Electronic device including actuator and rack gear parallel to each other

Abstract

This electronic device comprises: a housing including a first housing part and a second housing part movably coupled to the first housing part; a driving mechanism; a battery; and a printed circuit board. The driving mechanism includes an actuator disposed to have a rotation axis parallel to a movement direction of the second housing part, and a rack gear extending parallel to the direction. The printed circuit board includes a first area including a plurality of layers and a second area including a single layer and overlapping the battery.

Description

Electronic device comprising an actuator and a rack gear that are parallel to each other

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an electronic device including an actuator and a rack gear that are parallel to each other.

[0002] An electronic device may include a plurality of housing parts that are movably coupled. For example, the electronic device may include a first housing part and a second housing part movably coupled to the first housing part. The electronic device may include a drive mechanism that causes movement of the first housing part and / or the second housing part. The drive mechanism may operate based on power from a battery. The charge capacity of the battery may be proportional to the size of the battery.

[0003] The above information may be provided as background art to aid in understanding the present disclosure. No claim or determination is made as to whether any of the above is applicable as prior art in connection with the present disclosure.

[0004] Aspects of the present disclosure address at least the problems and / or disadvantages mentioned above and provide at least the advantages described below. Accordingly, one aspect of the present disclosure provides an electronic device comprising an actuator and a rack gear that are parallel to each other.

[0005] Additional aspects will be partly set forth in the following description, and partly will become apparent from the description, or may be learned by practicing the embodiments provided.

[0006] An electronic device is provided. The electronic device may include a housing including a first housing part and a second housing part that are movably coupled to each other. The electronic device may include a driving mechanism configured to cause movement of the first housing part or movement of the second housing part. The electronic device may include a printed circuit board assembly disposed within the first housing part, the printed circuit board assembly including a first region that is a laminated region of printed circuit boards and a second region that is a non-laminated region. The electronic device may include a battery disposed within the first housing part. The driving mechanism may include an actuator disposed to have a rotational axis parallel to a direction of movement of the first housing part or the second housing part, and a rack gear disposed parallel to the rotational axis. The battery may be located on the second region among the first region and the second region.

[0007] An electronic device is provided. The electronic device may include a housing comprising a first housing part and a second housing part movably coupled to the first housing part. The electronic device may include a drive mechanism configured to cause movement of the second housing part relative to the first housing part. The drive mechanism may include an actuator disposed within the first housing part to have a rotational axis parallel to a direction of movement of the second housing part. The drive mechanism may include a rack gear coupled to the second housing part and extending parallel to the direction. The drive mechanism may include a pinion gear operatively coupled to the actuator, configured to rotate based on a motion of the actuator, and engaged with the rack gear. The drive mechanism may include one or more gears connected to each of the actuator and the pinion gear to transmit power from the actuator to the pinion gear. The electronic device may include a bracket including a guide rail for guiding linear motion of the rack gear. The guide rail may include a first side wall that contacts a portion of one side of the rack gear, and a second side wall that contacts a portion of the other side of the rack gear opposite the one side, and includes an opening area to reduce a gap between the actuator and the rack gear. The one or more gears may be closer to the second side wall among the first side wall and the second side wall.

[0008] Other aspects, advantages and important features of the present disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description of various embodiments of the present disclosure taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

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

[0010] FIG. 2A is a front view of an electronic device according to one embodiment in a first state.

[0011] FIG. 2b is a rear view of an electronic device according to one embodiment in a first state.

[0012] FIG. 2c is a plan view of an electronic device according to one embodiment in a second state.

[0013] FIG. 2d is a rear view of an electronic device according to one embodiment in a second state.

[0014] FIG. 3A illustrates the interior of an electronic device according to one embodiment in a first state.

[0015] FIG. 3b illustrates the interior of an electronic device according to one embodiment in a second state.

[0016] FIG. 4A is a cross-sectional view of an electronic device according to one embodiment, taken along line A-A' of FIG. 3A.

[0017] FIG. 4b is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B' of FIG. 3b of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0018] FIG. 4c illustrates the printed circuit board assembly, battery, and flexible display of FIG. 4a.

[0019] FIG. 4d illustrates the printed circuit board assembly, battery, and flexible display of FIG. 4b.

[0020] FIG. 5A illustrates a printed circuit board assembly and battery of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0021] FIG. 5b illustrates a flexible display and printed circuit board assembly of an electronic device according to one embodiment within a first state.

[0022] FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate a drive mechanism and a bracket of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0023] Figure 6c illustrates a bracket according to one embodiment.

[0024] Figure 7a is a side view of the driving mechanism illustrated in Figure 6a.

[0025] Figure 7b illustrates a drive mechanism in which the rack gears are positioned so that they face the rear of the electronic device.

[0026] Figure 7c is a side view of the driving mechanism illustrated in Figure 7b.

[0027] FIG. 8 illustrates one or more gears according to one embodiment.

[0028] FIG. 9a illustrates one or more gears according to one embodiment.

[0029] FIG. 9b illustrates a portion of a drive mechanism including one or more gears illustrated in FIG. 9a.

[0030] FIG. 10A illustrates the interior of an electronic device according to one embodiment in a first state.

[0031] FIG. 10b illustrates the interior of an electronic device according to one embodiment in a second state.

[0032] The following description, provided with reference to the attached drawings, is intended to provide a comprehensive understanding of various embodiments of the present disclosure as defined by the claims and their equivalents. While numerous specific details are included to aid this understanding, they are to be considered merely exemplary. Accordingly, those skilled in the art will recognize that various modifications and variations are possible in the various embodiments described herein without departing from the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. Furthermore, descriptions of well-known functions and configurations may be omitted for clarity and brevity.

[0033] The terms and words used in the following description and claims are not limited to their dictionary meanings, but have been used by the inventors to ensure a clear and consistent understanding of the present disclosure. Accordingly, those skilled in the art will understand that the following description of various embodiments of the present disclosure is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to limit the present disclosure, which is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0034] Singular expressions such as "a," "an," and "the" should be interpreted as including the plural unless the context clearly dictates a singular interpretation. For example, the expression "a component surface" can be interpreted as including one or more such surfaces.

[0035] The blocks and combinations of flowcharts in each flowchart can be executed by one or more computer programs, which may include computer-executable instructions. The entire contents of one or more computer programs may be stored in a single memory device or may be divided and stored across multiple memory devices.

[0036] All functions or operations described herein may be performed by one processor or multiple processors. The one processor or multiple processors may include circuits that perform operations, such as an application processor (AP, e.g., a central processing unit (CPU)), a communication processor (CP, e.g., a modem), a graphics processor (GPU), a neural network processor (NPU, e.g., an artificial intelligence (AI) chip), a wireless LAN (Wi-Fi) chip, a Bluetooth™ chip, a global positioning system (GPS) chip, a near-field communication (NFC) chip, a connectivity chip, a sensor controller, a touch controller, a fingerprint sensor controller, a display driver integrated circuit (IC), an audio codec chip, a USB controller, a camera controller, an image processing IC, a microprocessor unit (MPU), a system on a chip (SoC), an IC, and the like.

[0037] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment, according to one embodiment.

[0038] 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 an electronic device (104) or a server (108) via a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). According to 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)).

[0039] The processor (120) may, for example, execute software (e.g., a program (140)) to control at least one other component (e.g., a hardware or software component) of the electronic device (101) connected to the processor (120) and perform various data processing or calculations. According to one embodiment, as at least a part of the data processing or calculations, the processor (120) may store commands or data received from other components (e.g., a sensor module (176) or a communication module (190)) in a volatile memory (132), process the commands or data stored in the volatile memory (132), and store result data in a non-volatile memory (134). According to one embodiment, the processor (120) may include a main processor (121) (e.g., a central processing unit or an application processor) or a secondary processor (123) (e.g., a graphics processing unit, a neural processing unit (NPU), an image signal processor, a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor)) that can operate independently or together therewith. For example, if the electronic device (101) includes a main processor (121) and a secondary processor (123), the secondary processor (123) may be configured to use less power than the main processor (121) or to be specialized for a specified function. The secondary processor (123) may be implemented separately from the main processor (121) or as a part thereof.

[0040] The auxiliary processor (123) may control at least a part 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, in the electronic device (101) itself where artificial intelligence is performed, 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.

[0041] 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).

[0042] 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).

[0043] 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).

[0044] 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.

[0045] 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. In 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.

[0046] 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).

[0047] 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.

[0048] 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.

[0049] 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).

[0050] 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. In one embodiment, the haptic module (179) can include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0051] 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.

[0052] 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, for example, as at least a part of a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

[0053] 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.

[0054] 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).

[0055] 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.

[0056] 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 by, for example, the communication module (190). A signal or power may be transmitted or received between the communication module (190) and an external electronic device through 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).

[0057] In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may form a mmWave antenna module. In one embodiment, the mmWave antenna module may include a printed circuit board, an RFIC disposed on or adjacent a first side (e.g., a bottom side) of the printed circuit board and capable of supporting a designated high-frequency band (e.g., a mmWave band), and a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna) disposed on or adjacent a second side (e.g., a top side or a side side) of the printed circuit board and capable of transmitting or receiving signals in the designated high-frequency band.

[0058] 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)).

[0059] 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 server (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.

[0060] The display of the display module (160) may be flexible. The display may include a display area that is exposed outside the housing of the electronic device (101), which provides at least a portion of the outer surface of the electronic device (101). Since the display has flexibility, at least a portion of the display may be rollable into the housing or slidable into the housing. The size of the display area may vary depending on the size of the at least a portion of the display that is rolled into the housing or slidable into the housing. For example, the electronic device (101) including the display may be in a plurality of states, including a first state providing the display area having a first size and a second state providing the display area having a second size different from the first size. For example, the first state may be exemplified through the description of FIGS. 2A and 2B .

[0061] FIG. 2A is a front view of an electronic device according to one embodiment in a first state.

[0062] Referring to FIG. 2A, the electronic device (101) may include a housing (201) and a flexible display (230) (e.g., the display module (160) of FIG. 1). For example, the housing (201) may include a first housing part (210) and a second housing part (220) movably coupled to the first housing part (210). For example, the second housing part (220) may be movable relative to the first housing part (210) in a first direction (261) parallel to the y-axis or in a second direction (262) parallel to the y-axis and opposite to the first direction (261).

