating hole (521c) or the guide tube (527a) so that a portion thereof may be disposed inside the side member (411). Here, the 'inner surface (IS2) of the key cap (523)' may substantially refer to the inner surface of the key plate (523a). In one embodiment, since the first binding hook (523b)(s) is structured to be substantially disposed within the body portion (521), it may be understood that the operating rod (523c) extends longer from the inner surface (IS2) of the key cap (523) than the first binding hook (523b)(s). In one embodiment, the operating rod (523c) may further include a dummy recess (523f) provided on at least a portion of the outer circumferential surface. In one embodiment, the dummy home (523f) may have a closed curve trajectory surrounding the operating load (523c).

[0162] According to one embodiment, the key assembly (402) and / or the key cap (523) may further include an alignment groove (523d) provided on the inner side (IS2) of the key plate (523a). The alignment groove (523d) may be provided, for example, on one side of the actuation rod (523c) and may not be provided on the other side. In one embodiment, the alignment grooves (523d) are provided on each side of the actuation rod (523c), but may be positioned asymmetrically with respect to the actuation rod (523c) or may have different shapes. In one embodiment, the alignment groove (523d)(s) may be provided corresponding to the alignment protrusion (521d) of the body portion (521). For example, when the key cap (523) is coupled with the body portion (521), the alignment groove (523d) may accommodate at least a portion of the alignment protrusion (521d). By having the alignment protrusion (521d) and / or the alignment groove (523d) positioned asymmetrically with respect to the operating load (523c) or having an asymmetrical shape, the key cap (523) can be substantially coupled with the body portion (521) at a position or direction in which the alignment protrusion (521d) is received in the alignment groove (523d).

[0163] FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing a state in which a key cap (523) of a key assembly of an electronic device (e.g., the key assembly (402) of FIG. 7) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is assembled with a body portion (521). FIG. 14 is a perspective view showing a state in which an O-ring (527b) is assembled with a key cap (523) of a key assembly (402) of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 15 is a perspective view showing a state in which a key cap (523) of a key assembly (402) of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is assembled with a body portion (521). FIG. 16 is a drawing showing a state in which a key cap (523) of a key assembly (402) of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is assembled with a body portion (521).

[0164] Referring further to FIGS. 13 to 16, the key cap (523) can be assembled to the body portion (521) in a force-fit manner. For example, the key cap (523) can be coupled to the body portion (521) by closely contacting the key plate (523a) with the first fastening hook (523b)(s) aligned with the first fastening hole (521a)(s). As mentioned above, the key cap (523) can be aligned or coupled with the body portion (521) in a designated direction under the guidance of the alignment protrusion (521d) and / or the alignment groove (523d). In order for the key cap (523) to be firmly coupled to the body portion (521), the cross-sectional diameter of the first fastening hook (523b)(s) can be larger than the inner diameter of the first fastening hole (521a)(s).

[0165] According to one embodiment, when the cross-sectional diameter of the first binding hook (523b)(s) is larger than the inner diameter of the first binding hole (521a)(s), the key cap (523) and the body portion (521) may have different elastic moduli. For example, when the key cap (523) includes a metallic material having electrical conductivity, the body portion (521) may be made of a material (e.g., a polymer material) having a lower elastic modulus than the key cap (523). In one embodiment, when the body portion (521) has a lower elastic modulus than the key cap (523), the first binding hook (523b)(s) may be brought into closer contact with the inner surface of the first binding hole (521a)(s) in an operation in which the key cap (523) is coupled to the body portion (521) or in a coupled state, and the key cap (523) may be firmly fixed to the body portion (521). In one embodiment, the first fastening hole (521a)(s) may extend parallel to the direction in which the first fastening hook (523b)(s) extends (e.g., the first direction (D1) of FIG. 7), thereby facilitating assembly of the key cap (523) and the body portion (521). In one embodiment, the first fastening hole (521a)(s) may extend at an angle (e.g., at an angle of approximately 5 degrees or less) with respect to the direction in which the first fastening hook (523b)(s) extends (e.g., the first direction (D1) of FIG. 7), thereby enabling the key cap (523) to be more firmly fixed to the body portion (521).

[0166] According to one embodiment, the key assembly (402) may further include an O-ring (527b). In one embodiment, the O-ring (527b) may be coupled to the actuation rod (523c) to provide a waterproof / dustproof structure by being in close contact with the side member (411) or the guide tube (527a). In one embodiment, when the key cap (523) and / or the actuation rod (523c) further include a dummy groove (523f), the assembly position of the O-ring (527b) may be guided or the O-ring (527b) may be prevented from being dislodged from the assembly position. For example, at least a portion of the O-ring (527b) may be placed in the dummy groove (523f). However, the embodiment(s) of the present disclosure are not limited thereto, and the dummy groove (523f) may be omitted. In one embodiment, two or more O-rings (527b) and dummy grooves (523f) may be provided on the operating load (523c).

[0167] According to one embodiment, the key assembly (402) may further include an elastic member (e.g., a coil spring (529b)) and / or a washer (529a). The coil spring (529b) and / or the washer (529a) are substantially arranged around the periphery of the actuating rod (523c), and the coil spring (529b) may provide an elastic force in a direction that causes the key assembly (402) to protrude outwardly of the side member (411). For example, the coil spring (529b) may be a compression coil spring, one end of which is supported on the inner surface (IS2) of the key cap (523) (or the inner surface (IS1) of the body portion (521)) and the other end of which is supported on the bottom surface of the receiving space (e.g., the receiving space (511a, 511b) of FIG. 7 or 8), and may provide an elastic force in a direction that causes the two ends to move apart. When a guide tube (527a) is provided in the receiving space (511a, 511b), the other end of the coil spring (529b) may be supported on the guide tube (527a). In one embodiment, a washer (529a) may be disposed between the coil spring (529b) and the O-ring (527b). For example, the other end of the coil spring (529b) may be supported on the washer (529a) and may not substantially contact the O-ring (527b). As will be described with reference to FIGS. 23 and 24, when the operating rod (523c) enters the interior of the guide tube (527a), the O-ring (527b) may substantially contact the inner circumferential surface of the guide tube (527a), and the washer (529a) may be disposed on the receiving space to contact the guide tube (527a). For example, the coil spring (529b) may be understood to be supported on the guide tube (527a) via a washer (529a).

[0168] FIG. 17 is a drawing showing a key assembly (402) of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, cut along line CC of FIG. 16.

[0169] FIG. 17 can illustrate, for example, a state in which a key cap (523) is coupled to a body part (521). Referring further to FIG. 17, the key cap (523) has a left-right asymmetrical shape and can be coupled to the body part (521) in a designated direction under the guidance of an alignment protrusion (521d) and / or an alignment groove (523d) of FIG. 12. The key cap (523) can be fixed to the body part (521) in a state in which the first binding hooks (523b)(s) are accommodated into the interior of the body part (521). Here, the 'state in which the first binding hooks (523b)(s) are accommodated into the interior of the body part (521)' may refer to a state in which the first binding hooks (523b)(s) are engaged with the first binding holes (521a)(s). In one embodiment, the inner wall (or inner circumference) of the first binding hole (521a)(s) may be formed with first binding protrusions (521e)(s) to engage with the first binding grooves (523e)(s). For example, the key cap (523) may be firmly coupled to the body portion (521) by a combination of the elastic modulus of the key cap (523) or the body portion (521), the size (e.g., cross-sectional diameter or inner diameter) of the first binding hooks (523b)(s) and the first binding holes (521a)(s), and / or the first binding protrusions (521e)(s) and the first binding grooves (523e)(s). In a state where the key cap (523) is coupled to the body portion (521), at least a portion of the operating load (523c) and / or the dummy groove (523f) can be substantially positioned on the inner side (or lower position) of the body portion (521).

[0170] Referring back to FIG. 7, the interference members (525)(s) are disposed on the inner surface (IS1) of the body portion (521) and may at least partially protrude from the edge of the body portion (521). Here, the phrase "the interference members (525)(s) are disposed on the inner surface (IS1) of the body portion (521)" may refer to a position in which the interference members (525)(s) are aligned with the body portion (521) in the first direction (D1). In one embodiment, the phrase "the interference members (525)(s) at least partially protrude from the edge of the body portion (521)" may refer to a position in which a portion of the interference members (525)(s) protrudes from both edges of the body portion (521) in the second direction (D2).

[0171] According to one embodiment, the key assembly (402) may include a pair of interference members (525). For example, the interference members (525) may be disposed at opposite ends of the body portion (521) in the second direction (D2) or the longitudinal direction of the key cap (523). In one embodiment, it may be understood that the pair of interference members (525) are disposed symmetrically around the actuation hole (521c) or the actuation rod (523c). A more specific shape or structure of the interference members (525) will be further described with reference to FIGS. 18 and 19.

