Piezo actuator and electronic device comprising same

Abstract

According to one embodiment disclosed herein, an electronic device may comprise: a housing including one surface; a button coupled to the one surface to be movable with respect to the one surface and separated from the one surface; a first piezo actuator disposed inside the button; a second piezo actuator disposed inside the button and spaced apart from the first piezo actuator; a first holder coupled to the first piezo actuator and the second piezo actuator; and a support portion at least partially disposed between the button and the first holder. Various other embodiments may be possible.

Description

Piezoelectric actuator and electronic device including the same

[0001] Embodiments disclosed in this document relate to electronic devices, for example, to piezo actuators and electronic devices including the same.

[0002] Thanks to remarkable advancements in information and communication technology and semiconductor technology, the proliferation and use of various electronic devices is rapidly increasing. Electronic devices are being developed to enable portability and communication.

[0003] 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, or car navigation systems. For example, these electronic devices can output stored information as audio or video. As the integration of electronic devices increases and ultra-high-speed, high-capacity wireless communication becomes more widespread, a single electronic device, such as a mobile communication terminal, can be equipped with various functions. For example, in addition to communication functions, entertainment functions such as games, multimedia functions such as music / video playback, communication and security functions such as mobile banking, or functions such as schedule management and electronic wallets are being integrated into a single electronic device. These electronic devices are becoming smaller so that users can conveniently carry them.

[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 related to the present disclosure.

[0005] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device may include a housing including one surface, a button movably coupled to the one surface and separated from the one surface, a first piezo actuator disposed inside the button, a second piezo actuator disposed inside the button and spaced apart from the first piezo actuator, a first holder coupled to the first piezo actuator and the second piezo actuator, a second holder coupled to the first piezo actuator and a portion of the housing, a third holder coupled to the second piezo actuator and another portion of the housing, and a support portion disposed at least partially between the button and the first holder, the support portion configured to support at least a portion of the button corresponding to the support portion.

[0006] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a key input device may include a button, a first piezo actuator disposed inside the button, a second piezo actuator disposed inside the button and spaced apart from the first piezo actuator, a first holder coupled to the first piezo actuator and the second piezo actuator, a second holder coupled to the first piezo actuator, a third holder coupled to the second piezo actuator, and a support portion disposed at least partially between the button and the first holder, the support portion configured to support at least a portion of the button corresponding to the support portion.

[0007] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device may include a housing including one surface, a button movably coupled to the one surface and separated from the one surface, a plurality of piezo actuators disposed inside the button, a first holder disposed between the plurality of piezo actuators, and a support portion disposed at least partially between the button and the first holder, wherein the number of the plurality of piezo actuators may be greater than the number of buttons.

[0008] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a key input device may include a button, a plurality of piezo actuators disposed inside the button, a first holder disposed between the plurality of piezo actuators, and a support portion disposed at least partially between the button and the first holder, wherein the number of the plurality of piezo actuators may be greater than the number of buttons.

[0009] In connection with the description of the drawings, the same or similar reference numerals may be used for the same or similar components.

[0010] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment according to various embodiments.

[0011] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the front of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0012] FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing the rear side of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view showing the front of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view showing the rear side of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of an electronic device including a piezo actuator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of an electronic device including a piezo actuator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of an electronic device including a piezo actuator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of an electronic device including a piezo actuator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIGS. 10, 11, and 12 are cross-sectional views illustrating an input sensor of a key input device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 13A is a drawing showing a state before a key input device is assembled into a housing according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 13b is a drawing showing a state after a key input device is assembled into a housing according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA' of FIG. 13b according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings so that those skilled in the art can easily implement the present disclosure. However, the present disclosure may be implemented in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. In connection with the description of the drawings, the same or similar reference numerals may be used for identical or similar components. Furthermore, in the drawings and related descriptions, descriptions of well-known functions and configurations may be omitted for clarity and conciseness.

[0024] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device (101) within a network environment (100) according to various embodiments.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0036] The connection terminal (178) may include a connector through which the electronic device (101) may be physically 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).

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0045] At least some of the above components can be interconnected and exchange signals (e.g., commands or data) with each other via a communication method between peripheral devices (e.g., a bus, GPIO (general purpose input and output), SPI (serial peripheral interface), or MIPI (mobile industry processor interface)).

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

[0047] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the front of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0048] FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing the rear side of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0049] Hereinafter, for convenience of explanation of FIGS. 2 to 12, FIGS. 2 to 12 illustrate an orthogonal coordinate system defined and interpreted with an X-axis, a Y-axis, and a Z-axis that are orthogonal to each other. Hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, the X-axis direction may be defined and interpreted as a width direction of an electronic device or components of an electronic device, the Y-axis direction may be defined and interpreted as a length direction of an electronic device or components of an electronic device, and the Z-axis direction may be defined and interpreted as a height direction (or thickness direction) of an electronic device or components of an electronic device. The electronic device or components of an electronic device of the present disclosure are not limited by the above directions.

[0050] The embodiments of FIGS. 2 to 3 may be combined with the embodiments of FIG. 1 or the embodiments of FIGS. 4 to 14.

[0051] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, an electronic device (101) according to one embodiment (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1) may include a housing (210) that includes a first side (or front side) (210A), a second side (or back side) (210B), and a side surface (210C) that surrounds a space between the first side (210A) and the second side (210B). In one embodiment, the housing (210) may also refer to a structure that forms a portion of the first side (210A) of FIG. 2, the second side (210B), and the side surface (210C) of FIG. 3. According to one embodiment, the first side (210A) may be formed by a front plate (202) that is at least partially substantially transparent (e.g., a glass plate or a polymer plate including various coating layers). The second side (210B) may be formed by a substantially opaque back plate (211). The rear plate (211) may be formed of, for example, coated or colored glass, ceramic, polymer, metal (e.g., aluminum, stainless steel (STS), or magnesium), or a combination of at least two of the foregoing materials. The side surface (210C) may be formed by a side structure (or “side bezel structure”) (218) that is coupled to the front plate (202) and the rear plate (211) and comprises a metal and / or polymer. In one embodiment, the rear plate (211) and the side structure (218) may be formed integrally and comprise the same material (e.g., a metal material such as aluminum).

[0052] Although not shown, the front plate (202) may include a seamlessly extending region(s) that curves toward the rear plate (211) at least along a portion of an edge. In one embodiment, the front plate (202) (or the rear plate (211)) may include only one of the curved extending regions toward the rear plate (211) (or the front plate (202)) at one edge of the first surface (210A). In some embodiments, the front plate (202) or the rear plate (211) may be substantially flat. For example, the curved extending region may not be included. When the curved extending region is included, the thickness of the electronic device (101) in the portion that includes the curved extending region may be smaller than that of other portions.

[0053] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include at least one of a display (220), an audio module (203, 207, 214), a sensor module (204, 219), a camera module (205, 212, 213), a key input device (216, 217), a light emitting element (206), and a connector hole (208, 209). In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may omit at least one of the components (e.g., the key input device (216, 217) or the light emitting element (206)) or may additionally include other components.

[0054] The display (220) may be visually exposed, for example, through a significant portion of the front plate (202). In one embodiment, at least a portion of the display (220) may be visually exposed through the front plate (202) forming the first surface (210A) or through a portion of a side surface (210C). In one embodiment, the edge of the display (220) may be formed to be substantially the same as the adjacent outer shape of the front plate (202). In one embodiment (not shown), the gap between the outer edge of the display (220) and the outer edge of the front plate (202) may be formed to be substantially the same in order to expand the area over which the display (220) is visually exposed.