[0063] Although the present disclosure describes the second housing part (220) as being moved relative to the first housing part (210), embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto. For example, the housing (201) may have a structure in which the overall size of the housing (201) may change according to a change in the relative positional relationship between the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220). The relative positional relationship between the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) may change by the operation of a driving mechanism, which will be described later. For example, the first housing part (210) may be movable relative to the second housing part (220) by the driving mechanism. For example, both the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) may be movable by the driving mechanism.

[0064] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may be in a first state. In the first state, the second housing part (220) may be movable relative to the first housing part (210) in a first direction (261) among the first direction (261) and the second direction (262). For example, in the first state, the second housing part (220) may not be substantially movable relative to the first housing part (210) in the second direction (262). The first direction (261) may be referred to as a direction in which the second housing part (220) moves away from the first housing part (210). The first direction (261) may be referred to as the -y direction of FIG. 2A. The second direction (262) may be referred to as a direction in which the second housing part (220) moves closer to the first housing part (210). The second direction (262) can be referred to as the +y direction of Fig. 2a.

[0065] For example, in the first state, the flexible display (230) can provide a display area having the smallest size. For example, within the first state, the display area can correspond to the first display area (230a). Although not illustrated in FIG. 2A, within the first state, a second display area (e.g., the second display area (230b) of the flexible display (230) different from the first display area (230a) can be included within the first housing part (210). Within the first state, the second display area (230b) can be covered by the first housing part (210). Within the first state, the second display area (230b) can be rolled into the first housing part (210).

[0066] The first state may be referred to as a slide-in state or a closed state from the perspective that at least a portion of the second housing part (220) is positioned within the first housing part (210) and that the area in which the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) are arranged to partially overlap each other is the largest. For example, the first state may be referred to as a reduced state from the perspective that it provides a display area having the smallest size. However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0067] For example, the first housing part (210) may include a first image sensor (250-1) within a camera module (e.g., the camera module (180) of FIG. 1) that is exposed through a portion of the first display area (230a) and faces a third direction (263) parallel to the z-axis. Although not illustrated in FIG. 2A, the first housing part (210) may include one or more second image sensors within the camera module (180) that are exposed through a portion of the first housing part (210) and faces a fourth direction (264) parallel to the z-axis and opposite to the third direction (263). For example, the one or more second image sensors may be exemplified through the description of FIG. 2B.

[0068] FIG. 2b is a rear view of an electronic device according to one embodiment in a first state.

[0069] Referring to FIG. 2B, in the first state, one or more second image sensors (250-2) disposed within the first housing part (210) may be positioned within a structure disposed within the second housing part (220) for the one or more second image sensors (250-2). For example, light from outside the electronic device (101) may be received by the one or more second image sensors (250-2) through the structure in the first state. Since the one or more second image sensors (250-2) are positioned within the structure in the first state, the one or more second image sensors (250-2) may be exposed through the structure in the first state. For example, the structure may be implemented in various ways. For example, the structure may be an opening or a notch. For example, the structure may be an opening (222a) in a rear plate (222) of a second housing part (220) that surrounds at least a portion of the first housing part (210), but is not limited thereto.

[0070] For example, the first state can be changed to the second state.

[0071] For example, the first state (or second state) can be changed to the second state (or first state) through intermediate states between the first state and the second state.

[0072] For example, the first state (or second state) may be changed to the second state (or first state) based on a user input. For example, the first state (or second state) may be changed to the second state (or first state) in response to a user input to a physical button exposed through a portion of the first housing part (210) or a portion of the second housing part (220). For example, the first state (or second state) may be changed to the second state (or first state) in response to a touch input to an executable object displayed within the display area. For example, the first state (or second state) may be changed to the second state (or first state) in response to a touch input having a contact point on the display area and having a pressing strength greater than or equal to a reference strength. For example, the first state (or second state) may be changed to the second state (or first state) in response to a voice input received through a microphone of the electronic device (101). For example, the first state (or second state) may be changed to the second state (or first state) in response to an external force applied to the first housing part (210) and / or the second housing part (220) to move the second housing part (220) relative to the first housing part (210). For example, the first state (or second state) may be changed to the second state (or first state) in response to a user input identified from an external electronic device (e.g., earbuds or a smart watch) connected to the electronic device (101). However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0073] The second state can be illustrated through the descriptions of FIGS. 2c and 2d.

[0074] FIG. 2c is a plan view of an electronic device according to one embodiment in a second state.

[0075] Referring to FIG. 2C, the electronic device (101) may be in a second state. For example, within the second state, the second housing part (220) may be movable relative to the first housing part (210) in a second direction (262) among the first direction (261) and the second direction (262). For example, within the second state, the second housing part (220) may not be substantially movable relative to the first housing part (210) in the first direction (261).

[0076] For example, within the second state, the flexible display (230) may provide a display area having the largest size. For example, within the second state, the display area may correspond to an area (230c) including a first display area (230a) and a second display area (230b). The second display area (230b), which was positioned inside the first housing part (210) or outside at least a portion of the first housing part (210) within the first state, may be exposed within the second state.

[0077] For example, the second state may be referred to as a slide-out state or an open state in that the size of the display area of ​​the flexible display (230) exposed to the outside of the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) increases due to movement of the first housing part (210) or the second housing part (220). For example, the second state may be referred to as an expanded state in that it provides a display area having the largest size. However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0078] For example, the first image sensor (250-1) facing the third direction (263) may move together with the first display area (230a) according to the movement of the second housing part (220) in the first direction (261) or the movement of the first housing part (210) in the second direction (262) when the state of the electronic device (101) changes from the first state to the second state. Although not shown in FIG. 2c, one or more second image sensors (e.g., one or more second image sensors (250-2) of FIG. 2d) facing the fourth direction (264) may move according to the movement of the second housing part (220) in the first direction (261) or the movement of the first housing part (210) in the second direction (262) when the state of the electronic device (101) changes from the first state to the second state. For example, the relative positional relationship between one or more second image sensors (250-2) and the structure illustrated in the description of FIG. 2B may change according to the movement of one or more second image sensors (250-2). For example, the change in the relative positional relationship may be illustrated in FIG. 2D.

[0079] FIG. 2d is a rear view of an electronic device according to one embodiment in a second state.

[0080] Referring to FIG. 2d, within the second state, one or more second image sensors (250-2) may be positioned outside the structure. For example, the structure may include an opening (212a). For example, within the second state, one or more second image sensors (250-2) may be positioned outside the opening (222a) in the first plate (212). As described with reference to FIG. 2b, one or more second image sensors (250-2) may be exposed through the opening (212a) within the first state. Because one or more second image sensors (250-2) are positioned outside the first housing part (210) within the second state, one or more second image sensors (250-2) may be exposed within the second state. Since one or more second image sensors (250-2) are positioned outside the structure within the second state, the relative positional relationship within the second state may be different from the relative positional relationship within the first state.

[0081] For example, if the electronic device (101) does not include the above structure such as the opening (212a), one or more second image sensors (250-2) may be exposed within the second state among the first state and the second state.

[0082] Although not illustrated in FIGS. 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D, the electronic device (101) may be in an intermediate state between the first state and the second state. For example, the size of the display area in the intermediate state may be larger than the size of the display area in the first state and smaller than the size of the display area in the second state. For example, the display area in the intermediate state may correspond to an area including a portion of the first display area (230a) and the second display area (230b). For example, in the intermediate state, a portion of the second display area (230b) may be exposed, and another portion (or a remaining portion) of the second display area (230b) may be covered by the first housing part (210) or rolled into the first housing part (210). However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0083] An electronic device (101) according to one embodiment may include structures for moving a second housing (e.g., a second housing part (220) of FIG. 2A) of the electronic device (101) relative to a first housing (e.g., a first housing part (210) of FIG. 2A) of the electronic device (101). For example, the structures may be exemplified through the description of FIGS. 3A and 3B.

[0084] Within this disclosure, terms such as "above," "below," "one side," and "the other side" are not terms indicating absolute positional relationships, but rather terms indicating relative positional relationships, and should be understood as terms specified for convenience of explanation. For example, if an electronic device depicted in a drawing is flipped over, "above" and "below" may be interchanged.

[0085] FIG. 3A illustrates the interior of an electronic device according to one embodiment in a first state. FIG. 3B illustrates the interior of an electronic device according to one embodiment in a second state.

[0086] Referring to FIG. 3A, the electronic device (101) may include a drive mechanism (300) configured to cause movement of the second housing part (220) relative to the first housing part (210). The drive mechanism (300) may include an actuator (310) and a rack gear (320).

[0087] In one embodiment, the actuator (310) may operate based on power provided from a battery (361). The power may be provided to the actuator (310) in response to a user input. The actuator (310) may be arranged to have a first rotational axis (301) that is parallel to a direction of movement of the second housing part (220) (e.g., a direction parallel to the y-axis). The first rotational axis (301) may be parallel to the first direction (261) and / or the second direction (262). When power is provided to the actuator (310) from the battery (361), the first shaft (303) connected to the actuator (310) may rotate about the first rotational axis (301).

[0088] According to one embodiment, the rack gear (320) may be coupled to the second housing part (220). The rack gear (320) may extend parallel to the movement direction of the second housing part (220). The rack gear (320) may be parallel to the first rotational axis (301) of the actuator (310). For example, the rack gear (320) may extend parallel to the first direction (261) and / or the second direction (262). The rack gear (320) may move linearly along the first direction (261) and / or the second direction (262). The electronic device (101) may include a bracket (600) for guiding the linear movement of the rack gear (320). The bracket (600) will be described below with reference to FIG. 6A.

[0089] According to one embodiment, the drive mechanism (300) may include a pinion gear (330) and one or more gears (340).

[0090] In one embodiment, the pinion gear (330) may be operatively coupled to the actuator (310). The pinion gear (330) being operatively coupled to the actuator (310) may be referenced as meaning that the pinion gear (330) is not directly coupled to the actuator (310), but rather that the pinion gear (330) is connected to the actuator (310) via one or more gears (340). The pinion gear (330) may be rotated based on the operation of the actuator (310).

[0091] In one embodiment, the rack gear (320) may be arranged with a pinion gear (330). For example, the teeth (e.g., teeth (320a) of FIG. 7A) of the rack gear (320) may engage with teeth (330a) of the pinion gear (330). When the pinion gear (330) rotates, the rack gear (320) may move based on the rotation of the pinion gear (330).