[0172] FIG. 18 is a first perspective view illustrating an interference member (525) among a key assembly (e.g., the key assembly (402) of FIG. 7) of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 19 is a second perspective view illustrating an interference member (525) among a key assembly (402) of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0173] Referring further to FIGS. 18 and 19, the interference member (525) may include an interference plate (525a) and / or second fastening hooks (525b)(s). The second fastening hooks (525b)(s) may be understood as, for example, protruding or extending from one surface of the interference plate (525a). In the illustrated embodiment, a configuration in which a pair of second fastening hooks (525b) are provided on one interference plate (525a) may be exemplified. In one embodiment, the second fastening hooks (525b)(s) may engage with the second fastening holes (521b)(s) to couple or secure the interference member (525) to the body portion (521). In one embodiment, the second binding hook (525b) may provide a second binding groove (525c), and the second binding protrusion (e.g., the second binding protrusion (521f) of FIG. 26) formed in the second binding hole (521b) may be engaged with the second binding groove (525c), thereby more firmly fixing the interference member (525) to the body portion (521).

[0174] In one embodiment, the interference member (525) can prevent the key assembly (402) from being dislodged from the housing (401) by interfering with the side member (411) and / or by being substantially restrained within the receiving space (511a, 511b) while being coupled to the body portion (521). In one embodiment, the range of movement of the key assembly (402) on the housing (401) can be limited by the restraint of the interference member (525) within the receiving space (511a, 511b). In one embodiment, the interference member (525) can be made of a rigid material, such as metal. For example, the interference member (525) can have sufficient mechanical strength and durability even with repeated interference with the side member (411).

[0175] According to one embodiment, when coupling the interference member (525) to the body portion (521), the relative sizes of the cross-sectional diameters of the second binding hooks (525b)(s) and the inner diameters of the second binding holes (521b)(s) and / or the relative elastic moduli of the interference member (525) and the body portion (521) may be similar to the relative configurations of the key cap (523) and the body portion (521). For example, the interference member (525) may have a larger elastic modulus than the body portion (521), and / or the cross-sectional diameters of the second binding hooks (525b)(s) may be larger than the inner diameters of the second binding holes (521b)(s). For example, the elastic modulus of the interference member (525) or the body portion (521), the size (e.g., cross-sectional diameter or inner diameter) of the second fastening hook(s) and the second fastening hole(s) (521b), and / or the combination of the second fastening protrusion(s) (521f) and the second fastening groove(s) (525c), may cause the interference member (525) to be firmly coupled to the body portion (521). In one embodiment, when the body portion (521) is made of synthetic resin, the key cap (523) or the interference member (525) may be made of metal. In one embodiment, the body portion (521) may be deformed into a designated shape while the key cap (523) or the interference member (525) is assembled, and may be restored to the initially manufactured shape after the key cap (523) or the interference member (525) is assembled at the designated position.

[0176] According to one embodiment, the interference member (525) can be assembled with the body portion (521) while being placed in the side member (411) (e.g., the receiving space (511a, 511b)). The operation(s) of assembling the interference member (525) to the body portion (521) will be described with reference to FIGS. 20 to 27.

[0177] FIG. 20 is a drawing showing an interference member (525) of a key assembly (e.g., key assembly (402) of FIG. 7) of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, arranged in a housing (401). FIGS. 21 and 22 are drawings for explaining an operation in which an interference member (525) of a key assembly (402) of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is arranged in a housing (401).

[0178] First, referring to FIGS. 20 to 22, the interference member (525) may be a structure that is substantially accommodated in the second accommodation space (511b) and interferes with a wall surface defining a portion of the second accommodation space (511b). For example, by interfering with the side member (411) while being arranged inside the accommodation space (511a, 511b) relative to the key cap (523) or the body portion (521) of the key assembly (402), the interference member (525) may substantially prevent the key assembly (402) from being separated from the side member (411). In one embodiment, a pair of interference members (525) may not be accommodated or assembled in the first accommodation space (511a) and / or the second accommodation space (511b) at the same time when assembled to the body portion (521). Therefore, when assembling the key assembly (402) to the side member (411), the body portion (521) and / or the key cap (523) can be assembled with the interference members (525) while the interference members (525) are first placed in the receiving space (e.g., the second receiving space (511b)).

[0179] According to one embodiment, when viewed from the outside of the side member (411) along the first direction (D1), the remaining area of ​​the first receiving space (511a) excluding the area where the guide tube (527a) is arranged may have a shape corresponding to the interference member (525) and / or the interference plate (525a). For example, the interference member (525) may enter the first receiving space (511a) along the first direction (D1) and be arranged at a position corresponding to the second receiving space (511b). In one embodiment, the interference plate (525a) may enter the second receiving space (511b) in a state inclined with respect to the first direction (D1) and then rotate or pivot in a direction in which it contacts the bottom surface of the receiving space (511a, 511b), thereby causing the interference member (525) to be arranged on the side member (411). The body part (521) and / or the key cap (523) can be assembled with the interference member (525) positioned on the side member (411). The operation(s) of assembling the body part (521) and / or the key cap (523) will be described with reference to FIGS. 23 to 27.

[0180] FIG. 23 and FIG. 24 are drawings for explaining an operation in which a body portion (521) and / or a key cap (523) of a key assembly (402) of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is assembled to an interference member (525).

[0181] Referring to FIGS. 23 and 24, the body portion (521) may be disposed on the side member (411) while the body portion (521), the key cap (523), the O-ring (527b) and / or the coil spring (529b) are coupled to each other. Here, the phrase “the body portion (521) is disposed on the side member (411)” may refer to the body portion (521) being assembled with the interference member (525)(s) in the side member (411) or the receiving space (511a, 511b). In FIGS. 23 and 24, reference numeral “AP” exemplifies a force or direction for assembling the body portion (521) to the interference member (525)(s), for example, the body portion (521) may be assembled with the interference member (525)(s) in a force-fit manner.

[0182] Comparing FIG. 22 and FIG. 23, it can be seen that the positions of the interference members (525) are somewhat different. For example, before being assembled with the body part (521), the interference members (525)(s) may be placed at any position within the receiving space (511a, 511b), and the state illustrated in FIG. 23 may be an example of an alignment position in which the body part (521) and the interference members (525)(s) may be assembled. However, at the time of actual assembly, the interference members (525)(s) may be out of the alignment position. In one embodiment, the body portion (521) is formed such that the entrance width (or diameter) of the second fastening hole (521b) (e.g., the second fastening hole (521b)(s) of FIG. 10) is larger than the outer diameter of the second fastening hook (525b), so that the body portion (521) and the interference member (525)(s) can be easily assembled even if they are somewhat misaligned. In one embodiment, the inner diameter of the second fastening hole (521b) can be substantially smaller than the outer diameter of the second fastening hook (525b), and the inclined surface or curved surface (CS) of FIG. 10 can guide the second fastening hook (525b) to enter the second fastening hole (521b) at the entrance of the second fastening hole (521b). In one embodiment, the outer diameter of the end of the second binding hook (525b) is implemented to gradually increase or decrease along the first direction (D1), so that the second binding hook (525b) can easily enter the second binding hole (521b).

[0183] In one embodiment, before the body portion (521) is coupled with the interference member (525), the operating rod (523c) may first enter the guide tube (527a), and an O-ring (527b) may be placed inside the guide tube (527a). In one embodiment, as in FIG. 24, when the body portion (521) reaches a position where it can no longer enter the inside of the side member (411), the washer (529a) may contact the guide tube (527a) on the receiving space. In one embodiment, the 'position where the body portion (521) can no longer enter the inside of the side member (411)' may refer to a position where the interference member (525) (e.g., the interference plate (525a)) is in substantial contact with the body portion (521) and contacts the bottom surface of the receiving space (511a, 511b).

[0184] In one embodiment, when the body portion (521) reaches a position where it can no longer enter the inside of the side member (411) and the washer (529a) is in contact with the guide tube (527a), the coil spring (529b) may accumulate elastic force. When the body portion (521) reaches a position where it can no longer enter the inside of the side member (411), the elastic force accumulated in the coil spring (529b) may act in a direction to disengage the key cap (523) and / or the body portion (521) from the side member (411) or the receiving space. In one embodiment, when the body portion (521) reaches a position where it can no longer enter the inside of the side member (411), a portion (e.g., an end portion) of the actuation rod (523c) may protrude into the inner space of the side member (411). In one embodiment, when the body portion (521) reaches a position where it can no longer enter the inside of the side member (411), the O-ring (527b) may remain substantially positioned inside the guide tube (527a). In one embodiment, when the key assembly (402) is operated by a user, the O-ring (527b) may move within the guide tube (527a) and rub against the guide tube (527a). In one embodiment, the guide tube (527a) may be made of a synthetic resin having lubricity, such as acetal, to inhibit wear of the O-ring (527b).

[0185] FIG. 25 is a drawing for explaining a state in which a body portion (521) and / or a key cap (523) of a key assembly (e.g., the key assembly (402) of FIG. 7) of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is assembled to an interference member (525). FIG. 26 is a drawing for explaining a state in which a body portion (521) and / or a key cap (523) of a key assembly (402) of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is assembled to an interference member (525), and is a drawing showing the electronic device and / or the key assembly (402) cut along line DD of FIG. 25.