[0055] In one embodiment, the display (220) may form a recess or opening in a portion of a screen display area, and may include at least one of an audio module (214), a sensor module (204), a camera module (205), and a light-emitting element (206) aligned with the recess or opening. In one embodiment, the display (220) may include at least one of an audio module (214), a sensor module (204), a camera module (205), a fingerprint sensor, and a light-emitting element (206) on a rear surface of the screen display area. In one embodiment, the display (220) may be coupled to or disposed adjacent to a touch detection circuit, a pressure sensor capable of measuring the intensity (pressure) of a touch, and / or a digitizer capable of detecting a magnetic field-type stylus pen.

[0056] The audio module (203, 207, 214) may include a microphone hole (203) and a speaker hole (207, 214). The microphone hole (203) may have a microphone disposed therein for acquiring external sound, and in one embodiment, multiple microphones may be disposed so as to detect the direction of the sound. The speaker hole (207, 214) may include an external speaker hole (207) and a receiver hole (214) for calls. In one embodiment, the speaker hole (207, 214) and the microphone hole (203) may be implemented as a single hole, or a speaker may be included without the speaker hole (207, 214) (e.g., a piezo speaker).

[0057] The sensor module (204, 219) can generate an electrical signal or data value corresponding to an internal operating state of the electronic device (101) or an external environmental state. The sensor module (204, 219) may include, for example, a first sensor module (204) (e.g., a proximity sensor) and / or a second sensor module (e.g., a fingerprint sensor) disposed on a first surface (210A) of the housing (210), and / or a third sensor module (219) and / or a fourth sensor module (e.g., a fingerprint sensor) disposed on a second surface (210B) of the housing (210). The fingerprint sensor may be disposed on not only the first surface (210A) (e.g., the display (220)) of the housing (210), but also the second surface (210B) or the side surface (210C). The electronic device (101) may further include, for example, at least one of a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, a pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a color sensor, an IR (infrared) sensor, a biometric sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or an illuminance sensor.

[0058] The camera modules (205, 212, 213) may include a first camera device (205) disposed on a first surface (210A) of the electronic device (101), a second camera device (212) disposed on a second surface (210B), and / or a flash (213). The camera devices (205, 212) may include one or more lenses, an image sensor, and / or an image signal processor. The flash (213) may include, for example, a light-emitting diode or a xenon lamp. In one embodiment, two or more lenses (infrared camera, wide-angle and telephoto lenses) and image sensors may be disposed on one surface of the electronic device (101). In one embodiment, the flash (213) may emit infrared light, and infrared light emitted by the flash (213) and reflected by a subject may be received via the third sensor module (219). The electronic device (101) or the processor of the electronic device (101) can detect depth information of the subject based on the point in time when infrared rays are received from the third sensor module (219).

[0059] The key input devices (216, 217) may be disposed on one surface of the housing (210). For example, the key input devices (216, 217) may be disposed on a side surface (210C) of the housing (210). In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may not include some or all of the above-mentioned key input devices (216, 217), and the key input devices that are not included may be implemented in another form, such as soft keys, on the display (220). In one embodiment, the key input devices (216, 217) may include a sensor module disposed on a second surface (210B) of the housing (210).

[0060] According to one embodiment, the key input device (216, 217) may be defined and / or referred to as a side key, a key input module, or a button assembly.

[0061] According to one embodiment, the key input device (216, 217) may include a volume key (216) or a power key (217). The volume key (216) may be a key that can adjust the intensity of an audio signal output from the electronic device (101). The volume key (216) may have an elongated shape when viewed from the side of the electronic device (101) (e.g., when viewed from the +X direction to the -X direction in FIGS. 2 and 3). Since the volume key (216) is provided in an elongated shape, a key input for volume up may be possible on one side of the volume key (216), and a key input for volume down may be possible on the other side of the volume key (216). For example, when viewed from the side of the electronic device (101), the volume key (216) may visually appear as a single member, but the volume key (216) may provide two key input points. The volume key (216) may be configured to adjust the intensity of an acoustic signal, but is not limited thereto, and may provide scroll up-down control, text size control, or other key input functions.

[0062] According to one embodiment, the power key (217) may be separated from the volume key (216). The power key (217) may be configured to control the on-off of the electronic device (101) or to control the standby mode and the activation mode of the electronic device (101).

[0063] The light emitting element (206) may be disposed, for example, on the first surface (210A) of the housing (210). The light emitting element (206) may provide, for example, status information of the electronic device (101) in the form of light. In one embodiment, the light emitting element (206) may provide a light source that is linked to the operation of, for example, the camera module (205). The light emitting element (206) may include, for example, a light emitting diode (LED), an infrared (IR) LED, and a xenon lamp.

[0064] The connector holes (208, 209) may include a first connector hole (208) that can accommodate a connector (e.g., a USB connector) for transmitting and receiving power and / or data with an external electronic device, and / or a second connector hole (e.g., an earphone jack) (209) that can accommodate a connector for transmitting and receiving audio signals with an external electronic device.

[0065] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view showing the front of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0066] FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view showing the rear side of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0067] The embodiments of FIGS. 4 to 5 may be combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 3, or the embodiments of FIGS. 6 to 14.

[0068] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5 , an 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 structure (310), a first support member (311) (e.g., a bracket), a front plate (320) (e.g., the front plate (202) of FIG. 2 ), a display (330) (e.g., the display (220) of FIG. 2 ), at least one printed circuit board (or board assembly) (341, 343), a battery (350), a second support member (360) (e.g., a rear case), an antenna, a camera assembly (307), and a rear plate (380) (e.g., the rear plate (211) of FIG. 2 ). When including a plurality of printed circuit boards (341, 343), the electronic device (101) can electrically connect different printed circuit boards by including at least one flexible connection member (345). For example, the printed circuit boards (341, 343) can include a first circuit board (341) positioned above (e.g., in the +Y-axis direction) the battery (350) and a second circuit board (343) positioned below (e.g., in the -Y-axis direction), and the flexible connection member (345) can electrically connect the first circuit board (341) and the second circuit board (343).

[0069] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may omit at least one of the components (e.g., the first support member (311) or the second support member (360)) or may additionally include other components. 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 FIGS. 1 to 3, and any redundant description will be omitted below.

[0070] According to one embodiment, the first support member (311) may be provided in at least one portion in a flat shape. In one embodiment, the first support member (311) may be disposed inside the electronic device (101) and connected to the side structure (310), or may be formed integrally with the side structure (310). The first support member (311) may be formed of, for example, a metallic material and / or a non-metallic (e.g., polymer) material. When the first support member (311) is at least partially formed of a metallic material, the side structure (310) or a portion of the first support member (311) may function as an antenna. The first support member (311) may have a display (330) coupled to one surface and a printed circuit board (341, 343) coupled to the other surface. A processor, a memory, and / or an interface may be mounted on the printed circuit board (341, 343). The processor may include, for example, one or more of a central processing unit, an application processor, a graphics processing unit, an image signal processor, a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor.

[0071] In one embodiment, the first support member (311) and the side structure (310) may be combined to be referred to as a front case or housing (301). In one embodiment, the housing (301) may be generally understood as a structure for accommodating, protecting, or arranging a printed circuit board (341, 343) or a battery (350). In one embodiment, the housing (301) may be understood as including structures that can be visually or tactilely perceived by a user in the appearance of the electronic device (101), for example, a side structure (310), a front plate (320), and / or a rear plate (380). In one embodiment, the 'front or rear surface of the housing (301)' may refer to the first surface (210A) of FIG. 2 or the second surface (210B) of FIG. 3. In one embodiment, the first support member (311) is positioned between the front plate (320) (e.g., the first side (210A) of FIG. 2) and the back plate (380) (e.g., the second side (210B) of FIG. 3) and may function as a structure for positioning electrical / electronic components such as printed circuit boards (341, 343) or camera assemblies (307).