[0092] In one embodiment, one or more gears (340) may be connected to each of the actuator (310) and the pinion gear (330) to transmit power of the actuator (310) to the pinion gear (330). For example, the one or more gears (340) may include a first gear (341) connected to the actuator (310) and a second gear (342) connected to the pinion gear (330). The first gear (341) may include first teeth (341a) and may be connected to a first shaft (303) connected to the actuator (310). The second gear (342) may include second teeth (342a) that mesh with the first teeth (341a) and may be connected to a second shaft (304) that is connected to a pinion gear (330). The first gear (341) may be configured to rotate based on the operation of the actuator (310). The second gear (342) may be configured to rotate based on the rotation of the first gear (341), thereby causing rotational movement of the pinion gear (330).

[0093] In one embodiment, the one or more gears (340) may include bevel gears and / or helical gears for transmitting power between two intersecting axes. For example, a first shaft (303) connected to the actuator (310) may be parallel to the first direction (261) and / or the second direction (262). A second shaft (304) connected to the pinion gear (330) may be arranged perpendicular to the first direction (261) and / or the second direction (262). When the actuator (310) operates, the first gear (341) may rotate about the first rotational axis (301) of the actuator (310). The second gear (342) meshed with the first gear (341) can rotate around a second rotation axis (302) that is perpendicular to the first rotation axis (301) of the actuator (310). When the second gear (342) rotates around the second rotation axis (302), the pinion gear (330) can rotate around the second rotation axis (302). As the pinion gear (330) rotates, the rack gear (320) meshed with the pinion gear (330) can move in the first direction (261) or the second direction (262).

[0094] According to one embodiment, a rack gear (320) extending parallel to the first direction (261) and / or the second direction (262) can be moved in the first direction (261) or the second direction (262) based on the rotation of the pinion gear (330). The rack gear (320) can be coupled to the second housing part (220). The second housing part (220) can be moved in the first direction (261) or the second direction (262) by the rack gear (320) moving based on the rotation of the pinion gear (330).

[0095] For example, within a first state of the electronic device (101) illustrated in FIG. 3A, the actuator (310) may be operated based at least in part on a user input. The first gear (341) may be rotated in a first rotational direction about the first rotational axis (301) based at least in part on the operation of the actuator (310). Based on the rotation of the first gear (341) in the first rotational direction (e.g., clockwise or counterclockwise), the second gear (342) and the pinion gear (330) may be rotated. As the pinion gear (330) is rotated, the rack gear (320) may be moved in a first direction (261) (e.g., -y direction). As the rack gear (320) moves in the first direction (261), the second housing part (220) coupled with the rack gear (320) can move in the first direction (261), and the state of the electronic device (101) can be converted from the first state to the second state illustrated in FIG. 3b through a plurality of intermediate states.

[0096] For example, within the second state of the electronic device (101) illustrated in FIG. 3B, the actuator (310) may be operated based at least in part on a user input. The first gear (341) may be rotated in a second rotational direction opposite the first rotational direction about the first rotational axis (301) based at least in part on the operation of the actuator (310). Based on the rotation of the first gear (341) in the second rotational direction (e.g., counterclockwise or clockwise), the second gear (342) and the pinion gear (330) may be rotated. As the pinion gear (330) is rotated, the rack gear (320) may be moved in the second direction (262) (e.g., +y direction). As the rack gear (320) moves in the second direction (262), the second housing part (220) coupled with the rack gear (320) can move in the second direction (262), and the state of the electronic device (101) can be converted from the second state to the first state illustrated in FIG. 3A through a plurality of intermediate states.

[0097] In the above description, the second housing part (220) is described as being moved by the driving mechanism (300), but embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto. For example, differently from the above description, the rack gear (320) may be coupled to the first housing part (210). In this case, when the actuator (310) rotates, the first housing part (210) connected to the rack gear (320) may be moved in the first direction (261) or the second direction (262).

[0098] An electronic device (101) according to one embodiment may further include a printed circuit board assembly (350) and a battery (361).

[0099] According to one embodiment, a printed circuit board assembly (350) may be disposed within the first housing part (210). The printed circuit board assembly (350) may be configured to provide electrical connections between electronic components of the electronic device (101). For example, a processor (e.g., the processor (120) of FIG. 1) may be electrically connected to electronic components of the electronic device (101) (e.g., one or more speakers (e.g., the first speaker (362), the second speaker (363)), one or more image sensors (250-2)) through the printed circuit board assembly (350). For example, the printed circuit board assembly (350) and the actuator (310) may be electrically connected through a connecting member (366) (e.g., a flexible printed circuit board). The printed circuit board assembly (350) may be adjacent to a fifth edge portion (210c) of the first housing part (210). The fifth edge portion (210c) is perpendicular to the first edge portion (210a) of the first housing part (210) and can be spaced apart from the second housing part (220).

[0100] According to one embodiment, a printed circuit board assembly (350) may include a first region (351) and a second region (352). The first region (351) may be a laminated region of a plurality of printed circuit boards. The first region (351) may include a plurality of layers. For example, the first region (351) may include a plurality of conductive layers and a plurality of non-conductive layers alternately laminated with the plurality of conductive layers. The first region (351) may provide electrical connections between electronic components using wires and conductive vias formed on the conductive layers. For example, a processor may be disposed on the first region (351).

[0101] For example, the second region (352) may be a non-laminated region. The second region (352) may include a single layer. When the second region (352) includes a single layer, it may be referred to as the second region (352) including only a single conductive layer. The second region (352) may extend from the first region (351) in a direction (e.g., the -y direction) toward the second housing part (220). Since the second region (352) includes only a single layer, unlike the first region (351) including a plurality of layers, the thickness of the second region (352) may be thinner than the thickness of the first region (351). The single layer of the second region (352) may be an extension of a layer disposed at the outermost end among the plurality of layers of the first region (351).

[0102] According to one embodiment, the battery (361) can store power. The battery (361) may be a rechargeable secondary battery. The battery (361) may be configured to supply power to electronic components of the electronic device (101) by being controlled by a power management module (e.g., the power management module (188) of FIG. 1).

[0103] The charge capacity that the battery (361) can store may be determined based on the size of the battery (361). As the size of the battery (361) increases, the charge capacity that can be stored in the battery (361) may increase. Since the electronic device (101) according to one embodiment includes components for moving the second housing part (220) (e.g., the driving mechanism (300)), the internal space for the battery (361) may be limited. As the internal space for the battery (361) is limited, the size of the battery (361) included in the electronic device (101) may be reduced, and thus the charge capacity of the battery (361) may be insufficient. Unlike electronic devices that include a non-deformable bar type housing, the electronic device (101) according to one embodiment may require internal space for arranging a battery (361) to secure a charging capacity of the battery (361) because it consumes power to cause movement of the second housing part (220).

[0104] In an electronic device (101) according to one embodiment, in order to secure an internal space for arranging a battery (361), the driving mechanism (300) may be positioned not at the central region within the housing (201), but rather offset from the central region. As the driving mechanism (300) is positioned offset to one side of the housing (201), an internal space for arranging the battery (361) within the housing (201) may be secured, and thus the size of the battery (361) may increase.

[0105] According to one embodiment, the first housing part (210) may include a first edge portion (210a) and a second edge portion (210b). The first edge portion (210a) and the second edge portion (210b) may be edge portions of the first housing part (210) that are parallel to a moving direction of the second housing part (220) (e.g., the first direction (261) and / or the second direction (262)). The second edge portion (210b) may be opposite to the first edge portion (210a). According to one embodiment, the actuator (310) may be arranged closer to one of the first edge portion (210a) and the second edge portion (210b). For example, the actuator (310) may be positioned closer to the first edge portion (210a) among the first edge portion (210a) and the second edge portion (210b). The distance between the first edge portion (210a) and the actuator (310) may be closer than the distance between the second edge portion (210b) and the actuator (310).

[0106] According to one embodiment, the second housing part (220) may include a third edge portion (220a) and a fourth edge portion (220b). The third edge portion (220a) may be at least partially coupled to the first edge portion (210a) of the first housing part (210). The fourth edge portion (220b) may be at least partially coupled to the second edge portion (210b) of the first housing part (210). The fourth edge portion (220b) may be opposite to the third edge portion (220a). When the second housing part (220) is moved in the first direction (261) or the second direction (262), the third edge portion (220a) may be moved along at least a portion of the first edge portion (210a), and the fourth edge portion (220b) may be moved along at least a portion of the second edge portion (210b). According to one embodiment, the rack gear (320) may be positioned closer to the third edge portion (220a) among the third edge portion (220a) and the fourth edge portion (220b).

[0107] According to one embodiment, the actuator (310) is adjacent to the first edge portion (210a) and the rack gear (320) is adjacent to the third edge portion (220a), so that in the first state of the electronic device (101), the rack gear (320) can be positioned next to the actuator (310). As illustrated in FIG. 3A, when the electronic device (101) is in the first state, the rack gear (320) can be positioned next to the actuator (310). Since the actuator (310) and the rack gear (320) are positioned adjacent to each other, space can be secured for positioning the battery (361) inside the housing (201). Since the first rotation axis (301) of the actuator (310) is parallel to the moving direction of the second housing part (220) (e.g., the first direction (261) and / or the second direction (262)), the driving mechanism (300) can be positioned offset to one side of the housing (201). Since the driving mechanism (300) is positioned offset to one side of the housing (201), a space for arranging the battery (361) inside the housing (201) can be secured. If the first rotation axis (301) of the actuator (310) is not parallel to the moving direction of the second housing part (220) but perpendicular to the moving direction, the actuator (310) is positioned perpendicular to the rack gear (320), and therefore, the space for arranging the battery (361) can be reduced due to the space occupied by the actuator (310). As space is secured for placing the battery (361) inside the housing (201), the battery (361) can have a relatively large size.

[0108] In one embodiment, the battery (361) may be disposed within the first housing (210). The battery (361) may at least partially occupy a space within the first housing (210) between the actuator (310) and the second edge portion (210b) of the first housing part (210). For example, the battery (361) may have a width less than the distance between the actuator (310) and the second edge portion (210b).