[0186] Referring further to FIGS. 25 and 26, the aforementioned 'state where the body portion (521) reaches a position where it can no longer enter the inside of the side member (411)' may substantially refer to a state where the body portion (521) and the interference member (525)(s) are assembled to meet the design specifications. When the body portion (521) reaches a position where it can no longer enter the inside of the side member (411), the second fastening hook (525b)(s) may engage with one of the second fastening holes (521b). In one embodiment, the second binding hook (525b) is provided with one of the second binding protrusion (521f) and the second binding groove (525c) (e.g., the second binding groove (525c) of FIG. 18), and the second binding hole (521b) is provided with the other of the second binding protrusion (521f) and the second binding groove (525c), so that the interference member (525)(s) can be more firmly coupled to the body portion (521).

[0187] FIG. 27 is a drawing for explaining a key assembly (402) of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure arranged in a housing (401).

[0188] According to one embodiment, when the interference member (525)(s) is assembled to the body portion (521) and the force (AP) applied to the key cap (523) and / or the body portion (521) during the assembly operation is removed, the key assembly (402) may protrude from the outer surface of the side member (411) to a specified height. For example, by the action of the elastic force accumulated in the coil spring (529b), the interference member (525) may be spaced from the receiving space (511a, 511b) and a portion of the key assembly (402) may protrude from the outer surface of the side member (411). When a part of the key assembly (402) protrudes from the side member (411) by the coil spring (529b), the interference member (525) contacts or interferes with the internal structure of the side member (411), so that the key assembly (402) can remain at least partially accommodated in the receiving space (511a, 511b) without being detached from the side member (411). For example, when viewed in the first direction (D1), a part of the interference member (525) can be detached from the first receiving space (511a) and accommodated in the second receiving space (511b), and when the elastic force of the coil spring (529b) acts, the interference member can interfere with the inner wall or inner surface of the second receiving space (511b), thereby suppressing or preventing the key assembly (402) from being detached from the receiving space (511a, 511b).

[0189] According to one embodiment, an adhesive may be provided on at least a portion of an area facing the key cap (523) (e.g., the inner surface (IS2) of the key plate (523a) of FIG. 12) or at least a portion of an area facing the interference member (525) (e.g., the interference plate (525a) of FIG. 18) among the outer surface (OS1) and the inner surface (IS1) of the body portion (521) of FIG. 9 and / or FIG. 10. For example, the electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (400) of FIG. 4) and / or the key assembly (402) may further include an adhesive to more firmly secure the key cap (523) and the interference member (525) to the body portion (521). In one embodiment, the electronic device (400) and / or the key assembly (402) may further include a separate or additional adhesive provided in the fastening holes (521a, 521b) of FIG. 10. The adhesive provided in the binding holes (521a, 521b) can more firmly bind or fix the binding hooks (e.g., the first binding hook (523b) of FIG. 11 or the second binding hook (525b) of FIG. 18) to one of the binding holes (521a, 521b).

[0190] In the embodiments described below, reference numerals in the drawings may be the same or omitted for components that are substantially the same as or can be easily understood through the preceding embodiments, and detailed descriptions thereof may also be omitted. Some components of the key assemblies of the disclosed embodiments may be selectively combined with components of other embodiments to implement additional embodiments. For example, the first binding hook (523b) of FIG. 12 may be replaced with the second binding rib (623a) of FIG. 33 described below to implement an additional embodiment. In one embodiment, the interference member (525) of FIG. 7 may be replaced with the fixing member (729) of FIG. 48 to implement an additional embodiment.

[0191] FIG. 28 is a side view illustrating a key assembly (602) of an electronic device (e.g., key assembly (402) of FIG. 7) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 29 is a plan view illustrating a key assembly (602) of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 30 is a cutaway view illustrating the key assembly (602) along line EE of FIG. 29 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0192] In one embodiment, the body portion (621) (and / or key cap (623)) of FIGS. 28-30 may be at least partially similar to the body portion (621) (and / or key cap (623)) of FIG. 13. For example, although omitted in the embodiment of FIGS. 28-30, the key assembly (602) may further include the interference member (525) of FIG. 7 or FIG. 18. When the key assembly (602) of FIGS. 28-30 further includes the interference member (525), its shape or structure may be partially different from the interference member (525) of FIG. 7 or FIG. 18.

[0193] Referring to FIGS. 28 to 30, the key assembly (602) may include a body portion (621) and a key cap (623). The key cap (623) may include a key plate (523a) and an actuation rod (523c) extending from an inner surface of the key plate (523a), and the key plate (523a) may be coupled to an outer surface of the body portion (621) with the actuation rod (523c) penetrating the body portion (621). As will be further described with reference to FIG. 31, the body portion (621) may be provided with a first fastening rib (621a), and the actuation rod (523c) may be provided with a second fastening rib (623a). In one embodiment, the first binding rib (621a) is positioned between the key plate (523a) and the second binding rib (623a), thereby securing the key cap (623) to the body portion (621).

[0194] According to one embodiment, the key assembly (602) and / or the key cap (623) may include a first dummy groove (523f) and a second dummy groove (623g) formed on an outer surface of the actuation rod (523c). The first dummy groove (523f) may, for example, serve as a structure for guiding an assembly position of an O-ring (e.g., the O-ring (527b) of FIG. 13 or 14) or for fixing the O-ring (527b). In one embodiment, the first dummy groove (523f) may be positioned between the second fastening rib (623a) and the second dummy groove (623g). In one embodiment, the second dummy groove (623g) may be positioned between an end of the actuation rod (523c) and the first dummy groove (523f). In one embodiment, the first dummy groove (523f) and / or the second dummy groove (623g) may be formed to form a closed curve trajectory.

[0195] In one embodiment, the key assembly (602) may not include the interference member (525) of FIG. 7 or FIG. 18. For example, a second dummy groove (623g) may be positioned within the housing (401) or the side member (411) (e.g., the housing (401) or the side member (411) of FIG. 5), and a not-illustrated securing member (e.g., the securing member (729) of FIGS. 47-50) may be engaged with the second dummy groove (623g) to secure or restrain the key assembly (602) to the housing (401) or the side member (411). In one embodiment, the securing member may be understood to be included in the key assembly (402).

[0196] FIG. 31 is a plan view showing a body portion (621) of a key assembly (602) of an electronic device (e.g., the key assembly (402) of FIG. 7) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 32 is a side view showing a body portion (621) of a key assembly (602) of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0197] Referring further to FIGS. 31 and 32, the body portion (621) of the key assembly (602) may include protrusions (621b) formed on a surface facing the key cap (623) and an actuation hole (521c) formed in an area between the protrusions (621b). The protrusions (621b) may be partially accommodated in the key cap (623), for example, to stably couple the body portion (621) and the key cap (623). In one embodiment, an adhesive may be provided in the area or space between the body portion (621) and the key cap (623), thereby firmly fixing the body portion (621) and the key cap (623). In one embodiment, when including the protrusions (621b), the body portion (621) may be made of an elastic material such as silicone or rubber.

[0198] According to one embodiment, when viewed in the plan view of FIG. 31, the actuation hole (521c) may have a generally circular shape, and the first binding rib (621a) may be provided on the inner wall of the actuation hole (521c), so that a portion of the edge of the actuation hole (521c) may be provided in a straight shape. In the illustrated embodiment, two first binding ribs (621a) are provided, so that it can be understood that two different portions of the edge of the actuation hole (521c) are arranged in parallel. When the body portion (621) is made of an elastic material such as silicone or rubber, the first binding rib (621a) may have a greater elastic modulus than the remaining portion of the body portion (621). For example, the first binding rib (621a) may function as a mechanical binding structure between the key cap (623) and the body portion (621). When the first binding rib (621a) is made of a different material from the rest of the body portion (621), the body portion (621) can be manufactured through a double injection or insert injection process.

[0199] FIG. 33 is a perspective view illustrating a key cap (623) of a key assembly (602) of an electronic device (e.g., the key assembly (402) of FIG. 7) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 34 is a bottom view illustrating a key cap (623) of a key assembly (602) of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 35 is a side view illustrating a key cap (623) of a key assembly (602) of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 36 is a drawing illustrating a key cap (623) of a key assembly (602) of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, taken along line FF of FIG. 35.

[0200] Referring further to FIGS. 33 to 36, the key cap (623) may include a key plate (523a) and an actuation rod (523c). In one embodiment, the key plate (523a) may further include recessed portions (623b) provided on a surface (e.g., an inner surface (IS2)) facing the body portion (621). The recessed portions (623b) may be configured to receive, for example, one of the protrusions (621b) of the body portion (621). For example, by interlocking the protrusions (621b) and the recessed portions (623b), the key cap (623) and the body portion (621) may be firmly fixed to each other. In one embodiment, the adhesive provided between the key cap (623) and the body portion (621) may secure the protrusions (621b) to the bottom surface or side wall of the recessed portion (623b). In one embodiment, similar to the alignment protrusions (521d) of FIG. 9, the protrusions (621b) and / or the recessed portions (623b) may function as structures that guide the direction of coupling or assembly of the key cap (623) and the body portion (621).

[0201] In one embodiment, the second binding rib (623a) may be understood as extending from the outer circumferential surface of the operating rod (523c) between the first dummy groove (523f) and the key plate (523a). In one embodiment, when viewed in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 36, the second binding rib (623a) may have a shape corresponding to the operating hole (521c) in which the first binding ribs (621a) are provided. For example, the edge of the second binding rib (623a) may include two straight sections that are parallel to each other and curved sections connecting the straight sections. In one embodiment, when the first binding ribs (621a) are defined as being arranged along the longitudinal direction of the body portion (621), the second binding ribs (623a) may be understood as extending from the outer circumferential surface of the operating rod (523c) along the longitudinal direction of the key plate (523a). For example, the second binding ribs (623a) may be arranged along the length of the key plate (523a) while being symmetrically arranged around the operating rod (523c).