[0072] According to one embodiment, the memory may include, for example, volatile memory (e.g., volatile memory (132) of FIG. 1) or non-volatile memory (e.g., non-volatile memory (134) of FIG. 1).

[0073] According to one embodiment, the interface may include, for example, a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB) interface, a secure digital (SD) card interface, and / or an audio interface. The interface may electrically or physically connect the electronic device (101) to an external electronic device, and may include, for example, a USB connector, an SD card / multimedia card (MMC) connector, or an audio connector.

[0074] According to one embodiment, the second support member (360) may include, for example, an upper support member (360a) and a lower support member (360b). In one embodiment, the upper support member (360a) may be arranged to surround a printed circuit board (341, 343) (e.g., the first circuit board (341)) together with a portion of the first support member (311). For example, the upper support member (360a) of the second support member (360) may be arranged to face the first support member (311) with the first circuit board (341) interposed therebetween. In one embodiment, the lower support member (360b) of the second support member (360) may be arranged to face the first support member (311) with the second circuit board (343) interposed therebetween. Circuit devices implemented in the form of integrated circuit chips (e.g., processors, communication modules, or memories) or various electrical / electronic components may be placed on printed circuit boards (341, 343), and according to an embodiment, the printed circuit boards (341, 343) may be provided with an electromagnetic shielding environment from the second support member (360). In one embodiment, the lower support member (360b) may be utilized as a structure on which electrical / electronic components such as a speaker module, an interface (e.g., a USB connector, an SD card / MMC connector, or an audio connector) may be placed. In one embodiment, electrical / electronic components such as a speaker module, an interface (e.g., a USB connector, an SD card / MMC connector, or an audio connector) may be placed on an additional printed circuit board (not shown). For example, the lower support member (360b) may be placed to surround the additional printed circuit board together with another part of the first support member (311). A speaker module or interface arranged on an additional printed circuit board or lower support member (360b) not shown may be arranged corresponding to the audio module (207) or connector hole (208, 209) of FIG. 2.

[0075] According to one embodiment, the battery (350) is a device for supplying power to at least one component of the 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 (350) may be disposed substantially on the same plane as, for example, the printed circuit board (341, 343). The battery (350) may be disposed integrally within the electronic device (101), or may be disposed detachably from the electronic device (101).

[0076] Although not shown, the antenna may include a conductive pattern implemented on the surface of the second support member (360), for example, through a laser direct structuring process. In one embodiment, the antenna may include a printed circuit pattern formed on the surface of a thin film, and the thin film-type antenna may be disposed between the back plate (380) and the battery (350). The antenna may include, for example, a near field communication (NFC) antenna, a wireless charging antenna, and / or a magnetic secure transmission (MST) antenna. The antenna may, for example, perform short-range communication with an external device or wirelessly transmit and receive power required for charging. In one embodiment, another antenna structure may be formed by the side structure (310) and / or a portion or combination of the first support member (311).

[0077] In one embodiment, the camera assembly (307) may include at least one camera module. Inside the electronic device (101), the camera assembly (307) (or at least one camera module) may receive at least a portion of light incident through an optical hole or camera window (312, 313, 319). In one embodiment, the camera assembly (307) may be disposed on the first support member (311) at a location adjacent to the printed circuit board (341, 343). In one embodiment, the camera module(s) of the camera assembly (307) may be generally aligned with one of the camera windows (312, 313, 319) and may be at least partially wrapped around the second support member (360) (e.g., the upper support member (360a)).

[0078] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a flexible connection member (345). The flexible connection member (345) may include a flexible flat cable (FFC), a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB), or a board to board connector (B2B connector).

[0079] According to one embodiment, the flexible connecting member (345) is at least partially bendable. For example, the flexible connecting member (345) may be configured to be at least partially folded or unfolded.

[0080] According to one embodiment, the flexible connecting member (345) can electrically connect a first circuit board (341) (e.g., a main circuit board) and at least one electrical component. For example, one end of the flexible connecting member (345) can be physically and / or electrically connected to at least a portion of the first circuit board (341). For example, the other end of the flexible connecting member (345) can be physically and / or electrically connected to at least a portion of the at least one electrical component. The at least one electrical component can include, for example, a second circuit board (343) (e.g., a sub circuit board). However, the at least one electrical component is not limited thereto and can include various electrical components (e.g., an antenna, a speaker, a battery, a display, or a sensor).

[0081] According to one embodiment, the flexible connecting member (345) may be configured to transmit power or an electrical signal from the first circuit board (341) to at least one electrical component. The flexible connecting member (345) may be configured to transmit power or an electrical signal from the at least one electrical component to the first circuit board (341). The electrical signal may include a control signal, a power signal, or a communication signal.

[0082] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a key input device (316, 317) (e.g., the key input device (216, 217) of FIG. 2). The key input device (316, 317) may include a volume key (316) (e.g., the volume key (216) of FIG. 2) or a power key (e.g., the power key (217) of FIG. 2).

[0083] According to one embodiment, the volume key (316) may be disposed on one surface of the housing (301). For example, the volume key (316) may be disposed on a portion of a lateral surface of the housing (301) (e.g., the lateral structure (310) of FIG. 4), but is not limited thereto.

[0084] According to one embodiment, the volume key (316) may include a haptic module (e.g., the haptic module (179) of FIG. 1). The haptic module may include a piezo actuator. The piezo actuator may be configured to provide a mechanical stimulus (e.g., vibration or movement) that is perceptible to the user through a tactile or kinesthetic sense when the user presses or touches the volume key (316).

[0085] According to one embodiment, the volume key (316) may have an elongated shape when viewed from the side of the electronic device (101) (e.g., when viewed from the +X direction to the -X direction in FIG. 4). The volume key (316) may be spaced apart from the power key (317).

[0086] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of an electronic device including a piezo actuator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0087] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view showing a housing and a key input device assembled to a portion of the housing, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0088] The embodiment of FIG. 6 can be combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 5, or the embodiments of FIGS. 7 to 14.

[0089] Referring to FIG. 6, an electronic device (101) (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1, or the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 2 to 5) may include a housing (301) (e.g., the housing (301) of FIGS. 4 to 5), or a key input device (400) (e.g., the volume key (316) of FIG. 4).

[0090] According to one embodiment, the housing (301) may include a side structure (310) (e.g., the side structure (310) of FIGS. 4 and 5). The side structure (310) may form at least a portion of a side surface (314) of the electronic device (101). The side surface (314) may be defined and / or referred to as one surface of the electronic device (101) and / or the housing (301).

[0091] According to one embodiment, the key input device (400) may include a button (401), a plurality of piezo actuators (403), a plurality of holders (405), or a support portion (407).

[0092] According to one embodiment, the button (401) may be exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101). The button (401) may be disposed on one surface of the housing (301). The button (401) may be disposed on at least a portion of the lateral structure (310) (e.g., the lateral surface (314)). The electronic device (101) may be configured to detect a pressure change or an electrical change generated based on a user pressing or touching the button (401) to confirm a user input. The button (401) may include, but is not limited to, stainless steel.

[0093] According to one embodiment, the button (401) may be movably coupled to one surface of the housing (301). For example, when the button (401) is pressed or touched by a user, the button (401) may move in a first direction (e.g., the -X direction of FIG. 6). When the button (401) is released from being pressed or touched by the user, the button (401) may move in a second direction opposite to the first direction (e.g., the +X direction of FIG. 6).

[0094] According to one embodiment, the key input device (400) may be at least partially accommodated in a groove or recess formed in one surface of the housing (301). For example, the key input device (400) may be assembled in a groove or recess formed in one surface of the housing (301).