[0109] As the size of the battery (361) increases, the size of the printed circuit board assembly (350) may decrease. Since electronic components are arranged on the printed circuit board assembly (350), if the size of the printed circuit board assembly (350) decreases, the area of ​​the printed circuit board assembly (350) for arranging the electronic components may become insufficient. According to one embodiment, in order to secure the size of the battery (361) and the area of ​​the printed circuit board assembly (350), the battery (361) and the printed circuit board assembly (350) may at least partially overlap.

[0110] According to one embodiment, the battery (361) can at least partially overlap with the second region (352) of the printed circuit board assembly (350). The battery (361) can be disposed on the first region (351) among the first region (351) and the second region (352). The battery (361) can have a length that at least partially overlaps the second region (352) among the first region (351) and the second region (352) when the battery (361) is viewed from above. For example, at least a portion of the battery (361) can be disposed above (e.g., in the +z direction) the second region (352). The first region (351) can be disposed without overlapping with the battery (361), and at least a portion of the second region (352) can be disposed below (e.g., in the -z direction) the battery (361). Since the thickness of the second region (352) including only a single layer is thinner than the thickness of the first region (351) including a plurality of layers, even if at least a portion of the second region (352) overlaps with the battery (361), the thickness of the electronic device (101) may not increase significantly. As the second region (352) at least partially overlaps with the battery (361), the area of ​​the printed circuit board assembly (350) for arranging electronic components can be secured. For example, a radio frequency (RF) module (e.g., RF integrated circuitry (RFIC), RF front end (RFFE) module) may be arranged on the second region (352), but is not limited thereto.

[0111] According to one embodiment, as the driving mechanism (300) is arranged to be biased toward one side of the housing (201), not only can the size of the battery (361) increase, but space for arranging other electronic components can also be secured. Since the width of the battery (361) is less than the distance between the actuator (310) and the second edge portion (210b), a space can be secured between the third edge portion (220a) and the battery (361) within the first state of the electronic device (101). Other electronic components can be arranged in the space between the third edge portion (220a) and the battery (361).

[0112] For example, the electronic device (101) may include one or more speakers configured to provide an audio signal. The one or more speakers may include a diaphragm configured to vibrate to radiate an audio signal, a voice coil that causes the diaphragm to vibrate, and a permanent magnet for forming a magnetic field. For example, the one or more speakers may include a first speaker (362) disposed within a first housing part (210) and a second speaker (363) disposed within a second housing part (220). The first speaker (362) within the first housing part (210) may be disposed on a first region (351) of a printed circuit board assembly (350). The second speaker (363) within the second housing part (220) may be disposed adjacent to a rack gear (320). The second speaker (363) being positioned adjacent to the rack gear (320) may be referred to as an imaginary line extending from the rack gear (320) passing through the second speaker (363) or the second speaker (363) being positioned around the imaginary line. As the second speaker (363) is positioned within the space between the third edge portion (220a) and the battery (361), the electronic device (101) may include a speaker positioned within the second housing part (220). The electronic device (101) may provide a rich sound field effect by providing stereophonic sound using the first speaker (362) and the second speaker (363).

[0113] For example, the electronic device (101) may include a connection terminal (364) (e.g., connection terminal (178) of FIG. 1) disposed within the second housing part (220). The connection terminal (364) may include a connector that may be physically connected to a terminal of an external electronic device. The connector may be connected to a flexible printed circuit board assembly for providing an electrical connection with the printed circuit board assembly (350). The connection terminal (364) within the second housing part (220) may be disposed adjacent to the rack gear (320). The arrangement of the connection terminal (364) adjacent to the rack gear (320) may be referred to as a virtual line extending from the rack gear (320) passing through the connection terminal (364) or the connection terminal (364) being positioned around the virtual line. As the connection terminal (364) is positioned within the space between the third edge portion (220a) and the battery (361), the electronic device (101) may include a connection terminal positioned within the second housing part (220). The connection terminal (364) positioned within the second housing part (220) may enable the electronic device (101) to be electrically connected to an external electronic device regardless of the state of the electronic device (101). For example, if the connection terminal (364) is positioned within the first housing part (210) due to insufficient space in the second housing part (220) for positioning the connection terminal (364), the connection terminal (364) must be positioned in a portion of the first housing part (210) that is not covered by the second housing part (220) in the first state, and thus the position at which the connection terminal (364) can be positioned may be limited. According to one embodiment, the connection terminal (364) disposed within the second housing part (220) can always be exposed to the outside, independently of the state of the electronic device (101).

[0114] An electronic device (101) according to one embodiment can secure a space inside a housing (201) through an actuator (310) and a rack gear (320) that are arranged in parallel with each other. As the space is secured, the size of the battery (361) can increase. As the size of the battery (361) increases, the charging capacity of the battery (361) can increase. As a non-limiting example, other electronic components (e.g., a second speaker (363) and / or a connection terminal (364)) can be additionally arranged inside the second housing part (220). An electronic device (101) according to one embodiment can efficiently utilize the internal space of the housing (201).

[0115] FIG. 4A is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A' of FIG. 3A of an electronic device according to one embodiment. FIG. 4B is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B' of FIG. 3B of an electronic device according to one embodiment. FIG. 4C illustrates the printed circuit board assembly, the battery, and the flexible display of FIG. 4A. FIG. 4D illustrates the printed circuit board assembly, the battery, and the flexible display of FIG. 4B.

[0116] Within the first state illustrated in FIG. 4a, the second housing part (220) may be movable in a first direction (261) away from the first housing part (210) and a second direction (262) toward the first housing part (210), among the first direction (261) and the second direction (262) toward the first housing part (210). Based at least in part on a user input received within the first state, the second housing part (220) may be movable in the first direction (261) away from the first housing part (210). When the second housing part (220) moves to the maximum extent in the first direction (261), the electronic device (101) may be in the second state illustrated in FIG. 4b. Within the first state illustrated in FIG. 4b, the second housing part (220) may be movable in the second direction (262) among the first direction (261) and the second direction (262). The aforementioned driving mechanism (e.g., driving mechanism (300) of FIG. 3A) can be configured to provide the first state, the second state, and a plurality of intermediate states between the first state and the second state.

[0117] Referring to FIGS. 4A and 4B, the printed circuit board assembly (350) and the battery (361) may be disposed within the first housing part (210). Even if the second housing part (220) moves in the first direction (261) or the second direction (262), the positions of the printed circuit board assembly (350) and the battery (361) disposed within the first housing part (210) may be fixed. The printed circuit board assembly (350) may be adjacent to the fifth edge portion (210c) of the first housing part (210). An end portion (352a) of the second region (352) may face opposite to the fifth edge portion (210c). The electronic device (101) may include a support member (233) including a plurality of bars for supporting the flexible region (232). The shape of the support member (233) can be changed based on the state of the electronic device (101).

[0118] Referring to FIG. 4C, an electronic device (101) according to one embodiment may include a flexible display (230). The flexible display (230) may include a planar portion (231) and a flexible portion (232).

[0119] For example, the flat area (231) may be disposed on the first housing part (210). The flat area (231) may be substantially flat, independent of the state of the electronic device (101). The flat area (231) may be visible from the outside of the electronic device (101), independent of the state of the electronic device (101). The flat area (231) may include the first display area (230a) of FIG. 2B.

[0120] For example, the flexible region (232) may extend from the flat region (231). The flexible region (232) may be configured to be at least partially inserted into the second housing part (220) or to be withdrawn from the interior of the second housing part (220) based on the movement of the second housing part (220). As illustrated in FIG. 4C, within the first state, the flexible region (232) may be at least partially disposed within the second housing part (220), or at least a portion of the flexible region (232) may be disposed outside the second housing part (220). Within the first state, the flexible region (232) disposed within the second housing part (220) may not be visible from the outside of the electronic device (101). Within the second housing part (220), the flexible region (232) may be at least partially bendable.

[0121] Referring to FIG. 4d, within the second state, the flexible region (232) can be at least partially withdrawn from the inside of the second housing part (220). Within the second state, the flexible region (232) withdrawn outside the second housing part (220) can be recognized from the outside of the electronic device (101). The flexible region (232) can include the second display region (230b) of FIG. 2b.

[0122] FIG. 5A illustrates a printed circuit board assembly and a battery of an electronic device according to one embodiment. FIG. 5B illustrates a flexible display and a printed circuit board of an electronic device according to one embodiment in a first state.

[0123] Referring to FIG. 5a, the printed circuit board assembly (350) may include a first region (351) and a second region (352).

[0124] For example, the first region (351) may include a plurality of electrically connected layers. For example, the first region (351) may include, but is not limited to, a first layer (510), a second layer (520), and / or a third layer (530) that are stacked on top of each other. The first layer (510), the second layer (520), and the third layer (530) may be electrically connected.

[0125] For example, the second region (352) may include a single layer. For example, the single layer within the second region (352) may be implemented in a form in which the first layer (510) positioned at the outermost edge within the first region (351) extends outside the first region (351), but is not limited thereto.

[0126] According to one embodiment, the second region (352) of the printed circuit board assembly (350) and the battery (361) can at least partially overlap each other. When the battery (361) is viewed from above, the battery (361) can at least partially overlap the second region (352) of the printed circuit board assembly (350). For example, at least a portion of the second region (352) can be positioned below the battery (361) (e.g., in the -z direction). If the printed circuit board assembly (350) does not include the second region (352), the area of ​​the printed circuit board assembly (350) for positioning electronic components of the electronic device (101) may be insufficient. As the second region (352) including a single layer is formed below the battery (361), the area of ​​the printed circuit board assembly (350) can be increased. Even if the length of the battery (361) increases and overlaps with the printed circuit board assembly (350), the increase in the overall thickness of the electronic device (101) may be relatively small because the battery (361) overlaps with the second region (352) that includes only a single layer.