[0202] According to one embodiment, the key cap (623) may be coupled or bound to the body portion (621) by the first coupling rib (621a) and the second coupling rib (623a). In one embodiment, an adhesive is provided at least partially in the area or space between the key cap (623) (e.g., key plate (523a)) and the body portion (621), so that the key cap (623) may be firmly bound to the body portion (621). The structure by which the key cap (623) is coupled to the body portion (621) will be further described with reference to FIGS. 37 and 38.

[0203] FIG. 37 is a drawing for explaining an operation of assembling a key cap (623) of a key assembly (602) of an electronic device (e.g., the key assembly (402) of FIG. 7) to a body portion (621) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 38 is a drawing for explaining an operation of assembling a key cap (623) of a key assembly (602) of an electronic device to a body portion (621) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0204] Referring further to FIGS. 37 and 38, the key plate (523a) and the body portion (621) can be arranged in a position where the key plate (523a) contacts the body portion (621) by the actuation rod (523c) passing through the actuation hole (521c) while the key plate (523a) and the body portion (621) are aligned in a direction intersecting each other. Here, the 'direction in which the key plate (523a) and the body portion (621) intersect each other' may refer to, for example, a direction in which the second binding rib (623a) can pass through the actuation hole (521c) without interfering with the first binding rib (621a).

[0205] In one embodiment, when the second binding rib (623a) penetrates the operating hole (521c), the gap between the first binding rib (621a) and the key plate (523a) may be smaller than the gap between the second binding rib (623a) and the key plate (523a). In this state, the key cap (623) may rotate with respect to the body portion (621) so that the longitudinal direction of the key plate (523a) and the longitudinal direction of the body portion (621) are substantially aligned. The 'state in which the longitudinal direction of the key plate (523a) and the longitudinal direction of the body portion (621) are aligned' may refer to the states illustrated in, for example, FIGS. 28 to 30. Referring again to FIG. 30, when the longitudinal direction of the key plate (523a) and the longitudinal direction of the body portion (621) are aligned, the first binding rib (621a) can be substantially positioned between the key plate (523a) and the second binding rib (623a). For example, the key cap (623) can be bound or fixed to the body portion (621) by the first binding rib (621a) being bound between the key plate (523a) and the second binding rib (623a).

[0206] According to one embodiment, when the key cap (623) (or key plate (523a)) rotates with respect to the body portion (621) while the second binding rib (623a) penetrates the actuation hole (521c), the protrusions (621b)(s) may interfere with the key plate (523a). In one embodiment, the protrusions (621b) are made of an elastic material such as silicone or rubber, so that they may be deformed by the interference of the key plate (523a). For example, even if the body portion (621) includes the protrusions (621b)(s), the key cap (623) (or key plate (523a)) may be aligned or assembled in the states illustrated in FIGS. 28 to 30 by rotating with respect to the body portion (621) while the second binding rib (623a) penetrates the actuation hole (521c).

[0207] According to one embodiment, when the key cap (623) is aligned or assembled as shown in FIGS. 28 to 30, the protrusion (621b)(s) can be accommodated in any one of the recesses (623b) of the key cap (623). For example, in the direction in which the actuation rod (523c) extends, the key cap (623) can be fixed to the body portion (621) by the first binding rib (621a) and the second binding rib (623a). In one embodiment, in the direction of rotation about the actuation rod (523c), the key cap (623) can be fixed to the body portion (621) by the protrusion (621b)(s) and the recesses (623b)(s). Although not shown, an adhesive may be provided in at least a portion of the area or space between the body portion (621) and the key cap (623) so that the key cap (623) can be firmly fixed to the body portion (621).

[0208] FIG. 39 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a key assembly (702) of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure (e.g., the key assembly (402) of FIG. 7). FIG. 40 is a side view illustrating a key assembly (702) of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 41 is a plan view illustrating a key assembly (702) of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 42 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a key assembly (702) of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure along line GG of FIG. 41.

[0209] Referring to FIGS. 39 to 42, the key assembly (702) may include a body portion (721) and a key cap (723). The key cap (723) may include a key plate (523a) and an actuation rod (523c) extending from an inner surface of the key plate (523a), and the actuation rod (523c) may be coupled to an outer surface of the body portion (721) while penetrating the body portion (721). As illustrated in FIG. 42, the body portion (721) includes a catch protrusion (721a) provided on an inner surface of an actuation hole (521c) (e.g., the actuation hole (521c) of FIG. 44), and a binding rib (723a) may be provided on the actuation rod (523c). In one embodiment, a catch (721a) may be positioned between the key plate (523a) and the binding rib (723a) to secure the key cap (723) to the body (721). The key assembly (402) and / or the key cap (723) may include a first dummy groove (523f) and a second dummy groove (623g) formed on the outer surface of the operating rod (523c), and since this configuration is similar to the embodiment of FIG. 28, a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0210] According to one embodiment, the engaging protrusion (721a) may be formed to form a closed curve trajectory along the circumferential direction on the inner surface of the operating hole (521c). In one embodiment, the engaging rib (723a) may protrude or extend from the outer surface of the operating rod (523c). In one embodiment, the engaging rib (723a) may be formed to form a closed curve trajectory along the circumferential direction on the outer surface of the operating rod (523c). When the key cap (723) is assembled or engaged to the body portion (721), the engaging protrusion (721a) may be brought into close contact with the engaging rib (723a). In one embodiment, the body portion (721) and / or the engaging protrusion (721a) may be made of an elastic material such as silicone or rubber, thereby accumulating elastic force while in close contact with the engaging rib (723a). For example, the key plate (523a) is supported on the outer surface of the body part (721) and the fastening rib (723a) is supported on the catch jaw (721a), so that the key cap (723) can be firmly fixed to the body part (721).

[0211] According to one embodiment, in a structure in which a catch jaw (721a) is supported by a binding rib (723a), the inner diameter of the operating hole (521c) at the position where the catch jaw (721a) is formed may be smaller than the outer diameter of the binding rib (723a). For example, when the catch jaw (721a) enters the inner side of the body part (721) more than the catch jaw (721a), it may be assembled by a forced fit. In one embodiment, the body part (721) and / or the catch jaw (721a) are made of an elastic material and are implemented to be deformable or restorable, thereby allowing the catch rib (723a) to enter the inner side of the body part (721), and when the catch rib (723a) enters the inner side of the body part (721), it may be restored to a designed shape or a manufactured shape to support the catch rib (723a).

[0212] In one embodiment, the key assembly (702) may not include the interference member (525) of FIG. 7 or FIG. 18. For example, a second dummy groove (623g) may be disposed within the housing (401) or the side member (411) (e.g., the housing (401) or the side member (411) of FIG. 5), and a not-illustrated fixing member (729) (e.g., the fixing member (729) of FIGS. 47 to 50) may be engaged with the second dummy groove (623g) to engage or restrain the key assembly (702) to the housing (401) or the side member (411). In one embodiment, the fixing member (729) may be understood to be included in the key assembly (702). In one embodiment, when the key assembly (602) is utilized as an electrode for measuring a biosignal, the fixing member (729) may at least partially comprise an electrically insulating material. For example, the fixing member (729) may secure or restrain the key assembly (602) to the housing (401) while electrically insulating the key cap or actuation rod relative to the side member (411).

[0213] According to one embodiment, the key assembly (602) of FIG. 28 and / or the key assembly (702) of FIG. 39 may further include a coil spring (529b), a washer (529a), and / or an O-ring (527b) of FIG. 7. For example, when no external force is applied, the elastic force of the coil spring (529b) may be applied to maintain the key assembly (602, 702) in a designated position on the side member (411) (e.g., the side member (411) of FIG. 7). The O-ring (527b) may, for example, prevent moisture or foreign matter from entering through a gap between the side member (411) and the key assembly (602, 702). In one embodiment, the key assembly (602) of FIG. 28 and / or the key assembly (702) of FIG. 39 may not include the coil spring (529b) and / or the washer (529a) of FIG. 7. For example, when the body portion (621, 721) is made of an elastic material, the coil spring (529b) and / or the washer (529a) of FIG. 7 may be omitted, and the key assembly (602, 702) may be maintained in a designated position on the side member (411) (e.g., the side member (411) of FIG. 7) by the elastic force of the body portion (721).

[0214] FIG. 43 is a plan view showing a body portion (721) of a key assembly (702) of an electronic device (e.g., the key assembly (402) of FIG. 7) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 44 is a perspective view showing a body portion (721) of a key assembly (702) of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0215] Referring further to FIGS. 43 and 44, the body portion (721) of the key assembly (702) may include protrusions (621b) formed on a surface facing the key cap (723) and an actuation hole (521c) formed in an area between the protrusions (621b). The protrusions (621b) may be accommodated in, for example, a portion of the key cap (723) to stably couple the body portion (721) and the key cap (723). In one embodiment, an adhesive may be provided in an area or space between the body portion (721) and the key cap (723) to firmly fix the body portion (721) and the key cap (723). In one embodiment, when including the protrusions (621b), the body portion (721) may be made of an elastic material such as silicone or rubber. In one embodiment, when viewed in plan view of FIG. 43, the operating hole (521c) may have a generally circular shape, and the engaging protrusion (721a) of FIG. 42 may be provided on the inner wall of the operating hole (521c). The engaging protrusion (721a) may be formed to form a substantially closed curved trajectory.