[0095] In one embodiment, the button (401) may be spaced apart from the housing (301). For example, the button (401) may be a separate member from the housing (301).

[0096] Although not shown, the button (401) may be formed integrally with the housing (301). For example, at least a portion of the housing (301) may be configured to be at least partially deformable relative to another portion of the housing (301) when touched or pressed by a user. At least a portion of the deformable housing (301) may be defined and / or interpreted as the button (401).

[0097] According to one embodiment, the button (401) may include a base (411) exposed to the outside of the housing (301). The base (411) may be positioned to be pressed or touched by a user. The base (411) may be visually exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101). The base (411) may have an elongated shape when viewed from the outside of the electronic device (101) (e.g., when viewed from +X to -X in FIG. 6).

[0098] According to one embodiment, the button (401) may include a first protruding portion (413). The first protruding portion (413) may protrude from the base (411) to the first piezo actuator (431). According to an embodiment, the first protruding portion (413) may be defined as extending from the base (411) toward the first piezo actuator (431).

[0099] According to one embodiment, the first protruding portion (413) may be in contact with the first piezo actuator (431). The first protruding portion (413) may be supported by the first piezo actuator (431). The first piezo actuator (431) may apply a force to the first protruding portion (413) to move the button (401) moved in the first direction (e.g., the -X direction of FIG. 6) in the second direction (e.g., the +X direction of FIG. 6).

[0100] In one embodiment, the button (401) may include a second protruding portion (415). The second protruding portion (415) may protrude from the base (411) to the second piezo actuator (433). In one embodiment, the second protruding portion (415) may be defined as extending from the base (411) toward the first piezo actuator (431).

[0101] According to one embodiment, the second protruding portion (415) can be in contact with the second piezo actuator (433). The second protruding portion (415) can be supported by the second piezo actuator (433). The second piezo actuator (433) can apply a force to the second protruding portion (415) to move the button (401) moved in the first direction (e.g., the -X direction of FIG. 6) in the second direction (e.g., the +X direction of FIG. 6).

[0102] According to one embodiment, a plurality of piezo actuators (403) may be disposed inside the button (401). Being disposed inside the button (401) may be defined as being covered by the button (401) and not exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101).

[0103] According to one embodiment, the number of the plurality of piezo actuators (403) may be greater than the number of buttons (401). For example, if a key input device (400) has one button (401), the number of the plurality of piezo actuators (403) of the key input device (400) may be two or more.

[0104] According to one embodiment, the plurality of piezo actuators (403) may include a first piezo actuator (431) or a second piezo actuator (433).

[0105] According to one embodiment, the first piezo actuator (431) and the second piezo actuator (433) may be spaced apart from each other. The first piezo actuator (431) and the second piezo actuator (433) may be arranged in parallel along the elongated direction (e.g., the Y-axis direction of FIG. 6) or the longitudinal direction (e.g., the Y-axis direction of FIG. 6) of the button (401) having an elongated shape.

[0106] According to one embodiment, the first piezo actuator (431) may be positioned between the first holder (451) and the second holder (453). The first piezo actuator (431) may be coupled to the first holder (451) and the second holder (453).

[0107] According to one embodiment, the first piezo actuator (431) may include a piezo material (4315), a first disk (4311) disposed on one surface of the piezo material (4315), and a second disk (4313) disposed on the other surface of the piezo material (4315). The disks (4311, 4313) may be referred to as cymbals.

[0108] According to one embodiment, the piezo material (4315) can be mechanically deformed by an electric field formed by applying a voltage to an electrode (not shown) of the first piezo actuator (431). For example, the piezo material (4315) can contract or expand by the electric field. The first disk (4311) and the second disk (4313) can be configured to vibrate by the mechanical deformation of the piezo material (4315). Accordingly, as the button (401) connected to the first disk (4311) vibrates together, the user can receive haptic feedback.

[0109] In one embodiment, the piezo material (4315) may include, but is not limited to, a ceramic capable of providing a piezoelectric effect. The piezo material (4315) may have a plate shape, but is not limited thereto.

[0110] In one embodiment, the first disk (4311) may have a plate spring shape. The first disk (4311) may be coupled to a piezo material (4315). The first disk (4311) may be configured to press the first protruding portion (413). When the first disk (4311) vibrates, the vibration may be transmitted to the base (411) through the first protruding portion (413).

[0111] In one embodiment, as the first disk (4311) presses the first protruding portion (413), sagging of the button (401) and / or the base (411) in the first direction (e.g., the -X direction of FIG. 6) can be limited and / or reduced.

[0112] According to one embodiment, the second disk (4313) may have a plate spring shape. The second disk (4313) may be coupled to a piezo material (4315). The second disk (4313) may be supported by an inner portion (315) of the side structure (310). The inner portion (315) may be a portion of the side structure (310) that is not exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101).

[0113] Although not shown, the second disk (4313) may be supported by a separate support member (e.g., stainless steel (STS)) disposed on the inner portion (315).

[0114] Although not shown, if the key input device (400) is a module type component including a case enclosing piezo actuators (403) and holders (405), the second disk (4313) may be supported by the case.

[0115] In one embodiment, the disks (4311, 4313) may include, but are not limited to, stainless steel.

[0116] According to one embodiment, one side of the first piezo actuator (431) may be coupled to a first holder (451). The other side of the first piezo actuator (431) may be coupled to a second holder (453).

[0117] In one embodiment, the second piezo actuator (433) may include a piezo material, a first disk, and a second disk. The configuration of the piezo material, the first disk, and the second disk of the second piezo actuator (433) may be substantially the same as the configuration of the piezo material, the first disk, and the second disk of the first piezo actuator (431). The description of the piezo material, the first disk, and the second disk of the second piezo actuator (433) may refer to the description of the piezo material, the first disk, and the second disk of the first piezo actuator (431).

[0118] According to one embodiment, one side of the second piezo actuator (433) may be coupled to the first holder (451). The other side of the second piezo actuator (433) may be coupled to the third holder (455).

[0119] According to one embodiment, the plurality of holders (405) may include a first holder (451), a second holder (453), or a third holder (455). For example, the number of the plurality of holders (405) may be greater than the number of the plurality of piezo actuators (403).

[0120] In one embodiment, the plurality of holders (405) may include an elastically deformable material. For example, the plurality of holders (405) may include rubber.

[0121] According to one embodiment, the first holder (451) may be positioned between the first piezo actuator (431) and the second piezo actuator (433). The first piezo actuator (431) and the second piezo actuator (433) may be coupled to the first holder (451). The first holder (451) may include a groove or recess configured to allow at least a portion of the piezo actuators (431, 433) to be inserted.

[0122] According to one embodiment, the first holder (451) may be supported by the inner portion (315) of the side structure (310). The first holder (451) may be configured to fix the positions of the piezo actuators (431, 433).

[0123] According to one embodiment, the second holder (453) may be coupled with the first piezo actuator (431). The second holder (453) may include a groove or recess configured to allow at least a portion of the first piezo actuator (431) and at least a portion of the side structure (310) to be inserted therein.

[0124] According to one embodiment, the second holder (453) may be supported by the inner portion (315) of the side structure (310). The second holder (453) may be configured to fix the position of the first piezo actuator (431).

[0125] According to one embodiment, a second piezo actuator (433) may be coupled to the third holder (455). The third holder (455) may include a groove or recess configured to allow at least a portion of the second piezo actuator (433) and at least a portion of the side structure (310) to be inserted therein.

[0126] According to one embodiment, the third holder (455) may be supported by the inner portion (315) of the side structure (310). The third holder (455) may be configured to fix the position of the second piezo actuator (433).