[0127] Referring to FIG. 5B, within the first state, the end (352a) of the second region (352) may be spaced apart from the flexible region (232) of the flexible display (230). For example, when the electronic device (101) changes from the second state to the first state, the end (232a) of the flexible region (232) spaced apart from the flat region (231) may move closer to the printed circuit board assembly (350). Within the first state, the end (232a) of the flexible region (232) and the end (352a) of the second region (352) may be closest to each other, but may be spaced apart without contacting each other. As the end (232a) of the flexible region (232) and the end (352a) of the second region (352) are spaced apart from each other, a gap may be formed between the ends (232a, 352a). The length of the second region (352) may have a length that does not contact the end (232a) of the flexible region (232) in the first state. If the length of the second region (352) is too long, the end (352a) of the second region (352) may contact the end (232a) of the flexible region (232). If the ends (232a, 352a) contact each other, damage to the flexible display (230) and / or the printed circuit board assembly (350) may occur. In one embodiment, the damage can be reduced and / or prevented by spacing the end (352a) of the second region (352) away from the end (232a) of the flexible region (232).

[0128] Figures 6a and 6b illustrate a drive mechanism and a bracket of an electronic device according to one embodiment. Figure 6c illustrates a bracket according to one embodiment.

[0129] Referring to FIGS. 6A and 6B , an electronic device (101) according to one embodiment may include a bracket (600) for guiding linear motion (e.g., in the y direction or the -y direction) of a rack gear (320) and protecting one or more gears (340) and a pinion gear (330). The bracket (600) may be fixed to the first housing part (210). For example, the bracket (600) may include a through hole (640) into which a screw fixed to the first housing part (210) is inserted. The screw may be inserted into the through hole (640) and then coupled to the first housing part (210), thereby fixing the bracket (600) to a designated position within the first housing part (210). However, the configuration and method for fixing the bracket (600) within the first housing part (210) are not limited thereto.

[0130] For example, one or more gears (340) connected to the actuator (310) and a pinion gear (330) meshed with the one or more gears (340) may be at least partially surrounded by the bracket (600). The bracket (600) may protect the one or more gears (340) and the pinion gear (330) by at least partially surrounding the one or more gears (340) and the pinion gear (330).

[0131] For example, the bracket (600) may include a guide rail (601) for guiding the linear motion of the rack gear (320). The guide rail (601) may contact at least a portion of the rack gear (320) such that the direction of movement of the rack gear (320) is aligned with the first direction (261) and / or the second direction (262). The rack gear (320) may be moved in the first direction (261) or the second direction (262) while at least partially contacting the guide rail (601). When the rack gear (320) is moved, the guide rail (601) may be configured to provide stable movement of the rack gear (320) by reducing the shaking of the rack gear (320).

[0132] According to one embodiment, the guide rail (601) may include a first side wall (610) and a second side wall (620). The first side wall (610) may contact a portion of one side of the rack gear (320). The second side wall (620) may contact a portion of the other side of the rack gear (320) opposite the one side. The first side wall (610) and the second side wall (620) may face each other with the rack gear (320) interposed therebetween. One or more gears (340) for transmitting power from the actuator (310) to the pinion gear (330) may be closer to the second side wall (620) among the first side wall (610) and the second side wall (620).

[0133] Referring to FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C, the bracket (600) may include a third side wall (630). The third side wall (630) may be connected to the second side wall (620) and may surround one or more gears (340). For example, the third side wall (630) may be connected to a point on the second side wall (620) and another point on the second side wall (620) spaced apart from the point so as to surround a space where one or more gears (340) are positioned. The third side wall (630) may include one or more portions that are bent to surround one or more gears (340).

[0134] In one embodiment, a portion of the second side wall (620) may include an opening area (621). The opening area (621) may be formed by removing (or omitting) a portion of the second side wall (620). One or more gears (340) may be connected to a pinion gear (330) that meshes with the rack gear (320) through the opening area (621). By forming the opening area (621) in the second side wall (620), a gap between the actuator (310) and the rack gear (320) may be reduced.

[0135] If the opening area (621) is not formed in the second side wall (620), one or more gears (340) may be spaced apart from the second side wall (620) by a distance greater than the thickness of the second side wall (620) in a direction away from the rack gear (320) so as not to interfere with the second side wall (620). For example, the second gear (342) connected to the pinion gear (330) should be spaced apart from the second side wall (620) so as not to interfere with the second side wall (620). As the second gear (342) is spaced apart further from the second side wall (620), the first gear (341) meshed with the second gear (342) is also spaced apart further from the second side wall (620). Since the actuator (310) is connected to the first gear (341), the more the first gear (341) is spaced apart, the more the actuator (310) is spaced apart from the rack gear (320). If the second side wall (620) does not include the opening area (621), the gap between the rack gear (320) and the actuator (310) increases. As the gap between the rack gear (320) and the actuator (310) decreases, the space occupied by the drive mechanism (300) within the housing (e.g., the housing (201) of FIG. 3A) increases.

[0136] In one embodiment, since the second side wall (620) includes an opening area (621), one or more gears (340) may be positioned closer to the second side wall (620) than in the above case. Since the opening area (621) is a portion of the second side wall (620) that is removed (or omitted), even if the second gear (342) is positioned closer to the second side wall (620), the second gear (342) may not interfere with the second side wall (620). When the second gear (342) is positioned closer to the second side wall (620), the first gear (341) that is engaged with the second gear (342) may also be positioned closer to the second side wall (620). The actuator (310) connected to the first gear (341) may be positioned closer to the rack gear (320). When the second side wall (620) includes an opening area (621), the gap between the rack gear (320) and the actuator (310) can be reduced. As the gap between the rack gear (320) and the actuator (310) is reduced, the space occupied by the driving mechanism (300) within the housing (201) can be reduced. When the space occupied by the driving mechanism (300) is reduced, additional space within the housing (201) can be secured, and thus the size (e.g., width) of the battery (361) can be increased.

[0137] According to one embodiment, the first gear (341) may be connected to the actuator (310) via a first shaft (e.g., the first shaft (303) of FIG. 6A). The second gear (342) may be connected to the pinion gear (330) via a second shaft (304). As described above, the first shaft (303) may be arranged perpendicular to the second shaft (304). Based on the operation of the actuator (310), the first shaft (303) may be rotated, and the first gear (341) may be rotated by the rotation of the first shaft (303). When the first gear (341) is rotated, the second gear (342) including the second teeth (342a) meshed with the first teeth (341a) of the first gear (341) may also be rotated. As the second gear (342) rotates, the second shaft (304) can rotate. Since the second shaft (304) is connected to the pinion gear (330), rotation of the pinion gear (330) can be caused. Rotation of the pinion gear (330) can cause movement of the rack gear (320). The first shaft (303) can be connected to each of the actuator (310) and the first gear (341), and since the bracket (600) surrounds the first gear (341), the first shaft (303) can pass through the bracket (600). The second shaft (304) can be connected to each of the second gear (342) and the pinion gear (330), and since the bracket (600) surrounds the second gear (342) and the pinion gear (330), the second shaft (304) can pass through the bracket (600). The bracket (600) can include openings for the first shaft (303) and the second shaft (304).

[0138] According to one embodiment, the third sidewall (630) may include a first portion (631), a second portion (632), and a third portion (633). The first portion (631) may extend substantially vertically from the second sidewall (620). The second portion (632) may extend substantially vertically from an end of the first portion (631). The third portion (633) may extend vertically from an end of the second portion (632) to face the first portion (631). The first portion (631), the second portion (632), and the third portion (633), together with the second sidewall (620), may surround one or more gears (340). The second portion (632) may be substantially parallel to the second sidewall (620) and / or the first sidewall (610).

[0139] In one embodiment, the first portion (631) may include a first opening (e.g., the first opening (651) of FIG. 6C) through which the first shaft (303) passes. The first shaft (303) may be connected to the first gear (341) from the actuator (310) through the first opening (651). The second portion (632) may include a second opening (e.g., the second opening (652) of FIG. 6C) through which the second shaft (304) passes. The portion of the second shaft (304) through the second opening (652) may be a portion extending away from the second gear (342) toward the pinion gear (330). The first side wall (610) may include a third opening (e.g., the third opening (653) of FIG. 6C) through which the second shaft (304) passes. The portion of the second shaft (304) passing through the third opening (653) may be a portion extending away from the pinion gear (330) toward the second gear (342).

[0140] Since the first shaft (303) and the second shaft (304) are rotated to cause linear motion of the rack gear (320), friction may occur between the first shaft (303) and the bracket (600) and friction may occur between the second shaft (304) and the bracket (600). The friction may cause damage to the first shaft (303), the second shaft (304), and the bracket (600). In one embodiment, the bracket (600) may include bearings to reduce the friction. For example, the bearings may include, but are not limited to, ball bearings including an outer ring, an inner ring, and a plurality of balls between the inner and outer rings.

[0141] In one embodiment, the bracket (600) may include a first bearing (661), a second bearing (662), and a third bearing (663). For example, the first bearing (661) may be positioned within the first opening (651) and may contact an outer surface of the first shaft (303) passing through the first opening (651). For example, the second bearing (662) may be positioned within the second opening (652) and may contact an outer surface of the second shaft (304) passing through the second opening (652). For example, the third bearing (663) may be positioned within the third opening (653) and may contact an outer surface of the second shaft (304) passing through the third opening (653).

[0142] For example, the first bearing (661) may be a ball bearing including an outer ring coupled to the edge of the first opening (651), an inner ring contacting the outer surface of the first shaft (303), and a plurality of balls between the outer ring and the inner ring. When the first shaft (303) rotates, the inner ring contacting the outer surface of the first shaft (303) may rotate together with the plurality of balls. As the inner ring contacting the outer surface of the first shaft (303) rotates together with the first shaft (303), the frictional force caused by the first shaft (303) may be reduced. The reduction in frictional force may reduce damage to the bracket (600) and the first shaft (303). The above description of the first bearing (661) may be substantially equally applied to the second bearing (662) and the third bearing (663). While a ball bearing has been described as an example of the bearing, bearings according to one embodiment are not limited thereto.

[0143] Fig. 7a is a side view of the drive mechanism illustrated in Fig. 6a. Fig. 7b illustrates a drive mechanism in which the rack gears are positioned so that they face the rear of the electronic device. Fig. 7c is a side view of the drive mechanism illustrated in Fig. 7b.

[0144] Referring to FIG. 7A, in the case of the driving mechanism (300), the rack gear (320) may be arranged so that the teeth (320a) of the rack gear (320) meshed with the teeth (330a) of the pinion gear (330) face in a direction toward the front of the electronic device (101) (e.g., +z direction). For example, the teeth (320a) of the rack gear (320) illustrated in FIG. 7A may face the front of the electronic device (101). When the teeth (320a) of the rack gear (320) face the front of the electronic device (101), electronic components of the electronic device (101) may be arranged above the rack gear (320) (e.g., +z direction). However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the teeth (320a) of the rack gear (320) may also be arranged opposite to the structure illustrated in FIG. 7A.