[0216] FIG. 45 is a perspective view illustrating a key cap (723) of a key assembly (702) of an electronic device (e.g., the key assembly (402) of FIG. 7) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 46 is a side view illustrating a key cap (723) of a key assembly (702) of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0217] Referring further to FIGS. 45 and 46, the key cap (723) may include a key plate (523a) and an actuation rod (523c). In one embodiment, the key plate (523a) may further include recessed portions (623b) provided on a surface facing the body portion (721). The recessed portions (623b) may be configured to receive, for example, one of the protrusions (621b) of the body portion (721). For example, the key cap (723) and the body portion (721) may be firmly fixed to each other by interlocking the protrusions (621b) and the recessed portions (623b). In one embodiment, an adhesive further provided between the key cap (723) and the body portion (721) may fix the protrusions (621b) to the bottom surface or side wall of the recessed portions (623b).

[0218] According to one embodiment, the tie rib (723a) may be understood as extending from the outer circumference of the operating rod (523c) between the first dummy groove (523f) and the key plate (523a). In one embodiment, the tie rib (723a) may be provided to form a closed curved trajectory extending along the circumference of the operating rod (523c). However, the embodiment(s) of the present disclosure are not limited thereto, and the tie rib (723a) may be provided in a trajectory similar to or substantially identical to the second tie rib (623a) of FIG. 33. For example, an embodiment may be implemented in which a plurality of tie ribs (723a) are arranged along the circumference of the operating rod (523c). In one embodiment, the plurality of tie ribs (723a) may be arranged at equiangular intervals along the circumference of the operating rod (523c).

[0219] FIG. 47 is a plan view showing a key assembly (702) of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure (e.g., the key assembly (402) of FIG. 7) disposed in a housing (401) or a side member (411). FIG. 48 is a perspective view showing a key assembly (702) of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure disposed in a housing (401) or a side member (411).

[0220] Referring to FIGS. 47 and 48, the key assembly (702) (e.g., key assembly (402, 602, 702) of FIGS. 7, 28, and / or 39) may be coupled substantially on an outer surface of the side member (411), such that an end of the actuation rod (523c) is positioned in an inner space of the side member (411). In one embodiment, the key assembly (702) and / or the electronic device (400) of FIG. 5 may further include a securing member (729) coupled to the actuation rod (523c) on the inner side of the side member (411). When the securing member (729) is further included, the interference member (525)(s) of FIG. 7 may be omitted. For example, the key assembly (402) can be prevented from being separated from the side member (411) by the fixing member (729) being supported on the inner surface of the side member (411) inside the housing (401), and for example, the interference member (525)(s) of FIG. 7 can be omitted. In one embodiment, the key assembly (402) including the interference member (525)(s) of FIG. 7 can be stably placed or assembled to the side member (411) even without the fixing member (729). When placed on the side member (411), the key assembly (402) can function as a button for operating the switch member (473a) (e.g., the switch member (473a) of FIG. 7), or as an electrode for detecting a user's biosignal.

[0221] FIG. 49 is a first perspective view illustrating a fixing member (729) of a key assembly (702) of an electronic device (e.g., the key assembly (402) of FIG. 7) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 50 is a second perspective view illustrating a fixing member (729) of a key assembly (702) of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0222] Referring further to FIGS. 49 and 50, the fastening member (729) may include a first slit (729b) that receives a portion of the actuation rod (523c). The first slit (729b) may, for example, extend inwardly from an edge of the fastening member (729) toward the inside of the fastening member (729). In one embodiment, when the fastening member (729) is disposed on the side member (411), the first slit (729b) may be understood to be aligned in a direction intersecting the longitudinal direction of the key cap (723) (or key plate (523a)). In one embodiment, the first slit (729b) may be understood to extend inwardly from an edge of the fastening member (729) along a direction intersecting the longitudinal direction of the key cap (723) (or key plate (523a)). In one embodiment, the fixing member (729) may include a fixing plate (729a) providing a first slit (729b) and at least one support plate (729c) bent from an edge of the fixing plate (729a). For example, the first slit (729b) may be understood to extend from an edge of the fixing plate (729a), and the at least one support plate (729c) may be implemented to be inclined or perpendicular to the fixing plate (729a).

[0223] According to one embodiment, the inner diameter or width of the first slit (729b) may be larger than the smallest outer diameter on the second dummy groove (623g) and smaller than the outer diameter of the operating rod (523c). For example, the fixing member (729) may be assembled to the operating rod (523c) while a portion of the operating rod (523c) is accommodated in the first slit (729b) at a location where the second dummy groove (623g) is formed. In a state where the fixing member (729) is bound to the operating rod (523c), the fixing member (729), for example, the fixing plate (729a), may be brought into contact with or adhered to the inner surface of the side member (411) by the elastic force provided by the coil spring (529b) of FIG. 7 or the body portion (721) of FIG. 44.

[0224] In one embodiment, when the fixed plate (729a) is in contact with the inner surface of the side member (411), the support plate (729c) may be in contact with another surface of the side member (411), for example, an upper surface (or lower surface) different from the inner surface. For example, the fixed plate (729a) may be in contact with the inner surface of the side member (411) while being engaged with the operating rod (523c), and the support plate (729c) may be in contact with the side member (411) while being arranged at an angle or perpendicular to the fixed plate (729a), such that the fixed member (729) may be disposed on the side member (411). In one embodiment, when the key assembly (402) is moved on the side member (411) by a user's manipulation, the fixed member (729) (e.g., the fixed plate (729a)) may be temporarily separated from the side member (411).

[0225] FIG. 51 is a drawing for explaining an operation of assembling a fixing member (729) of a key assembly of an electronic device (e.g., the key assembly (702) of FIG. 39) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 52 is a drawing for explaining an assembled appearance of a fixing member (729) of a key assembly (702) of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 53 is a drawing for explaining an assembled appearance of a fixing member (729) of a key assembly (702) of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and is a drawing showing the electronic device cut along line HH of FIG. 47.

[0226] Referring to FIGS. 51 to 53, the fixing member (729) can be fastened to the operating rod (523c) while the operating rod (523c) protrudes inwardly from the side member (411). For example, the fixing member (729) can be fastened to the operating rod (523c) by moving in a direction in which the operating rod (523c) enters the first slit (729b) at a position where the second dummy groove (623g) is formed. While the operating rod (523c) enters the first slit (729b), the fixing plate (729a) can rub against the side member (411).

[0227] According to one embodiment, the position at which at least one support plate (729c) contacts the upper surface (or lower surface) of the side member (411) may be substantially an assembly position of the fixing member (729). For example, at a position at which the operating rod (523c) has sufficiently entered the first slit (729b) or at a position at which the operating rod (523c) is substantially engaged with the fixing member (729), at least one support plate (729c) may contact the side member (411).

[0228] In one embodiment, the side member (411) may be provided with a guide tube (527a) (e.g., the guide tube (527a) of FIG. 7). For example, an operating rod (523c) may pass through the guide tube (527a) and enter the inside of the side member (411). In one embodiment, an O-ring (527b) disposed on the operating rod (523c) may substantially close a gap between the operating rod (523c) and the guide tube (527a), thereby inhibiting or preventing moisture or foreign substances from entering the inside of the side member (411).

[0229] According to one embodiment, in a structure where the coil spring (529b) of FIG. 7 is omitted, the body portion (721) of the key assembly (402) may be in contact with or supported by the side member (411) (or the guide tube (527a)). For example, the body portion (721) may provide an elastic force in a direction in which the key assembly (402) protrudes outward from the side member (411), and the fixing member (729) may be supported on the inner surface of the side member (411) to suppress or prevent the key assembly (402) from being separated from the side member (411). In one embodiment, even if the body portion (721) is made of an elastic material, the key assembly (402) may include the coil spring (529b) of FIG. 7. For example, the elasticity of the body part (721) and the elasticity of the coil spring (529b) can be combined to maintain or support the key assembly (402) at a designated position on the side member (411).

[0230] FIG. 54 is a drawing for explaining an assembled state of a fixing member (729) among key assemblies of an electronic device (e.g., key assembly (702) of FIG. 39) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0231] Referring to FIG. 54, the electronic device and / or key assembly (702) may include at least one welding mark (WP). In one embodiment, the 'welding mark (WP)' may be, for example, a trace formed by welding at at least one point when coupling the fixing member (729) to the actuating rod (523c). For example, the fixing member (729) may be substantially fixed to the actuating rod (523c) by welding. In one embodiment, the number or shape (e.g., area or trajectory) of the welding marks (WP) may be implemented in various ways, taking into account the allowable area (or space) on the key assembly (402) and / or the bonding force between the fixing member (729) and the actuating rod (523c).