[0127] According to one embodiment, the housing (301) may include a first stopper (3151) or a second stopper (3153).

[0128] According to one embodiment, the first stopper (3151) may be positioned between the base (411) and the second holder (453). The first stopper (3151) may protrude from at least a portion of the inner portion (315). The first stopper (3151) may limit and / or reduce excessive sagging of the base (411) when pressure generated by a user is applied to the base (411).

[0129] In one embodiment, the second stopper (3153) may be positioned between the base (411) and the third holder (455). The second stopper (3153) may protrude from at least a portion of the inner portion (315). The second stopper (3153) may limit and / or reduce excessive sagging of the base (411) when pressure generated by a user is applied to the base (411).

[0130] In one embodiment, the support portion (407) may be configured to support at least a portion of the button (401). For example, the support portion (407) may be configured to support a portion of the button (401) corresponding to the support portion (407) (e.g., a portion (411a) of the base (411). The support portion (407) may be defined and / or referred to as, but is not limited to, a pole extending in one direction.

[0131] According to one embodiment, the support portion (407) may be separate from the button (401). For example, the support portion (407) may be a separate member from the button (401).

[0132] In one embodiment, the support portion (407) can be inserted into the first holder (451). At least a portion of the support portion (407) can be exposed to the outside of the first holder (451). The support portion (407) can have a hard material. For example, the support portion (407) can include, but is not limited to, stainless steel. The support portion (407) can be injection molded together with the first holder (451), but is not limited thereto. The support portion (407) can be spaced apart from a portion (411a) of the base (411) corresponding to the support portion (407) by a specified gap or interval (d) when the user does not press the button (401). The gap (d) can be, but is not limited to, about 0.09 mm to about 0.10 mm. The support portion (407) can come into contact with a portion (411a) of the base (411) corresponding to the support portion (407) when the user presses the button (401) (e.g., when the base (411) is moved or deformed). As the portion (411a) of the base (411) is supported by the support portion (407), excessive deformation of the base (411) can be limited and / or reduced. The piezo actuators (431, 433) can be limited and / or reduced from being excessively pressed or subjected to excessive stress by the first protruding portion (413) and / or the second protruding portion (415). Accordingly, damage to the piezo material of the piezo actuators (431, 433) having a relatively weak material can be limited and / or reduced.

[0133] According to one embodiment, the outer surface of the button (401) and / or the base (411) (e.g., the surface facing the +X direction of FIG. 6) may be disposed to be stepped with, but is not limited to, the side surface (314) of the housing (301).

[0134] According to one embodiment, the key input device (400) can detect a user's key input through a plurality of piezo actuators (403). For example, when a user presses a button (401), the button (401) can cause deformation of disks of the plurality of piezo actuators (403). As the disks of the plurality of piezo actuators (403) are deformed, piezo materials of the plurality of piezo actuators (403) can also be deformed. The electrodes of the plurality of piezo actuators (403) can detect an electric field or a change in the electric field generated as the piezo material is deformed. The electronic device (101) can be configured to detect a user's input by the change in the electric field. When a user presses a portion of the base (411) corresponding to a first piezo actuator (431), the electronic device (101) may determine that a key (e.g., volume up) has been input. When a user presses a portion of the base (411) corresponding to a second piezo actuator (433), the electronic device (101) may determine that a key (e.g., volume down) has been input. In some embodiments, the electronic device (101) may determine that a key (e.g., a swipe gesture) has been input when a user inputs a key input by slidingly touching the base (411), for example, sliding from a portion of the base corresponding to one piezo actuator to another portion of the base corresponding to the other piezo actuator. According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) can provide haptic feedback to the user by operating a piezo actuator corresponding to a portion of the base portion (411) touched by the user.

[0135] According to one embodiment, the key input device (400) may be electrically connected to a circuit board (e.g., the first circuit board (341) or the second circuit board (343) of FIGS. 4 and 5) of the electronic device (101) via a conductive connecting member (e.g., an FPCB). For example, the key input device (400) may be electrically connected to a processor (e.g., the processor (120) of FIG. 1) disposed on the conductive connecting member and the circuit board. The conductive connecting member may be configured to transmit a user's key input signal or a haptic feedback control signal.

[0136] According to one embodiment, the key input device (400) can detect a user's key input through a plurality of piezo actuators (403) and a separate sensor. When the user's key input is detected through the separate sensor, the electronic device (101) can provide haptic feedback to the user by operating a piezo actuator corresponding to a portion of the base portion (411) touched by the user. A description of a configuration for detecting a user's key input through the separate sensor will be described in more detail with reference to FIGS. 10 to 12 described below.

[0137] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of an electronic device including a piezo actuator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0138] The embodiment of FIG. 7 can be combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 6, or the embodiments of FIGS. 8 to 14.

[0139] Referring to FIG. 7, an electronic device (101) (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1, or the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 2 to 5) may include a housing (301) (e.g., the housing (301) of FIGS. 4 to 5), or a key input device (400) (e.g., the volume key (316) of FIG. 4).

[0140] At least one of the components of the electronic device (101), the housing (301), and / or the key input device (400) of FIG. 7 may be identical or similar to at least one of the components of the electronic device (101), the housing (301), and / or the key input device (400) described with reference to FIG. 6 as an example, but any overlapping description will be omitted below.

[0141] In one embodiment, the button (401) may include a support portion (417) (e.g., the support portion (407) of FIG. 6 ). The support portion (417) may be configured to support at least a portion of the button (401). For example, the support portion (417) may be configured to support a portion of a base (411) connected to the support portion (407). The support portion (417) may be defined and / or referred to as, but is not limited to, a pole extending in one direction.

[0142] According to one embodiment, the support portion (417) may be formed integrally with the base (411). The support portion (417) may be manufactured as a separate member from the base (411) and may be joined to the base (411).

[0143] In one embodiment, the support portion (417) may extend from the base (411) toward the first holder (451). For example, the support portion (417) may extend or protrude from a portion of the base (411) corresponding to the first holder (451). At least a portion of the support portion (417) may be inserted into the first holder (451). The support portion (417) may have a hard material. For example, the support portion (417) may include, but is not limited to, stainless steel.

[0144] According to one embodiment, the inner portion (315) configured to support one side (e.g., the side facing the -X direction of FIG. 7) of the first holder (451) may include an at least partially sunken receiving portion (315b). The receiving portion (315b) may be formed at a position corresponding to the supporting portion (417) among the inner portions (315).

[0145] According to one embodiment, when the user does not press the button (401), one side of the first holder (451) may be spaced apart from a portion (315a) of the inner portion (315) in which the receiving portion (315b) is formed by a specified gap or interval (d). The gap (d) may be, but is not limited to, about 0.09 mm to about 0.10 mm. The supporting portion (417) may move in a first direction (e.g., the -X direction of FIG. 7) when the user presses the button (401) (e.g., when the base (411) is moved or deformed). In this case, at least a portion of the first holder (451) to which the supporting portion (417) is fixed may be deformed. A portion of the deformed first holder (451) may be accommodated in the receiving portion (315b) and supported by a bottom surface (e.g., a surface facing the -X direction in FIG. 7) defining the receiving portion (315a). As the first holder (451) is supported, excessive deformation of the base (411) may be limited and / or reduced. The piezo actuators (431, 433) may be limited and / or reduced from being excessively pressed or stressed by the first protruding portion (413) and / or the second protruding portion (415). Accordingly, damage to the piezo material of the piezo actuators (431, 433) having a relatively weak material may be limited and / or reduced.

[0146] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of an electronic device including a piezo actuator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0147] The embodiment of FIG. 8 can be combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 7, or the embodiments of FIGS. 9 to 14.