[0145] Referring to FIGS. 7B and 7C, the rack gear (320) may be arranged such that the teeth (320a) of the rack gear (320) face in a direction toward the rear of the electronic device (101) (e.g., -z direction). For example, the teeth (320a) of the rack gear (320) illustrated in FIG. 7B may face the rear of the electronic device (101). When the teeth (320a) of the rack gear (320) face the rear of the electronic device (101), electronic components of the electronic device (101) may be arranged below the rack gear (320) (e.g., -z direction).

[0146] According to one embodiment, within the first state of the electronic device (101), the rack gear (320) may be positioned next to the actuator (310). In the examples of the driving mechanism (300) described above, the rack gear (320) is illustrated as being positioned on one side of the actuator (310) (e.g., in the -x direction), but the positions of the rack gear (320) and the actuator (310) may be interchanged. For example, although not illustrated, the rack gear (320) may also be positioned on the other side of the actuator (310) (e.g., in the +x direction).

[0147] As described above, the arrangement structures of the rack gear (320) and the actuator (310) may vary. The rack gear (320) may face the front or rear of the electronic device (101), and the positions of the rack gear (320) and the actuator (310) may be interchanged. Depending on the structure and size of the electronic device (101), the positions of components arranged within the electronic device (101), and the like, the arrangement structures of the driving mechanism (300) may be implemented in various ways.

[0148] FIG. 8 illustrates one or more gears according to one embodiment.

[0149] Referring to FIG. 8, one or more gears (340) may be provided to transmit power from an actuator (e.g., actuator (310) of FIG. 3A). For example, the one or more gears (340) may include a first gear (341) that rotates around a first rotational axis (301) of the actuator (e.g., actuator (310) of FIG. 3A) and a second gear (342) that rotates around a second rotational axis (302) that is perpendicular to the first rotational axis (301).

[0150] In one embodiment, the first gear (341) may include first teeth (341a). The second gear (342) may include second teeth (342a) that mesh with the first teeth (341a). Since the first gear (341) and the second gear (342) transmit power from the actuator (310) to the pinion gear (330), the efficiency of the actuator (310) may be reduced compared to when the actuator is directly connected to the pinion gear (330).

[0151] A decrease in the efficiency of the actuator (310) may cause a decrease in the propulsion force of the rack gear (e.g., the rack gear (320) of FIG. 3a). If the actuator (310) of the drive mechanism (300) according to one embodiment has the same RPM (revolutions per minute) as the actuator according to the comparative example that is directly connected to the pinion gear (330), the thrust of the rack gear (320) may be reduced, thereby slowing down the moving speed of the rack gear (320). Compared to the case where the actuator (310) is directly connected to the pinion gear (330), the actuator (310) according to one embodiment must additionally perform work to rotate the first gear (341) and the second gear (342), and thus the efficiency may be reduced by the gear ratio according to the first gear (341a) and the second gear (342a). When the movement speed of the rack gear (320) is reduced, the movement speed of the second housing part (e.g., the second housing part (220) of FIG. 3A) may be reduced, so the usability of the electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 3A) may be deteriorated.

[0152] In one embodiment, to compensate for the thrust reduction of the rack gear (320) caused by the addition of one or more gears (340), the actuator (310) may have a higher RPM than the actuator according to the comparative example. For example, the RPM of the actuator (310) may be determined based on the gear ratio according to the first gear (341a) and the second gear (342a).

[0153] For example, assume that the first RPM of the actuator according to the comparative example, which is directly connected to the pinion gear (330), is X. The second RPM of the actuator (310) according to one embodiment, which is operatively (or indirectly) connected to the pinion gear (330) using the first gear (341) and the second gear (342), can be increased from x by the gear ratio of the first gears (341a) and the second gears (342a). For example, when the gear ratio of the first gears (341a) and the second gears (342a) is a:b, the second RPM can be referred to as (b / a)×X. For example, the gear ratio of the first gears (341a) and the second gears (342a) can be 8:11, in which case the second RPM can be set to be (11 / 8) times higher than the first RPM. As the RPM of the actuator (310) according to one embodiment is set based on the gear ratio of the first teeth (341a) and the second teeth (342a), the thrust of the rack gear (320) can be formed to be substantially the same as in the case according to the comparative example.

[0154] In one embodiment, one or more of the gears (340) may include bevel gears. For example, the first gear (341) and the second gear (342) may be bevel gears. A bevel gear is a gear that transmits rotational motion when two axes intersect, and may increase torque by reducing the rotational speed of an input shaft (e.g., the first rotational shaft (301)). When one or more of the gears (340) are bevel gears, the gears (320a) of the rack gear (320) may face the front or rear of the electronic device (101). Since the torque is increased, the thrust of the rack gear (320) may be reduced, as described above. As described above, the actuator (310) according to one embodiment may be set to have an RPM to compensate for the thrust reduction caused by the bevel gear.

[0155] FIG. 9A illustrates one or more gears according to one embodiment. FIG. 9B illustrates a portion of a drive mechanism including one or more gears illustrated in FIG. 9A.

[0156] Referring to FIG. 9A, the pinion gear (330) and the one or more gears (340) may include helical gears. For example, the one or more gears (340) may be helical gears. A helical gear is a gear that extends in a spiral shape. When the pinion gear (330) and the one or more gears (340) are helical gears, the structure of the driving mechanism (300) may be changed. When the pinion gear (330) and the one or more gears (340) are helical gears, the gears (320a) of the rack gear (320) may face a side (e.g., the first edge portion (210a), the second edge portion (210b), the third edge portion (220a), or the fourth edge portion (220b) of FIG. 3A) between the front and the rear of the electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 3A).

[0157] Referring to FIGS. 9A and 9B, the pinion gear (330) may be a helical pinion gear including teeth extending in a spiral shape. The pinion gear (330) may be connected to the actuator (310). The rack gear (320) may be arranged such that teeth (320a) of the rack gear (320) face the pinion gear (330). For example, teeth (320a) of the rack gear (320) may face the actuator (310). A first gear (341), which is a helical gear, may be arranged between the rack gear (320) and the pinion gear (330). The first teeth (341a) of the first gear (341) can mesh with the teeth (320a) of the rack gear (320) and the teeth (330a) of the pinion gear (330), respectively. The rack gear (320), the pinion gear (330), and the first gear (341) may all be helical gears having teeth extending in a spiral shape. The teeth may have a certain inclination (e.g., an inclination of about 45 degrees). The bracket (600) can fix and protect the rack gear (320), the pinion gear (330), and the first gear (341). Bearings may be arranged inside the bracket (600) to reduce friction caused by the rotation of the shafts. In this case, the bracket (600) may include a first bearing (910) and a second bearing (920) for a shaft (e.g., shaft (901) of FIG. 9a) connected to the pinion gear (330), and a third bearing (930) and a fourth bearing (not shown) for a shaft (e.g., shaft (902) of FIG. 9b) connected to the first gear (341).

[0158] FIG. 10A illustrates the interior of an electronic device according to one embodiment in a first state. FIG. 10B illustrates the interior of an electronic device according to one embodiment in a second state.

[0159] In the drawings described above, the electronic device (101) is illustrated as an electronic device having a structure that moves in a direction parallel to the y-axis, but embodiments are not limited thereto. As illustrated in FIGS. 10A and 10B , the electronic device (101) according to one embodiment may be an electronic device having a structure that moves in a direction parallel to the x-axis. The electronic device (101) illustrated in FIGS. 10A and 10B may be substantially the same as the electronic device (101) described above, except that the movement direction of the second housing part (220) is parallel to the x-axis. The same reference numerals are assigned to the same components, and redundant descriptions may be omitted.

[0160] An electronic device (101) according to one embodiment may include a housing (201) including a first housing part (210) and a second housing part (220). The second housing part (220) may be movable relative to the first housing part (210) in a direction parallel to the x-axis. In a first state of the electronic device (101) illustrated in FIG. 10A, the second housing part (220) may be movable relative to the first housing part (210) in a first direction (261) among a first direction (261) and a second direction (262). For example, in the first state, the second housing part (220) may not be substantially movable relative to the first housing part (210) in the second direction (262).

[0161] According to one embodiment, the drive mechanism (300) may include an actuator (310), a rack gear (320), a pinion gear (330), and one or more gears (340). The actuator (310) may be arranged to have a first rotational axis (301) parallel to a direction of movement (e.g., an x-axis direction) of the second housing part (220). The rack gear (320) may extend parallel to the direction of movement of the second housing part (220). The pinion gear (330) may mesh with the rack gear (320). The one or more gears (340) may be connected to each of the actuator (310) and the pinion gear (330) to transmit power from the actuator (310) to the pinion gear (330). For example, the one or more gears (340) may include, but are not limited to, a first gear (341) and a second gear (342). The first gear (341) may be rotated about a first rotation axis (301), and the second gear (342) may be rotated about a second rotation axis (302) that is perpendicular to the first rotation axis (301). The drive mechanism (300) may not be disposed within the central region of the housing (201), but may be disposed to be offset to one side of the housing (201).

[0162] An electronic device (101) according to one embodiment may include a battery (361). Since the rack gear (320) and the actuator (310) are arranged to be offset to one side of the housing (201), an internal space of the housing (201) for the battery (361) can be secured. As the internal space for the battery (361) is secured, the size of the battery (361) can be increased. Since the battery (361) has a relatively large size, it can have a relatively large charging capacity.

[0163] An electronic device (101) according to one embodiment may include a printed circuit board assembly (350). The printed circuit board assembly (350) may include a first region (351) including a plurality of layers and a second region (352) including only a single layer. The single layer within the second region (352) may be connected to, or may be referenced as the same layer as, a layer positioned at the outermost edge of the first region (351).

[0164] According to one embodiment, in order to secure the size of the battery (361) and the area of ​​the printed circuit board assembly (350), the battery (361) and the printed circuit board assembly (350) may be at least partially overlapped. The battery (361) may have a length that at least partially overlaps the second region (352) among the first region (351) and the second region (352) when the battery (361) is viewed from above.