[0232] FIG. 55 is a drawing showing a fixing member (729) among a key assembly (e.g., key assembly (702) of FIG. 39) of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 56 is a drawing showing a fixing member (729) among a key assembly (702) of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0233] First, referring to FIG. 55, the fixing member (729) may further include support ribs (729d)(s) that protrude (or extend) inwardly from the edge of the first slit (729b) of the first slit. In FIG. 55, a portion indicated by reference numeral 'BP' may be a portion of the first slit (729b) and may be an example of an area where the operating rod (523c) is positioned when the fixing member (729) is fastened to the operating rod (523c). For example, the width of the first slit (729b) in the portion where the support ribs (729d)(s) are provided may be smaller than the smallest outer diameter of the operating rod (523c) in the portion where the second dummy groove (623g) is provided. For example, the support ribs (729d)(s) can substantially support the operating rod (523c) to secure the operating rod (523c) to the first slit (729b) or the region indicated as 'BP'. In one embodiment, while the operating rod (523c) passes through the section provided with the support ribs (729d)(s), the fixing member (729) (e.g., the fixing plate (729a)) can be temporarily deformed so that the operating rod (523c) can enter the region indicated as 'BP'. In one embodiment, after the operating rod (523c) enters the region indicated as 'BP', the fixing member (729) (e.g., the fixing plate (729a)) can be restored to the designed shape or the manufactured shape.

[0234] Referring to FIG. 56, the fixing member (729), for example, the fixing plate (729a), may further include at least one second slit (729e) extending from the first slit (729b) on the inner side of the fixing member (729). In the illustrated embodiment, a configuration in which two second slits (729e) are provided is provided, but it should be noted that the embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto. For example, three or more second slits (729e) having a smaller width than in the illustrated embodiment may be formed. As mentioned above, when the operating rod (523c) passes through the section in which the support ribs (729d)(s) are formed, the fixing member (729) is temporarily deformed. The second slit (729e)(s) may, for example, facilitate deformation of the fixing member (729) in the motion in which the operating rod (523c) enters the first slit (729b) by increasing the flexibility of the fixing member (729), and / or promote restoration of the fixing member (729) in a state in which the operating rod (523c) is positioned in the area indicated by 'BP'.

[0235] According to one embodiment, reference numeral 'S1' of FIG. 56 may exemplify a modified shape of the first slit (729b). For example, the first slit (729b) may exemplify a shape having the largest width at the edge of the fixing member (729) and gradually decreasing in width as it approaches the area indicated by 'BP'. In one embodiment, the shape of the first slit (729b) with a gradually changing width may facilitate the entry of the operating rod (523c) into the first slit (729b). In one embodiment, reference numeral 'S2' of FIG. 56 may exemplify a modified shape or position of the second slit (729e). As mentioned above, the number, position, and / or shape of the second slits (729e) may be implemented in various ways in consideration of the mechanical stability of the fixing member (729) or the assembling ability of the operating rod (523c).

[0236] FIG. 57 is a drawing for explaining an assembled state of a fixing member (829) among a key assembly of an electronic device (e.g., a key assembly (702) of FIG. 39) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 58 is a drawing for explaining an assembled state of a fixing member (829) among a key assembly (702) of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 59 is a drawing for explaining an assembled state of a fixing member (829) among a key assembly (702) of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 60 is a drawing for explaining an assembled state of a fixing member (829) among a key assembly (702) of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and is a drawing for showing the electronic device cut along line II of FIG. 59.

[0237] Referring to FIGS. 57 to 60, the fixing member (829) may include support plates (729c, 829c) provided at both ends of the fixing plate (729a). For example, the fixing member (829) may include a first support plate (729c) bent at one edge of the fixing plate (729a) and second support plates (829c) bent at the other edge of the fixing plate (729a). In one embodiment, the first support plate (729c) may be substantially the same as the support plate (729c) of FIG. 49. In one embodiment, when a plurality of second support plates (829c) are provided at the other edge of the fixing plate (729a), the first slit (729b) may be understood to extend inwardly of the fixing plate (729a) in the area between the second support plates (829c). In one embodiment, the support plates (729c, 829c) may be understood to be arranged at an angle or perpendicular to the fixed plate (729a).

[0238] According to one embodiment, when the key assembly (402) is disposed on the side member (411), the fixed plate (729a) is disposed to contact the inner surface of the side member (411), and the support plates (729c, 829c) can contact the side member (411) on a surface different from the inner surface of the side member (411) (e.g., an upper surface or a lower surface of the side member (411)). For example, when the first support plate (729c) is defined as contacting the upper surface of the side member (411), the second support plates (829c) can be configured to contact the lower surface of the side member (411). When including the support plates (729c, 829c), the fixed member (829) can be assembled to the operating rod (523c) in a state where the key assembly (402) has sufficiently moved inward of the side member (411) by an external force. In order to assemble the fixed member (829), the position or distance by which the key assembly (702) moves on the side member (411) may be greater than the length (or height) of the support plates (729c, 829c) measured in a direction perpendicular to one side of the fixed plate (729a). The operation of fastening the fixed member (729) of FIG. 58 to the operating rod (523c) will be further described with reference to FIG. 61.

[0239] FIG. 61 is a drawing for explaining an operation of assembling a fixing member (729) in a key assembly of an electronic device (e.g., key assembly (702) of FIG. 39) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0240] In one embodiment, a portion of the inner surface of the body portion (721) may be in direct contact with the side member (411), and a remaining portion of the inner surface of the body portion (721) may not be in direct contact with the side member (411). For example, the key assembly (402) may be disposed on the side member (411) such that a first gap, indicated by 'G1' in FIG. 60, is maintained between the side member (411) and the inner surface of the body portion (721). The first gap (G1) may be, for example, an example of a distance or a section through which the key assembly (402) moves on the side member (411) when a user wishes to operate a switch member (e.g., a switch member (473a) in FIG. 7).

[0241] In one embodiment, when the fixing member (829) includes first support plates (729c) and second support plates (829c) and the first slit (729b) is positioned in the area between the second support plates (829c), the second support plates (829c) or the first support plate (729c) may interfere with the upper or lower surface of the side member (411), making it difficult to assemble the fixing member (729) to the actuation rod (523c) in the manner as in FIG. 51 or FIG. 52. Referring further to FIG. 61, the fixing member (829) can be assembled to the actuation rod (523c) while the key assembly (402) is pressed in the direction indicated by 'AP'. For example, when the key assembly (402) moves further inward of the side member (411) by the first distance (G1) from the state illustrated in FIG. 60, the second dummy groove (623g) is spaced apart from the side member (411) by the first distance (G1) as illustrated in FIG. 61, and the fixing member (729) moves in the direction indicated by 'AP1' so that the operating rod (523c) can enter the inside of the first slit (729b). While the second dummy groove (623g) remains spaced apart from the side member (411) by the first distance (G1), the second support plates (829c) can move across the inner surface of the side member (411) in the direction indicated by 'AP1' (e.g., from the top to the bottom of the side member (411)) without interfering with the side member (411). In this way, the fixed member (729) can be easily assembled with the operating rod (523c) while including the support plates (729c, 829c) provided at both ends of the fixed plate (729a).

[0242] FIG. 62 is a drawing for explaining an assembled state of a fixing member (729) among key assemblies of an electronic device (e.g., key assemblies (702) of FIG. 39) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 63 is a drawing for explaining a support structure of a fixing member (729) among key assemblies (702) of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0243] Referring further to FIGS. 62 and 63, a distance measured along the longitudinal direction (LD) of the key cap (723) from the actuating rod (523c) to the edge of the fixing member (729) when disposed on the side member (411) may be greater than the diameter of the actuating rod (523c) (or the width of the actuating rod (523c)). When the actuating rod (523c) is not circular, the width of the actuating rod (523c) may refer to the width measured along the longitudinal direction (LD) of the key cap (723). In FIGS. 62 and 63, a distance from the actuating rod (523c) to the edge of the fixing member (729) (e.g., a distance indicated as 'SD') may be, for example, an example of a distance from the radial center of the actuating rod (523c) to the edge of the fixing member (729). In one embodiment, when measured along the longitudinal direction (LD) of the key cap (723), the distance from the radial center of the actuating rod (523c) to the edge of the fixing member (729) may be approximately 1.5 times or more the diameter of the actuating rod (523c).

[0244] According to one embodiment, when the fixing member (729) has a width (or length) greater than the diameter of the actuation rod (523c) in the longitudinal direction (LD) of the key cap (723), the operation of the switch member (473a) using the key assembly (402) can be stably performed. For example, the fixing member (729) can support an operation of operating the switch member (473a) while inhibiting (or preventing) the key assembly (402) from being disengaged from the side member (411). In one embodiment, to operate the switch member (473a), the user can press the key assembly (402) at a point exemplified by 'PP1' or 'PP2' in FIG. 63, for example. For example, the switch member (473a) can be stably operated when the user presses the key assembly (402) at 'PP1', which is closer to the actuation rod (523c).