[0148] Referring to FIG. 8, an electronic device (101) (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1, or the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 2 to 5) may include a housing (301) (e.g., the housing (301) of FIGS. 4 to 5), or a key input device (400) (e.g., the volume key (316) of FIG. 4).

[0149] At least one of the components of the electronic device (101), the housing (301), and / or the key input device (400) of FIG. 8 may be identical or similar to at least one of the components of the electronic device (101), the housing (301), and / or the key input device (400) described with reference to FIG. 7 as an example, but any overlapping description will be omitted below.

[0150] According to one embodiment, the button (401) may include a first stopper (418) (e.g., the first stopper (3151) of FIG. 6) or a second stopper (419) (e.g., the second stopper (3153) of FIG. 6).

[0151] In one embodiment, the first stopper (418) may extend from the base (411) toward the second holder (453). For example, the first stopper (418) may extend or protrude from a portion of the base (411) corresponding to the first holder (451). At least a portion of the first stopper (418) may be inserted into the second holder (453). The first stopper (418) may have a hard material. For example, the first stopper (418) may include, but is not limited to, stainless steel.

[0152] According to one embodiment, the first stopper (418) can limit and / or reduce excessive sagging of the base (411) when pressure generated by the user is applied to the base (411).

[0153] In one embodiment, the second stopper (419) may extend from the base (411) toward the third holder (455). For example, the second stopper (419) may extend or protrude from a portion of the base (411) corresponding to the first holder (451). At least a portion of the second stopper (419) may be inserted into the third holder (455). The second stopper (419) may have a hard material. For example, the second stopper (419) may include, but is not limited to, stainless steel.

[0154] According to one embodiment, the second stopper (419) can limit and / or reduce excessive sagging of the base (411) when pressure generated by the user is applied to the base (411).

[0155] According to one embodiment, the side surface (314) of the electronic device (101) and the outer surface of the base (411) (e.g., the surface facing the +X direction of FIG. 8) may form a substantially planar surface, but is not limited thereto. For example, the outer surface of the base (411) may be disposed to be not stepped with the side surface (314) of the electronic device (101).

[0156] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of an electronic device including a piezo actuator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0157] The embodiment of FIG. 9 can be combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 8, or the embodiments of FIGS. 10 to 14.

[0158] Referring to FIG. 9, an electronic device (101) (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1, or the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 2 to 5) may include a housing (301) (e.g., the housing (301) of FIGS. 4 to 5), or a key input device (400) (e.g., the volume key (316) of FIG. 4).

[0159] At least one of the components of the electronic device (101), the housing (301), and / or the key input device (400) of FIG. 9 may be identical or similar to at least one of the components of the electronic device (101), the housing (301), and / or the key input device (400) described with reference to FIG. 6 as an example, but any overlapping description will be omitted below.

[0160] According to one embodiment, the key input device (400) may include a support portion (407).

[0161] In one embodiment, the support portion (407) may be configured to support at least a portion of the button (401). For example, the support portion (407) may be configured to support a portion of the button (401) corresponding to the support portion (407) (e.g., a portion (411a) of the base (411). At least a portion of the support portion (407) may be exposed to the outside of the first holder (451). The support portion (407) may have a hard material. For example, the support portion (407) may include, but is not limited to, stainless steel. The support portion (407) may be injection molded together with the first holder (451), but is not limited thereto.

[0162] According to one embodiment, the support portion (407) may include a first support portion (4071) or a second support portion (4072).

[0163] According to one embodiment, the first support portion (4071) can be at least partially inserted into the first holder (451). The second support portion (4072) can be coupled to an end of the first support portion (4071). The second support portion (4072) can extend in a direction substantially perpendicular to a direction in which the first support portion (4071) extends (e.g., the X-axis direction of FIG. 9) (e.g., the Y-axis direction of FIG. 9). The second support portion (4072) can extend, for example, in a longitudinal direction of the base (411) having an elongated shape (e.g., the Y-axis direction of FIG. 9). As the second support portion (4072) extends in the longitudinal direction of the base (411), an area in which the support portion (407) supports the base (411) can increase. The second support portion (4072) can be spaced apart from a portion (411a) of the base (411) corresponding to the second support portion (4072) by a specified gap or interval (d) when the user does not press the button (401). The gap (d) can be, but is not limited to, about 0.09 mm to about 0.10 mm. The second support portion (4072) can come into contact with a portion (411a) of the base (411) corresponding to the second support portion (4072) when the user presses the button (401) (e.g., when the base (411) is moved or deformed). As the portion (411a) of the base (411) is supported by the second support portion (4072), excessive deformation of the base (411) can be limited and / or reduced. The piezo actuators (431, 433) can be protected from being excessively pressurized or subjected to excessive stress by the first protruding portion (413) and / or the second protruding portion (415). Accordingly, the piezo material of the piezo actuators (431, 433) having a relatively weak material can be protected from being damaged and / or reduced.

[0164] FIGS. 10, 11, and 12 are cross-sectional views illustrating an input sensor of a key input device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0165] The embodiments of FIGS. 10 to 12 can be combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 9, or the embodiments of FIGS. 13a to 14.

[0166] Referring to FIGS. 10 to 12, a key input device (400) (e.g., a volume key (316) of FIG. 4, or a key input device (400) of FIGS. 6 to 9) may include an input sensor (408, 4081, 4082) (e.g., a sensor module (176) of FIG. 1).

[0167] At least one of the components of the key input device (400) of FIGS. 10 to 12 may be identical or similar to at least one of the components of the key input device (400) described with reference to FIGS. 6 to 9 as an example, but any overlapping description will be omitted below.

[0168] Referring to FIG. 10, the key input device (400) may include an input sensor (408) for detecting a user pressing or touching the base (411). The input sensor (408) may be disposed on an inner surface of the base (411) (e.g., a surface facing the -X direction in FIG. 10). The input sensor (408) may include at least one of an ultrasonic sensor or a capacitive touch sensor. The input sensor (408) may be configured to detect a part of the user's body when the user presses or touches a part of the base (411) corresponding to the first piezo actuator (431). When the input sensor (408) detects a part of the user's body, the electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 6 to 9) may determine that the user has input a key through the key input device (400). The input sensor (408) may be positioned adjacent to the first protruding portion (413), but is not limited thereto.

[0169] Referring to FIG. 11, the key input device (400) may include an input sensor (4081) for detecting a user pressing or touching the base (411). The input sensor (4081) may include a pressure sensor. The input sensor (4081) may be disposed on a portion of the inner portion (315) corresponding to the first piezo actuator (431). For example, the input sensor (4081) may be inserted into a portion of the inner portion (315). The input sensor (4081) may be pressed by the first piezo actuator (431) which is pressed by the first protruding portion (413) when the user presses or touches a portion of the base (411) corresponding to the first piezo actuator (431). When the input sensor (4081) detects pressure by the first piezo actuator (431), the electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 6 to 9) can determine that the user has made a key input through the key input device (400).

[0170] Referring to FIG. 12, the key input device (400) may include an input sensor (4082) for detecting a user pressing or touching the base (411). The input sensor (4082) may include a strain gage. The input sensor (4082) may be disposed in an extending portion (315d) extending from at least a portion of the inner portion (315). The extending portion (315d) may be disposed in a groove (315c) formed in the inner portion (315). At least a portion of the extending portion (315d) may be disposed adjacent to or in contact with the first piezo actuator (431). As the bottom surface of the groove (315c) and the extending portion (315d) are spaced apart, the extending portion (315d) may be at least partially bent. The extended portion (315d) can be deformed to bend by the first piezo actuator (431) that is pressed by the first protruding portion (413) when the user presses or touches a portion of the base (411) corresponding to the first piezo actuator (431). When the input sensor (4082) including the strain gauge detects the deformation of the extended portion (315d), the electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 6 to 9) can determine that the user has made a key input through the key input device (400).