[0165] As the driving mechanism (300) is positioned to be biased toward one side of the housing (201), space for electronic components can be secured. The electronic device (101) according to one embodiment may include a first speaker (362) and a second speaker (363). The first speaker (362) may be positioned within the first housing part (210), and the second speaker (363) may be positioned within the second housing part (220). The electronic device (101) according to one embodiment may include a connection terminal (364) positioned within the second housing part (220).

[0166] An electronic device (101) is provided. The electronic device (101) may include a housing (201) including a first housing part (210) and a second housing part (220) that are movably coupled to each other. For example, the second housing part (220) may be movably coupled to the first housing part (210) in a first direction (261) or a second direction (262) opposite to the first direction (261). The electronic device (101) may include a driving mechanism (300) configured to cause movement of the first housing part (210) or movement of the second housing part (220). The electronic device (101) may include a printed circuit board assembly (350) disposed within the first housing part (210) and including a first region (351) which is a laminated region of printed circuit boards and a second region (352) which is a non-laminated region. The electronic device (101) may include a battery (361) disposed within the first housing part (210). The driving mechanism (300) may include an actuator (310) having a rotational axis (301) which is parallel to a moving direction of the first housing part (210) or the second housing part (220). The driving mechanism (300) may include a rack gear (320) which is disposed parallel to the rotational axis (301). The battery (361) may be positioned above the second region (352) among the first region (351) and the second region (352). For example, the rack gear (320) may be coupled to the second housing part (220) and may extend parallel to the movement direction (e.g., the first direction (261) and the second direction (262)) of the first housing part (210) or the second housing part (220). For example, the first region (351) may include a plurality of layers. The second region (352) may include a single layer.The battery (361) may have a length that at least partially overlaps the second region (352) among the first region (351) and the second region (352) when the battery (361) is viewed from above. According to one embodiment, since the rotation axis (301) of the actuator (310) is arranged parallel to the rack gear (320), the internal space of the housing (201) occupied by the driving mechanism (300) may be reduced. Since the space occupied by the driving mechanism (300) is reduced, the size of the battery (361) may be increased, and thus the charging capacity of the battery (361) may be secured. In order to secure an area for mounting electronic components on the printed circuit board assembly (350), a portion of the printed circuit board assembly (350) and the battery (361) may at least partially overlap.

[0167] For example, the actuator (310) may be arranged closer to the first edge portion (210a) of the first housing part (210) that is parallel to the moving direction and the second edge portion (210b) of the first housing part (210) that is opposite to the first edge portion (210a). The rack gear (320) may be arranged closer to the third edge portion (220a) of the second housing part (220) that is at least partially coupled to the first edge portion (210a) of the first housing part (210) and the fourth edge portion (220b) that is opposite to the third edge portion (220a). The battery (361) may at least partially occupy the space of the first housing part (210) between the actuator (310) and the second edge portion (210b) of the first housing part (210). According to one embodiment, as the width of the battery (361) expands, the size of the battery (361) may increase.

[0168] For example, the driving mechanism (300) may be configured to provide a first state in which the second housing part (220) is movable in the first direction (261) among the first direction (261) in which the second housing part (220) moves away from the first housing part (210) and the second direction (262) in which the second housing part (220) moves toward the first housing part (210), a second state in which the second housing part (220) is movable in the second direction (262) among the first direction (261) and the second direction (262), and a plurality of intermediate states between the first state and the second state. The rack gear (320) may be positioned next to the actuator (310) within the first state. According to one embodiment, the drive mechanism (300) can be compactly mounted within the housing (201) by positioning the rack gear (320) next to the actuator (310).

[0169] For example, the electronic device (101) may further include a flexible display (230). The flexible display (230) may include a planar portion (231) disposed on the first housing part (210). The flexible display (230) may extend from the planar portion (231). The flexible display (230) may include a flexible portion (232) configured to be at least partially rolled into the second housing part (220) or at least partially pulled out from the interior of the second housing part (220) based on movement of the second housing part (220). According to one embodiment, the size of the display area of ​​the flexible display (230) may be changed based on movement of the second housing part (220).

[0170] For example, the printed circuit board assembly (350) may be adjacent to a fifth edge portion (210c) that is perpendicular to a first edge portion (210a) of the first housing part (210) that is parallel to the movement direction (e.g., the first direction (261) and the second direction (262)) and spaced apart from the second housing part (220). An end portion (352a) of the second region (352) of the printed circuit board assembly (350) that faces opposite to the fifth edge portion (210c) may be spaced apart from an end portion (232a) of the flexible region (232) that is positioned within the second housing part (220). According to one embodiment, damage to the printed circuit board assembly (350) and the flexible display (230) can be reduced as the end (352a) of the second region (352) is spaced apart from the end (232a) of the flexible region (232).

[0171] For example, the electronic device (101) may further include a bracket (600) including a guide rail (601) for guiding the linear motion of the rack gear (320). The driving mechanism (300) may be operatively coupled to the actuator (310) and configured to rotate based on the operation of the actuator (310), and may include a pinion gear (330) engaged with the rack gear (320). The driving mechanism (300) may include one or more gears (340) connected to each of the actuator (310) and the pinion gear (330) to transmit power from the actuator (310) to the pinion gear (330). The guide rail (601) may include a first side wall (610) that contacts a portion of one side of the rack gear (320), and a second side wall (620) that contacts a portion of the other side of the rack gear (320) opposite to the one side of the rack gear (320) and includes an opening area (621) to reduce a gap between the actuator (310) and the rack gear (320). The one or more gears (340) may be closer to the second side wall (620) among the first side wall (610) and the second side wall (620).

[0172] For example, the one or more gears (340) may be connected to the pinion gear (330) that is meshed with the rack gear (320) through the opening area (621).

[0173] For example, the bracket (600) may include a third side wall (630) connected to the second side wall (620) and surrounding the one or more gears (340).

[0174] For example, the one or more gears (340) may include a first gear (341) including first teeth (341a). The one or more gears (340) may include a second gear (342) including second teeth (342a) that mesh with the first teeth (341a) and are configured to cause rotational movement of the pinion gear (330) based on rotation of the first gear (341). The drive mechanism (300) may include a first shaft (303) that is parallel to the rotational axis (301), is connected to each of the actuator (310) and the first gear (341), and is configured to rotate based on the operation of the actuator (310). The driving mechanism (300) may include a second shaft (304) connected to each of the pinion gear (330) and the second gear (342) and perpendicular to the first shaft (303). The third side wall (630) may include a first portion (631) extending perpendicular to the second side wall (620) and including a first opening (651) through which the first shaft (303) passes, a second portion (632) extending perpendicularly from an end of the first portion (631) and including a second opening (652) through which the second shaft (304) passes, and a third portion (633) extending perpendicularly from an end of the second portion (632) to face the first portion (631).

[0175] For example, the first side wall (610) may include a third opening (653) through which the second shaft (304) passes. The bracket (600) may include a first bearing (661) disposed within the first opening (651) and in contact with the first shaft (303). The bracket (600) may include a second bearing (662) disposed within the second opening (652) and in contact with the second shaft (304). The bracket (600) may include a third bearing (663) disposed within the third opening (653) and in contact with the second shaft (304).

[0176] For example, the actuator (310) may have an RPM (revolutions per minute) based on a gear ratio according to the first gears (341a) and the second gears (342a). In one embodiment, the actuator (310) may have an RPM based on the gear ratio to compensate for a reduction in the thrust of the rack gear (320) due to one or more gears (340).

[0177] For example, the one or more gears (340) may be bevel gears. These (320a) of the rack gear (320) may face the front side of the electronic device (101) or the rear side of the electronic device (101).

[0178] For example, the pinion gear (330) and the one or more gears (340) may be helical gears. These (320a) of the rack gear (320) may face the side of the electronic device (101).

[0179] For example, the electronic device (101) may further include a speaker (363) configured to provide an audio signal and arranged adjacent to the rack gear (320) within the second housing part (220).

[0180] For example, the electronic device (101) may further include a connection terminal (364) disposed adjacent to the rack gear (320) within the second housing part (220) and connected to a terminal of an external electronic device.

[0181] An electronic device (101) is provided. The electronic device (101) may include a housing (201) including a first housing part (210) and a second housing part (220) movably coupled to the first housing part (210). The electronic device (101) may include a driving mechanism (300) configured to cause movement of the second housing part (220) relative to the first housing part (210). The driving mechanism (300) may include an actuator (310) arranged within the first housing part (210) to have a rotational axis (301) parallel to a direction of movement of the second housing part (220). The driving mechanism (300) may include a rack gear (320) coupled to the second housing part (220) and extending parallel to the direction. The driving mechanism (300) may include a pinion gear (330) operatively coupled to the actuator (310) and configured to rotate based on the operation of the actuator (310), and engaged with the rack gear (320). The driving mechanism (300) may include one or more gears (340) connected to each of the actuator (310) and the pinion gear (330) to transmit power from the actuator (310) to the pinion gear (330). The electronic device (101) may include a bracket (600) including a guide rail (601) for guiding the linear motion of the rack gear (320). The above guide rail (601) may include a first side wall (610) that contacts a portion of one side of the rack gear (320), and a second side wall (620) that contacts a portion of the other side of the rack gear (320) opposite to the one side, and includes an opening area (621) to reduce the gap between the actuator (310) and the rack gear (320).The one or more gears (340) may be closer to the second side wall (620) among the first side wall (610) and the second side wall (620).

[0182] For example, the bracket (600) may include a third side wall (630) connected to the second side wall (620) and surrounding the one or more gears (340). The one or more gears (340) may include a first gear (341) including first teeth (341a). The one or more gears (340) may include a second gear (342) including second teeth (342a) that mesh with the first teeth (341a) and are configured to cause rotational motion of the pinion gear (330) based on rotation of the first gear (341). The driving mechanism (300) may include a first shaft (303) connected to each of the actuator (310) and the first gear (341) and configured to rotate based on the operation of the actuator (310). The driving mechanism (300) may include a second shaft (304) connected to the pinion gear (330) and the second gear (342) and perpendicular to the first shaft (303). The third side wall (630) may include a first portion (631) extending perpendicularly to the second side wall (620) and including a first opening (651) through which the first shaft (303) passes, a second portion (632) extending perpendicularly from an end of the first portion (631) and including a second opening (652) through which the second shaft (304) passes, and a third portion (633) extending perpendicularly from an end of the second portion (632) to face the first portion (631).