[0245] In one embodiment, since the point indicated by 'PP2' is misaligned with the operating rod (523c), the operating rod (523c) may not move as much as the user intends. In one embodiment, when the fixing member (729) has a width that is approximately three times or more the diameter of the operating rod (523c) in the longitudinal direction of the key cap (723), the switch member (473a) can be operated more stably even if the point where the user contacts the key cap (723) is somewhat misaligned with the operating rod (523c). Here, the 'width of the fixing member (729)' may be approximately twice the distance indicated by 'SD' in FIG. 62 and / or FIG. 63. For example, when the fixed member (729) has a considerably large width (e.g., approximately three times or more the diameter of the operating rod (523c)) compared to the diameter of the operating rod (523c), an environment in which the operating rod (523c) can operate the switch member (473a) can be provided while a portion of the edge of the fixed member (729) (e.g., the point indicated by 'SP') is supported by the side member (411). In one embodiment, the larger the width of the fixed member (729), the more stable the operation of operating the switch member (473a) using the support structure of the fixed member (729) or the key assembly (402) can be.

[0246] According to one embodiment, when an external force is applied at a point indicated as 'PP2', the displacement (DP) of the key assembly (702) may be largest at the point indicated as 'PP2' and smallest at the point indicated as 'SP'. In one embodiment, when an external force is applied at a point indicated as 'PP2', the displacement of the actuation rod (523c) may be smaller than the displacement at the point indicated as 'PP2' and larger than the displacement at the point indicated as 'SP'. In one embodiment, the position of the actuation rod (523c) on the key assembly (702) (e.g., the keycap (723)) and / or the width (e.g., the distance indicated as 'SD') of the fixing member (729) may be appropriately selected so as to secure a displacement (e.g., the displacement of the actuation rod (523c)) sufficient to actuate the switch member (e.g., the switch member (473a) of FIG. 7). In one embodiment, the greater the distance from the point indicated by 'SP' to the operating load (523c), the easier it is to secure displacement for operating the switch member.

[0247] According to one embodiment, the interference members (525)(s) of FIG. 7 are disposed substantially at both ends in the longitudinal direction (LD) of the key assembly (402) and can inhibit or prevent the key assembly (402) from being separated from the side members (411) by interfering with the side members (411). In one embodiment, the interference members (525)(s) may be understood as a structure that is part of the key assembly (402) and is disposed furthest from the actuation rod (523c) in the longitudinal direction of the key cap (723). For example, even if a user operates the key assembly (402) at a position that is misaligned with the actuation rod (523c) (e.g., a position indicated by 'PP2' in FIG. 63), the interference members (525)(s) can provide an environment for stably operating the switch member (473a). For example, when the key assembly (402) includes the interference member (525)(s), the interference member (525)(s) may be supported (or interfered) with the side member (411) at a position further than the distance illustrated as 'SD' in FIG. 63, so that the operation of operating the switch member (473a) can be stable regardless of the user's pressing position. In one embodiment, when the key assembly (402) includes the interference member (525)(s), the fixing member (729) may be omitted.

[0248] As described above, the key assembly (e.g., the key assembly (402, 602, 702) of FIGS. 5, 7, 28, and / or 39) and / or the electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1 and / or the electronic device (101, 400) of FIGS. 2 to 6) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include an interference member (e.g., the interference member (525) of FIG. 7)(s) so that an input operation through a switch member (e.g., the switch member (473a) of FIG. 5 or 7) can be stabilized. In one embodiment, the interference member(s) function as a structure that prevents the key assembly from being dislodged while stabilizing the input operation, thereby simplifying the structure of the key assembly or the key assembly assembly structure on the electronic device. In one embodiment, the key assembly may be designed or manufactured to have a size that is easy for a user to visually or tactilely recognize as the input operation is stabilized. In one embodiment, the key assembly may provide a sufficient surface area for a user to contact, thereby facilitating detection of user biometric information (e.g., heart rate or electrocardiogram), and increasing the accuracy of the detected biometric information.

[0249] The effects that can be obtained from the present disclosure are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects that are not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure pertains from the description of the above-described embodiment(s).

[0250] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device (e.g., an electronic device (101) of FIG. 1 and / or an electronic device (101, 400) of FIGS. 2 to 6) comprises a housing (e.g., a housing (401) of FIGS. 5 to 7) including a first receiving space (e.g., a first receiving space (511a) of FIG. 7) extending from an outer surface of a side member (e.g., a side member (411) of FIGS. 5 to 7) in a first direction (e.g., a first direction (D1) of FIG. 7) toward the inside of the side member (411), and at least one second receiving space (511b) extending from an inner wall of the first receiving space (511a) in a second direction (e.g., a second direction (D2) of FIG. 7) intersecting the first direction (D1) at a position spaced apart from the outer surface of the side member (411), and at least partially including the first receiving space It may include a key assembly (e.g., key assembly (402, 602, 702) of FIG. 5, FIG. 7, FIG. 28, and / or FIG. 39) accommodated in the space (511a) and the second accommodation space (511b).In one embodiment, the key assembly (402, 602, 702) comprises a body portion (e.g., the body portion (521) of FIG. 7, FIG. 9, or FIG. 10) that is at least partially disposed in the first receiving space (511a) and includes at least one first engaging hole extending from an outer surface (e.g., the first engaging hole (521a) of FIG. 9 or FIG. 10) and at least one second engaging hole extending from an inner surface (e.g., the second engaging hole (521b) of FIG. 9 or FIG. 10), and a key cap (e.g., the body portion (521) of FIG. 7, FIG. 9, or FIG. 10) that is coupled to an outer surface of the body portion (721) by including a first engaging hook (e.g., the first engaging hook (523b) of FIG. 7, FIG. 11, or FIG. 12) that is coupled to the at least one first engaging hole (521a). The key cap (523)) and the second fastening hook (e.g., the second fastening hook (525b) of FIG. 18 or FIG. 19) fastened to the at least one second fastening hole (521b) may be coupled to the inner surface of the body portion (721), and may include an interference member (e.g., the interference member (525) of FIG. 7, FIG. 18 or FIG. 19) at least partially accommodated in the second accommodation space (511b).

[0251] According to one embodiment, the interference member (525) is disposed within the second receiving space (511b) and can reciprocate along the first direction (D1).

[0252] According to one embodiment, the body portion (721) may have a first elastic coefficient, and the key cap (723) or the interference member (525) may have a second elastic coefficient greater than the first elastic coefficient.

[0253] According to one embodiment, the at least one first binding hole (521a) or the at least one second binding hole (521b) may extend parallel to the first direction (D1) or may extend at an angle with respect to the first direction (D1).

[0254] According to one embodiment, the key cap (723) may include an electrically conductive material.

[0255] According to one embodiment, the key assembly (402) may further include a first engaging protrusion (e.g., the first engaging protrusion (521e) of FIG. 17) formed on one of the inner wall of the at least one first engaging hole (521a) and the outer surface of the first engaging hook (523b), and a first engaging groove (e.g., the first engaging groove (523e) of FIG. 17) formed on the other of the inner wall of the at least one first engaging hole (521a) and the outer surface of the first engaging hook (523b). In one embodiment, the key cap (723) may be fixed to the body portion (721) by engaging the first engaging protrusion (521e) with the first engaging groove (523e).

[0256] According to one embodiment, the key assembly (402) may further include a second locking projection (e.g., the second locking projection (521f) of FIG. 18 or FIG. 19) formed on one of the inner wall of the at least one second locking hole (521b) and the outer circumference of the second locking hook (525b), and a second locking groove (e.g., the second locking groove (525c) of FIG. 26) formed on the other of the inner wall of the at least one second locking hole (521b) and the outer circumference of the second locking hook (525b). In one embodiment, the interference member (525) may be fixed to the body portion (721) by engaging the second locking projection (521f) with the second locking groove (525c).

[0257] According to one embodiment, the key assembly (402) may further include an operation rod (e.g., operation rod (523c) of FIG. 7, FIG. 11, or FIG. 12) extending from the inner surface of the key cap (723) and protruding from the inner surface of the body portion (721).

[0258] In one embodiment, the key assembly (402) may further include a guide tube (e.g., guide tube (527a) of FIG. 6 or 7) coupled to the side member (411), and an O-ring (e.g., O-ring (527b) of FIG. 7, FIG. 13, or FIG. 14) coupled to surround at least a portion of an outer circumferential surface of the operating rod (523c). In one embodiment, the operating rod (523c) is disposed to penetrate the guide tube (527a), and the O-ring (527b) may be in contact with the guide tube (527a).

[0259] According to one embodiment, the key assembly (402) may further include a dummy recess (e.g., dummy recess (523f) of FIG. 11 or FIG. 12) formed on the outer surface of the operating rod (523c). In one embodiment, at least a portion of the O-ring (527b) may be accommodated in the dummy recess.

[0260] According to one embodiment, the key assembly (402) may further include a washer (e.g., washer (529a) of FIG. 7, FIG. 13, or FIG. 14) disposed around the operating rod (523c), and a coil spring (e.g., coil spring (529b) of FIG. 7, FIG. 13, or FIG. 14) having one end supported by the washer (529a) and the other end supported on the inner surface of the key cap (723).