[0171] The input sensors (408, 4081, 4082) described with reference to FIGS. 10 to 12 as examples may also be provided on the side of the second piezo actuator (e.g., the second piezo actuator (433) of FIGS. 6 to 9).

[0172] According to one embodiment, an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 6 to 9) may provide haptic feedback to a user by operating a piezo actuator corresponding to a portion of a base portion (411) touched by the user when detecting a user's key input through an input sensor (408, 4081, 4082).

[0173] FIG. 13A is a drawing showing a state before a key input device is assembled into a housing according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0174] FIG. 13b is a drawing showing a state after a key input device is assembled into a housing according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0175] FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA' of FIG. 13b according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0176] The embodiments of FIGS. 13a to 14 can be combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 12.

[0177] At least one of the components of the housing (301) and / or the key input device (400) of FIGS. 13a to 14 may be identical or similar to at least one of the components of the housing (301) and / or the key input device (400) described with reference to FIGS. 6 to 12 as examples, but any overlapping description will be omitted below.

[0178] Referring to FIGS. 13A to 14, the key input device (400) can be accommodated in a groove or recess formed in a side structure (310) of the housing (301) or a side surface (314) of the housing (301). For example, the key input device (400) can be placed in a groove or recess of the housing (301).

[0179] According to one embodiment, the key input device (400) may include a first fixing member (4115) or a second fixing member (4116). The first fixing member (4115) and the second fixing member (4116) may be positioned or formed on a base (411) of a button (e.g., button (401) of FIGS. 6 to 12).

[0180] According to one embodiment, the first fixing member (4115) may be configured to be coupled to a first engaging portion (3155) formed in the inner portion (315) of the side structure (310). For example, the first fixing member (4115) may be hook-coupled to the first engaging portion (3155). The first engaging portion (3155) may include a groove, a recess, or a hole formed in the inner portion (315). The first fixing members (4115) may be provided as a pair, respectively disposed at opposite ends of the base (411), but are not limited thereto. As the first fixing members (4115) are inserted into and secured to the first engaging portion (3155), the base (411) may be restricted and / or reduced from being detached from the side structure (310) of the housing (301).

[0181] According to one embodiment, the second fixing member (4116) may be configured to be coupled to a second engaging portion (3156) formed on an inner portion (315) of the side structure (310). For example, the second fixing member (4116) may be hook-coupled to the second engaging portion (3156). The second engaging portion (3156) may include a groove, a recess, or a hole formed on the inner portion (315). The second fixing member (4116) may be disposed between a pair of first fixing members (4115), but is not limited thereto. The second fixing members (4116) may be provided as a pair, but is not limited thereto. As the second fixing member (4116) is inserted into and fixed to the second coupling portion (3156), the base (411) can be restricted and / or reduced from being detached from the side structure (310) of the housing (301).

[0182] According to one embodiment, when the key input device (400) is inserted into a groove or recess of the housing (301) (e.g., FIG. 13b or FIG. 14), a portion of the second fixing member (4116) (e.g., 4116a of FIG. 14) may be configured to be inserted into the second engaging portion (3156) and hooked to a portion of the side structure (310). As the portion (4116a) of the second fixing member (4116) is configured to hook to the side structure (310), the detachment of the base (411) coupled with the second fixing member (4116) from the side structure (310) may be limited and / or reduced.

[0183] The key input device (400) of the present disclosure, which is explained with reference to FIGS. 6 to 14 as examples, can be applied to electronic devices such as a smartphone, a tablet PC, an AR device, a VR device, an MR (mixed reality) device, an HMD (head mounted display) device, a smart watch, a smart ring, or a laptop, and can be applied to various portable electronic devices without being limited in form.

[0184] Electronic devices may provide technologies that provide various feedback to enhance the user experience. For example, electronic devices may provide visual feedback through a display, acoustic feedback through a speaker, or tactile feedback through a haptic module.

[0185] Recently, a structure in which a button and a haptic module are linked has been proposed to provide tactile feedback to the user when the user inputs using the button of an electronic device.

[0186] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a piezoelectric actuator capable of providing haptic feedback to a user and an electronic device including the same can be provided.

[0187] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a support structure capable of supplementing the rigidity of a piezo actuator and an electronic device including the same can be provided.

[0188] However, the problem to be solved in this disclosure is not limited to the problem mentioned above, and may be determined in various ways without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure.

[0189] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device capable of preventing and / or reducing damage to a piezoelectric actuator while providing a coupling structure of the piezoelectric actuator can be provided.

[0190] The effects that can be obtained from the present disclosure are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects that are not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure belongs from the description below.

[0191] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device (101) may include a housing (301) including one surface (314).

[0192] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a button (401) movably coupled to the surface (314) and separated from the surface (314).

[0193] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a first piezo actuator (431) disposed inside the button (401).

[0194] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a second piezo actuator (433) disposed inside the button (401) and spaced apart from the first piezo actuator (431).

[0195] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a first holder (451) coupled with the first piezo actuator (431) and the second piezo actuator (433).

[0196] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a second holder (453) coupled with the first piezo actuator (431) and a portion of the housing (301).

[0197] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a third holder (455) coupled with the second piezo actuator (433) and another portion of the housing (301).

[0198] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a support portion (407, 417) disposed at least partially between the button (401) and the first holder (451). The support portion (407, 417) may be configured to support at least a portion of the button (401) corresponding to the support portion (407, 417).

[0199] According to one embodiment, the button (401) may have an elongated shape when viewed from the outside of the electronic device (101). The first piezo actuator (431) and the second piezo actuator (433) may be arranged in parallel along the elongated direction of the button (401).

[0200] According to one embodiment, the support portion (407, 417) may be positioned between the first piezo actuator (431) and the second piezo actuator (433).

[0201] According to one embodiment, the support portion (407, 417) can be at least partially inserted into the first holder (451).

[0202] According to one embodiment, the support portion (407) may come into contact with the button (401) when the button (401) is pressed by a user. The support portion (407) may be spaced apart from the button (401) when the button (401) is not pressed by a user.

[0203] According to one embodiment, the support portion (417) may extend from the button (401) to the first holder (451).

[0204] According to one embodiment, the housing (301) may include a first stopper (3151) disposed between the second holder (453) and the button (401) and a second stopper (3153) disposed between the third holder (455) and the button (401).

[0205] According to one embodiment, the button (401) may include a first stopper (418) extending from the button (401) to the second holder (453) and a second stopper (419) extending from the button (401) to the third holder (455).

[0206] According to one embodiment, the support portion (407) may include a first support portion (4071) that is at least partially inserted into the first holder (451). The support portion (407) may include a second support portion (4072) that is disposed outside the first holder (451) and extends perpendicularly to the first support portion (4071).

[0207] According to one embodiment, the second support portion (4072) may come into contact with the button (401) when the button (401) is pressed by a user. The second support portion (4072) may be spaced apart from the button (401) when the button (401) is not pressed by a user.

[0208] According to one embodiment, the button (401) may include a base (411) exposed to the outside of the housing (301). The button (401) may include a first protruding portion (413) extending from the base (411) to the first piezo actuator (431). The button (401) may include a second protruding portion (415) extending from the base (411) to the second piezo actuator (433).

[0209] According to one embodiment, the support portion (407, 417) may be configured to limit deformation of the base (411) when the base (411) is pressed by a user.