[0183] For example, the first side wall (610) may include a third opening (653) through which the second shaft (304) passes. The bracket (600) may include a first bearing (661) disposed within the first opening (651) and in contact with the first shaft (303). The bracket (600) may include a second bearing (662) disposed within the second opening (652) and in contact with the second shaft (304). The bracket (600) may include a third bearing (663) disposed within the third opening (653) and in contact with the second shaft (304).

[0184] For example, the electronic device (101) may further include a printed circuit board assembly (350) disposed within the first housing part (210). The printed circuit board assembly (350) may include a first region (351), which is a laminated region of printed circuit boards. The printed circuit board assembly (350) may extend from the first region (351) and include a second region (352), which is a non-laminated region. The electronic device (101) may further include a battery (361) disposed within the first housing part (210). When the battery (361) is viewed from above, the battery (361) may have a length that at least partially overlaps the second region (352) among the first region (351) and the second region (352). For example, the first region (351) may include a plurality of layers stacked on top of each other, and the second region (352) may include a single layer.

[0185] For example, the actuator (310) may be arranged closer to the first edge portion (210a) of the first housing part (210) among the first edge portion (210a) and the second edge portion (210b) opposite to the first edge portion (210a) of the first housing part (210) that is parallel to the direction. The rack gear (320) may be arranged closer to the third edge portion (220a) among the third edge portion (220a) of the second housing part (220) that is at least partially coupled to the first edge portion (210a) of the first housing part (210) and the fourth edge portion (220b) opposite to the third edge portion (220a). The battery (361) may at least partially occupy the space between the actuator (310) and the second edge portion (210b) of the first housing part (210).

[0186] Electronic devices according to the various embodiments disclosed in this document may take various forms. Electronic devices may include, for example, portable communication devices (e.g., smartphones), computer devices, portable multimedia devices, portable medical devices, cameras, electronic devices, or home appliances. Electronic devices according to the embodiments of this document are not limited to the aforementioned devices.

[0187] The various embodiments of this document and the terminology used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, but should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutes of the embodiments. In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components. The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of the items, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this document, each of the phrases "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B, or C", "at least one of A, B, and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" can include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase among those phrases, or all possible combinations thereof. Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used merely to distinguish one component from another, and do not limit the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order). When a component (e.g., a first component) is referred to as "coupled" or "connected" to another component (e.g., a second component), with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicatively," it means that the component can be connected to the other component directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0188] 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).

[0189] 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 (120) (e.g., the processor (120)) of a 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.

[0190] 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 a memory (130) of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or a relay server.

[0191] According to various embodiments, each component (e.g., a module or a program) of the above-described components may include one or more entities, and some of the entities may be separated and placed in other components. According to various embodiments, one or more components or operations of the aforementioned components may be omitted, or one or more other components or operations may be added. Alternatively or additionally, a plurality of components (e.g., a module or a program) may be integrated into a single component. In such a case, the integrated component may perform one or more functions of each of the plurality of components identically or similarly to those performed by the corresponding component among the plurality of components prior to the integration. According to various embodiments, the operations performed by a module, program, or other component may be executed sequentially, in parallel, iteratively, or heuristically, or one or more of the operations may be executed in a different order, omitted, or one or more other operations may be added.

[0192] Various embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented in hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software, as described in the claims and specification.

[0193] Such software may be stored on a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium stores one or more computer programs (software modules), which include computer-executable instructions that, when executed by a processor of one or more electronic devices, cause the electronic devices to perform the methods of the present disclosure.

[0194] Such software may be stored in a volatile or non-volatile storage form, for example, a storage device such as read-only memory (ROM), whether or not erasable or rewritable, or a memory such as random access memory (RAM), a memory chip, device, or integrated circuit. It may also be stored in the form of an optically or magnetically readable medium, for example, a compact disc (CD), a digital video disc (DVD), a magnetic disk, a magnetic tape, or the like. The storage device and the storage medium are various embodiments of non-transitory machine-readable storage media for storing computer programs, which programs, when executed, include instructions for implementing various embodiments of the present disclosure. Accordingly, various embodiments provide a program comprising code for implementing an apparatus or method as recited in any of the claims of this specification, and a non-transitory machine-readable storage medium for storing such a program.

[0195] While the present disclosure has been described with reference to various embodiments, those skilled in the art will appreciate that various changes in form and detail may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. In electronic devices, A housing comprising a first housing part and a second housing part that are movably coupled; A driving mechanism configured to cause movement of the first housing part or movement of the second housing part; A printed circuit board assembly disposed within the first housing part and including a first region which is a laminated region of printed circuit boards and a second region which is a non-laminated region; and including a battery disposed within the first housing part; The above driving mechanism is, An actuator having a rotation axis parallel to the direction of movement of the first housing part or the second housing part, and including a rack gear arranged parallel to the above rotation axis, The above battery, Among the first region and the second region, the region located above the second region Electronic devices.

2. In paragraph 1, The above actuator, Among the first edge portion of the first housing part that is parallel to the moving direction and the second edge portion of the first housing part that is opposite to the first edge portion, it is arranged closer to the first edge portion, The above rack gear, Among the third edge portion of the second housing part that is at least partially joined to the first edge portion of the first housing part and the fourth edge portion of the second housing part that is opposite to the third edge portion, it is positioned closer to the third edge portion, The above battery, At least partially occupying the space of the first housing part between the actuator and the second edge portion of the first housing part, Electronic devices.

3. In paragraph 1 or 2, The above driving mechanism is, A first state in which the second housing part is movable in the first direction among a first direction in which the second housing part moves away from the first housing part and a second direction in which the second housing part moves closer to the first housing part; A second state in which the second housing part is movable in the second direction among the first direction and the second direction, and configured to provide a plurality of intermediate states between the first state and the second state, The above rack gear, Within the above first state, located next to the actuator, Electronic devices.

4. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 3, Including more flexible displays, The above flexible display, a planar portion disposed on the first housing part, and A flexible portion extending from the planar region and configured to be at least partially rolled into the second housing part or at least partially withdrawn from the interior of the second housing part based on movement of the second housing part, Electronic devices.

5. In paragraph 4, The above printed circuit board assembly, Perpendicular to the first edge portion of the first housing part parallel to the moving direction and adjacent to the fifth edge portion spaced apart from the second housing part, The end of the second region of the printed circuit board assembly facing opposite to the fifth edge portion, spaced apart from the end of the flexible region located within the second housing part, Electronic devices.

6. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 5, Further comprising a bracket including a guide rail for guiding the linear motion of the above rack gear, The above driving mechanism is, a pinion gear operatively coupled to the actuator and configured to rotate based on the motion of the actuator, the pinion gear engaging with the rack gear, and In order to transmit power from the actuator to the pinion gear, it includes one or more gears connected to each of the actuator and the pinion gear, The above guide rail, A first side wall in contact with a portion of one side of the above rack gear, and A second side wall including an opening area, which contacts a portion of the other side opposite to the one side of the rack gear and reduces the gap between the actuator and the rack gear, One or more of the above gears, Among the first side wall and the second side wall, the one closer to the second side wall, Electronic devices.

7. In paragraph 6, One or more of the above gears, Through the above opening area, connected to the pinion gear meshed with the rack gear, Electronic devices.

8. In paragraph 6, The above brackets are, a third side wall connected to the second side wall and surrounding the one or more gears; Electronic devices.

9. In paragraph 8, One or more of the above gears, a first gear including first teeth, and A second gear comprising second gears meshing with the first gears and configured to cause rotational movement of the pinion gear based on rotation of the first gear, The above driving mechanism is, A first shaft parallel to the rotation axis, connected to each of the actuator and the first gear, and configured to rotate based on the operation of the actuator; and A second shaft connected to each of the pinion gear and the second gear and perpendicular to the first shaft, The above third side wall, A first portion extending perpendicularly to the second side wall and including a first opening through which the first shaft passes; A second part extending vertically from an end of the first part and including a second opening through which the second shaft passes, and Including a third portion extending vertically from the end of the second portion to face the first portion; Electronic devices.

10. In paragraph 9, The above first side wall, including a third opening through which the second shaft passes; The above brackets are, A first bearing disposed within the first opening and in contact with the first shaft; A second bearing disposed within the second opening and in contact with the second shaft, and A third bearing disposed within the third opening and in contact with the second shaft, Electronic devices.

11. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 5, The above driving mechanism is, a pinion gear operatively coupled to the actuator and configured to rotate based on the motion of the actuator, the pinion gear engaging with the rack gear, and In order to transmit power from the actuator to the pinion gear, it includes one or more gears connected to each of the actuator and the pinion gear, One or more of the above gears, A first gear including the first ones, connected to the actuator, and configured to rotate based on the operation of the actuator, and A second gear comprising second teeth meshing with the first gear, and connected to the pinion gear, and configured to cause the rotational motion of the pinion gear based on the rotational motion of the first gear, The above actuator, Having RPM (revolutions per minute) based on the gear ratio according to the first and second gears above, Electronic devices.

12. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 5, The above driving mechanism is, A pinion gear operatively coupled to the actuator and configured to rotate based on the motion of the actuator, the pinion gear engaging with the rack gear; In order to transmit power from the actuator to the pinion gear, it includes one or more gears connected to each of the actuator and the pinion gear, One or more of the above gears, It is a bevel gear, These of the above rack gears are, Facing the front of the electronic device or the rear of the electronic device, Electronic devices.

13. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 5, The above driving mechanism is, a pinion gear operatively coupled to the actuator and configured to rotate based on the motion of the actuator, the pinion gear engaging with the rack gear, and In order to transmit power from the actuator to the pinion gear, it includes one or more gears connected to each of the actuator and the pinion gear, The above pinion gear and the one or more gears, It is a helical gear, These of the above rack gears are, Facing the side of the above electronic device, Electronic devices.

14. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 13, further comprising a speaker configured to provide an audio signal and arranged adjacent to the rack gear within the second housing part; Electronic devices.

15. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 14, Within the second housing part, a connection terminal is further included, which is arranged adjacent to the rack gear and is connected to a terminal of an external electronic device. Electronic devices.

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