[0261] According to one embodiment, the key assembly (402) may further include an alignment protrusion (e.g., alignment protrusion (521d) of FIG. 7 or 9) protruding from one of the outer surface of the body portion (721) and the inner surface of the key cap (723), and an alignment recess (e.g., alignment recess (523d) of FIG. 11 or 12) provided on one side of the actuation rod (523c) on the other of the outer surface of the body portion (721) and the inner surface of the key cap (723) and configured to receive at least a portion of the alignment protrusion (521d).

[0262] According to one embodiment, the electronic device as described above may further include a switch member (e.g., a switch member (473a) of FIG. 5 or FIG. 7) arranged inside the housing (401) and aligned to face the operating load (523c).

[0263] According to one embodiment, the key assembly (402) may further include an inclined surface or curved surface (e.g., an inclined surface or curved surface (CS) of FIG. 10) connecting the inner wall of the at least one second binding hole (521b) and the inner surface of the body portion (721).

[0264] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device (e.g., electronic device (101) of FIG. 1 and / or electronic device (101, 400) of FIGS. 2 to 6) may include a housing (e.g., housing (401) of FIGS. 5 to 7) including a receiving space (e.g., receiving space (511a, 511b) of FIG. 7) extending from an outer surface of a side member (e.g., side member (411) of FIGS. 5 to 7) in a direction toward an inner side of the side member (411), and a key assembly (e.g., key assembly (402, 602, 702) of FIGS. 5, 7, 28, and / or 39) at least partially received in the receiving space. In one embodiment, the key assembly (402) may include a body portion (e.g., a body portion (621, 721) of FIG. 28 and / or FIG. 39) at least partially disposed in the receiving space, a key cap (e.g., a key cap (623, 723) of FIG. 28 and / or FIG. 39) coupled to an outer surface of the body portion (721), the key cap (723) including an actuation rod (e.g., an actuation rod (523c) of FIG. 7, FIG. 11, or FIG. 12) extending from an inner surface and protruding from the inner surface of the body portion (721), and a fixing member (e.g., a fixing member (729) of FIG. 48) supported on an inner surface of the side member (411) while being coupled to the actuation rod (523c). In one embodiment, a distance (e.g., a distance exemplified by 'SD' in FIG. 62 or 63) measured in the longitudinal direction of the key cap (723) from the operating rod (523c) to the edge of the fixing member (729) may be greater than a diameter of the operating rod (523c) or a width of the operating rod (523c) measured in the longitudinal direction of the key cap (723).

[0265] In one embodiment, the fixing member (729) may provide a first slit (e.g., the first slit (729b) of FIG. 49 or FIG. 50) extending inwardly from the edge in a direction intersecting the longitudinal direction of the key cap (723). In one embodiment, a portion of the actuation rod (523c) may be accommodated in the first slit (729b).

[0266] According to one embodiment, the fixing member (729) may include a fixing plate (e.g., fixing plate (729a) of FIG. 49 or FIG. 50) configured to contact an inner surface of the side member (411), and at least one support plate (e.g., support plate (729c, 829c) of FIG. 49, FIG. 50, or FIG. 58) bent at an edge of the fixing plate (729a). In one embodiment, the at least one support plate may be configured to contact a surface of the side member (411) in a region different from the inner surface of the side member (411).

[0267] According to one embodiment, the key cap (723) may include an electrically conductive material.

[0268] In one embodiment, the key assembly (402) may further include a guide tube (e.g., the guide tube (527a) of FIG. 6 or FIG. 7) coupled to the side member (411). In one embodiment, the actuating rod (523c) is arranged to pass through the guide tube (527a), and in this case, the guide tube (527a) may be configured to electrically insulate the actuating rod (523c) from the side member (411).

[0269] According to one embodiment, the key assembly (402) may further include a dummy groove (e.g., a dummy groove (523f) of FIG. 11 or FIG. 12) formed on the outer surface of the operating rod (523c), and an O-ring (e.g., an O-ring (527b) of FIG. 7, FIG. 13, or FIG. 14) at least partially accommodated in the dummy groove and configured to contact the inner surface of the guide tube (527a).

[0270] While the present disclosure has been described by way of example with respect to one embodiment, it should be understood that the embodiment is illustrative and not limiting of the present disclosure. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes in form and detailed configuration may be made without departing from the overall scope of the present disclosure, including the appended claims and their equivalents. For example, a key assembly (e.g., key assembly (702) of FIG. 47) may include a body portion (721) and a key cap (723) made of metal or an electrically conductive material. In this case, the body portion (721) and the key cap (723) may be implemented as a single body. In one embodiment, when the body portion (721) and the key cap (723) are implemented as a single body having electrical conductivity, the fixing member (729) and / or the guide tube (527a) may electrically insulate the body portion (721) and the key cap (723) from the side member (411). In one embodiment, at least one of the body portion (721) and the key cap (723) may be made of an electrically conductive material, and the side member (411) may be implemented of an electrically insulating material.

Claims

1. In an electronic device (101; 400), A housing (401) including a first receiving space (511a) extending along a first direction (D1) toward the inside of the side member (411) from an outer surface of the side member (411), and at least one second receiving space (511b) extending in a second direction (D2) intersecting the first direction (D1) from an inner wall of the first receiving space (511a) at a location spaced from the outer surface of the side member (411); and A key assembly (402; 602; 702) is included, at least partially, in the first receiving space (511a) and the second receiving space (511b), The above key assembly (402; 602; 702) comprises: A body portion (521; 621; 721) disposed at least partially in the first receiving space (511a) and including at least one first fastening hole (521a) extending from an outer surface and at least one second fastening hole (521b) extending from an inner surface; A key cap (523; 623; 723) coupled to the outer surface of the body part by including a first coupling hook (523b) coupled to at least one first coupling hole (521a); ​​and An electronic device comprising an interference member (525) coupled to an inner surface of the body portion by including a second fastening hook (525b) coupled to at least one second fastening hole (521b) and at least partially accommodated in the second accommodation space (511b).

2. In the first paragraph, the interference member (525) is an electronic device arranged within the second receiving space (511b) and reciprocating along the first direction (D1).

3. An electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein the body portion (521; 621; 721) has a first elastic coefficient, and the key cap (523; 623; 723) or the interference member (525) has a second elastic coefficient greater than the first elastic coefficient.

4. An electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the at least one first fastening hole (521a) or the at least one second fastening hole (521b) extends parallel to the first direction (D1) or extends obliquely with respect to the first direction (D1).

5. An electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the key cap (523; 623; 723) includes an electrically conductive material.

6. In any one of clauses 1 to 5, the key assembly (402; 602; 702) A first binding projection (521e) formed on one of the inner wall of at least one first binding hole (521a) and the outer surface of the first binding hook (523b); and It further includes a first fastening groove (523e) formed on the other of the inner wall of at least one first fastening hole (521a) and the outer surface of the first fastening hook (523b), An electronic device in which the key cap (523; 623; 723) is fixed to the body part (521; 621; 721) by engaging the first binding projection (521e) with the first binding groove (523e).

7. In any one of clauses 1 to 6, the key assembly (402; 602; 702) A second binding projection (521f) formed on one of the inner wall of at least one second binding hole (521b) and the outer surface of the second binding hook (525b); and It further includes a second binding groove (525c) formed on the other of the inner wall of the at least one second binding hole (521b) and the outer surface of the second binding hook (525b), An electronic device in which the interference member (525) is fixed to the body part (521; 621; 721) by engaging the second binding projection (521f) with the second binding groove (525c).

8. An electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the key assembly (402; 602; 702) further includes an operation rod (523c) extending from an inner surface of the key cap (523; 623; 723) and protruding from an inner surface of the body portion (521; 621; 721).

9. In the 8th paragraph, the key assembly (402; 602; 7102) A guide tube (527a) connected to the above side member (411); and It further includes an O-ring (527b) coupled to surround at least a portion of the outer surface of the above operating load (523c), The above operating load (523c) is arranged to penetrate the above guide tube (527a), and the above O-ring (527b) is an electronic device in contact with the above guide tube (527a).

10. In the 9th paragraph, the key assembly (402; 602; 702) further includes a dummy recess (523f) formed on the outer surface of the operating rod (523c). An electronic device in which at least a portion of the above O-ring (527b) is accommodated in the dummy groove.

11. In any one of clauses 8 to 10, the key assembly (402; 602; 702) A washer (529a) arranged around the periphery of the above operating load (523c); and An electronic device further comprising a coil spring (529b) having one end supported by the washer (529a) and the other end supported on the inner surface of the key cap (523; 623; 723).

12. In any one of clauses 8 to 11, the key assembly (402; 602; 702) An alignment protrusion (521d) protruding from one of the outer surface of the body part (521; 621; 721) and the inner surface of the key cap (523; 623; 723); and An electronic device further comprising an alignment recess (523d) provided on one side of the operating rod (523c) on the other of the outer surface of the body portion (521; 621; 721) and the inner surface of the key cap (523; 623; 723) and configured to receive at least a portion of the alignment protrusion (521d).

13. In any one of paragraphs 8 to 12, An electronic device further comprising a switch member (473a) arranged inside the housing (401) and aligned to face the operating load (523c).

14. An electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the key assembly (402; 602; 702) further includes an inclined surface or curved surface (CS) connecting the inner wall of the at least one second fastening hole (521b) and the inner surface of the body portion (521; 621; 721).

Images