[0210] According to one embodiment, each of the first piezo actuator (431) and the second piezo actuator (433) may include a piezo material (4315) including ceramic, a first disk (4311) disposed on one surface (314) of the piezo material, and a second disk (4313) disposed on the other surface of the piezo material.

[0211] According to one embodiment, the first disk (4311) may be configured to press the button (401).

[0212] According to one embodiment, each of the first holder (451), the second holder (453), and the third holder (455) may include a rubber material.

[0213] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device (101) may include a housing (301) including one surface (314).

[0214] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a button (401) movably coupled to the surface (314) and separated from the surface (314).

[0215] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a plurality of piezo actuators (403) arranged on the inside of the button (401).

[0216] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a first holder (451) disposed between the plurality of piezo actuators (403).

[0217] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a support portion (407, 417) disposed at least partially between the button (401) and the first holder (451).

[0218] According to one embodiment, the number of the plurality of piezo actuators (403) may be greater than the number of the buttons (401).

[0219] According to one embodiment, the button (401) may include a base (411) exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101). The button (401) may include a plurality of protruding portions (413, 415) protruding from the base (411) and each contacting the plurality of piezo actuators (403).

[0220] According to one embodiment, the support portion (407, 417) may be positioned between the plurality of protruding portions (413, 415).

[0221] According to one embodiment, the housing (301) may include an inner portion (315) configured to support the first holder (451) and a receiving portion (315b) formed on the inner portion (315).

[0222] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include an input sensor (408, 4081, 4082) disposed inside the button (401) and configured to detect a user's key input.

[0223] Electronic devices according to the various embodiments disclosed in this document may take various forms. Electronic devices may include, for example, portable communication devices (e.g., smartphones), computer devices, portable multimedia devices, portable medical devices, cameras, wearable devices, or home appliances. Electronic devices according to the embodiments of this document are not limited to the aforementioned devices.

[0224] The various embodiments of this document and the terminology used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, but should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutes of the embodiments. In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components. The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of the items, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this document, each of the phrases "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B, or C", "at least one of A, B, and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" can include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase among those phrases, or all possible combinations thereof. Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used merely to distinguish one component from another, and do not limit the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order). When a component (e.g., a first component) is referred to as "coupled" or "connected" to another (e.g., a second component), with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicatively," it means that the component can be connected to the other component directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0225] The term "module" used in various embodiments of this document may include a unit implemented in hardware, software, or firmware, and may be used interchangeably with terms such as logic, logic block, component, or circuit. A module may be an integral component, or a minimum unit or part of such a component that performs one or more functions. For example, according to one embodiment, a module may be implemented in the form of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0226] Various embodiments of the present document may be implemented as software (e.g., a program (140)) including one or more instructions stored in a storage medium (e.g., an internal memory (136) or an external memory (138)) readable by a machine (e.g., an electronic device (101)). For example, a processor (e.g., a processor (120)) of the machine (e.g., an electronic device (101)) may call at least one instruction among the one or more instructions stored from the storage medium and execute it. This enables the machine to operate to perform at least one function according to the at least one called instruction. The one or more instructions may include code generated by a compiler or code executable by an interpreter. The machine-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, 'non-transitory' simply means that the storage medium is a tangible device and does not contain signals (e.g., electromagnetic waves), and the term does not distinguish between cases where data is stored semi-permanently or temporarily on the storage medium.

[0227] According to one embodiment, the method according to various embodiments disclosed in the present document may be provided as included in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded as a product between a seller and a buyer. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable storage medium (e.g., compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM)), or may be distributed online (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) via an application store (e.g., Play Store™) or directly between two user devices (e.g., smart phones). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product may be temporarily stored or temporarily generated in a machine-readable storage medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or an intermediary server.

[0228] According to various embodiments, each component (e.g., a module or a program) of the above-described components may include one or more entities, and some of the entities may be separated and arranged in other components. According to various embodiments, one or more components or operations of the aforementioned components may be omitted, or one or more other components or operations may be added. Alternatively or additionally, a plurality of components (e.g., a module or a program) may be integrated into a single component. In such a case, the integrated component may perform one or more functions of each of the plurality of components identically or similarly to those performed by the corresponding component among the plurality of components prior to the integration. According to various embodiments, the operations performed by a module, program, or other component may be executed sequentially, in parallel, iteratively, or heuristically, or one or more of the operations may be executed in a different order, omitted, or one or more other operations may be added.

[0229] Although the detailed description of this document has described specific embodiments, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications are possible without departing from the scope of this document.

Claims

1. In an electronic device (101), A housing (301) including one surface (314); A button (401) movably coupled to the above-mentioned one side (314) and separated from the above-mentioned one side (314); A first piezo actuator (431) arranged inside the above button (401); A second piezo actuator (433) disposed inside the button (401) and spaced apart from the first piezo actuator (431); A first holder (451) coupled with the first piezo actuator (431) and the second piezo actuator (433); A second holder (453) coupled with the first piezo actuator (431) and a portion of the housing (301); A third holder (455) coupled with the second piezo actuator (433) and other parts of the housing (301); and An electronic device comprising a support portion (407, 417) arranged at least partially between the button (401) and the first holder (451), the support portion (407, 417) being configured to support at least a portion of the button (401) corresponding to the support portion (407, 417).

2. In paragraph 1, The above button (401) is When viewed from the outside of the above electronic device (101), it has an elongated shape, The above first piezo actuator (431) and the above second piezo actuator (433) are, Electronic devices arranged in parallel along the elongated direction of the above button (401).

3. In either of paragraphs 1 and 2, The above support portion (407, 417) is An electronic device disposed between the first piezo actuator (431) and the second piezo actuator (433).

4. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 3, The above support portion (407, 417) is An electronic device at least partially inserted into the first holder (451).

5. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 4, The above support part (407) is, When the above button (401) is pressed by the user, contact is made with the button (401), The above support part (407) is, An electronic device that is separated from the button (401) when the button (401) is not pressed by the user.

6. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 5, The above support part (417) is, An electronic device extending from the above button (401) to the above first holder (451).

7. In paragraph 1, The above housing (301) is An electronic device further comprising a first stopper (3151) disposed between the second holder (453) and the button (401) and a second stopper (3153) disposed between the third holder (455) and the button (401).

8. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 7, The above button (401) is An electronic device comprising a first stopper (418) extending from the button (401) to the second holder (453) and a second stopper (419) extending from the button (401) to the third holder (455).

9. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 8, The above support part (407) is, a first support portion (4071) at least partially inserted into the first holder (451); and An electronic device comprising a second support portion (4072) disposed outside the first holder (451) and extending vertically with respect to the first support portion (4071).

10. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 9, The above second support part (4072) is When the above button (401) is pressed by the user, contact is made with the button (401), The above second support part (4072) is An electronic device that is separated from the button (401) when the button (401) is not pressed by the user.

11. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 10, The above button (401) is A base (411) exposed to the outside of the above housing (301); A first protruding portion (413) extending from the base (411) to the first piezo actuator (431); and An electronic device comprising a second protruding portion (415) extending from the base (411) to the second piezo actuator (433).

12. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 11, The above support portion (407, 417) is An electronic device configured to limit deformation of the base (411) when the base (411) is pressed by a user.

13. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 12, Each of the first piezo actuator (431) and the second piezo actuator (433) Piezo material including ceramic (4315); A first disk (4311) arranged on one side (314) of the above piezo material; and An electronic device comprising a second disk (4313) disposed on the other side of the piezo material.

14. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 13, The above first disk (4311) is, An electronic device configured to press the above button (401).

15. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 14, Each of the first holder (451), the second holder (453) and the third holder (455) An electronic device containing a rubber material.

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